• Publisher: Sega
  • Release Date: Mar 22, 2005
Metascore
61 out of 100

Mixed or average reviews - based on 14 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 14
  2. Negative: 2 out of 14
  1. The hand-drawn environments are gorgeous, as are the visuals as a whole, but that doesn't mean I want to see the same areas again and again. [March 2005, p.130]
  2. Shining Tears is clichéd, has a few flaws in the combat system and is sometimes a little too easy for even one character (let alone a pair of them) to run through. And yet, Despite all its shortcomings, I've really enjoyed playing the game.
  3. With its repetitive gameplay, terrible A.I., painful slowdown, frequent load times, and clichéd storyline, I honestly have no explanation for why the game can still be fun to play, but it can.
  4. Considering how rich your upgrade options actually are, it's disappointing that the combat itself falls a bit flat. This is a straightforward hack-and-slash that is saddled with an unnecessary partner system and masses of foes that can be easily killed.
  5. You can save anywhere or enter and exit battles as needed - nice touches that make this one user-friendly. [March 2005, p.124]
  6. 61
    Hardcore SEGA freaks and RPG nuts will likely be more forgiving than they have to be, but with the simplistic and repetitive nature of the gameplay and the lack of any challenge whatsoever, it'll be hard for anyone to appreciate it as much as they did the Genesis games.
  7. The repetitive gameplay is the real downer for the game. Having to repeat the same steps over and over again gets old quickly.
  8. Those willing to beat back the multiple waves of irritating technical snafus will find a highly flawed, yet ambitious and engaging Action RPG. [March 2005, p.73]
  9. 60
    Even though I had some fun with the Shining Tears, most of it stemmed from nostalgia and imagining what this game could have been.
  10. The pacing just kills the experience and the good ideas that the game brings to the table were never executed the way that they were drawn up.
  11. Pros: Beautiful art, unique team mechanic. Cons: Repetitious battles, poor A.I., slowdown. [March 2005, p.101]
  12. 50
    The graphics are very attractive but there are much better games of this style such as Sega’s own "Shining Soul II." Shining Tears is one for the die-hard fans and 2D enthusiasts only. [JPN Import]
  13. 48
    I think we're getting to the point where we're going to have to start paying Sega NOT to make games on their own.
  14. 20
    Shining Tears is an applicable title for this game, because anyone who spends their time and money on it will break down in tears... Avoid it like a proposition from a girl walking out of the VD clinic.
User Score

Mixed or average reviews- based on 7 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 5
  2. Negative: 1 out of 5
  1. DragonKnightofFinalFantasy
    0
    I hate this game. Thanks Sega you ruined my Shining series (hopefully Shining Force Neo will be good) like the other series under your belt (i.e. Virtua Quest, Sonic Heroes) the graphics is the best part of the game. Beautiful 2D graphics and cool animation sequences but that doesn't save this game...nothing can.... the sound no voiceovers which well is probably a good thing (we've all seen the acting in Sonic) the music is bad bleck. The gameplay starting with enemy AI dumb is the only word I need they stand in packs waiting for you to ram into them mashing the attack button its annoying and no fun your partner AI retarded is the right word with him running in circles doing nothing to help is all s/he does. You could control him with the right analog stick.....heheheh like that works *sarcasm* ...or you could play Co-Op..but if you think that helps...anyone willing to play this game with you as less brain matter than the game's AI. Killing the monsters is no fun mashing the attack button killing countless idiots with your eyes closed isn't my idea of fun and team attacks....well they're impossible with your stupid AI partner and no one wants to play this trash with you. Stay away far far away. Full Review »
  2. Phoenix
    10
    The best action RPG since Secreat of Mana.
  3. JithenV.
    5
    This game is great. It has great graphics and gameplay. Plus the guys look so cute.