Shadow of the Beast

"An atmospheric challenging game with scary music."

This game has always been a favourite genesis game of mine. There is just something about it that makes it stand out from other genesis game I've played, and I've played a lot! Anyway on with the review!

Graphics: 10
For the genesis console and for the time, the graphics were some of the best the console had seen. The animation on the games character is very good. The backgrounds of the game are very spooky and add atmosphere to the game. One of the best parts of the game is the monster/creature designs, every monster is unique and well designed. Some even gave me nightmares as a young kid.

Game play: 7
The game play is quite simple. You can choose to go left or right at the beginning of the game. The whole game is really a big puzzle. Each area of the game must be visited in the correct order to beat the game. Sometimes you may get stuck that you have no choice in which to hit the reset button. The buttons are simple , the D-pad is used to move the character, C is to jump and B is to attack. You can gain extra lives as you go through the game, if you can find them. There is also an awesome jet pack section of the game and you scroll up and down shooting enemies, probably the best part of the game.

Story: 7
I didn't really know the story until I read the instruction manual. The story is basically about a small boy that sees his father sacrificed in front of him in a temple of demons. They demons change you into a beast, the beast you control throughout the game. You then go out for revenge, and to get your human body back. Nothing original.

Sound/Music: 10
This is probably the best use of music I've seen in a game. From the moment you turn on the game and hear the title music it will freak you out. The main music is also very scary. The music always suits the area of the game and adds to the atmosphere.

Re-playability: 7
Once you beat the game you may not ever play it again, that's if you can beat it. The game is very, very difficult. The first few times you'll be playing through discovering the areas and trying to figure out what to do to continue. Eventually when you do figure out the puzzles and where to go it will still take a while to actually beat the game. The castle part had me for ages!

Overall: 9
I would recommend this game to anyone who likes a challenge or a spooky game. A very good game that I get the privilege to play again someday.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 08/02/05