DeathSpank

{{Short description|2010 video game}} {{Infobox video game | title = DeathSpank | image = DeathSpank.jpg | caption = Promotional artwork for ''DeathSpank'' | developer = [[Hothead Games]] | publisher = [[Electronic Arts]] | designer = [[Ron Gilbert]] | released = '''PlayStation 3''' July 13, 2010<ref name="PS3Xbox release">{{cite journal |title=Retro Diary |journal=[[Retro Gamer]] |publisher=[[Imagine Publishing]] |location=[[Bournemouth]] |issue=104 |date=July 2012 |page=13 |issn=1742-3155 |oclc=489477015}}</ref> '''Xbox 360''' July 14, 2010<ref name="PS3Xbox release" /> '''Microsoft Windows''' October 26, 2010<ref name="PC release" /> '''Mac OS X''' December 14, 2010<ref name="mac both games">{{Cite web |url=http://www.deathspank.com/archives/2230 |title=DeathSpank: T.O.V. now available for PC! |publisher=[[Hothead Games]] |date=2010-11-30 |access-date=2010-12-08 |quote=And we have good news for Mac users! DeathSpank and DeathSpank: T.O.V. will launch on Mac OS X on December 14 for $14.99 also via Steam. |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101208213438/http://www.deathspank.com/archives/2230 |archive-date=2010-12-08 |url-status=usurped }}</ref> | genre = [[Action role-playing game|Action role-playing]] | modes = [[Single-player video game|Single-player]], [[Multiplayer video game|multiplayer]] | platforms = [[Microsoft Windows]], [[Mac OS X]], [[PlayStation 3]], [[Xbox 360]] }}

'''''DeathSpank''''', also known as '''''DeathSpank: Orphans of Justice''''', is an [[action role-playing game|action role-playing]] [[video game]] developed by [[Hothead Games]] and published by [[Electronic Arts]]. It was created by game designers [[Ron Gilbert]] and Clayton Kauzlaric. The game was released on July 13, 2010 on the [[PlayStation 3]] via the [[PlayStation Network]] and on July 14, 2010 on the [[Xbox 360]] via [[Xbox Live Arcade]]. The [[Microsoft Windows]] and [[Mac OS X]] versions were released October 26, 2010 and December 14, 2010 respectively, via [[Steam (service)|Steam]].

''DeathSpank'' follows the titular character DeathSpank in his quest to find an item known as The Artifact. The game was originally supposed to be the first of a two-part series. The second half of the series, entitled ''[[DeathSpank: Thongs of Virtue]]'', was first released on September 20, 2010. Gilbert described ''DeathSpank'' as being "Act I" in the story, and ''Thongs of Virtue'' as being "Acts II and III". However, it was later announced that DeathSpank was returning for a third game, ''[[The Baconing]]'', abandoning the protagonist's name in its title. The third game was released on August 30, 2011.

''DeathSpank'' received generally positive reviews from critics, who cited influences from both the ''[[Monkey Island (series)|Monkey Island]]'' and ''[[Diablo (series)|Diablo]]'' games.

==Gameplay== [[Image:Deathspank screenshot.png|thumb|left|The world of ''DeathSpank'' features a combination of [[2D computer graphics|2D]] and [[3D computer graphics|3D]] objects.]] ''DeathSpank'' is an [[action role-playing game]] which also features elements from [[graphic adventure game]]s. Combat gameplay is similar to ''[[Diablo (video game)|Diablo]]''.<ref name="the game">{{cite video game | title=DeathSpank | developer=Hothead Games |publisher=Electronic Arts |date=2010-07-13}}</ref> Players can acquire several pieces of armor and weaponry, each with different abilities and attributes. During combat players can chain attacks in [[combo (video gaming)|combo]]s, which in turn deal more damage with each hit. As more hits are gained on enemies, DeathSpank's Justice Meter will fill. Once full, the player can unleash more powerful attacks for a limited time.<ref name="the game" />

In-game conversations with [[non-player character]]s are also a large part of the game. ''DeathSpank'' features advanced dialog options, similar to [[LucasArts]]' ''[[Monkey Island (series)|Monkey Island]]'' series which play a large part in unfolding the game's story. These conversations may lead to quests for DeathSpank. In all, the game features 79 side quests in addition to the 33 quests required to advance the main plot. Once the game is completed the player can return and complete any unfinished side quests.<ref name="the game" />

''DeathSpank'' is designed to be playable in short segments, and has three difficulty levels. It contains about 8 to 12 hours of gameplay depending on choices made by the player during the game. The world of ''DeathSpank'' is presented as a rotating cylinder, with the display having a rounded element, similar to ''[[Animal Crossing: Wild World]]''.<ref name="the game" /> The world is a mixture of [[2D computer graphics|2D]] and [[3D computer graphics|3D]] props on 3D terrain, and is rendered without load screens as the player moves between areas. The game also features a local [[Cooperative video game|cooperative]] mode, in which the second player takes the role of Sparkles the Wizard. Sparkles is equipped with multiple spells which provide support to DeathSpank, including a healing spell.<ref name="the game" />

==Synopsis== ''DeathSpank'' is set in a [[fantasy]] [[medieval]] world. It revolves around a character named DeathSpank, who has searched his entire life for an item known as The Artifact, a mysterious object whose purpose is equally mysterious.<ref name="the game" /> He travels with a wizard known as Sparkles, and the duo seek to claim The Artifact and rid the land of evil. The story begins with The Artifact just out of DeathSpank's reach. Unable to claim it, he meets with a local witch, who promises to help him in exchange for his services.<ref name="the game" /> He provides her with her requested items, and eventually obtains The Artifact.

The victory is short lived, however, as a group of henchmen who serve the evil Lord Von Prong steal The Artifact and all of DeathSpank's equipment.<ref name="the game" /> Traveling to a nearby town, he earns new weaponry from the townsfolk in exchange for doing good deeds. Re-equipped, he sets his sights back on The Artifact and Lord Von Prong. After a lengthy journey with several side quests throughout various locations, DeathSpank faces off against Lord Von Prong. He defeats Von Prong, and ''DeathSpank'' ends with a prelude to the game's sequel.<ref name="the game" />

==Development and marketing== [[Image:Ron Gilbert PAX 2009.jpg|thumb|''DeathSpank'' was designed by [[Ron Gilbert]], whose works include ''[[The Secret of Monkey Island]]'' and ''[[Maniac Mansion]]''.]] {{See also|DeathSpank: Thongs of Virtue#Development and marketing|l1=Development of DeathSpank: Thongs of Virtue}} ''DeathSpank'' was first confirmed on January 9, 2008 via a press release. The release stated that game designer [[Ron Gilbert]] would be joining forces to develop the game.<ref name="kotaku pr">{{Cite web |url=http://kotaku.com/342801/ron-gilbert-joins-hothead-for-deathspank |title=Ron Gilbert joins Hothead Studios for DeathSpank |publisher=[[Kotaku]] |first=Mike |last=Fahey |access-date=2010-12-09 |date=2008-01-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091019120154/http://kotaku.com/342801/ron-gilbert-joins-hothead-for-deathspank |archive-date=2009-10-19 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Gilbert described it as "''[[The Secret of Monkey Island|Monkey Island]]'' meets ''[[Diablo (video game)|Diablo]]''."<ref name="Allin">{{Cite web |url=http://www.adventuregamers.com/newsitem.php?id=1590 |title=Ron Gilbert set to deliver a DeathSpank |date=2008-01-09 |access-date=2008-01-09 |last=Allin |first=Jack |publisher=[[Adventure Gamers]] |archive-date=2012-02-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120207162955/http://www.adventuregamers.com/newsitem.php?id=1590 |url-status=usurped }}</ref> Three cinematic teaser trailers for ''DeathSpank'' were shown at [[Penny Arcade Expo]] 2008.<ref name="pax08">{{Cite web |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/bloody-new-deathspank-trailers-details-from-pax-2008/ |title=Bloody new DeathSpank trailers, details from PAX 2008 |first=Ross |last=Miller |date=2008-09-04 |publisher=[[Joystiq]] |access-date=2010-12-09 |archive-date=2009-09-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090926022729/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/09/04/bloody-new-deathspank-trailers-details-from-pax-2008/ |url-status=live }}</ref> During the 2009 Penny Arcade Expo ''DeathSpank'' was showcased at the [[Hothead Games]] booth, with live gameplay being demonstrated by staff, along with examples of story elements, and dialogue trees.<ref name="pax09">{{Cite web |url=https://kotaku.com/ron-gilbert-on-deathspank-why-play-two-games-5354357 |title=Ron Gilbert On DeathSpank: Why Play Two Games? |publisher=Kotaku |access-date=2010-12-09 |date=2009-09-08 |first=Mike |last=Fahey |archive-date=2010-04-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100412113625/http://kotaku.com/5354357/ron-gilbert-on-deathspank-why-play-two-games |url-status=live }}</ref> It was announced on March 4, 2010 that [[Electronic Arts]] would publish the game.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://kotaku.com/ea-cuts-deal-to-publish-shank-deathspank-5485615 |title=EA Cuts Deal To Publish Shank, Deathspank |date=2010-03-04 |access-date=2010-12-09 |publisher=Kotaku |first=Brian |last=Crecente |archive-date=2010-05-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100529050727/http://kotaku.com/5485615/ea-cuts-deal-to-publish-shank-deathspank |url-status=live }}</ref>

The game was released on July 13, 2010, on the [[PlayStation Network]] and July 14, 2010, on [[Xbox Live Arcade]].<ref name="PS3Xbox release" /> It was later released for [[Microsoft Windows]] on October 26, 2010, and on Mac OS X December 14, 2010.<ref name="PC release">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamefaqs.com/pc/944504-deathspank/data |title=DeathSpank Release Information for PC |publisher=GameFAQs |access-date=2010-12-09 |archive-date=2010-08-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100802063850/http://www.gamefaqs.com/pc/944504-deathspank/data |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="mac both games"/> The PC and Mac OS X versions support a wide range of resolutions, the ability to run the game windowed, input by keyboard and mouse as well as gamepad, alternate control schemes, and a key mapping ability. Gameplay enhancements based on feedback from the console versions include an equipment comparison function, a treasure chest feature in each town and major area, a new streamlined user interface and more. These versions also make use of [[Steam (service)|Steam]]'s cloud saving and achievement functionalities and leaderboards.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://news.bigdownload.com/2010/10/25/interview-hothead-games-ceo-talks-to-us-about-the-pc-port-of-d/ |title=Interview: Hothead Games' CEO talks to us about the PC port of DeathSpank |date=2010-10-25 |first=John |last=Callaham |access-date=2010-12-08 |publisher=bigdownload.com |archive-date=2010-12-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101206033558/http://news.bigdownload.com/2010/10/25/interview-hothead-games-ceo-talks-to-us-about-the-pc-port-of-d |url-status=dead }}</ref>

In an interview with ''[[Gamasutra]]'' in June 2008, Gilbert stated that ''DeathSpank'' would be an episodic series of games.<ref name="08 gamasutra">{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/spanking-death-ron-gilbert-goes-episodic-and-loves-it |title= Spanking Death: Ron Gilbert Goes Episodic... And Loves It |date=2008-06-30 |first=Christ |last=Remo |access-date=2010-12-09 |publisher=[[Gamasutra]]}}</ref> On March 30, 2009, Ron Gilbert confirmed on his blog that the game would no longer be episodic.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://grumpygamer.com/8920865 |title=DeathSpank Tidbit |date=2009-03-30 |access-date=2009-04-09 |last=Gilbert |first=Ron |publisher=grumpygamer.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090403084610/http://grumpygamer.com/8920865 |archive-date=2009-04-03 }}</ref> Gilbert later revealed that the game had once again become episodic due to the game's size. "Towards the end of production it was determined what we had built was too big for a downloadable game, so the decision was made to split the game in half and the climactic battle with Lord Von Prong was the perfect place. That battle is in essence the end of Act I and it had a nice WTF moment that provided a nice cliff hanger" he stated.<ref name="Allin"/> Gilbert has described ''DeathSpank'' as being "Act I" in his story, and ''Thongs of Virtue'' as being "Acts II and III".<ref name="grumpygamer.com">{{Cite web|url=http://grumpygamer.com/1500519 |title=DeathSpank: Thongs of Virtue |date=2010-08-27 |access-date=2010-12-07 |publisher=grumpygamer.com |last=Gilbert |first=Ron |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101217151518/http://grumpygamer.com/1500519 |archive-date=2010-12-17 }}</ref>

The title character originated in Ron Gilbert's ''Grumpy Gamer'' comics, created by Gilbert and Clayton Kauzlaric, who they later developed further.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/ea-publishing-deathspank-and-shank-on-psn-xbla/ |title=EA publishing 'DeathSpank' and 'Shank' on PSN, XBLA |publisher=[[Joystiq]] |access-date=2010-12-07 |date=2010-03-04 |first=Kevin |last=Kelly |archive-date=2010-04-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100407081651/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/ea-publishing-deathspank-and-shank-on-psn-xbla |url-status=live }}</ref> The character DeathSpank is voiced by [[Michael Dobson (actor)|Michael Dobson]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://grumpygamer.com/2796931 |title=DeathSpank Named Game of the Century |date=2009-12-19 |last=Gilbert |first=Ron |access-date=2010-12-07 |publisher=grumpygamer.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101217222908/http://grumpygamer.com/2796931 |archive-date=2010-12-17 }}</ref> Gilbert and Kauzlaric created a rough design for the game and pitched it to publishers for over four years without success.<ref name="kotaku pr" /> Previously, Gilbert had consulted for ''[[Penny Arcade Adventures: On the Rain-Slick Precipice of Darkness]]'' at Hothead Games; he contacted them and a deal was struck for the company to develop the game. A more in-depth design for DeathSpank was then produced.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://grumpygamer.com/8519854 |title=Ron Gilbert announces DeathSpank deal |date=2008-01-09 |access-date=2008-01-09 |last=Gilbert |first=Ron |publisher=grumpygamer.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080111033524/http://grumpygamer.com/8519854 |archive-date=2008-01-11 }}</ref> Kauzlaric remained involved with the project, consulting on design, story and [[concept art]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://ton-of-clay.blogspot.com/2008/12/character-generation.html |title=Character Generation |date=2008-12-25 |access-date=2010-12-07 |first=Clayton |last=Kauzlaric |publisher=Personal blog of Clayton Kauzlaric}}</ref> Gilbert departed Hothead Games upon completion of the game.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://grumpygamer.com/8789972 |title=Just so you know... |date=2010-04-06 |access-date=2010-12-07 |last=Gilber |first=Ron |publisher=grumpygamer.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101217151334/http://grumpygamer.com/8789972 |archive-date=2010-12-17 }}</ref>

==Reception== {{Video game reviews | title = DeathSpank  | GR = 80% (PC)<ref name="gr pc" /> 79% (PS3)<ref name="gr ps3" /> 80% (X360)<ref name="gr 360" /> | MC = 78/100 (PC)<ref name="mc PC" /> 79/100 (PS3)<ref name="mc ps3" /> 79/100 (X360)<ref name="mc X360" />  | 1UP = B<ref name="1up review" /> | EuroG = 6/10<ref name="eurogamer review" /> | GameRev = A−<ref name="gamerevolution review" /> | GSpot = 8/10<ref name="gamespot review" /> | IGN = 8.5/10<ref name="ign review" /> | Joystiq = 5/5<ref name="joystiq review" /> | VG = 7/10<ref name="videogamer review" /> | XPlay = 4/5<ref name="xplay review" />  | rev1 = ''[[Good Game (television series)|Good Game]]'' | rev1Score = 8/10<ref name="goodgame review" />  }}

''DeathSpank'' has received generally positive reviews from critics. At aggregate website [[GameRankings]] it holds scores of 79-80% for the platforms it was released on.<ref name="gr pc">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/pc/944504-deathspank/index.html |publisher=GameRankings |access-date=2010-12-06 |title=DeathSpank for PC — GameRankings |archive-date=2010-12-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101204065531/http://www.gamerankings.com/pc/944504-deathspank/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="gr ps3">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/ps3/991034-deathspank/index.html |publisher=[[GameRankings]] |access-date=2010-12-06 |title=DeathSpank for PlayStation 3 - GameRankings |archive-date=2010-11-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101124080836/http://www.gamerankings.com/ps3/991034-deathspank/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="gr 360">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamerankings.com/xbox360/991035-deathspank/index.html |publisher=GameRankings |access-date=2010-12-06 |title=DeathSpank for Xbox 360 - GameRankings |archive-date=2010-10-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101024215525/http://www.gamerankings.com/xbox360/991035-deathspank/index.html |url-status=live }}</ref> Fellow aggregate website [[Metacritic]] reports similar scores, with both the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions averaging 79/100 and the PC version holding a score of 78/100.<ref name="mc PC">{{Cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/deathspank/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |title=DeathSpank for PC Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More at Metacritic |publisher=Metacritic |access-date=2010-12-09 |archive-date=2025-06-30 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250630120913/https://www.metacritic.com/game/deathspank/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="mc ps3">{{Cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/deathspank/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3 |title=DeathSpank for PlayStation 3 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More at Metacritic |publisher=[[Metacritic]] |access-date=2010-12-09 |archive-date=2025-06-30 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250630120928/https://www.metacritic.com/game/deathspank/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="mc X360">{{Cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/deathspank/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360 |title=DeathSpank for Xbox 360 Reviews, Ratings, Credits, and More at Metacritic |publisher=Metacritic |access-date=2010-12-09 |archive-date=2025-06-30 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20250630120952/https://www.metacritic.com/game/deathspank/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360 |url-status=live }}</ref> The game has sold over 91,000 units as of October 2010 with a total of over 97,000 units as of year-end 2010.<ref name="gamasutra sales">{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/in-depth-xbox-live-arcade-sales-analysis-october-2010 |title=In-Depth: Xbox Live Arcade Sales Analysis, October 2010 |first=Ryan |last=Langley |publisher=Gamasutra |date=2010-11-23 |access-date=2010-11-24}}</ref><ref name="gamerbytes 2010 sales">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamerbytes.com/2011/01/indepth_xbox_live_arcade_sales_18.php#more |title=XBLA: In-Depth: Xbox Live Arcade Sales Analysis For All Of 2010 |first=Ryan |last=Langley |publisher=Gamerbytes |date=2011-01-28 |access-date=2011-01-31 |archive-date=2011-02-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110201164901/http://www.gamerbytes.com/2011/01/indepth_xbox_live_arcade_sales_18.php#more |url-status=dead }}</ref> Year-end 2011 analyses showed a movement of over 122,000 units.<ref name="sales 11 360">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/39713/Xbox_Live_Arcde_by_the_numbers__the_2011_year_in_review.php |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120124020803/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/39713/Xbox_Live_Arcde_by_the_numbers__the_2011_year_in_review.php |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 24, 2012 |publisher=[[Gamasutra]] |access-date=2012-01-23 |first=Ryan |last=Langley |title=Xbox Live Arcade by the numbers — the 2011 year in review |date=2012-01-20}}</ref> The PlayStation 3 version sold similarly, with nearly 107,000 units sold at the end of 2010.<ref name="gamerbytes sales PSN">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamerbytes.com/2011/02/indepth_playstation_network_sa_7.php#more |title=In-Depth: PlayStation Network Sales Analysis, November — December 2010, And A Look At The Whole Year |first=Ryan |last=Langley |publisher=Gamerbytes |date=2011-02-06 |access-date=2011-02-08 |archive-date=2011-02-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110211120458/http://www.gamerbytes.com/2011/02/indepth_playstation_network_sa_7.php#more |url-status=dead }}</ref> Some critics cited elements ''[[The Secret of Monkey Island]]'' and ''[[Diablo (video game)|Diablo]]'' in the game.<ref name="videogamer review">{{Cite web |url=http://www.videogamer.com/xbox360/deathspank/review.html |title=DeathSpank Review |first=Martin |last=Gaston |date=2010-07-13 |access-date=2010-12-08 |publisher=VideoGamer.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120406120020/http://www.videogamer.com/xbox360/deathspank/review.html |archive-date=2012-04-06 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="gamepro review">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/215795/deathspank/ |publisher=[[GamePro]] |access-date=2010-12-09 |title=DeathSpank |first=Will |last=Herring |date=2010-07-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100919011537/http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/215795/deathspank/|archive-date=2010-09-19}}</ref>

The game's humor was lauded among most critics. Thierry Nguyen of ''[[1UP.com]]'' enjoyed the character's interactions, and noted, "a sort of deadpan absurdity where pretty much anything [...] gets said as naturally as we would discuss the time of day."<ref name="1up review">{{Cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3180367&p=4 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130116031441/http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3180367&p=4 |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-01-16 |title=DeathSpank Review |publisher=[[1UP.com]] |access-date=2010-12-08 |first=Thierry |last=Nguyen |date=2010-07-13 }}</ref> ''[[Game Revolution]]''{{'}}s Duke Ferris agreed, and stated the game was "genuinely funny."<ref name="gamerevolution review">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/xbox360/deathspank |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130124021452/http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/xbox360/deathspank |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-01-24 |title=DeathSpank — Xbox360 |first=Duke |last=Ferris |date=2010-07-13 |access-date=2010-12-08 |publisher=[[Game Revolution]] }}</ref> He then pointed out several instances of humorous quests, conversations, and actions.<ref name="gamerevolution review" /> XPlay's Rob Manuel stated that "most of the thanks here should go to Ron Gilbert." He then referenced two of Gilbert's previous games, ''[[The Secret of Monkey Island]]'' and ''[[Maniac Mansion]]''. Manuel went on to add, "his sharp and often dark sense of humor permeates everything from quests to settings."<ref name="xplay review">{{Cite web |url=http://g4tv.com/games/xbox-360/63798/deathspank/review/ |title=DeathSpank Review |first=Rob |last=Manuel |publisher=XPlay |date=2010-07-13 |access-date=2010-12-08 |archive-date=2011-09-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110913154101/http://www.g4tv.com/games/xbox-360/63798/deathspank/review/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''[[Eurogamer]]''{{'}}s Dan Pearson felt the humor was borderline irreverent and said, "I can't help feel I'm not really part of ''DeathSpank''{{'}}s target audience."<ref name="eurogamer review">{{Cite web |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/deathspank-review |title=DeathSpank |first=Dan |last=Pearson |publisher=[[Eurogamer]] |date=2010-07-13 |access-date=2010-12-08 |archive-date=2010-08-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100819051917/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/deathspank-review |url-status=live }}</ref>

Critics universally applauded the unique art style of ''DeathSpank''. ''[[GameSpot]]''{{'}}s Tom Mc Shea called the visuals "imaginative", and added, "the colorful visuals are reason enough to check out every corner."<ref name="gamespot review" /> The reviewers from Australia's ''[[Good Game (television series)|Good Game]]'' said they "liked [''DeathSpank''{{'}}s] rolling countryside effect, so you feel like you're walking around a small planetoid filled with pop-up 2D sprites."<ref name="goodgame review">{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/tv/goodgame/stories/s2964480.htm |title=Good Game stories — DeathSpank |publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation |date=2010-07-26 |access-date=2010-12-09 |author=Bajo and Hex}}</ref> ''[[Joystiq]]''{{'}}s Randy Nelson lauded the visual and audio design of the game, and stated, "[it] resonates with charm created by artists, animators and Gilbert's own writing."<ref name="joystiq review">{{Cite web |url=http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/review-deathspank/ |title=Review: DeathSpank |first=Randy |last=Nelson |date=2010-07-16 |publisher=[[Joystiq]] |access-date=2010-12-06 |archive-date=2010-11-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101118075109/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/16/review-deathspank/ |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[GamePro]]''{{'}}s Will Herring added that the game had a "charming visual design."<ref name="gamepro review" />

The gameplay was also point of high praise among most reviewers, however elements of it were criticized. Martin Gaston of VideoGamer.com stated, "the game goes out of its way to ensure you're always taking on new and different enemies."<ref name="videogamer review" /> Randy Nelson of ''Joystiq'' noted that the game was diverse in its puzzles, adding that the developers strayed from stereotypical quotas such as killing a certain number of enemies.<ref name="joystiq review" /> ''[[IGN]]''{{'}}s Kristine Steimer disagreed, and noted that due to experiences in past Gilbert-designed games, she expected more quests which included puzzles. She stated, "I was expecting a bit more given the developer's background."<ref name="ign review">{{Cite web |url=http://xboxlive.ign.com/articles/110/1106111p1.html |title=DeathSpank Review |first=Kristine |last=Steimer |publisher=[[IGN]] |date=2010-07-14 |access-date=2010-12-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101214063609/http://xboxlive.ign.com/articles/110/1106111p1.html |archive-date=2010-12-14 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Martin Gaston of VideoGamer.com later stated that ''DeathSpank'' "all feels a bit diluted, as if a single drop of ''Diablo'' and ''Monkey Island'' has been added to an entire gallon of water."<ref name="videogamer review" /> ''[[Destructoid]]''{{'}}s Nick Chester praised the combat system and role-playing elements. "Chaining attacks is exceedingly satisfying, experimenting with various weapon combinations nearly as addictive as finding them in the first place" stated Chester<ref name="destructoid review">{{Cite news |url=http://www.destructoid.com/review-deathspank-178942.phtml |title=Review: DeathSpank |first=Nick |last=Chester |newspaper=Destructoid |publisher=Destructiod |access-date=2010-12-09 |date=2010-07-14}}</ref> Some reviewers noted that the addition of cooperative gameplay, while welcome, was unbalanced and underdeveloped.<ref name="gamespot review">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/deathspank/review.html |title=DeathSpank Review |first=Tom |last=Mc Shea |date=2010-07-13 |access-date=2010-12-08 |publisher=[[GameSpot]] |archive-date=2010-11-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101101161556/http://www.gamespot.com/xbox360/action/deathspank/review.html |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="videogamer review" /> ''GamePro''{{'}}s Will Herring disagreed and stated that the second player's character "won't steal the screen from the titular lead, but the option to team up and complete the game with a friend is a fun and worthwhile distraction."<ref name="gamepro review" />

The PC version of the game received praise for its faithful reproduction of gameplay from the console versions.<ref name="gamefocus review">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamefocus.ca/?nav=reviewCard&fid=9997 |title=DeathSpank |date=2010-10-28 |first=Marko |last=Djordjevic |publisher=GameFocus |access-date=2010-12-09 |archive-date=2010-11-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101103080843/http://www.gamefocus.ca/?nav=reviewCard&fid=9997 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="gr pc review">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/pc/deathspank |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130124120952/http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/pc/deathspank |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-01-24 |first=Josh |last=Laddin |access-date=2010-12-09 |date=2010-12-01 |title=DeathSpank — PC |publisher=Game Revolution }}</ref> The addition of keyboard and mouse gameplay received mixed views from critics. ''Game Revolution''{{'}}s Josh Laddin felt that the keyboard controls were frustrating and said, "the keyboard controls aren't as intuitive as a gamepad."<ref name="gr pc review" /> However Marko Djordjevic of GameFocus disagreed and stated, "once you get the hang of it [...] it feels exactly as you’d expect."<ref name="gamefocus review" /> Djordjevic further appreciated that the cooperative gameplay was ported over from the console versions.<ref name="gamefocus review" /> {{Clear}}

==Sequels== {{Main|DeathSpank: Thongs of Virtue|The Baconing}} ''DeathSpank: Thongs of Virtue'', the second title in the series, was announced August 23, 2010 and first released September 20, 2010.<ref name="sequel">{{Cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/deathspankthongsofvirtue/news.html?sid=6274256&om_act=convert&om_clk=newsfeatures&tag=newsfeatures%3Btitle |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130110233817/http://uk.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/deathspankthongsofvirtue/news.html?sid=6274256&om_act=convert&om_clk=newsfeatures&tag=newsfeatures;title |url-status=dead |archive-date=2013-01-10 |title=DeathSpank strikes back next month |first=Brendan |last=Sinclair |date=2010-08-13 |access-date=2010-12-08 |publisher=GameSpot }}</ref> It continues where ''DeathSpank'' ends, and features the use of ranged weapons such as machine guns and rocket launchers.<ref name="sequel" /> It was first released on the PlayStation 3 on September 21, 2010.<ref name="PS3 release tov">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamefaqs.com/ps3/605365-deathspank-thongs-of-virtue/data |title=DeathSpank: Thongs of Virtue Release Information for PlayStation 3 |publisher=[[GameFAQs]] |access-date=2010-12-08 |archive-date=2010-09-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100901140804/http://www.gamefaqs.com/ps3/605365-deathspank-thongs-of-virtue/data |url-status=live }}</ref> The Xbox 360 version was released September 22, 2010 and the PC version November 30, 2010.<ref name="360 release tov">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamefaqs.com/xbox360/605420-deathspank-thongs-of-virtue/data |title=DeathSpank: Thongs of Virtue Release Information for Xbox 360 |publisher=GameFAQs |access-date=2010-12-08 |archive-date=2010-08-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100831024836/http://www.gamefaqs.com/xbox360/605420-deathspank-thongs-of-virtue/data |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="PC release tov">{{Cite web |url=http://www.gamefaqs.com/pc/614500-deathspank-thongs-of-virtue/data |title=DeathSpank: Thongs of Virtue Release Information for PC |publisher=GameFAQs |access-date=2010-12-08}}</ref> The Mac OS X version was December 14, 2010.<ref name="mac both games" />

A third game, ''The Baconing'', was released in August 2011. The plot follows DeathSpank after he decides to try on all of the Thongs of Virtue at once. This spawns an evil incarnation of himself, the Anti-Spank. DeathSpank must travel to the Fires of Bacon to destroy the thongs and the Anti-Spank. It will be the first ''DeathSpank'' title not to feature the titular character in its name; it has been reported that this has nothing to do with the departure of Ron Gilbert from Hothead Games.

==References== {{Reflist|2}}

==External links== {{Portal|Video games}} *{{Official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20111217062610/http://www.deathspank.com/home-original}} (archived)

{{DEFAULTSORT:Deathspank}} [[Category:2010 video games]] [[Category:Action role-playing video games]] [[Category:Action-adventure games]] [[Category:Asymmetrical multiplayer video games]] [[Category:Cooperative video games]] [[Category:Electronic Arts franchises]] [[Category:Electronic Arts games]] [[Category:Fantasy video games]] [[Category:Hothead Games games]] [[Category:MacOS games]] [[Category:Multiplayer and single-player video games]] [[Category:PlayStation 3 games]] [[Category:PlayStation Network games]] [[Category:Role-playing video games]] [[Category:Video games developed in Canada]] [[Category:Video games scored by Jeff Tymoschuk]] [[Category:Windows games]] [[Category:Xbox 360 games]] [[Category:Xbox 360 Live Arcade games]]