Mutation Software has had a solid run the last few years after the Amiga comeback in 2019. I’ve had the pleasure to work together with them on all the releases and re-releases since then. Wiz: The Quest For The Magic Lantern is probably the best of the lot, but I honestly think all of the products launched have been rather solid (all covered here on the blog, too). The launch of Dungeonette marks the end of an era; it was to be Mutation Software’s swansong, the final game to come out from the developer after a long, steady run both in the 90s and now in the 2020s…
The Physical Box…
Mutation Software has always been about getting their games out on as many formats as possible. While the digital version remains the most accessible (for now), there’s something undeniably special about owning a physical copy, especially for collectors who appreciate a well-presented release.
This time around, there’s only one physical edition available, and it’s the one shown in the picture above. At first glance, it resembles a classic PS3 Blu-ray case—but there’s more to it than meets the eye.
The cover artwork is beautifully crafted, both inside and out. Mutation made great use of the transparent case by including internal artwork, a small but much-appreciated touch that adds a layer of quality to the overall presentation.
Many fans (myself included) had hoped for a large-format big box release, like the ones we saw with Wiz and Cyberpunks 2. Unfortunately, that wasn’t in the cards this time. The production and shipping costs, especially for international orders, made it unfeasible. It’s a shame, but at the end of the day, we should still count ourselves lucky to have received any physical edition at all—something that’s becoming increasingly rare in retro gaming circles.
The Internals…
One of the highlights of this release is the inclusion of a much-appreciated Amiga CD32 disc. (You guys have no idea how much I have pushed for CD32 support from every developer out there—been nagging about it for over six years!) Alongside the disc, you’ll find two floppy disk stickers included in the box. They fit perfectly on standard floppies, though getting your hands on new old stock (NOS) floppy disks these days is becoming increasingly difficult—and pricey!
Also included is a USB Stick containing a few bonus extras, including the .ADF versions of the game. It’s a nice modern touch for those who prefer loading up games through emulation or flash-based devices.
One small disappointment: the USB stick comes unlabeled. A custom sticker would’ve rounded off the package perfectly in my opinion. That said, if you look closely at the picture on the right-hand side, you’ll notice a dedicated bracket inside the box to securely hold the USB stick—another thoughtful and well-executed detail.
The Manual Unfolded…
Dungeonette comes with a well-crafted manual, and it’s more than just your typical instruction booklet. Inside, you’ll find a wonderful illustration by our good friend RoarTJ, along with all the expected content like controls, gameplay instructions, and—best of all—the game’s backstory.
And yes, some of the character names might sound familiar: Amiga Billbo, Dark Lord Aksnes, Roar the Dragon, and Moya the Ice Maiden. If those ring a bell, it’s because they’re subtle (or maybe not-so-subtle) nods to us—a fun little tribute that first appeared in Cyberpunks 2 and has popped up across social media as well. Was this a shameless plug? Maybe. But to be fair, it was all Adrian’s idea and a way for him to thank us for all the help the last few years, not ours!
The manual is genuinely well-designed and worth taking the time to read. It includes lore and useful info that isn’t found within the game itself—definitely something fans will appreciate.
What About The Game Then?
Dungeonette is a classic-style action-adventure game—straightforward in its mechanics, yet refreshingly uncommon on the Amiga. While we’ve had a few games in this genre over the years, it’s been quite a while since we saw something similar. In fact, the last memorable title in this vein might be Legends by Krisalis, released way back in 1995.
You’ll explore large, maze-like levels, ranging from underground dungeons to open outdoor areas. The visual variety between these environments works nicely and helps keep things fresh. To further break up the gameplay, the game features boss battles and even a shoot ’em up section, which adds a pleasant change of pace.
Along the way, you’ll encounter various puzzles—some challenging, others fairly straightforward. There’s also a shop system where you can upgrade your arsenal significantly. Some weapons are highly effective… others, not so much (you’ll quickly find your favourites).
Personally, I found myself enjoying the outdoor levels the most—I just wish there had been more of them. The game doesn’t feature simultaneous music and sound effects, but the subtle ambient audio goes a long way in setting the tone and enhancing the overall atmosphere.
The game’s difficulty curve largely depends on the weapons you choose—your loadout can make a huge difference in how challenging (or smooth) your journey will be. The same goes for how long it takes to complete the game. Here’s a little tip: pay close attention to the subtle hints in the shop. And whatever you do, make sure to save up enough cash before you get there—you’ll thank yourself later.
THE POWER OF MULTIMEDIA…
I also have to mention the insanely good Mutation Software Tribute Twitch stream that Mis_dk pulled off for the exclusive launch preview; he nailed everything in it and he took Mutation Software by storm with multiple stunts and whatnot, it was a pleasure to watch and it made the swansong part even harder to swallow for everyone including Adrian himself.
A fantastic project to work on, fantastic send-off from the always-creative Dane, and just how a swansong should be.
The Verdict…
It’s always tricky to rate something you’ve personally been involved with, but here goes. Adrian has poured years of effort into Dungeonette, and in the final stretch, everything came together in just over a month, with heavy testing, polish, and fine-tuning.
Sure, it could have been bigger, bolder, and flashier—but what’s here is solid, really solid. From the fantastic menu music by the legendary Barry Leitch (Baz) to the graphics and sound design by Adrian and team, it all feels tight and well-crafted. Testing and balancing were handled by RoarTJ, me, and, of course, Adrian, which helped ensure a smoother and more refined experience.
People often ask me, “Is it better than Wiz: Quest for the Magic Lantern?” I always answer honestly: No, it’s not. But it is better than just about every other Mutation Software title to date—and that’s saying a lot.
I am going to miss Mutation Software and maybe most of all, the chats with Adrian; he’s an amazing guy to work with, and the long chats about everything while making games have been absolutely magical (and no, I don’t plan to stop talking to him).
Dungeonette is not just the end of an era; it’s a love letter to everything Mutation Software has stood for.
Want to buy this game? Get it from the website.
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