Review · Action · Nintendo Switch · Xbox One · Nintendo 3DS
Shantae and the Pirate's Curse
By the LumiKin editors
Reviewed: 16 May 2026
Nintendo Switch · Xbox One · Nintendo 3DS · Wii U · PlayStation 4 · PC
WayForward Technologies · 2014
LumiScore
60/100
Good
Growth (BDS)
43
Risk (RIS)
2
Daily limit
120min
Age guidance
E10+
Developmental benefits
| B1 | Cognitive | 0.50 | |
| B2 | Social-emotional | 0.23 | |
| B3 | Motor | 0.55 | |
Shantae and the Pirate's Curse offers engaging action-platforming gameplay with a focus on problem-solving, spatial awareness, and strategic thinking through its interconnected world, puzzles, and diverse pirate item abilities. It encourages reading comprehension through its narrative and NPC interactions, and promotes learning transfer as players master new skills. The game provides a clear sense of progression and accomplishment.
Design risks
| R1 | Dopamine pressure | 0.03 | |
| R2 | Monetization | 0.00 | |
| R3 | Social risk | 0.00 | |
The game presents minimal risks. While it contains mild cartoon violence and some suggestive character designs appropriate for its E10+ rating, it lacks manipulative dopamine mechanics, monetization pressures, or social risks. There are no features that promote excessive play, spending, or negative social interactions.
Heads up
- Monthly spendTypical real-money spend by engaged players: $0–0/mo.