- Publisher: JanduSoft
- Release Date: Jul 31, 2025
- Also On: iPhone/iPad, PC, PlayStation 4, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X
- Summary:
- Developer: Halberd Studios
- Genre(s): Action, Platformer, Metroidvania
- # of players: No Online Multiplayer
- Cheats: On GameFAQs
- More Details and Credits »
Score distribution:
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Positive: 5 out of 7
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Mixed: 2 out of 7
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Negative: 0 out of 7
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Aug 5, 20259 Years of Shadows is a challenging and old-school Metroidvania that never ceases to impress with its varied gameplay and striking world.
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Jul 30, 20259 Years of Shadows is one of those indies that manages to leave a lasting impression. The armor mechanics are well thought out and bring fluidity to exploration, especially during boss fights. Even with its mediocre story and minor technical issues, the title makes up for it with creativity, charming pixel art, and an excellent soundtrack, a well-designed atmosphere, and well-functioning gameplay. For those who enjoy metroidvanias and are looking for something new within the genre, it's worth giving it a try.
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Aug 4, 20259 Years of Shadows isn't the biggest Metroidvania game, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in other ways. Its visuals are sublime, for one, and its gameplay is fantastic, too. Add in a soundtrack which includes pieces by Michiru Yamane, and you're onto a winner.
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Aug 10, 20259 Years of Shadows is a solid 2D action-adventure title that is very pretty to look at, and could be recommended to those who don’t focus on combat.
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Aug 12, 2025With beautiful visual presentation and exemplary pixel art, 9 Years of Shadows doesn’t achieve the same refinement in its gameplay and story. Some boss fights are truly fun and challenging, but the rest falls into the field of average quality. This is a game I recommend to anyone looking to delight in the aesthetic beauty of sophisticated pixel art, because that's what it has in spades.
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Aug 4, 20259 Years of Shadows dazzles with lush visuals, a triumphant soundtrack, and mechanics like teddy bear hugging, but stumbles with repetitive combat and uneven pacing. It’s a gorgeous, ambitious metroidvania that occasionally lets its stylish presentation outshine its core gameplay, providing glimmers of brilliance for patient fans.
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Aug 12, 20259 Years of Shadows is a beatiful game that shines with its atmosphere, but it is held back by some lacking combat, shallow exploration, and tiring backtracking. Still, there is a solid experience here for those willing to look past the flaws.