• Publisher: Midway
  • Release Date: Dec 11, 2001
Metascore
73 out of 100

Mixed or average reviews - based on 24 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 24
  2. Negative: 0 out of 24
  1. Shadow Hearts is in turn tragic and comic, deeply philosophical and completely fluffy, and overall a great gaming experience that I was sorry to see come to an end.
  2. If you're a turn-based or real-time RPG or action-adventure fan and don't mind dark themes, or if you're looking for an RPG with a twist to the average gameplay mechanics, I'd highly recommend this game.
  3. 86
    This game is well worth its 40 hours, and there are plenty of laughs to go along.
  4. It's like going through "Silent Hill" as an RPG or playing through a Clive Barker or Ann Rice novel.
  5. It's got an engaging storyline, interesting characters, lots of plot twists, and a host of nifty options and gameplay features.
  6. Shadow Hearts' enthralling plot and superb combat system make this one a keeper. Did I mention the micro-skirted heroine?
  7. 80
    Beneath the basic plot of guy saves his woman and the world; there are quite a few surprising twists in the story here.
  8. The game is nothing if not involving. A story with real depth, actual humor and pathos, and some dramatic and frightening moments is something you don't see everyday - and even more rare in RPG's.
  9. Add a spooky atmosphere set at the start of the twentieth century and little reluctance to tackle adult subject matter like sex and violence, and we finally have an RPG that appeals strictly for adult gamers without pushing into the realm of the ludicrous or indecent.
  10. Along with the excellent story, Shadow Hearts has an engaging battle system that focuses on timed button-presses. [Jan 2002, p.134]
  11. Despite its considerable depth, Shadow Hearts is easy to get into and yet maintains a satisfying level of challenge.
  12. If only the battle system, so integral to the enjoyment of a game, wasn't so blasé, Shadow Hearts could have easily jumped up into one of the best surprise games of the year.
  13. At times, Shadow Hearts drudges along with some mind-numbingly stupid puzzles, but the story and the unique battle system always kept me coming back for more. [Jan 2002, p.82]
  14. One of the coolest and most interesting storyline and opening movie (I'll get into the visuals part later) I've ever seen in a game to date.
  15. Shadow Hearts has some intriguing elements, but disappoints with its battle dynamics and some terrible scripts.
  16. Shadow Hearts has its share of flaws, no doubt. The graphics are weak and the battle system grows monotonous quickly. Fortunately, the unique setting and above-average storyline makes this one worth checking out.
  17. 70
    A predictable plot and linear gameplay are the minuses to this otherwise well-crafted dark RPG.
  18. The game's "Judgement Ring" is the best solution yet for adding timing to RPG battles. [Feb 2002, p.156]
  19. Translation wise, the game seems geared toward the Dragon Ball crowd, with brash conversations and lots of street corner language, which doesn't quite fit the mood or visual atmosphere of the game.
  20. This game grabbed me from its opening scenes and didn't let go of me DESPITE its average graphics, quirky golf-like control scheme and plain-vanilla soundtrack.
  21. Kudos to Midway for taking a risk and translating a more mature RPG in such excellent form, and a small, quiet "boo" to Sacnoth for providing great material for translation and little in the way of engaging gameplay.
  22. 55
    This story and this world deserved to be supported by better graphics and game design.
  23. 50
    The product as a whole just feels recycled and re-hashed from other, more superior products.
  24. Just not very exciting. The combat can't find a comfortable medium between action and strategy.
User Score

Generally favorable reviews- based on 23 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 16
  3. Negative: 0 out of 16
  1. 10
    Very impressive game. It's story is one of the best in RPG history, in my opinion. It's battle system is classic turn-based with a little twist by use of a thing called the "Judgement Ring". You WILL get attached to the characters. The soundtrack is fantastic and fits the game so well. One of the best game soundtracks I've ever heard. The game graphics are a bit lacking but it was made in 2001 on the PS2. For it's time, the graphics were great. Just one of the little quirks that I'd like to mention, you travel to actual places in the countries of China and Europe in game. Has two different endings depending on certain choices you make. One of my favorite games of all time! There will never be another game like this one, in my opinion. I wish there more RPGs like this now. Full Review »
  2. AnonymousMC
    9
    A very surprising game. I got a lend of this and didn't think it was gonna be much. But i was wrong it is a very unique and highly unappreciated game. Its no FFX but it has its own style and ifur not 2 fussy about graphics then u will like this game. Full Review »
  3. MarbleX.
    9
    Excellent, hampered only by a stupid love story between two completely incompatible people that would never happen IRL. Other than the childish romantic plot, really an excellent game with original and creative elements. Full Review »