Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Ultimate Edition

 PC
  • Publisher: Konami
  • Release Date: Aug 27, 2013
Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 23 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 19 out of 23
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 23
  3. Negative: 0 out of 23
  1. Eurogamer Germany
    Aug 30, 2013
    90
    It is not the most cutting edge conversion, but the lavish art manages to shine even more in this sharper, prettier and more fluid version of Lords of Shadow. So, in our book, the game still holds the same appeal as the console versions back in fall 2010, especially seeing that PC users don't get this brand of bombastic brawler all too often. This game won't get any better, at least not until Lords of Shadow 2 rolls around.
  2. Meristation
    Aug 26, 2013
    90
    One of the greatest Castlevania 3D games ever made comes to PC in the best shape. Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Ultimate Edition is the best way to discover Gabriel Belmont's crusade against darkness. An enhanced experience for Mercury Steam's stunning adventure.
  3. Vandal
    Aug 30, 2013
    89
    A game you cannot miss now if you missed it the first time. The visual evolution is worth highlighting, but it still is an outstanding title in every other aspect.
  5. 3DJuegos
    Aug 27, 2013
    88
    Castlevania: Lords of Shadow works nicely on PC, a fantastic adaptation of this action adventure.
  6. GameStar
    Aug 28, 2013
    87
    Lords of Shadow is the best action-adventure game in recent years.
  7. XGN
    Sep 6, 2013
    85
    Even though the Ultimate Edition of Castlevania: Lords of Shadow doesn't provide many new features for the fan, it's downright impossible to deny the PC version is very much superior to the console counterparts. The doubled framerate, along with highly improved graphics and two DLC packs, are good enough to conclude Mercury Steams Castlevania game still provides a great gaming experience after three years.
  8. IGN Italia
    Aug 30, 2013
    85
    Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Ultimate Edition has not aged at all in the last three years and the graphic update is solid and well made, despite a little disappointment for textures and animated cut-scenes.
  9. SpazioGames
    Aug 29, 2013
    85
    All the glorious Castlevania gameplay with new effects, better graphics and the two missing DLC from the previous version.
  10. ZTGD
    Aug 27, 2013
    85
    Being a three-year old game, Lords of Shadow still feels fresh. This adventure is just as much fun as I remember it, and digging back into it only furthers my excitement for the sequel.
  11. Multiplayer.it
    Aug 27, 2013
    85
    Castlevania: Lords of Shadow comes to PC with a rich, spectacular and compelling Ultimate Edition. Forget about the old issues: now the frame rate is rock solid and everything is fine. Pity they didn't upgrade the textures.
  12. Digital Chumps
    Sep 1, 2013
    84
    MercurySteam's take on Castlevania has never looked better than it does with the Ultimate Edition. Despite being three years removed from its original release, it's still a joy to play and would do very well for itself when compared to more recent genre releases.
  13. PC Games
    Aug 27, 2013
    81
    A solid port that looks sharp and runs smoothly on modern PCs. Aside from the DLCs, which are already included in this version, the original game remains mostly untouched. It's no Symphony of the Night by any means, but a fun experience nonetheless, with diverse levels, incredible atmosphere and challenging combat. The awkward camera positioning, inaccurate platforming and pacing issues may turn some people off though.
  14. COGconnected
    Sep 2, 2013
    80
    I recommend Lords of Shadow, even at the full $29.99 asking price, but if it’s ever on the popular Steam sales for cheaper, make sure you pick it up so you can experience a Belmont’s adventure, as this is the version to play.
  15. Eurogamer Italy
    Aug 29, 2013
    80
    Maybe a little in late, but Castlevania: Lord of Shadow has finally arrived on PC in all its awesomeness. A must buy if you consider how much does it costs.
  16. Everyeye.it
    Aug 27, 2013
    80
    A mature and deep storytelling and a variegated gameplay figures out a solid structure that blends with a good graphic design. The game offers 15+ hours of unique gameplay and a great replay value. The only issue is a steady camera that results in a lot of problems during combat stages and explorative sections and a poor porting from the console version.
  17. DarkZero
    Aug 27, 2013
    80
    It may not be the Castlevania as fans know it, but MercurySteam has taken successful mechanics from combat-focused, character action games and blended it with Castlevania’s lore.
  18. Gameblog.fr
    Aug 27, 2013
    80
    Castlevania Lords of Shadow Ultimate Edition features the original game along with the two DLCs, all that in a superb new dress. The graphics, revamped for modern day PCs, are really beautiful (except during cinematics) and the game is still very good. However, you will absolutely need a game controller to enjoy it.
  19. Hooked Gamers
    Sep 5, 2013
    79
    For the price, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow - Ultimate Edition has a huge amount of content and variety, and is certainly worth a look.
  20. Armchair Empire
    Sep 19, 2013
    75
    Castlevania: Lords of Shadow Ultimate Edition covers some traditional action game territory for sure but there are some memorable moments that make it worth a look if combo-based combat and exploration is your thing.
  21. Eurogamer Portugal
    Sep 16, 2013
    70
    Overall, this is a game of acceptable quality, but a little dated in time.
  22. GameSpot
    Sep 10, 2013
    70
    The Ultimate Edition of Castlevania: Lords of Shadow breathes new life into the three-year-old game through improved graphics and extra content.
  23. Hardcore Gamer
    Aug 27, 2013
    70
    Lords of Shadow has incredible production values and an astonishing length for a character action title, but not only is it far too late to the party, but dapened by uninspiring combat.
  24. GamingTrend
    Sep 10, 2013
    66
    Clearly, Lord of Shadows wants to feel “cinematic” but it goes too far by sacrificing gameplay on the altar of visual splendor.

Awards & Rankings

47
#47 Best PC Game of 2013
65
#65 Most Discussed PC Game of 2013
70
#70 Most Shared PC Game of 2013

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 648 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 435 out of 648
  2. Mixed: 107 out of 648
  3. Negative: 106 out of 648
  1. whoisthere
    Aug 27, 2013
    10
    Castlevania: Lords of Shadow (in my opinion) is one of the best games released in the past ten years. Some may criticize, that it isn't anCastlevania: Lords of Shadow (in my opinion) is one of the best games released in the past ten years. Some may criticize, that it isn't an oldschool Castlevania. Well, it isnt. But it simply is not intended as a classical Castlevania. It is meant as a kind of reboot: A whole new game with a whole new story. That is exactly, what ist so great in this game: Fantastic storytelling, a overwhelming soundtrack, great environment- and monsterdesign. If you want to experience a 20-hour-long well-told story and to immerse into a great fantasy-world, then this game is exactly the right one for you!… Full Review »
  2. KratosITALY
    Aug 27, 2013
    10
    I played this game when it first came out on consoles. And after many years, this still is a great and fun action-adventure game. It ain't aI played this game when it first came out on consoles. And after many years, this still is a great and fun action-adventure game. It ain't a copycat of "God Of War" nor an old school Castlevania, but a game full of action and magic with a deep combat system that plays perfectly on a keyboard-and-mouse.
    The story of the game is on a whole new level, with great voice acting, charismatic characters and a quest worthy of Van Helsing.
    A must buy, especially since it's very cheap!    … Full Review »
  3. beavermatic
    Aug 27, 2013
    10
    Light years beyond the console versions in performance and graphics. Perhaps the most polished console-to-PC title ever. No issues whatsoeverLight years beyond the console versions in performance and graphics. Perhaps the most polished console-to-PC title ever. No issues whatsoever and runs smooth as silk. Konami PC development team really did a fantastic job with this.

    running at 2560x1600 with all settings and AA maxed.

    Truly looks more like a nextgen game on PC... flat out beautiful. Even the controls feel more fluid and responsive. Guess this game really shows PC is the way it's meant to be played all along.

    The game is just phenomenal, story, characters, gameplay action. Apparently Konami has never heard of DLC.... just the standalone game by itself is very lengthy, and just keeps getting better as it plays out. Likely the best Castlevania game in the series.

    Can't beat it for $30... especially when they pretty much gave $200 worth of game in this package.    … Full Review »
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