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| An image showing a environment in CrossCode. |
If you have been waiting for the perfect excuse to dive into one of the most critically acclaimed indie RPGs of the last decade, the universe is sending you a clear signal. CrossCode, the beloved action RPG that masterfully blends 16-bit retro aesthetics with modern, fast-paced combat, is currently available for its lowest price ever.
As of this week, the game is listed at just $5.99 on Steam—a significant 70% discount from its standard $19.99 price tag. According to data from SteamDB, this sale matches the historic low previously seen back in June 2023, but it won’t last forever. The promotional pricing is scheduled to run through March 26, 2026, giving players a limited window to snag this masterpiece on the cheap.
What is CrossCode?
Developed by Radical Fish Games and published by Deck13, CrossCode first launched on Steam on September 21, 2018. At first glance, it looks like a nostalgic throwback to the 16-bit era of the Super Nintendo. However, beneath that pixel-perfect exterior lies a surprisingly deep and modern action RPG experience.
The game puts you in the shoes (or rather, the avatar) of Lea, a mute woman with amnesia who finds herself logged into a fictional sci-fi MMORPG called CrossWorlds. The game world is a love letter to classic MMOs like Phantasy Star Online and Ragnarok Online, but it’s a single-player journey filled with NPCs who act as fellow players.
A World of Secrets and Brutal Bosses
If you are the type of gamer who loves to explore every nook and cranny, CrossCode offers a sprawling playground. The futuristic setting is divided into seven distinct areas and features seven challenging dungeons that will test your wits and reflexes.
Speaking of challenges, this isn’t a game that holds your hand. Players will encounter over 120 types of enemies and must overcome more than 30 unique bosses. To survive, Lea utilizes a versatile combat system that allows for several different attack styles and over 90 combat arts. The gameplay often draws comparisons to The Legend of Zelda, particularly due to its clever dungeon design and physics-based puzzles that require precise timing and strategic thinking.
How Much Content Is There?
For those looking to get the most bang for their buck, CrossCode delivers in spades. The main story alone is estimated to take around 30 hours to complete. However, completionists who want to tackle the hundreds of side quests and unlock every secret will find themselves immersed for significantly longer. According to the crowd-sourced data from HowLongToBeat, a full 100% completion run can take upwards of 80 hours.
Critical Acclaim and Player Praise
It is rare to see a game maintain such a high level of adoration years after its release, yet CrossCode continues to shine. On Steam, the game has amassed 17,676 user reviews, with a staggering 92% of them being positive. This "Overwhelmingly Positive" rating reflects the community’s love for the game’s emotional story, tight controls, and the unique way it integrates "MMO mechanics" into a solo experience.
Critics have been equally impressed. On Metacritic, the game holds a strong Metascore of 86 and a user score of 8.4. Reviewers consistently highlight the intelligent puzzles—often inspired by Zelda—and the rewarding exploration system as standout features.
Don’t miss out on this incredible deal:
Get CrossCode on Steam for $5.99
Is It Worth It Despite the Flaws?
No game is perfect, and CrossCode has its minor shortcomings. Some players have noted that the gameplay can feel slightly repetitive over the course of the lengthy 80-hour journey. Additionally, because the game mimics the pacing of a live-service MMO, the story takes a while to develop. The narrative starts slowly, which can be frustrating for players who prefer a high-octane opening.
However, for a price point of $5.99—less than the cost of a fast-food lunch—these minor pacing issues are easily overlooked. This historic discount, which SteamDB notes was first reached on June 22, 2023, represents the perfect opportunity for newcomers to experience one of the most underrated indie gems of the past generation.
Whether you are a fan of Secret of Mana, Zelda puzzles, or just love a good underdog story, CrossCode at $5.99 is an absolute steal. Just remember, the sale ends on March 26, so act fast to add this classic to your library.
