Xbox Game Pass is getting two new releases today, although we weren't expecting it to pan out quite like this. During the lead-up to launch, Dune: Awakening was the Game Pass title grabbing headlines and cultivating genuine hype, but it's actually Well Dweller that's stealing the spotlight!

Reviews have started to trickle in for the metroidvania, and what scores they are! Well Dweller has certainly impressed the critics with its charming art-style, challenging platforming, and stellar gameplay mechanics, resulting in a 91 rating on Metacritic.

So, here's what the critics have to say about Well Dweller:

Console Creatures (10/10)

"If you enjoyed the dev’s previous effort in Crypt Custodian, this is a no-brainer and, in my mind, an all-timer in the genre. There is always something to uncover, new creatures to befriend, and weird and excellently designed enemies to fight. I had a fantastic time from start to finish and can’t wait to revisit Well Dweller in the future."

Hey Poor Player (10/10)

"Really, there was nothing that could have held Well Dweller back from the perfect score I’m proud to award it. This isn’t just a great Metroidvania, it’s the best one yet from a very talented developer. It’s full of neat style, challenging and competent platforming, and nightmarish fairytale monstrosities. All I can say now is that I can’t wait to see what Kyle Thompson is cooking up next."

Gamer Social Club (9.5/10)

"Well Dweller is a joy to play from start to finish. From its beautiful and varied landscapes, sinister bosses, ambient music, and excellent gameplay mechanics, to its beautiful worlds and character designs, you'll have a hard time putting it down."

Loot Level Chill (9.5/10)

"Well Dweller is one of the most polished and captivating Metroidvanias I've played in years, and even in this packed season it's a must play."

Noisy Pixel (9/10)

"Well Dweller is an absorbing metroidvania that thrives on smooth pacing, intuitive combat, memorable enemy design, and approachable exploration. Its straightforward mechanics and more linear structure may leave genre veterans wanting greater depth, but those same qualities help create a consistently engaging sense of flow."

Gameliner (8/10)

"Everything this title should do well is really fine; simple, but effective. The level design is sleek and always interests the player, the audiovisual presentation has a touch of magic, the gameplay itself works properly and it is a well-filled experience that you can really express yourself in. The only thing that started to disappoint me was the lack of challenge and the fact that many chronicles within the gameplay have already been told elsewhere. If you can take that for granted, Well Dweller has a Metroidvania fairy tale that will stay with you long after you finish." (Google Translate)

Press Start Australia (7.5/10)

"Well Dweller’s simplistic approach to the metroidvania genre creates a neutral void that the Kyle Thompson adventure ultimately lingers in. On one hand, it’s beginner friendly and won’t deter gamers not hungry for a Soulslike challenge, while on the other, it’s simply not bold enough to break new ground within the genre. Well Dweller remains an enjoyable folk tale romp that, for anyone looking to take a chance on a metroidvania, is safe as houses."

The universal acclaim is a little more subdued on Xbox, with it scoring 84 across four console reviews, but all in all, it looks like an absolute dub for Xbox Game Pass. I for one, plan on giving the game a go later today.

So, what do you think of the reviews? Let us know in the poll below, as well as in the comments section.