Light & Shadow

96%
Game Brain Score Based on 96 reviews
  • music
  • graphics
  • story
Light & Shadow Game Cover
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When a star falls in a nearby forest, it spurs Po onto a quest to find that light and bring it into their life. Light & Shadow is a shadow puppet platformer where you face your anxieties, push past depression, and seek moments of joy in a grey world. Finding your way isn't always easy, keep going!

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Windows
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

96%
Audience ScoreBased on 96 reviews
music12 positive mentions
  • The game features beautiful art and a charming puppet-like style that adds to its overall appeal.
  • It delivers a powerful message about mental health and finding joy in simple moments, making it a meaningful experience.
  • The soundtrack is highly praised, enhancing the game's atmosphere and emotional impact.
  • The gameplay can feel simplistic and repetitive, lacking depth and engagement for some players.
  • There are technical issues, such as the inability to play in fullscreen mode and confusing menu controls.
  • The game is very short, which may leave some players wanting more content or a deeper experience.
  • music33 mentions

    The music in the game is widely praised for its beauty and emotional depth, enhancing the overall atmosphere and providing a relaxing experience. Many players appreciate the integration of distinct musical themes for different levels, contributing to the game's charm and appeal. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a standout feature, making it a perfect accompaniment for casual gameplay and a highlight for those who enjoy immersive audio experiences.

    • “I also have to say that the music for this game is very good; it's moody, harmonious, and evoked quite a few emotions out of me.”
    • “The music is relaxing and the poetic visual style is simple, yet pleasant and easily readable.”
    • “Great game, can tell the devs had a passion for the music and art involved here.”
    • “The music is repetitive but decent.”
    • “The only settings are for music and sound.”
    • “Picking all of the musical notes is unnecessary, and there's not even an achievement for that, so don't worry and don't go back if you miss any, as that will only make you lose precious time.”
  • graphics12 mentions

    The graphics of the game are widely praised for their originality and creativity, featuring a distinctive puppet-esque art style with vibrant colors that enhance the overall atmosphere. Players appreciate the unique and impressive visuals, which contribute to a nostalgic and compelling experience, making the game visually appealing and enjoyable.

    • “The art style is creative; I like the puppet-esque presentation and design of the world overall, especially the pops of color for certain items of importance.”
    • “I love the visuals and the music; probably everything about the atmosphere.”
    • “The visuals are fantastic and the music is integrated with the game!”
  • story8 mentions

    The game features a charming and relatable story centered around Po's quest for a fallen sparkling stone, blending cute characters and artwork with deeper themes. While the narrative is simplistic, it effectively addresses serious subjects and includes a notable plot twist, making it both engaging and thought-provoking. Overall, players find the story to be a significant highlight, enhancing the overall experience.

    • “An interesting little indie arcade that tells us the story of Po - who goes into the forest after a sparkling stone that fell from heaven.”
    • “I would recommend this to others; it has an amazing storyline, cute characters, and artwork.”
    • “A beautiful and charming little game, and the story beats are simplistic but powerful.”
    • “The story is simplistic and lacks depth, making it hard to engage with the characters or their journey.”
    • “While the game attempts to tackle serious subjects, the storytelling feels superficial and fails to resonate.”
    • “The narrative is predictable and doesn't offer any real surprises or emotional impact.”
  • gameplay6 mentions

    The gameplay is described as elementary and not particularly engaging, with some reviewers noting that it serves the narrative effectively despite lacking revolutionary elements. While the overall experience is deemed good and meaningful, expectations for gameplay depth should be tempered.

    • “The elementary but effective game mechanics are fully integrated and coherent with the narrative, which is something rare.”
    • “It was a good game with a decent amount of gameplay; sad that in the end the whole world's color did not return.”
    • “Overall, a good title with an important message, just don't go into it expecting revolutionary gameplay.”
    • “It doesn’t really impact gameplay but still not ideal.”
  • emotional3 mentions

    Players find the game to be a deeply emotional experience, describing it as peaceful and mind-relaxing, with a strong sense of connection to the character and the world. The wholesome nature of the game and its positive message contribute to a calming and uplifting atmosphere.

    • “This was the most peaceful and mind-relaxing game that I have played in a while, and it really calmed me and made me feel like I was that little guy wandering in that world.”
    • “A peaceful and wholesome game, and it delivers a good message.”
  • atmosphere1 mentions

    The atmosphere is highly praised for its stunning visuals and captivating music, contributing to an immersive experience that resonates with players.

    • “I love the visuals and the music; probably everything about the atmosphere.”
    • “The atmosphere is incredibly immersive, drawing you into the game's world.”
    • “Every detail contributes to a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that keeps you engaged.”
  • optimization1 mentions

    The optimization of the game is highlighted by its unique presentation, with cut-scenes designed as theatrical performances, enhancing the overall immersive experience.

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