# Cardinal Quest 2 — user reviews

> 50 indexed App Store user reviews of Cardinal Quest 2 by Randomnine Ltd, rated 4.87/5 from 1,150 ratings.

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/cardinal-quest-2/id732353646/reviews
- App overview in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/cardinal-quest-2/id732353646.md
- Rating breakdown: 5★ 1,060 · 4★ 61 · 3★ 8 · 2★ 7 · 1★ 13

## What do users think of Cardinal Quest 2?

Overall sentiment: positive

**Pros**

- 🚀 Highly replayable
- 👍 Unique character classes
- 🎨 Appealing pixel art
- 💰 Generous free-to-play model
- 🕹️ Engaging gameplay loop
- 🕰️ Ideal for short sessions
- 🎢 Challenging yet fair difficulty
- 🔓 Unlockable content through play

**Cons**

- 🐛 Accidental item usage
- 🔀 Imprecise movement controls
- 🔍 Lack of clear indicators
- 🧭 Difficulty continuing progress between acts

**Commonly reported bugs**

- Occasional crashes or freezes
- Compatibility issues on older devices

**Most requested features**

- More character classes and abilities
- Ability to continue progress between acts
- Clearer in-game tutorials
- Customizable controls (e.g. arrow keys)
- Expanded enemy and level variety

## Newest reviews (17 of 50)

### 5/5 — Unique

*2019-08-24, version 1.19*

This is a great game if you are new to RPG/rogue-like games or an expert. There is virtually every possible way to play this game: hard, easy, or super hard; multiple characters; various skills and items, often unique to each character; and 3 different acts with multiple levels (plus an "endless" Tower stage). And not to mention it's FREE. There are in-app purchases, but I have played many hours and never needed to buy anything. The cool thing about this game is you earn "morale" which you earn the more you play. You can use morale to open up new things instead of paying for them. It's a win-win!

### 5/5 — Best iOS game ever

*2019-07-27, version 1.19*

This is my all-time favorite iOS game.  I love it because I can stop and think, the challenge is different every time, there is an absolute ton to do and so much variety and strategy.  I want more please!!

Edit: got a new phone and for whatever reason couldn’t transfer my progress, so I said to myself “self, go find another game.  There must be other games with the rogue like nature, amazing achievements ladder and replay volume that Cardinal Quest 2 has.   ...I was wrong.  I’m back to start over.

Can someone please make Cardinal Quest 3 already!???

### 5/5 — Best mobile game to exist

*2019-05-23, version 1.19*

I got this game years ago, didn’t actually realize how much I played it until I almost got every single achievement and saw that it kept track of how much time you spent playing the game. At the time of posting this I have wasted about 426 hours in the game and only have one more achievement to go. This is the best rouge-like RPG I have ever played and the fact that it’s a mobile game that is this good just boggles my mind. It may be difficult at times and it may take time to unlock certain skills or characters using the currency of “morale” earned at the end of each run, but it is actually fun getting there. I wouldn’t worry about the in game purchases either, I never spend a dime on those. You could get 10,000 morale by just completing act 3 a couple times on Suicide difficulty. There are many different ways to play even within each class depending on what skills and items you decide to start with. If you are looking for the perfect rouge-like RPG, this is what you go for.

11/10 - Best mobile game to ever exist.

### 5/5 — Take notes iPhone developers, this is how you do free to play

*2019-05-17, version 1.19*

This the best rogue-like RPG out there with not only amazing replay ability but a multitude of ways to play all based on the character you choose at the beginning of each play through. This is a magnum opus of a game with this being my third time redownloading it to replay all the careers (levels) over again. It’s a must play, hands down, with not only an amazing soundtrack, art style, and gameplay loop but it all being on my phone on the go. Just waiting until they finally make a Nintendo Switch port for this sucker. And I’m somewhat unsure if they will make a third entry, but I would be dying for a new one anytime soon!

### 5/5 — Endlessly Replayable

*2019-03-02, version 1.19*

This is a deep little Roguelike beauty.  You play one of 6 character classes (with an unlockable 7th), using a broad set of increasingly powerful skills to contend with hordes of classic foes and mythic nemeses. Questing through an epic geography in 3 domains, you discard your common possessions to acquire mystic arts, wondrous items and legendary artifacts while developing manifold tactics and styles of play.  Morale points accrue as you triumph or perish, and they are spent to open new paths for your characters to follow.  Well composed music, 16 bit tiles and storylines vest the other game elements splendidly to make this an endlessly replayable gem.

### 5/5 — Oddly addictive

*2018-12-17, version 1.19*

I’m not a super gamer or in any way an expert in rogue likes, but I think this game hits a good balance of difficulty, stuff finding, and gameplay that make me keep wanting to play. I finished all the levels and achievements on an iPhone 5. I started again a first gen iPad mini and I’m still playing on my phone (upgraded since). Maybe it’s partly the fact that as other games became un-updatable on my iPhone 5, I was still able to play this game. I appreciate that. 

Someone mentioned not liking the controls which I don’t think are that bad. And you can switch from tapping movement to swiping movement. Some reviews mention a few other UI flaws like accidentally using an item or accidentally waiting. I agree there are a handful of these type of flaws but they are so minor that, to me, they add a slight level of authenticity or indieness or  something to the experience.

### 5/5 — Very good even 2 years later

*2018-11-08, version 1.19*

It’s still a classic even though the last time it got an update was 2 years ago. I only wish that it would get picked back up and the maker would use some of the amazing ideas on the forums

### 5/5 — One of the best

*2018-10-27, version 1.19*

You simply can’t go wrong with this game. It’s simple enough for someone with no Roguelike experience to enjoy, but offers enough depth and strategy to entertain a diehard fan of the genre. And as a mobile experience, it’s pretty much unbeatable. Pixel Dungeon and Ananias come close, but this game just beats them all out for its cleverness of control and ease of use. Highly recommended.

### 5/5 — Gave up my Console.

*2018-10-20, version 1.19*

For a free game. This blows a lot of hand held away. The difficulty and addiction. It’s simply unbeatable unless improved in its own beautiful way. The developers did an excellent job. This magnificent game is better than one of my all time favorites, pixel dungeon. Which I’d have to say is a great game as well, but I never wrote them a review. Please add more characters, in app purchases if you must!

### 5/5 — Amazing, but could be even more so!

*2018-03-08, version 1.19*

I love this game. Period. I continue to play it because it's really fun. The only things that frustrate me are the following things-
1: I wish you could sell unwanted items to forager. At present you are either stuck using items in an untimely manner or dropping something to pick something else up...
2: I wish there was some benefit to beating the levels aside from morale. I have to start each game (regardless of which act I am on) with a brand new level one character. I wish my character, which defeated the boss in act 1, could continue into act 2 with the perks I rigorously earned in act 1.

Even without these things the game is well worth playing. I would really like to see some more updates though...

### 5/5 — Best true rogulike ive seen on IOS. AND FREE

*2018-03-08, version 1.19*

No IAP's here, really. Not that you need. This is a real roguelike with different unlockable classes (none of which you have to pay for, a few playthroughs will unlock them). Each one is a totally different experience, each game is randomized like a turn-based Diablo with Link to the Past graphics. 

NOTE: since this review there is one more class that i just noticed which is 99c, but not at all neccesary and thats the only IAP i see in the game. No ads either. You do not *need* the alchemist

The game certainly does get challenging as a roguelike should, and every class you play as must be approached very differently (example: with thief, must* use stealth, with fighter, you dont bother hiding)

Im surprised this game is free, so if you like roguelikes and a challenge, check it out!

### 5/5 — Awesome !!!

*2018-02-09, version 1.19*

Please my god please add more to this game ... I literally play this no matter what new game I have I always come back to this .. This game is a work of art ,you guys this is no review ... I demand more ... Please? Lol thanks for creating such a masterpiece in such a small game !! But it's been years and people (myself included love this game) pleeeeease for the love of all good rouge likes left add more content

Update 

Please... add... more

### 5/5 — Almost perfect!!

*2017-10-21, version 1.19*

Only thing that keeps it from top notch is the fact that random low level enemies can get all Dark Souls hard and eat away at your health. Also would be awesome if you could continue with champions you've beaten the solo campaign keeping all your stuff to. And finally creating a blank character class that you make using custom characters.

### 5/5 — Deep, engaging way to pass time

*2017-08-01, version 1.19*

I've only started scratching the surface, but it seems like all the mechanics of this game are really solid and leave a lot remaining to be played with. I suppose at this point I may be a little early for me to say, but I'm really excited to play more of this game. I think others will be too.

### 5/5 — Best free game I have ever played

*2017-06-11, version 1.19*

I usually don't rate apps, but this one was quite the exception. For a free game, it is the best rouge like game on the App Store right now. Very intuitive controls and easy game mechanics. One of the main problems with games of this genre is the lack of meaningful progress, but CQ2 keeps the game interesting every step of the way. Definitely would recommend trying it out.

### 5/5 — CQ2 is GREAT! Very cool game.

*2017-05-20, version 1.19*

It's easy to play. If you want a game that is fun and enough of a challenge to keep you interested and on the edge, then this is it. You have a bunch of customization with magic spells, items and weapons and skills that match to each character type. There are many levels to adventure. This game is FREE too. They did a great job on it. I had fun playing and I think you will too!

### 5/5 — It certainly has five stars for a reason

*2017-04-18, version 1.19*

I left two reviews out of all the games I've played and this is one of them. For a free game this is shockingly good. There's not much I can say that hasn't been said already though. The class system is great, combat is fun, the acts are cool, and the tower is great. The in app-purchases are just short cuts and the are NO ADS. If you like rougelikes or turn based dungeon crawlers this is a MUST TRY. And even if you don't like them this is still a MUST TRY. No amount of words can describe how much I like this game. I've sunk way more hours into it than many of my paid steam games. In conclusion, JUST TRY THIS FREE AMAZING GAME!

## Most critical reviews (10 lowest-rated)

### 1/5 — I must be missing something...

*2017-08-26, version 1.19*

Because of the rave reviews and multiple articles that recommended this, I downloaded the game without pause. Plus it's free! That's a pretty easy sell, right?

You will undoubtedly see the perfect five star rating, and the gushing comments about perfection. I have no clue where this is coming from. 

The controls are my only issue (well that and the fairly ugly menus). You have to tap the TOP of your SCREEN to go up, the bottom to go down, ALL the way to the LEFT of, again, your SCREEN to go left and same with right. I have to hold the phone with one hand and tap like a maniac all over my phone to even remotely go where I want. No joystick option I can see in the menus, and no tutorial giving explanation as to why it is this way. 

I have played for an hour, and I can barely control the thing. I don't understand. Either my brain just doesn't get this, I'm missing something, or people just have a very unorthodox taste that I knew nothing about.

### 4/5 — Simple and Fun

*2020-10-21, version 1.19*

Traditional Roguelike framework, but with a heavy combat emphasis. Gear-based stat growth, and skill-tree-based leveling. The skills are varied and unique across classes, and investing in certain skills will dramatically affect play-style. 

Unlocks are handled with a currency called Morale, which is awarded after death based on performance. Unlock costs are fair and achievable without paying, but extra morale can be purchased with microtransactions. 

Quite fun in bursts, but repetitive if played extensively (which is perhaps ideal for a mobile game). Mechanics are deep enough to be satisfying, but simple enough to suit a game that will mostly be played on lunch breaks, car rides, and in waiting rooms. 

 All content can be unlocked with a reasonable amount of effort without any mtx, except possibly the alchemist class which uses a special unlock mechanic that is rather difficult. However, considering the overall quality of this free game, throwing a few dollars to the dev feels fair.

### 4/5 — Super replay value!!!

*2018-04-30, version 1.19*

This game has huge replay value! 3 acts with multiple levels each, with bosses at the end of each act. Tons of different monsters with their move and attack methods. 7 unique classes (unlock-able through play), each with their own skills and abilities acquired via level-up point distribution.  Plus 5 ability slots, filled by random acquisition scattered throughout levels (these abilities allow you to customize your playing style/strategy). To top it off, you get points after you beat each act; the points not only help you unlock new characters, but can also help you buy all sorts of character options to make them better and stronger for each new play-through. Vast possibilities and depth. Makes for a rich game experience. 

Developers: I also agree with others that it’s too easy to accidentally use items while moving. Also that there should be a confirmation prior to use.

Also it’s easy to move the wrong direction due to the controls (which makes combat suffer. Move buttons would help. 

Updates! Add new levels please too!

### 4/5 — Great Rogue-like!

*2016-12-29, version 1.19*

Pretty cool and fun fantasy crawl. Played the fighter and wizard just for total opposite play styles. Easy enough to pick up while passing time and save when you get bored.
 Unless I missed something a better explanation of skills should be in the description. Hence a four star. Regeneration for fighters I assumed was healing yourself while walking around. I maxed it out and After nothing happened I googled it and all it does is increase the amount of hp's you get back from the occasional blood pack that drops... other skills are similar so the wiki is necessary to figure out what to take.

### 4/5 — Excellent Roguelike, needs one thing.

*2016-12-29, version 1.19*

For fans of rogue, very nice simple dungeon crawl.
   Needs the ability to continue with your character between Acts.. It is disappointing to have your character finish an act with an underdeveloped skill tree..and then have to start over on the next act with a new character.

   Could also use more weapons and monster variety..still a 4 star effort.

### 5/5 — Yesss, it’s back up!!

*2022-12-25, version 1.19*

I noticed i couldnt redownload this after i upgraded my iphone; It said it wasnt on the app store anymore!  I sent an email about wanting it back on the app store, and here it is!

This was the first turn based rogue-like i loved and now I’m hooked on them!  Once again, I’m SUPER glad it’s back on here!

### 5/5 — Thank You

*2022-09-16, version 1.19*

I’m not big on mobile games, but I’ve semi routinely spent the last few years playing this game every day or two. It’s been a instrument of procrastination when I have things to do;It’s been a tool of prime distraction when my mind is in need of distracting. 

To anyone considering downloading CQ2: I don’t know your tastes or what you like so I can’t tell you to get it honestly, but I can say this developer has some artistic character and is competent. If it is in your taste’s genre, I heed you to give it a shot. 

I’ve been hitting the “Remind me later” option when the request to rate that app has appeared an obscene amount of times and I’m finally going to make it stop popping up, and how could I refuse the chance to say thank you so very much.  ≈•)

### 5/5 — Needs a 6th star- Fave phone game since ‘17

*2022-02-19, version 1.19*

I gotta say I was a little upset there was a less than 5 stars as the average on this game. CQ2 has been my rock for goin on half a decade. Like seriously- one of the only positives in my “Attack of the Fire Nation” (at least it was only 5 years & not 100 lol) Pick it up anytime, play anytime, the world stays paused for your schedule/attention span, and it’s all tailored to you. Multiple characters, many different lifestyles, I make a story in my head each time and it’s like reading a book/watching a movie to me. Ultimate playability and replay-ability as every go ends up a little or a lot different each time. 15/10 everyone try this game, give it time to learn the moves, and it ends up feeling like a spelunking chess game. THEY DO NOT POP UP LAME VIDEO ADS AT. ANY. TIME!!! Or even ASK you to watch one. Hat’s off to you, Randomnine Limited. I would come to Panels, shake your hand and offer my services as Creative Director for your company, cuz I got mad respect. Peace ✨🌌🪐🐉

### 5/5 — Been here a long time

*2021-02-24, version 1.19*

I’ve been playing this game for 5 years now. I put this game on all of my devices upon purchase. It’s the perfect mobile game, a dang shame it hasn’t been updated in a while. Much love to the devs if they’re still around

### 5/5 — An awesome and snappy roguelike

*2021-01-18, version 1.19*

Cardinal Quest 2 is fun and goes as fast as you want it to. You can fly through areas and combat, or you can try to plan out each and every move, all at your own pace. The streamlining of much of the tedium is great too. The pixel art is pleasing to the eye, and the effects are satisfying.

My only complaints aren't enough to ruin the game. There's a lack of an indicator that all enemies on a floor have been killed, since it's easy to miss the text pop up that says when all the baddies are gone. Also an option to use arrow keys so my fingers don't have to cover the top half of the screen when moving upwards. The early game spells and items could benefit from some more variety too.

None of these downsides are enough to detract from the fun of the game, but they would be great additions that would make it pretty much perfect. A total blast to play, I highly recommend it!

## Most praised reviews (5 highest-rated)

### 5/5 — Every tap is engaging

*2021-01-08, version 1.19*

I’m not a huge rogue like fan, but CQ2 is genuinely an interesting and engaging game that requires careful strategy and forethought, especially as you progress to higher levels. It keeps you on the edge of your seat while providing a satisfying feeling a triumph when the challenge has been overcome and one can breath a brief sigh of relief before pressing on. Loot is provided at a steady and balanced paced so you feel that you are constantly progressing and with the many characters/classes to unlock there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy this quality dungeon crawler. This isn’t a run of the mill mobile rpg, it’s a fully fleshed out game but it still captures the essence of a game that is played on the go and doesn’t require a lot of play time to progress, although I have found it hard to put down. I’m genuinely enjoying myself playing this game and would absolutely recommend.

### 5/5 — Free, fun, hard!

*2020-07-04, version 1.19*

Great game, reminds me of fargoal  , this game is random, hard, and fun if it hooks you. Most of all it’s fair in the sense it’s free and you can win, but it’s a rogue type games so you’ll die , a lot. I’ve finished the game with all characters a few times, minus the paid one because as cool as the games is a paid new character is not too cool plus it’s too pricey.

### 5/5 — My favorite flash game? On iPad? Yes, please!

*2020-03-17, version 1.19*

Really nothing else needs to be said. Now I can play this great game, wherever I may be! And to those worried about the “in-app purchases” part: don’t. It’s entirely optional, all it does is support the dev and speed things up slightly. Saves you maybe one or two runs of morale, the currency used to unlock new heroes, gear and etc. but as said, the game throws plenty of morale at you without you spending a dime. Seriously, get this game. You won’t be sorry.

### 5/5 — Just what I wanted.

*2020-02-17, version 1.19*

I was looking for a good, single-player, roguelike RPG I could play with one hand and easily pick up and put down--this is it!  Not super deep, but more than you can usually get in a free game, and without ads or overly aggressive monetization.  I'm not a very experienced gamer, but I find it fun, robust, and appropriately challenging without being frustrating. Definitely worth checking out!

### 5/5 — Best free game out there

*2019-11-04, version 1.19*

I don’t say that lightly either. I keep coming back to this game. It’s fun. It’s straight forward. And everything is unlockable via playing the game...without too much effort. Each class has its own play style. The mechanics are well done. This is a game that’s worth trying.

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-06-10.*
