Nintendo Switch Critic Reviews

Dogurai is truly a hidden gem on the Switch eShop. Challenging, engaging and memorable despite its short length, it’s a steal at its current eShop price. It may not reinvent the wheel, but it’s a great budget platformer.

Dogurai is an homage to retro platformers like Mega Man, with the inspirations being very clear. Simple controls and infinite lives make it easy to pick up and play, although it only takes a couple hours to complete. Some sections can be a bit tough, but overall it's a good time.

In the end, Dogurai makes for a nice enough retro throwback that can act as a snack between meatier titles. The game isn't too difficult, but it is simple to understand, and it apes the mechanics of older games well enough to earn that challenge. The length of the game is buoyed by the presence of two endings and a new character, while the aesthetic fits perfectly for those who want to treat the Switch as a portable rather than a home console. At $5, Dogurai is certainly worth it for those who want to scratch that retro action platforming itch.

Despite in-universe explanations being practically nonexistent, there's a lot to love about Dogurai, from the retro graphics and soundtrack to tight controls. It's not necessarily a game you'll ever come back to, but it's not out of the question if you're just looking to kill an hour or two.

If you have a fondness for classic Game Boy games then you'll have a nostalgia-fueled good time with the fun yet simplistic Dogurai.