I want to review Shadowgrounds genuinely. In this article, I’ll tell you about the emotions that this game delivered. That’s right, I didn’t think this title would have involved me that much.
Of course, I will also look at the technical features of this game, so you can get an idea of its value. Are you ready to find out more about Shadowgrounds and how you can get it for pretty much FREE from the IndieGala store in this period? Then read on!
A plot with some clichés, but…
The plot of the game has plenty of clichés. Some will make you smile, especially if you’re a science fiction fan like me. We are in the future and humanity has colonized Ganymede. On this planet, the news tells us that life thrives, but the reality is very different.
In fact, a ferocious alien race attacked some colonists. Your role will be to step into the shoes of Wesley Tyler, an experienced mechanic who will find himself saving numerous characters. Meanwhile, Wesley will have to look for a way off the planet or a way to destroy the aliens. In his journey, he will discover many truths and the end will be completely unexpected.
Well, unexpected if you’ve never heard of movies like Alien, Ghosts of Mars, and Starship Troopers. Otherwise, you’ll already know what awaits you.
…and food for thought
However, this simple plot made me think about a couple of themes.
First, you will find yourself in a sort of “war” between humans and aliens. At first, you’ll think there’s nothing wrong with defending your life and destroying your enemies.
But think for a moment. Aliens are not your enemies, they’re just defending their planet, Ganymede. You are a human invader, set foot on their territory and took over, building machinery and stealing materials. Who’s the bad guy now?
Well, I don’t want to be political, but this theme in the game seems to be a critique of a certain nation. Maybe you know what I mean, usually it “export democracy“, maybe you’ve also heard of it recently because of protests and internal riots. Frankly, what do you think of that?
The second theme I want to talk about focuses on the “enemies” of the game. Once again. As the game’s title suggests, they are like “shadows“, elusive and invisible. Not surprisingly, while you’re playing you’ll always have to watch your back because danger can hit you at any time.
The situation that the protagonist of Shadowgrounds lives reminded me of what we are all experiencing today. We are experiencing a pandemic, our enemy, the virus is invisible and we do not know how to defend ourselves. It could hit us at any moment, which is why we need to be very careful.
But will we be able to find a way to defeat it, just like the protagonist of Shadowgrounds? Well, I’d like to know your opinion on that.
Shadowgrounds: a top-down immersive shooter
It’s time to talk about the gameplay of Shadowgrounds. This title developed by Frozenbyte is a top-down shooter. This means that you can see the map from the top and can take a look at some areas before facing them.
Sure, it may seem like an advantage, but don’t think it’s that simple. In the game, the light will be scarce and you will have to rely on your torch to light up some areas and reveal the enemies. However, the flashlight will have a battery, so you’ll have to be careful about how you use it. Don’t overdo the battery, or you’ll be fighting in the dark for a short time.
Moreover, the dark areas create a wonderful atmosphere. Trust me, I do not exaggerate by saying that sometimes, I felt like playing Dead Space. As you wander through the levels, you’ll have to pay attention to jumpscares and effects that will easily scare you. If you’re a chicken, get ready to jump out of the chair! Plus, I think you’ll hate the radar on the screen. It will start pinging enemies in every direction and make you anxious!
For the rest, the gameplay is quite linear. You will have to go from one side of the map to the other, shooting enemies frantically and trying not to die. However, I suggest you explore the game areas. In this way, you will find computers and PDAs that will give you different information about the game’s plot. Plus, if you’re lucky, you can get weapons, medkits, and upgrades.
Longevity and weapons available
The weapons available are one of the strengths of the game. There are 10 weapons that you can find, each with a different effect. For example, you can use the Shotgun in close combat or the rifle to eliminate entire groups of enemies.
I loved combining the different actions of the weapons. I think you’ll also like this adrenaline-filled aspect of gameplay. This game has an enviable rhythm, like frantic FPS like Superhot Mind Control Delete. The icing on the cake: you can also customize your favorite weapons, taking advantage of some upgrades that you will find in the game.
What about longevity? Shadowgrounds has eight levels. You will not have checkpoints, but only five respawns. If you’re gonna die for the fifth time, you’re gonna have to start the level all over again.
In most cases, if you choose to play at maximum difficulty, Shadowgrounds will last from 8 to 10 hours. Much depends on your gamer skills. Regardless, the game is enjoyable and will make time fly! In my personal experience, I tried it for the first time and playing for 4 hours! Yeah, it’s an addictive game.
Shadowgrounds: lights and shadows on the technical level
Shadowgrounds was released in 2006. Its graphics will seem dated, but I guarantee you that it has aged well. However, there are some technical flaws. For example, animations are not optimal. Even the dubbing is not exceptional, some characters have a low level of charisma.
Regardless, they are imperfections that do not spoil the gaming experience, they even give fun moments. Ultimately, if you think you’re not playing a triple-A game and want to spend some time killing monsters, Shadowgrounds is great.
I highly recommend that you try it, maybe even in local multiplayer: you will have high-quality moments!
Shadowgrounds: what’s the final verdict?
Shadowgrounds is a light, exciting, and enjoyable game. Now discover the best part: you can get it as an extra gift if you buy ANY game on the Indiegala store! A wonderful gift, isn’t it?
So, what are you waiting for? Get a twofer: two games for one. Shadowgrounds is a little gem and can be yours completely FREE! Don’t miss this opportunity!
