Shadow Hearts

 PlayStation 2
  • Publisher: Midway
  • Release Date: Dec 11, 2001
Metascore
73

Mixed or average reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 10 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
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  1. TotalGames.net
    71
    Shadow Hearts has some intriguing elements, but disappoints with its battle dynamics and some terrible scripts.
  2. GamePro
    70
    A predictable plot and linear gameplay are the minuses to this otherwise well-crafted dark RPG.
  3. Thunderbolt
    70
    Shadow Hearts has its share of flaws, no doubt. The graphics are weak and the battle system grows monotonous quickly. Fortunately, the unique setting and above-average storyline makes this one worth checking out.
  5. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    67
    The game's "Judgement Ring" is the best solution yet for adding timing to RPG battles. [Feb 2002, p.156]
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  6. PSX Nation
    60
    This game grabbed me from its opening scenes and didn't let go of me DESPITE its average graphics, quirky golf-like control scheme and plain-vanilla soundtrack.
  7. GameShark
    60
    Translation wise, the game seems geared toward the Dragon Ball crowd, with brash conversations and lots of street corner language, which doesn't quite fit the mood or visual atmosphere of the game.
  8. Gaming Age
    58
    Kudos to Midway for taking a risk and translating a more mature RPG in such excellent form, and a small, quiet "boo" to Sacnoth for providing great material for translation and little in the way of engaging gameplay.
  9. IGN
    55
    This story and this world deserved to be supported by better graphics and game design.
  10. GamePen
    50
    The product as a whole just feels recycled and re-hashed from other, more superior products.
  11. Game Revolution
    50
    Just not very exciting. The combat can't find a comfortable medium between action and strategy.

Awards & Rankings

79
#79 Best PS2 Game of 2001
23
#23 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2001
50
#50 Most Shared PS2 Game of 2001

User Reviews

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User Score
8.6

Generally favorable reviews- based on 109 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 91 out of 109
  2. Mixed: 11 out of 109
  3. Negative: 7 out of 109
  1. ralphpugsley
    Jun 6, 2020
    10
    Incredibly unique JRPG that combines innovative battle mechanics, alternative history, Lovecraftian horror, and fantasy to create somethingIncredibly unique JRPG that combines innovative battle mechanics, alternative history, Lovecraftian horror, and fantasy to create something wholly original, even nineteen years after its initial release. Music is astoundingly eclectic, almost experimental, in its instrumentation, cresting some truly haunting melodies. Graphics are mixed, which is somewhat excusable, given the games seemingly lower budget. Character modeling is decent, even good in places, but textures are sometimes muddy and ill-defined. Animations are janky, but in a way that oddly lends to the games surreal aesthetic. Much of the titles graphical shortcomings are made up for, in part, thanks to its excellent art direction. Story is strange, sometimes obtuse, but also compelling and engaging. Gameplay is fun and unique, thanks to the games use of an action-time prompt called the judgement ring, which permeates every aspect of the gameplay and encourages careful play due to its purposefully fickle nature. Overall, this is a must play for anyone looking for something to break up the mold of JRPG tropes and staleness.… Full Review »
  2. iKen
    Apr 12, 2020
    8
    Played on PlayStation 2.
    Gameplay: GREAT.
    Story: GREAT.
    Graphic: GOOD.
    Music/Sound: GOOD.
    Dialogue: GOOD.
  3. VESF-18
    Aug 9, 2019
    10
    Best RPG I have ever played. Story, ambient, characters, combat system, music... all of it are perfect.
    My favorite game of all time, RPG or    Best RPG I have ever played. Story, ambient, characters, combat system, music... all of it are perfect.
    My favorite game of all time, RPG or not RPG. A must play for everybody.    … Full Review »
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