Cuphead

At a glance

• Editor score
  7.4 / 10
• Pricing
  Paid
• Best for
  Players who enjoy hand-drawn action and local co-op
• Free plan
  No
• Console platforms
  Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
• Facts checked
  5 Oct 2026

• Where it wins

  • Boss-focused run-and-gun gameplay gives the action a clear focus.
  • Supports both a single-player campaign and local co-op.
  • Pairs hand-drawn cel animation with watercolor backgrounds and original jazz recordings.

• Where it doesn't

  • Online co-op is not available.
  • Play modes are limited to single-player and local multiplayer.
  • The action centers on boss battles rather than a broader range of genres.

Our verdict on Cuphead

Cuphead is an action game about Cuphead and Mugman traveling through strange worlds to collect soul contracts and repay a debt to the Devil. Its run-and-gun play centers on boss battles, with a single-player campaign for solo play and local co-op for two players sharing a session. The hand-drawn cel animation, watercolor backgrounds, and original jazz recordings give the game a distinctive presentation. It is available on Windows and macOS, as well as Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S. Players looking for a focused action game with a local co-op option are the clearest fit.

The play modes shape the buying decision: Cuphead supports single-player and local multiplayer, but not online co-op. That makes it suited to solo play or playing alongside someone locally, rather than coordinating a session over the internet. Its core loop stays focused on run-and-gun action and boss encounters; players can acquire weapons and use special moves, but the listed genre and modes point to a specific action experience rather than a broad multiplayer offering. Players who want online co-op or a different genre should look elsewhere.

Presentation is a central part of the appeal, not just a backdrop to the combat. Hand-drawn cel animation, watercolor environments, and original jazz recordings draw on 1930s cartoon aesthetics, while the strange-world premise gives the boss encounters a connecting purpose. The game’s focus is consistent across its solo campaign and local co-op, so buyers can choose how to play without changing the basic style of action. Cuphead is a strong match for players drawn to animated visual design and boss-focused play; it is less appropriate for anyone whose main requirement is online co-op.

Cuphead pricing

Cuphead fact sheet

Alternatives to Cuphead

• GTGrand Theft Auto VA broad single-player story and multiplayer modes, sold as a one-time PC purchase.9.4
• ERElden RingA sprawling action RPG with flexible combat and online co-op and competition.9.3
• SVStardew ValleyA flexible farming RPG with exploration, relationships, and online co-op for a one-time price.9.2

See all Cuphead alternatives →

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 5 Oct 2026 · How we research and update