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Should You Buy Mortal Shell?

Mortal Shell is a dark and deep action-RPG with intriguing mechanics, but is it worth playing? Here's our take on whether it's worth your time.


If you're a fan of Souls-likes and dark, brooding action games, there's no doubt Mortal Shell has crossed onto your radar.

Described as a "deep action-RPG that tests your sanity and resilience in a shattered world," it's an adventure that finds you slicing through formidable bosses and "awakening" beings called "Mortal Shells."

Their bodies have been lost and you must inhabit them to face down a variety of foes. Basically, you'll be going toe to toe against some challenging enemies, and you'll probably die a lot. Such is the case with games in this genre, of course.

But is Mortal Shell an experience worth putting yourself through? We've got all the details you need to make an informed decision. You can find out right here if Mortal Shell is worth playing.

Is Mortal Shell worth playing?

Mortal Shell's hero takes on multiple gruesome enemies at once.Source: Steam

Whether Mortal Shell is a game that's worth playing or not is something you'll ultimately need to decide for yourself.

However, objectively, it is an intriguing game with challenge, dark fantasy elements, and a thrilling Souls-like atmosphere. If you're into difficult boss fights that force you to think, you'll enjoy it.

There are several layers to the game that hardcore gamers will no doubt enjoy peeling back, but Mortal Shell isn't for the easily frustrated or faint of heart. If that doesn't bother you, then by all means, dig right in!

Anyone who wants a gothic adventure riddled with Dark Souls-like elements will undoubtedly be pleased, especially since there's a bit of a void in the industry with no new Souls/Bloodborne game at the moment.

The short answer for most gamers will undoubtedly be yes, Mortal Shell is definitely worth playing.

What is Mortal Shell about?

The Mortal Shell protagonist kneeling in front of a fallen warrior.Source: Steam

Mortal Shell is a non-linear action game that finds you exploring a dark, terrifying underworld. Your mission is to fight your way through this area into the real world via Fallgrim.

Once in Fallgrim, you're tasked with possessing the dead bodies of heroes past, or "shells." It's a bleak adventure that's extremely challenging, and you may indeed die several times over. Your character is a slow, methodical fighter capable of attacking, dodging, and parrying.

You'll take on a series of formidable bosses, including massive trolls and other fantasy beasts. Through combat, you'll attain success, as well as bits and pieces of the storyline that unfold as you move along.

Is there co-op in Mortal Shell?

The darkness descends upon Mortal Shell's stalwart protagonist.Source: Steam

Unfortunately, according to developer Cold Symmetry, Mortal Shell does not feature any kind of multiplayer. There are currently no plans to add it to the game in the future either, according to a FAQ led by the developers on Reddit.

Cold Symmetry indicated that since they are a "small indie team," there is "no PVP or co-op plans for now." While that means there are no plans for that kind of content in the near future, that does not mean it could never happen. It's just not in the cards right now.

So unfortunately, you can't play co-op or multiplayer right now, but that doesn't mean it's out of the question forever. The best thing to do is keep an eye out on Cold Symmetry's socials for updates in that regard.

How long does it take to beat Mortal Shell?

Mortal Shell's hero locked in combat with a ferocious monster.Source: Steam

Current estimates on how long it takes to finish Mortal Shell average from 10 to 15 hours, approximately. However, given that the game has a variety of different eras to explore, difficult bosses to defeat, and plenty of secrets to uncover.

The estimate will likely be closer to 10 or 11 hours if you're just looking for a straight, no-frills playthrough. You're looking to spend closer to 15 hours or more on the game if you want to see everything there is to see, especially if you didn't play through the original beta.

What you end up getting out of the game is up to you. You can speed through it and cut through bosses as quickly as possible or you can explore at your leisure and work toward 100% completion. That's the beauty of the game, as you can take what you want from it.


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Looking to delve further into the challenges that lie in wait with Mortal Shell? Check out the SteelSeries Discord to commiserate with fellow players, who may very well have some tips and tricks for you.