"The Thinking Person's Adventure Game"

One of the many things that can kill a home console system is a lack of variety in the software. Another is apathy on the part of those gamers that continue to purchase the same tired games year in and year out, while passing up on original or unique games that sit on store shelves unnoticed for years, until they get tossed in a bargain bin at a closeout shop. Kemco's Shadowgate 64: Trials of the Four Towers is one of those games that won't appeal to those kill-crazy types or those looking for the instant gratification that a fast-paced driving, sports or action game gives. In fact, the game is most definitely a throwback to the ''good old days'' of computer gaming, where more often than not, your brain would get more of a workout than your fingers.

You play the game as Del, a Halfling who survives an assault on the caravan he's traveling in, only to be thrust into an even more deadly circumstance. This, of course being a Shadowgate game, means that there's nothing resembling a proper weapon handy- you'll have to survive by wits alone. In fact, the game's big action sequence is the caravan assault at the beginning. So, pull up a chair, put on your thinking cap (and whatever other garments you wear to enhance brainpower), and get comfy. Castle Shadowgate is a big place, full of mystery, surprises, and the occasional death of the careless player. Those who spent countless sleepless hours making their way through the original Shadowgate, either on the computer or the NES will feel right at home.

The gameplay is extremely simple: you merely have to use your head to overcome a number of puzzles and hazards by simple interaction. Some areas need thorough searching, while others will require the use of an item procured in one of these searches. The pace of the game is meticulously slow at first; especially if one is coming down from a session of Tony Hawk or Goldeneye, but if you're a careful and patient player, you get quite used to the comfortable controls and camera. You can explore at will, just be on the lookout for the warning messages you'll receive, should you attempt something stupid or treacherous.

Graphically, the game goes for just enough realism to give players a sense of place without overdoing it- gloomy, but solid, and everything feels right. Some may complain about the sameness of the level design, but again, it fits the mood of the game like a well-worn leather glove. You do get to explore some outdoor areas and a few other locations, which add variety, but never pull you away fully from your quest. This actually helps a great deal, as you simply don't have the time in the context of the game's plot for such wanderings. If one were really thrust into such an adventure, I doubt that you'd stop to chat aimlessly or peruse the scenery. Actually, the game has a few touches of humor that come from doing such things, so don't let me stop you from doing anything you don't want to. Just watch out for things like falling off ladders, high ledges or into deep water, as these spell instant death for poor Del, and a trip back to your last save.

As for sounds and music, again- less is more. Appropriate without overkill, most items have a real sound associated with them. As this is a find and use sort of game, some of the items only make their particular sound when they're used. The tunes can be generally downbeat and slightly oppressive at times- but such is the nature of the game. You're most definitely not playing Mario Party here. In fact, I'd safely say that this isn't a game for the very young, unless they have a parent nearby to answer questions and assist with some of the trickier puzzles. This is one of those rare non-violent games that draws you in and holds you in rapt attention, until you uncover all it's secrets.

To sum up, Shadowgate 64 is another of those underrated niche games that didn't get all the attention it deserved upon its release, but one that deserves a look, if you're the intelligent, open-minded type of gamer player searching for something above and beyond the usual. Is the game for everyone? Not at all, But on the other hand, everyone should play this one, if only for the intense mental challenge it provides.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 12/20/02, Updated 12/20/02