Beyond Shadowgate
- September 19, 2024
- Zojoi LLC.
- 7h median play time
Get on Steam"Beyond Shadowgate" is a point-and-click adventure game, serving as a sequel to the classic "Shadowgate". It offers a large world that is over five times larger than its predecessor, with vibrant graphics and modern design sensibilities. Players can choose to play with a controller or by mouse and key binds, reliving the nostalgia of the original 8-bit version with updated gameplay mechanics. The story follows 35 years after the events of Shadowgate, where players must navigate through the living castle Shadwood to save the world once again.
Reviews
- Beyond Shadowgate is a fantastic sequel that captures the charm of the original while expanding its world and gameplay.
- The game features excellent art, music, and engaging puzzles that evoke nostalgia for fans of the original Shadowgate and similar titles.
- Quality of life improvements, such as the removal of the torch mechanic and a more forgiving death system, enhance the overall experience.
- Some puzzles can feel obtuse or illogical, leading to frustration for players who may struggle to find the intended solutions.
- The hint system provided by the in-game guide can be unhelpful, often offering vague suggestions rather than clear guidance.
- While the game is larger and more expansive, some players feel it lacks the oppressive atmosphere of the original Shadowgate.
- music41 mentions
- 56 % positive mentions
- 37 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received widespread acclaim for its nostalgic 8-bit chiptune style, effectively capturing the essence of classic gaming while incorporating modern elements. Reviewers highlight the soundtrack as immersive and atmospheric, enhancing the overall experience with memorable tunes that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Overall, the music is described as superb, fitting seamlessly with the game's visuals and gameplay, making it a standout feature.
“The story, graphics, music, and atmosphere take me back 30 years in the best way possible.”
“Its beautiful hand-drawn graphics and atmospheric soundtrack create an immersive experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh.”
“So far, this has captured the magic of the original in all ways for me... including all new beautiful haunting music that I find myself humming around the house.”
“The serviceable music, I think, is lacking a touch of ambiance, the echoey notes from the NES game (or, rather, the pauses between them) that made the dampness of Shadowgate's halls audible.”
“The music, too, feels very retro while still showing that developers have 30 years of experience and resources using bit-tune style audio.”
“Also the few times the music stops, things are about to get real.”
- graphics25 mentions
- 68 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have been widely praised for their charming retro-inspired design, effectively capturing the aesthetic of classic NES titles while incorporating modern enhancements. Players appreciate the beautiful hand-drawn visuals and the removal of palette limitations, which contribute to a nostalgic yet fresh experience. Overall, the graphics are described as perfect, with attention to detail that enhances the immersive atmosphere of the game.
“Its beautiful hand-drawn graphics and atmospheric soundtrack create an immersive experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh.”
“Visuals are excellently rendered and without the palette limitations of the NES.”
“Fantastic aesthetics, feels like a natural evolution of the NES classic.”
“The game presentation is very much NES Shadowgate-like, with limitations to graphics being removed, making things clearer with a few modern animation elements added in to the screen transitions and events.”
“This was clearly made to hearken back to that old style of NES / Apple II gameplay, and nails the aesthetic.”
“The graphics are really retro and well done.”
- story25 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 64 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The story of the game is praised for its engaging narrative that serves as a direct continuation of the original Shadowgate, enriched with humor, nostalgia, and clever references to past titles. Players appreciate the blend of main quests and side missions that deepen the lore and introduce familiar characters and locations, while the captivating atmosphere and modernized gameplay enhance the overall experience. However, some players noted that certain side quests could lead to frustrating moments, particularly when they inadvertently affect the main storyline.
“The game offers clever puzzles, engaging exploration, and a captivating story that keeps you hooked from start to finish.”
“Another big success with Beyond Shadowgate is the story itself.”
“The music, the artwork, the story, the gameplay, and the suspense of what was going to happen next was gripping.”
“The first part of the game was absolute 10/10 until you reach some of the backer content side missions.”
“No real overall story or no real thought process; spam options to something happens is brainrot and stupid.”
“The game starts off with an interesting premise, and I want to know where the story is going to go.”
- gameplay19 mentions
- 26 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 16 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "Beyond Shadowgate" is praised for its faithful homage to classic adventure mechanics while incorporating modern quality-of-life improvements, such as eliminating frustrating time-wasting elements. Players appreciate the blend of nostalgic aesthetics with new features, including timed death events and a more forgiving death penalty, which enhances the overall experience. The game successfully captures the charm of its predecessor while offering a richer and more engaging adventure.
“The interface, although mimicking the NES one, works better with today's mouse. The writing is good, with a nice amount of cheese without going too far. The gameplay is faithful to the original, but since it's a bigger game, there's no need to fear for torches anymore. When you die, you're just pushed back one room or two, so no need to savescum, especially as it's just fun to see all the ways to die!”
“Beyond Shadowgate is a fantastic adventure that masterfully blends old-school charm with modern gameplay elements.”
“It has a classic feel with quality of life updates and some new systems added to the original gameplay from the 80s.”
“My main issue with the original game was the torch mechanic.”
“I fondly remember the first game (on NES) but I always quit it out of frustration because the torch mechanic sucks.”
“Anyway, getting out of the dungeon introduced a new mechanic - timed death events.”
- atmosphere10 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of "Beyond Shadowgate" is praised for its blend of nostalgia and modernity, featuring beautiful hand-drawn graphics and an immersive soundtrack that enhances the gameplay experience. While some fans feel it doesn't fully capture the essence of the original, many appreciate its unique and thrilling atmosphere, reminiscent of classic titles. Overall, the game successfully creates a captivating environment that keeps players engaged.
“The story, graphics, music, and atmosphere take me back 30 years in the best way possible.”
“Its beautiful hand-drawn graphics and atmospheric soundtrack create an immersive experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh.”
“The music in the mine/mansion basement is my favorite, as well as the tune that plays in the desert during the sunset that sets an atmosphere that is unmatched.”
“However, even if it is a bit nostalgic, it really failed to capture the atmosphere of the first game and took liberties that should not have occurred.”
“As a fan of the 8-bit macventures, Beyond Shadowgate really reminded me of what I liked about those with its gameplay and atmosphere.”
“What a great feeling to see the game still has the original atmosphere, adding modern quality of life improvements to the equation.”
- humor10 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a standout feature, with players praising its clever writing, snarky dialogue, and laugh-out-loud moments, particularly during the numerous humorous deaths. Many reviews highlight the game's self-parody and references that resonate with fans of the original Shadowgate, creating a blend of dark humor and absurdity that enhances the overall experience. Overall, the game successfully captures the comedic essence of its predecessor while delivering fresh, entertaining content.
“There are laugh-out-loud hilarious moments in this game like the 'death to the philistine' reference, and the game parodies itself brilliantly in that 'the story takes place 35 years after the events of the last story' in-game just as in reality.”
“From the snarky dialogue to the hilarious deaths, clicking move and throwing myself off random edges to certain doom never got old.”
“Every bit as good as the original, with the trademark snark that lends plenty of humor throughout.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game offers some replayability through multiple endings based on player choices, though it is considered less replayable than the Shadowgate remake due to the absence of difficulty options and alternate playstyles. However, it provides a solid NES experience for those seeking a straightforward gameplay approach.
“There are several endings to view, depending on how you approach the final foe, so there is definitely some replayability offered.”
“Not quite as replayable as the Shadowgate remake due to its lack of difficulty options or alternate playstyles, but if you want a more pure NES game experience, you really can't go wrong with this.”
“There are also several endings to view, depending on how you approach the final foe, so some replayability is offered.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the grinding aspect of the game, noting that the achievement set is enjoyable and not overly tedious. Many find satisfaction in completing the puzzles and feel that the time spent grinding is worthwhile, leading to a positive overall experience.
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization aspect of the game is overshadowed by its overall tone, which may not be adequately highlighted in advertising. Players feel that the game's atmosphere is a key element that deserves more attention alongside its monetization strategies.
- character development1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is notable, as even the navi experiences growth throughout the adventure, enhancing the overall narrative experience.
“Even your Navi goes through character development as the adventure progresses.”
“The depth of each character's backstory adds layers to the overall narrative, making their growth feel authentic and impactful.”
“I love how the choices I make influence the characters' development, leading to unique and personalized story arcs.”
“The character development feels shallow and predictable, leaving little room for growth.”
“I was disappointed by how one-dimensional the characters remained throughout the game.”
“Despite the potential for deep storytelling, the character arcs felt rushed and unfulfilling.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is characterized by a mix of humor and heartfelt moments, balancing lightheartedness with genuine emotional depth. While some elements may feel overly comedic or clichéd, particularly in relation to themes of fatherhood, there are poignant scenes that resonate with players, providing a more nuanced experience.
“The game masterfully balances humor and heartfelt moments, creating an emotional experience that resonates deeply with players.”
“While the tone can be lighthearted at times, there are genuinely touching scenes that elevate the emotional depth of the story.”
“The blend of humor and poignant moments makes for a unique emotional journey that keeps players engaged and invested.”
