Shadow Complex
Shadow Complex is a dream come true for a lot of gamers including myself. That’s the realization of a next gen 2d action exploration game. This genre has been dubbed by “Metroidvania” by gamers, most because the only two series to really create games like this are Metroid and Castlevania. The genre is definitely lacking in quality games, and was only really popularized near the end of 2d gaming. Thus games like this were relegated to lower budget titles on handheld systems.
What makes Shadow Complex so unique is that Epic games (creators of Gears of War) obviously love the genre and have created a great next gen experience using the incredibly fun gameplay style that was popularized with Super Metroid and Castlevania Symphony of the Night.
So onto the game itself. Shadow Complex is the story of a couple (Jason and Claire) out hiking and exploring caves when they come across a secret underground complex. Claire is taken by soldiers, and it’s up to Jason to explore the complex and save her.
As Jason you start off with just a flashlight, but eventually come across many helpful items and weapons, like climbing gear, a pistol, grenades, and many more leading up to an incredibly powerful suit of power armor.
Like Metroid and Castlevania new equipment allows you to backtrack and explore previously hidden areas to find ammo increases and health power-ups.
The game does mostly play like a 2d game with a couple of exceptions. All of the environments are completely rendered in 3d, and it really makes for a better feeling game. Not only does make for some beautiful environments, it allows the world to feel more realistic while sticking with 2d gameplay. It’s also possible to shoot into the backgrounds and hit enemies who aren’t on the same plane as you.
I don’t think I need to say much more. This game is all kinds of fun, and it’s an amazing revival of a genre long thought dead. $15 is a steal for this game and I encourage everyone to try it out!
