Let's be clear: Shadow of the Beast is all about combos and scoring. In this area, the game fulfills the specifications perfectly; and in order not to leave neophytes on the floor, Heavy Spectrum gradually integrates the subtleties of the combat system. So much the better, because the basic attacks quickly show their limits. Among the special moves, we especially remember the "Rage Combo" (L1 + R1) thanks to which it is possible to get rid of a little tougher creatures at once, provided you have enough blood and to have the rhythm under your skin. Because if Shadow of the Beast imposes to be reactive, it also requires an infallible sense of timing. In fact, monsters come out - usually - from two portals on either side of the character. As a result, while you are grappling with one of them, nothing prevents the other from placing a treacherous blow with the blade; knowing that these sequences can scroll up to thirty enemies. It is therefore essential to "swing" from left to right while remaining in the right tempo, otherwise you will lose the thread and end up cut into small pieces. In these moments, the game looks like a real ballet where each gesture is millimeter, where each superfluous execution is synonymous with punishment.
THE BEAST AND THE BEAST
So yes, we can always rail against the fact that once the animation has started, we can no longer interrupt it to face the opponent who is about to hit us; but this is precisely where the whole challenge of Shadow of the Beast lies which, on the other hand, shows great indulgence since it is not mandatory to exploit the entire command list to complete the game . In reality, making manners is especially useful for scratching the medals whose material (gold, silver, bronze) varies according to the style of the character, and its effectiveness. Beating the demons without taking a single hit, varying the attacks, and keeping the multiplier at a high level are the best ways to rank well; without forgetting the Mana points whose number increases over the blows of brilliance. With these XP points – if you will – there is a way to afford a whole host of upgrades to “Shadow Lore”. We obviously think of special attacks, but also and above all of talismans. These confer very precious powers such as increasing the maximum health by 5 points, regenerating the character's health for each defeated opponent, or resisting falls that are usually fatal. In "Shadow Lore" there are also items of less importance but which will certainly be of interest to those wishing to complete the game at 100%. And then, impossible not to mention the original version of Shadow of the Beast that can be unlocked against a few hundred thousand Mana points. The old-timers are likely to appreciate this delicacy.
Finally, there is only one point on which the fights of Shadow of the Beast are disappointing: the boss fights. Really, it's hilarious.
Finally, there is only one point on which the fights of Shadow of the Beast are disappointing: the boss fights. Really, it's hilarious. OK, the developers of Heavy Spectrum tried hard to stay as close as possible to the 1989 version, but there was clearly better to be done. Golgoths may be gigantic, but their ridiculous patterns make them as harmless as lambs. Even Maletoth - the final boss - is a big joke. Pity. The level design is not the craziest either, even if we can salute the effort of the developers to have hidden bonuses here and there. Fortunately, the artistic direction makes it possible to overcome these inconveniences, each level having its own visual identity. Even the desert environments, which give the impression of ringing hollow, have a mouthful. Afterwards, we can always say that Shadow of the Beast could have looked better with a more solid graphics engine, but Heavy Spectrum provides the essentials with a perfect mastery of effects, among others. Finally, for the youngest who have no idea, we remind you that the game's scenario allows you to embody Aarbron, a human being who has become a horrible bloodthirsty creature after being torn from his parents. Driven to kill his own father, he will discover his true origins and realize that he has been manipulated by his masters. The starting point of a terrible revenge that we have just told you about.
