Shadow Complex Image
  • Summary: [Xbox Live Arcade] From blockbuster developers Epic Games and Chair Entertainment comes the next evolution in Xbox LIVE Arcade games. Powered by the industry-leading Unreal Engine 3, Shadow Complex is the height of old-school side-scrolling design combined with modern, cutting-edge gameplay. In Shadow Complex, gameplay is centered on exploration and fast-paced combat as you gather game-altering power-ups and an arsenal of futuristic weapons to overcome obstacles, thwart legions of enemies, and delve into a mysterious open game world. The original single-player adventure is set in a compelling universe based upon the best-selling novel, Empire, by Orson Scott Card. This completely original game features full 3-D side-scrolling action. The incredible next-gen graphics and robust physics combine with an open, evolving world design mixed with an awesome, compelling action-thriller story. Seek out 17 unique game altering power-ups, with more than 100 additional items and modifiers to discover and use. Fight against a large variety of enemies and experience massive, jaw-dropping boss battles. Pick up and play: The super-tight controls are simple and intuitive but also allow advanced players additional depth and precision. Noted scriptwriter: Shadow Complex features a script written by Peter David, one of the most popular comic book writers of all time. It's the first game to be set in Chair's Empire universe and based upon the best-selling novel by Orson Scott Card. [Chair Entertainment] Expand
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 71 out of 73
  2. Negative: 0 out of 73
  1. Shadow Complex is an amazing game, and the 15 bucks this will be the best buy you do this year. Chair has a bright future ahead of them and after seeing what they could do with this game I can't wait to see what they could create if they were given the chance to make a big AAA title.
  2. 100
    It's a must-play game for anyone who loves the reward-based exploration and side-scrolling action of the side-scrollers of old.
  3. Proportionally, far more casual players will finish this than ever finished Super Metroid or Contra III, and their enjoyment might even compare. Sat nobly between emulated coin-ops and overpriced turkeys on high street shelves, Shadow Complex is something of a Live Arcade landmark.

See all 73 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 31 out of 38
  2. Negative: 3 out of 38
  1. mobius
    10
    Looks like there are a couple of PS3 voters here and they seem a little annoyed that shadow complex aint on their system boo hoo. anyway regardless if this is a metroid ripoff or not because ive never played a metroid game. for me this game brings back memorys of old classics like Flashback, Abe's oddysee and Another World. . its a big game and a real beauty to look at. now im off to give random PS3 games negative reviews because their not available on the XBOX boo hoo. Expand
    • 1 of 1 users said yes
  2. AnonymousMC
    5
    Its an 'okay' game, nothing more nothing less. The story is so stupid I found myself skipping most of the cut-scenes in the game - it, instead of immersing you in the action, felt so poorly executed it was almost embarrassing to compliment the gameplay. Talking of gameplay it isnt revolutionary; its a 2d side scrolling action game in 3d... if that makes sense. Personally I thought it was a waste of money, others will disagree but thats my honest opinion... the hype train revolves around Epic Games, and coming from them Shadow Complex is in my mind the company's first and hopefully last abomination. Do your self a favour and buy a XBLA game like Braid instead. Expand
    • 0 of 0 users said yes
  3. IanC
    2
    Am I missing something? I was bored to tears within minutes, all I can think is that this is favoured by gamers who came into gaming long after side scrollers fell by the wayside and are discovering them for the first time. I see nothing new, nothing interesting, can't disagree more with this being the best XBLA title ever. Expand
    • 0 of 4 users said yes

See all 38 User Reviews