Nintendo Switch Critic Reviews

Nippon Ichi Software has hit a great formula that avoids the worst excesses of repetition or frustration. An addictive mix of 2D exploration and combat, Lapis x Labyrinth is a cavalcade of colour and complex systems that doesn’t outstay its welcome through a sizeable 20-hour campaign.

Lapis x Labyrinth is all that a one could want from a rogue-lite. Countless hours will be spent engaging in simplistic yet also compelling hack 'n' slash action. The eight playable classes offer plenty of diversity in their skillset and play-style. Forming them into a squad and maximizing their effectiveness is lots of fun. The frame-drops are regrettable, but can be alleviated somewhat by skilful play. Oh and of course you've got to love the FEVER. Why is FEVER in all-caps anyway? It's because lower-case letters can never hope to contain its awesomeness.

Lapis X Labyrinth nails its combat loop and reward system to provide a dungeon-crawler that both veterans and newcomers will adore. Minor technical hiccups could do with being fixed, but otherwise this fully deserves a place on your Switch.

We enjoyed our time with Lapis X Labyrinth, especially if played in short bursts with the Switch undocked, but its limited gameplay and repetitive dungeons keep it from excellency.

Despite the absence of a multiplayer mode, Lapis x Labyrinth is an original and colorful dungeon crawler that will delight all those who enjoy defeating hordes of enemies while creating a powerful team of adventurers.

I went into Lapis X Labyrinth expecting a breezy dungeon crawler and that's exactly what NIS delivered.

Loot-driven action RPGs can find themselves in a pattern of being repetitive, relying on the desire for the next shiny piece of armor to keep players engaged. Lapis x Labyrinth certainly falls into that category, but unfortunately despite the huge number of items you earn, many tend to be downgrades. However, the diversity in each character type works to its advantage, promoting mixing and matching party members to help reduce the feeling of grinding in this outrageously stylistic 2D Action RPG.

Lapis x Labyrinth is enjoyable and charming, although it has a fair amount of issues that can make it feel repetitive or shallow rather sooner than later.

If the thrill of collecting loot and the joy of upgrading your party is enough for you, then definitely make sure Lapis x Labyrinth is on your radar. If you hope for a little depth in terms of narrative development and refined combat, you won’t find it here. But you will find a lot of chaotic fun. With its bite-sized levels and constant rewards, it’s the perfect game to pick up and play in short bursts on Nintendo Switch.

Lapis x Labyrinth is for those looking for some straightforward enjoyment. The swift progression through levels and missions, combined with a highly appreciable visual style and polish provides plenty of satisfaction. It won’t do much for those looking for a strong challenge or deep gameplay, but it succeeds in what it sets out to do.