How this score was computed
The VGC Score is a weighted blend on a press-comparable 0-100 quality scale. Steam approval rates are first calibrated (95% positive on Steam ≈ 89.5 quality, since Steam approval skews high). Press and tracked creator reviews each count ~2x a player review and share one cap against player evidence (creator buy/skip calls pool into an approval rate, calibrated like Steam approval); all-time sentiment is capped and halved (it's context, not verdict); reviews of the current build carry the most weight when a fresh patch anchors the window; and a 'typical game' prior keeps small samples from pegging the scale. Because press reviews and Metacritic user aggregates describe the launch build, their weight decays as the game ages (3-year half-life after a 1-year grace). That's how a game that launched rough can outgrow its old reception once updates win players over. Reviews under 2h playtime (the refund window), non-Steam activations, and free copies are downweighted.
| Component | Positive | Quality (0-100) | Weight (pseudo-reviews) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Press reviews (Metacritic) | – | 79 | 20 |
| All-time Steam reviews | – | – | 0 |
| Metacritic user ratings | – | – | 0 |
| Post-patch Steam reviews (trust-weighted) | – | – | 0 |
| Calibration prior (typical game) | – | 72 | 50 |
Scoring window: last 30 days (no significant patch detected) · 0 reviews sampled · 0 total reviews in window · weighted 0 up / 0 down · computed 2h ago · full methodology →
Press & Creators reviews (7)
Individual verdicts from outlets we track: scored reviews first, most trusted outlets first among them. The small badge is each outlet's trust score: how well its scoring history aligns with players.
- 85
“Deru: The Art of cooperation is a delightfully relaxing puzzle-solving experience that leans into its tone and provides a mellow fun whether you’re sitting alone or with a friend on the couch. The levels are challenging without being aggravating and it’s clear just as much thought was put into its presentation. I just don’t expect you’ll be playing this at a rooftop party with Karen anytime soon.”
read full review ↗ - 80
“As far as puzzle games on the Nintendo Switch go, Deru: The Art of Cooperation is without a doubt among the most original and enjoyable. With its minimalist atmosphere, innovative puzzle design and cooperation system that makes its two-player component a star, this is the kind of game that is certain to become an instant hit with puzzle games fans.”
read full review ↗ - 80
“DERU: The Art of Cooperation is a simple but beautiful puzzler that really shines when two players are involved. It’s an easy recommendation if you’re after a head scratcher and perfect for couples looking for a way to spend a couple of afternoons. Playing alone? It’s functional but far from the true way to experience the game.”
read full review ↗ - 90
“A atypical puzzle game that offers a real challenge. Try it in coop and you won't be disappointed. ”
read full review ↗ - 70
“Minimalist cooperation. This is how this game could be defined. It is satisfying, relaxing and with a message to offer in each level. The individual experience may be less innovative, but with company everything is better.”
read full review ↗ - 60
“At the end of the day, Deru may be too challenging for small kids and too unstimulating for adults. To its credit, it has an absolutely beautiful delivery and the abstract puzzles are a nice and unexpected idea. Though the price tag on the game is pretty modest, the gameplay is very short, less than four hours from start to finish, and may not be worth the purchase for players seeking an exhilarating experience.”
read full review ↗ - 80
“Deru: The Art of Cooperation looks simple yet its gameplay is mind-bending, challenging, and ultimately rewarding. Plus, its immersive minimalist atmosphere will make you keep coming back to try and master its incredibly clever scenarios.”
read full review ↗
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