Shadow Complex

 Xbox 360
Shadow Complex Image
Metascore
88

Generally favorable reviews - based on 73 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 222 Ratings

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  • 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[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

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Shadow Complex Remastered Announcement Trailer - The Game Awards 2015

Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 71 out of 73
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 73
  3. Negative: 0 out of 73
  1. Giant Bomb
    100
    Shadow Complex is an incredibly well-made game that finally grabs the "Metroidvania" subgenre and drags it into the modern era instead of relegating it to a land of remakes or portable games.
  2. AtomicGamer
    95
    Its stellar design, eye-popping presentation, addictive gameplay and, of course, that very reasonable price tag, make it an easy purchasing decision for anyone looking for an endlessly engaging experience—you might find yourself playing start to finish in a single sitting.
  3. Game Over Online
    92
    All in all, Shadow Complex is a finely-crafted game that is sure to please anyone with a fondness for the older Metroids or the newer side-scrolling Castlevanias as this offers up a similar experience, with some of its own touches that help it stand out from the rest.
  4. MEGamers
    90
    A massive map, cool upgrades, and addicting gameplay make for the best XBLA game made yet.
  5. Da Gameboyz
    90
    Despite sounding like I am gushing, the high production values and attention to detail are evident with every step.
  6. GameWatcher
    87
    A fun, yet involving game. The action is well paced, there’s plenty of differing challenges, and the story will keep you hooked whether you’re a card fan or not.
  7. GameCritics
    70
    Looking a little deeper as someone who's been around the block, it's disappointing to see that so much of Shadow Complex feels utterly bereft of inspiration. It's certainly a job well done, but really, this job's been done before.

See all 73 Critic Reviews

User Reviews

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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 38 out of 47
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 47
  3. Negative: 3 out of 47
  1. Plasmaneedle
    Jan 18, 2014
    10
    Shadow Complex captures the essence of Metroidvania games and has some very great upgrades to boot. Excellent sense of progression,Shadow Complex captures the essence of Metroidvania games and has some very great upgrades to boot. Excellent sense of progression, interesting plot great exploration and a good combat system. This game is probably the best XBLA game you can get.… Expand
  2. Johnf
    Aug 27, 2009
    10
    Excellent game that follows strongly in the vein of Super Metroid. The only thing that could be better is if this game was in fact a new Excellent game that follows strongly in the vein of Super Metroid. The only thing that could be better is if this game was in fact a new Metroid. One thing that I wished was better were the boss fights. They just aren't memorable,, but I can't really take away a point for that. All in all, this game is worth more than $15 so it is absolutely a must buy.… Expand
  4. RyanZ.
    Oct 21, 2009
    10
    This game brings out the best in old school gaming, making your SNES dreams reappear in modern times as this wonderfully put together This game brings out the best in old school gaming, making your SNES dreams reappear in modern times as this wonderfully put together package. It takes games like Castlevania and Metroid and slaps a new face on it giving it the modern appeal with a new setting and Metal Gear style premise. A must have for any sidescroll lovers.… Expand
  5. GeoffG
    Aug 25, 2009
    9
    I was a bit skeptical when I overheard Epic Games was managing this project (Gears of War was crap) anyways, I was pleasantly surprised when I was a bit skeptical when I overheard Epic Games was managing this project (Gears of War was crap) anyways, I was pleasantly surprised when I played this game. Totally unoriginal, but it does rip off from the best (ie, Metroid). For an XBLA game I had a lot of fun. I would highly recommend this. You won't be disappointed.… Expand
  6. Massacyre
    Sep 7, 2010
    9
    An amazing game. No doubt about it this is the best arcade game ever and I got it when it was half-price!
    I had it for only a month though and    An amazing game. No doubt about it this is the best arcade game ever and I got it when it was half-price!
    I had it for only a month though and I got 100% completion so now the campaigns pointless as I have unlimited everything and i'm pretty much unkillable. BUT, there is also awesome challenges to keep you occupied and these and the campaign all look gorgeous. So get this game no matter what the cost, i'm just lucky I got it half price. :D    … Expand
  7. Redreal
    Oct 4, 2014
    8
    If you grew up like me, loving classic's like; Super Metroid, Castlevania and Bionic Commando then you will love this game!. I purchasedIf you grew up like me, loving classic's like; Super Metroid, Castlevania and Bionic Commando then you will love this game!. I purchased during XBLA weekend sale for 4.50! Best 4.50 spent in my life! Highly, highly recommended, no matter the price!… Expand
  8. AUC
    Aug 20, 2009
    1
    This game is a total ripoff of Metroid and Castlevania, both of which have better gameplay and story. Typical M$ ripping off good games and This game is a total ripoff of Metroid and Castlevania, both of which have better gameplay and story. Typical M$ ripping off good games and calling it innovation. Too bad people are too occupied with their red rings of death to try and play this bilge. If this was on the PS3, then it would get a better review, but at least 6 points should be taken off for it being on the crapbox please-fix-me. Waste of a game.… Expand

See all 47 User Reviews

Trailers

Awards & Rankings

12
#12 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2009
19
#19 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2009
16
#16 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2009