Mina the Hollower Review — Is It Worth Playing?
Updated 2026-06-02
This Mina the Hollower review evaluates Yacht Club Games' latest title across five categories: gameplay, visuals, audio, content volume, and value. After extensive playtime across multiple playthroughs, we have a clear picture of where the game excels and where it falls short. The Mina the Hollower review score reflects the quality fans have come to expect from the Shovel Knight developers.
Review scores
| Category | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gameplay | 9/10 | Tight controls, satisfying combat, innovative burrow mechanic |
| Visuals | 9/10 | Beautiful pixel art with excellent animation quality |
| Audio | 10/10 | Jake Kaufman's best soundtrack since Shovel Knight |
| Content | 8/10 | 8–16 hours depending on completion level |
| Value | 9/10 | $19.99 with no microtransactions or paid DLC |
| Overall | 9/10 | A must-play for action-adventure fans |
What works well
The Mina the Hollower review highlights the whip combat as the standout feature. The tip-contact sweet-spot system adds satisfying depth to what could have been a simple attack. The burrow mechanic integrates seamlessly into both combat and exploration — it never feels like a gimmick. The soundtrack by Jake Kaufman is exceptional, with each biome featuring distinct musical motifs that enhance the atmosphere. The pixel art is among the best in the genre, with fluid animations and expressive character designs.
What could be better
- Some backtracking feels excessive before unlocking the double-jump ability.
- The map system could be clearer about which rooms contain undiscovered secrets.
- Boss rush mode is notably absent for a game with strong combat mechanics.
FAQ
- What is the overall Mina the Hollower review score?
- 9/10. It is an excellent action-adventure that lives up to Yacht Club Games' reputation for quality pixel-art design.
- Is Mina the Hollower better than Shovel Knight?
- Different games in the same genre family. This Mina the Hollower review finds it stands alongside Shovel Knight as another excellent title from the studio.