Published on: October 31, 2025
Shovel Knight Joins Crypt of the NecroDancer and Rift of the NecroDancer with New DLC on Nintendo Switch
The indie game sensation Shovel Knight is making its way into yet another beloved title, as Brace Yourself Games brings the iconic character to both Crypt of the NecroDancer and Rift of the NecroDancer.
This crossover delivers fresh downloadable content (DLC) to fans of both roguelike rhythm games, and further cements Shovel Knight's position as an enduring figure in the indie gaming landscape.
Crypt of the NecroDancer, initially released in 2015 and later launched on the Nintendo Switch eShop, continues to evolve nearly a decade after its debut.
Brace Yourself Games has officially announced a dedicated Shovel Knight DLC, featuring the titular hero as a playable character.
This new content introduces a unique moveset, exclusive weaponry, and shortcut mechanics specific to Shovel Knight, promising a distinctive gameplay experience for both returning and new players.
The associated trailer shares an exciting glimpse of the spade-wielding knight navigating the game's signature rhythmic challenges, underscoring the fun and nostalgia that pixel art enthusiasts have come to expect.
However, Crypt of the NecroDancer isn't the only rhythm game benefiting from this collaboration.
Rift of the NecroDancer, the latest entry in the series, will also receive a Shovel Knight-themed music pack.
Gamers can look forward to rhythm-driven renditions of tracks such as "La Danse Macabre (Lich Yard)", "Strike the Earth! (Plains of Passage)", "In the Halls of the Usurper (Pridemoor Keep)", "High Above the Land (The Flying Machine)", and "An Underlying Problem (The Lost City)".
Additionally, Rift of the NecroDancer players will enjoy Jake Kaufman's iconic Shovel Knight main theme, offered as a free bonus for all users—a noteworthy incentive for long-time fans of the franchise's music.
While the Shovel Knight DLC bundles launched on Steam on June 25, 2024, Brace Yourself Games has stated that the Nintendo Switch versions are forthcoming, with release timing to be announced soon.
This aligns with the developer’s persistent commitment to supporting both legacy and newer hardware platforms, further enriching the eShop library and ensuring continued momentum for the NecroDancer series on Switch.
To date, Crypt of the NecroDancer has been downloaded by over one million players worldwide, solidifying its reputation as a rhythm-based roguelike classic.
Shovel Knight—originally developed by Yacht Club Games—has similarly achieved critical acclaim, with cumulative franchise sales surpassing two million units across all platforms.
As indie crossovers continue to delight and surprise the gaming community, the collaboration between Brace Yourself Games and the Shovel Knight brand showcases the vibrant creativity and ongoing vitality of the Nintendo Switch digital library.
For updates on the exact Nintendo Switch release date, keep an eye on official announcements and upcoming Nintendo Direct presentations.
Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Rift of the NecroDancer Shovel Knight DLC Crypt of the NecroDancer Brace Yourself Games Steam Jake Kaufman
