Console Creatures

Shadow Complex

8.3

0.0 (0)

Info

Developer	Chair Entertainment
Genre	Action/Adventure
MSPoint Cost	1200
ESRB Rating	Teen
Release Date	August 2009
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From blockbuster developers Epic Games and Chair Entertainment comes the next evolution in Xbox LIVE Arcade games. Powered by the industry-leading Unreal Engine 3, Shadow Complex™ is the height of old-school side-scrolling design combined with modern, cutting-edge gameplay.

In Shadow Complex, gameplay is centered on exploration and fast-paced combat as you gather game-altering power-ups and an arsenal of futuristic weapons to overcome obstacles, thwart legions of enemies, and delve into a mysterious open game world. The original single-player adventure is set in a compelling universe based upon the best-selling novel, Empire, by Orson Scott Card.

Original game: This completely original game features full 3-D side-scrolling action. The incredible next-gen graphics and robust physics combine with an open, evolving world design mixed with an awesome, compelling action-thriller story.
Power-ups: Seek out 17 unique game altering power-ups, with more than 100 additional items and modifiers to discover and use.
Bad guys: Fight against a large variety of enemies and experience massive, jaw-dropping boss battles.
Pick up and play: The super-tight controls are simple and intuitive but also allow advanced players additional depth and precision.
Noted scriptwriter: Shadow Complex features a script written by Peter David, one of the most popular comic book writers of all time. It's the first game to be set in Chair's Empire universe and based upon the best-selling novel by Orson Scott Card.
Legendary developers: Shadow Comples is produced by Epic Games, creators of the award-winning Unreal and Gears of War video game franchises and the industry-leading Unreal Engine.

Editor reviews

Shadow Complex

Overall rating:		8.3
Presentation:		9.0
Experience :		8.0
Value:		8.0

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Reviewed by DDGW_Nirox
August 27, 2009
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1 of 1 people found the following review helpful

When I first saw trailers of Shadow Complex I was instantly intrigued: a 2D side-scroller with stunning graphics and a deep story inspired by the books of Orson Scott Card? Damn!

Does the game live up to the hype? Are 2D platform games even relevant in our current game environment? Let’s start the review.

Art Style – GDAMN!

Shadow Complex is a very polished game, almost every corner of the military site has been handled with great care. The art style and detail will rival any arcade game available and even some full retail games. Shadow Complex has set a new standard for quality in arcade games.

Sound – Above Average

There isn’t much to say about Shadow Complex’s music and sound effects. The only saving grace is the voiceover work. The cut scenes are impressive and entertaining and help forward a story line that quickly goes nowhere . . . but at least the voiceovers are good, right?

Controls – Smooth!

Shadow Complex is not a difficult game to manoeuvre in; its basic movements are handled just as you would expect and are responsive enough for you to land those tricky jumps that WILL drive you nuts! Just like all good games, the controls are easy to learn, but hard to master.

Game Play – IT’S GOOD!

Shadow Complex has a lot of things going for it: it’s fast-paced, trigger happy action and deep exploration are done perfectly. Mixed with a levelling system and some very unique weapons, there’s not much more you could ask for.

One big problem taints Shadow Complex and that is that the game actually becomes easier as you progress through it. This problem is due to the large amount of ammo the game provides you with. Whenever you face off against a large mech or boss battle, you can instantly unload your stockpile of grenades, rockets and foam – and they drop before the battle even begins.

Another small but annoying issue is that the game hides some of the best equipment too well. After searching for two hours for select equipment players are bound to go to internet Faqs to find stuff. That's not a plus in our books. If you are looking for a challenge in hide and seek – THIS IS THE GAME FOR YOU.

Review

The Good	- Beautiful visuals - Unique and fun guns (foam gun!) - Side SCROLLER!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Bad	- Story is short and instantly forgettable - Game became easier as the user progressed
Reccomendation	Buy It!