PC Engine Fan voted to give the game a 23.66 out of 30 score, ranking at the number 60 spot in a poll, indicating a popular following. ACE and Computer and Video Games Julian Rignall praised the visual presentation for its small but detailed animated sprites, atmospheric imaginative backdrops, stereo soundtrack, challenging but addictive gameplay, as well as the multiplayer mode. Both Peter Braun and Manfred Kleimann of Aktueller Software Markt commended its audiovisual presentation, gameplay and length but criticized certain shortcomings of the game. Dragons three reviewers gave the title a perfect rating in 1990, referring it as a greatly expanded version of Gauntlet. They noted its combination of arcade-style action with role-playing game elements due to character-specific abilities and magic, as well as the freedom to search regions without requiring previous dungeon victories. Electronic Gaming Monthlys four reviewers referred Dungeon Explorer as a "better-than-average action/adventure title" similar to Gauntlet and felt that its mixture of text and adventure elements were fitting. They also commended its audiovisual presentation and gameplay. Hobby Consolas Sonia Herranz praised its small but sharp visuals, music, sound effects, addictive gameplay, ability to play with five players and choose between eight characters with their own attributes. However, Herranz criticized the game's password system for starting players back at the beginning area and lack of care with the scenery. Tilts Alain Huyghues-Lacour felt that the title was inspired by Gauntlet but gave positive remarks to the graphics, sprite animations and sound. Power Plays Michael Hengst stated that the visuals were better than Gauntlet II and noted its infusion of role-playing elements into the Gauntlet formula. Hengst gave positive commentary in regards to the stereo sound and multiplayer, but remarked that playing solo makes the game more difficult. Retrospective coverage Retrospective reviews for Dungeon Explorer have been more mixed. Eurogamers Kristan Reed felt more like Zelda with Gauntlet elements and noted the ability to support five players simultaneously. However, Reed stated that the game was "nothing special these days, but one to pick up if you've got nostalgic associations as it's perfectly playable in a mindless way." GameSpots Greg Mueller commended its large and diverse dungeons, colorful graphics and catchy music but criticized the gameplay for being shallow, punishing difficulty and clunky password system. IGNs Mark Birnbaum gave positive remarks to the dungeon layouts, soundtrack and multiplayer but criticized its visuals, average sound effects and repetitive gameplay.