Epic Games Store’s reported festive-season giveaway was Dead Cells for Android and iOS—not a PC giveaway. Notebookcheck reported that players could claim it until about 16:00 UTC on December 18, 2025. That deadline has passed, so the promotion is no longer available to claim.
Which game was free on the Epic Games Store?
The game was Dead Cells, the action platformer that Apple describes as a “roguevania.” Notebookcheck reported on December 11, 2025 that the promotion covered the Android and iOS versions. The report described the game as critically acclaimed and recorded ratings of 4.9/5 on Google Play from more than 119,000 reviews and 4.8/5 on iOS at that time; those are dated figures, not verified current ratings. Notebookcheck’s report
Can you still claim Dead Cells, and was it free on PC?
No. The reported mobile claim window ended on December 18, 2025, at around 16:00 UTC. The offer was for Android and iOS. Notebookcheck said the PC Mystery Game for that week had not yet been revealed when its report was published; that was a time-specific update, not evidence that the mobile giveaway applied to PC or a description of Epic’s current schedule.
The report linked to an Epic Games Store announcement on X, but its promotion details here are attributed to Notebookcheck’s dated coverage. Apple’s App Store listing describes the mobile game and its features, not the giveaway dates. To check current Epic promotions, consult the store directly: Epic Games Store.
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#1 Best Overall
- Incredible 2D souls-lite action with more than 90 weapons and spells with nonlinear gameplay.
- Explore secret room, hidden passages, and charming landscapes. Stroll down towers and breath in that fresh sea mist infused air.
- Build your unique play style as you combat the adrenaline pumping threat of perm death in this unique game of the year!
What kind of game is Dead Cells?
Dead Cells combines interconnected exploration with roguelite runs and permadeath. Its fast 2D combat uses weapons and skills, while progression opens new levels through play—even as a death ends a run. The result is a game about learning its combat and routes over repeated attempts, rather than carrying a single uninterrupted playthrough to the end. Apple App Store listing
How does the mobile version play?
Apple says the mobile version was redesigned for touchscreens and offers Original and Auto-Hit modes, customizable touch controls, and support for MFi external controllers. Its listing says, “No ads, no F2P mechanics!” That description applies to the game as listed on the App Store; check the current regional listing for availability and any in-app purchase details.
Rank #2
- 17 Levels - Each one with its own atmosphere, foes and secrets to discover
- 5 Bosses - Made by the most sadistic of the devs, raised on the salt of the testers
- 150 or so weapons and skills - Spears, swords, bows, magic spells, shields, pets, frying pans etc; You name it, we got it
- Unlock the four original Dead Cells DLCs, giving you late-game content plus an entire new pathway to follow, with an alternative ending and tons of new enemies, weapons & outfits
- Battle through the corridors of Dracula’s Castle; Wield weapons against monsters to reach the throne room of the Dark Lord
Apple listed the US app at $8.99 when accessed for this report and showed in-app purchases for DLC. That is not a guaranteed current or worldwide price. If you prefer a controller, confirm that the specific model is MFi-compatible before buying.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What if you want to play on another platform?
The expired promotion does not establish a current free offer on other platforms. Notebookcheck also mentioned a paid Nintendo Switch edition, but its reported $34.99 price was from the article’s publication period and should not be treated as current. Check the relevant platform store for today’s availability and price. The Switch edition is a separate paid console product, not the Android and iOS promotion.
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Best Value
- 2D souls-little action: tough but fair combat, the iconic dodge roll, more than 90 weapons and spells with unique gameplay...
- Roguevania: the progressive exploration of an inter-connected world, with the Replay ability of a rogue-little and the adrenaline pumping threat of perm death.
- Nonlinear progression: sewers, ossuary or ramparts? Once unlocked, special permanent abilities allow you to access new paths to reach your objective.
Rank #4
- FAITHFUL TABLETOP ADAPTATION: First of its kind, this rogue-lite board game captures the thrill of exploration, relentless combat, and evolving strategies that define the video game masterpiece!
- AN ARTISTIC MASTERPIECE: A true tribute to the Dead Cells aesthetic for fans of the iconic game, making for one of the most exciting and immersive deck-building experiences for gamers ages 14+!
- ADDICTIVE GAMING EXPERIENCE: Each game is about playing and dying again and again - going further and discovering more every time - a perfect gift with endless value for teens and fans of video games!
- "NEVER-ENDING" GAMEPLAY: Unlock new layers of difficulty every time you play through the Boss Cells system - adding fresh enemies and challenges in one of the most fun strategy card games for teens!
- SOLO MODE INCLUDED: Challenge yourself in single-player mode with Serenade, your animated sword companion, or bring it to game night with friends as a fun multiplayer cooperative board game option!
Rank #3
- 17 Levels - Each one with its own atmosphere, foes and secrets to discover
- 5 Bosses - Made by the most sadistic of the devs, raised on the salt of the testers
- 150 or so weapons and skills - Spears, swords, bows, magic spells, shields, pets, frying pans etc; You name it, we got it
- Unlock the four original Dead Cells DLCs, giving you late-game content plus an entire new pathway to follow, with an alternative ending and tons of new enemies, weapons & outfits
- Battle through the corridors of Dracula’s Castle; Wield weapons against monsters to reach the throne room of the Dark Lord
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
