Posted by zombiemafia on August 22, 2009

Shadow Complex

Categories: New Games, XBLA | no responses

Shadow_Complex_cover

The highly anticipated XBLA game has finally come to Xbox Live. Our first impressions are that the game plays well and the levels and missions are visually appealing. The use of nonconventional shading and backgrounds for sometimes 2D scroller sections of the game will emerge you into the Shadow Complex world and define you experience. Facing mysterious organizations and blasting you way through enemies is the art and science of this fast paced shooter. The game is loosely based upon Orson Scott card’s Empire novel. Which we might add is a great read if you like fiction novels. 090817120529ShadowComplex_Screen01

The plot of shadow complex is very liner in nature and doesn’t allow for exploration of environments that a 3D gamer would be use to doing. This is typical of a 2D side scroller from years past. 090817120535ShadowComplex_Screen04

If you are old enough to remember the 16bit and 32 bit games of the past, Shadow Complex will please your senses. There are a few brief moments where there are some 3D sequences, however that is not the reason you buy this game. Shadow Complex is simply out the best 2D side scroller you will ever play. There is a fine mix in the game between item acquision and exploration within the game mechanics. The main character can reach level 50 if you have the stamina, intellect and the reflexes. ScreenShot019511

Beating the game in 2 hours is a very hard XBLA achievement and sometimes we think that it is crazy to add achievements that are so time consuming that people will abandon even trying to obtain them. There is a distinctive look and feel to Shadow Complex and sometimes the main character (Jason) feels like he is solid snake.

Shadow Complex will be remembered as a game that has the heart of a 3D game in a 2D presentation. We highly advise you try and then buy this game. The investment of time to complete the game will obviously depend on you individual skill level. However our experience has been between 22-35 hours.

Raymond A. Monaco

Founder

Zombiemafia