Shadow Complex

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 222 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 192 out of 222
  2. Mixed: 18 out of 222
  3. Negative: 12 out of 222

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  1. JoshuaL
    Aug 19, 2009
    10
    Excellent game for anyone with an XBox 360, and 1200 microsoft points to burn. Reminds me of Castlevania and Metroid without copying them. Incredibly level design, combined with fun story, and great voice acting. It feels like a whole game, not an iphone game or an episodic game. I would have gladly paid for this in stores too. Chair has proven they are the best game developers onboard Excellent game for anyone with an XBox 360, and 1200 microsoft points to burn. Reminds me of Castlevania and Metroid without copying them. Incredibly level design, combined with fun story, and great voice acting. It feels like a whole game, not an iphone game or an episodic game. I would have gladly paid for this in stores too. Chair has proven they are the best game developers onboard with Xbox Live. Can't wait to see their next project down the line. Last thing I'm gonna say: "Foam Gun Rules!"… Expand
  2. PrimusM
    Sep 11, 2009
    10
    This game is one of the best I've played all year. You may be able to argue that parts of it are ripped straight out of other games, but these mechanics still have to be executed, and they are executed very nicely. This is proof that old school game play is not dead.
  3. ChrisS
    Aug 20, 2009
    10
    Outstanding release. The best Xbox Live Arcade 360 game to release thus far in the consoles history. Following in the footsteps of Geometry Wars(and it's sequel), Braid and Castle Crashers, this is a must own in anyones gaming library. Excellent throw back gameplay, replayability, outstanding graphics and presentation. This game is the real deal and full package. What could easily be Outstanding release. The best Xbox Live Arcade 360 game to release thus far in the consoles history. Following in the footsteps of Geometry Wars(and it's sequel), Braid and Castle Crashers, this is a must own in anyones gaming library. Excellent throw back gameplay, replayability, outstanding graphics and presentation. This game is the real deal and full package. What could easily be a full priced retail release, Shadow Complex changes the way we look at downloadable games and the combination of retro/new age gaming.… Expand
  4. DesO
    Aug 24, 2009
    10
    I'm beginning to lose count of the number of times the bar has been raised for XBLA games and this one is no exception. Lengthy and content filled, with beautiful graphics and well thought out gameplay, Shadow complex is one of the finest modern sidescrollers I've ever played and a perfect end to the Summer.
  5. tobiasl
    Aug 25, 2009
    10
    One of the best XBLA titles I've ever played. Fantastic graphics, sound and overall presentation. Good puzzles, forgiving gameplay (ie. there are a few tricky places on the maps, but the savepoints are frequent.). The story is a bit ownky, but it is quite well told. Really bloody good. Go buy it.
  6. AidanS
    Aug 27, 2009
    10
    I would give this game an 8 if it was full retail price, or anything over $40. However, for $15, I can't think of any brand new game I've enjoyed more for less money since gaming on my NES. The game is fun, challenging, wonderfully designed, and rarely frustrating. I couldn't put it down the day I got it, and I still find myself going back for more. If you own a 360, Buy I would give this game an 8 if it was full retail price, or anything over $40. However, for $15, I can't think of any brand new game I've enjoyed more for less money since gaming on my NES. The game is fun, challenging, wonderfully designed, and rarely frustrating. I couldn't put it down the day I got it, and I still find myself going back for more. If you own a 360, Buy this game!!!! It blows away half the full retail games that come out for the price of a movie ticket.… Expand
  7. PeteN
    Aug 29, 2009
    10
    The best xbox live investment ever. it scratches the itch you had for a old school side scrolling shooter that should have came out for the wii years ago. level progression is excellent and enemies ragdoll perfectly when you kill them. on the same day i got wolfenstein for ps3 but opted for the cheaper game in shadow complex. for 3 days i went to work deprived of sleep.i hope this game The best xbox live investment ever. it scratches the itch you had for a old school side scrolling shooter that should have came out for the wii years ago. level progression is excellent and enemies ragdoll perfectly when you kill them. on the same day i got wolfenstein for ps3 but opted for the cheaper game in shadow complex. for 3 days i went to work deprived of sleep.i hope this game can be the flagship for future games. WE NEED MORE SIDE SCROLLERS. very satisfying experience indeed.… Expand
  8. JayMcAvee
    Aug 29, 2009
    10
    Probably the best XBLA game there is. Bionic Commando and then Castle Crashers held that claim for some time, but it has been retaken. Shadow Complex goes head to head against classics like Super Metroid and still manages to not only hold its own, but also advance the genre.
  9. BenC
    Nov 2, 2009
    10
    Absolutely excellent game. Chair have gone with the 'dont fix whats not broken' method and applied it to an older more forgotten genre that gave birth to one of the greatest games of all time: Super Metroid With replayability bonuses, a lengthy campaign, leaderboards, challenge rooms, achievements and more this has to be one among the best value available per point spent on Xbox live.
  10. RyanZ.
    Oct 21, 2009
    10
    This game brings out the best in old school gaming, making your SNES dreams reappear in modern times as this wonderfully put together package. It takes games like Castlevania and Metroid and slaps a new face on it giving it the modern appeal with a new setting and Metal Gear style premise. A must have for any sidescroll lovers.
  11. RickE.
    Aug 19, 2009
    10
    It's an incredible mix of shooting, puzzles and platform. The level design keeps you on the edge of the seat, searching every dark corner for some hidden passage or secret. It's no doubt a must have and no Live user should pass this one!
  12. mobius
    Aug 26, 2009
    10
    Looks like there are a couple of PS3 voters here and they seem a little annoyed that shadow complex aint on their system boo hoo. anyway regardless if this is a metroid ripoff or not because ive never played a metroid game. for me this game brings back memorys of old classics like Flashback, Abe's oddysee and Another World. . its a big game and a real beauty to look at. now im off to Looks like there are a couple of PS3 voters here and they seem a little annoyed that shadow complex aint on their system boo hoo. anyway regardless if this is a metroid ripoff or not because ive never played a metroid game. for me this game brings back memorys of old classics like Flashback, Abe's oddysee and Another World. . its a big game and a real beauty to look at. now im off to give random PS3 games negative reviews because their not available on the XBOX boo hoo.… Expand
  13. TristanL
    Aug 19, 2009
    10
    Wow this game is just pure epic. It is better than most RETAIL games, let alone downloadable. I hope that maybe with enough production value, there can be a sequel. Really great stuff.
  14. MichaelA.
    Aug 19, 2009
    10
    Shadow Complex feels like the next generation version of Super Metroid and Castlevania. If you've played either of those, you know what you're getting into here. It's light on the puzzles, but excels in exploration and combat. My only complaints are the straightforward boss fights and the lame story. Most boss fights consist of spamming the grenade button. As for the story, Shadow Complex feels like the next generation version of Super Metroid and Castlevania. If you've played either of those, you know what you're getting into here. It's light on the puzzles, but excels in exploration and combat. My only complaints are the straightforward boss fights and the lame story. Most boss fights consist of spamming the grenade button. As for the story, I'm surprised it was written by Peter David, I never felt motivated by it. Those two thing aside, the game is perfect.… Expand
  15. ColinC
    Aug 21, 2009
    10
    Okay, I'm more than halfway through this game. And it's amazing. I've never really got into the od metroid (side scrolling) games, but I'm loving this. Graphics, gameplay, story, it's all there. I'm glad the company that did Advent Rising (which I never played but still appreciated what they try to do) got a second chance. Please, bring on the sequel.
  16. Johnf
    Aug 27, 2009
    10
    Excellent game that follows strongly in the vein of Super Metroid. The only thing that could be better is if this game was in fact a new Metroid. One thing that I wished was better were the boss fights. They just aren't memorable,, but I can't really take away a point for that. All in all, this game is worth more than $15 so it is absolutely a must buy.
  17. SanzeeBoy
    Sep 13, 2009
    10
    I'm happy to tell you that this game absolutely delivers. Chair Entertainment, the developers for this game, are about 3 blocks away from my house here in Provo, UT. They've been developing this game for the last 2 years. I was able to meet the Studio Manager for the game, and even got to play it before it released on Xbox Live. I've since played through the whole thing and I'm happy to tell you that this game absolutely delivers. Chair Entertainment, the developers for this game, are about 3 blocks away from my house here in Provo, UT. They've been developing this game for the last 2 years. I was able to meet the Studio Manager for the game, and even got to play it before it released on Xbox Live. I've since played through the whole thing and I must say it's quite addicting. It delivers on every possible level. Please buy it now.… Expand
  18. Tashy497
    Jun 3, 2013
    10
    This is my most favorite game of all time. This game blew my brains out... it took me back to old school roots and had a new school flavor to it. I can't stress enough how badly this game needs a sequel and for it to be on Steam. The fun factor of this game is A+. The controls are fantastic it just feels right. I love this game so much that after beating it, I beat it again... and thenThis is my most favorite game of all time. This game blew my brains out... it took me back to old school roots and had a new school flavor to it. I can't stress enough how badly this game needs a sequel and for it to be on Steam. The fun factor of this game is A+. The controls are fantastic it just feels right. I love this game so much that after beating it, I beat it again... and then after that I simply took a previous save point before the final boss so I could explore every detail of the game. The fire of this game was put out by it's own company, Chair, because of their desire to enter the iPhone market with a $hitty game called Infinity Blade... then made part 2. I wish there was a petition to get this game going again, Shadow Complex makes all games look like… Expand
  19. Plasmaneedle
    Jan 18, 2014
    10
    Shadow Complex captures the essence of Metroidvania games and has some very great upgrades to boot. Excellent sense of progression, interesting plot great exploration and a good combat system. This game is probably the best XBLA game you can get.
  20. Madbeast8
    Aug 25, 2016
    10
    This game at least enters the conversation of greatest of the Metroidvania genre! Gameplay is crisp and precise and makes exploration as smooth as it could be. The upgrades that exlporation/leveling affords are fun and offer interesting ways to access previously inaccessible areas. The graphics are simply stunning, adopting a 2.5D environment that makes this side-scroller feel as thoughThis game at least enters the conversation of greatest of the Metroidvania genre! Gameplay is crisp and precise and makes exploration as smooth as it could be. The upgrades that exlporation/leveling affords are fun and offer interesting ways to access previously inaccessible areas. The graphics are simply stunning, adopting a 2.5D environment that makes this side-scroller feel as though it is a bit more. Boss battles are fun and engaging, and each require a new set of tactics to master. As you build your character's arsenal (especially his armored suit), your character exhibits a level of progression that even Super Metroid did not quite reach. This game is a must-play even if you are not a fan of the genre, but if you are a fan of the genre and you have yet to play this game then your life is about to change...permanently.… Expand
  21. MichaelA
    Aug 20, 2009
    9
    I only own a handful of games for my 360, all of which I have enjoyed, but SC makes the top of the list. This game is pure fun. Wonderful attention to detail has been made, especially for an independent game. The sounds effects are crisp and really pull you into the game. I've only uncovered 26% of the entire map of the game, and I can say with confidence this is one of the best I only own a handful of games for my 360, all of which I have enjoyed, but SC makes the top of the list. This game is pure fun. Wonderful attention to detail has been made, especially for an independent game. The sounds effects are crisp and really pull you into the game. I've only uncovered 26% of the entire map of the game, and I can say with confidence this is one of the best games on the 360, period. Very hard to put down, get it as soon as possible and see why!… Expand
  22. Ryan
    Aug 27, 2009
    9
    I'm shocked, in a good way. The game was way better than expected; playing it on "casual" was a quick run and on "normal" was more my style. The writing's good; the voice acting funny at times. Don't listen to folks pissing about how it's like this game or that game -- it's a great "upgrade" to side-scrollers. The quick cut scenes (i.e. an above-head shot of a I'm shocked, in a good way. The game was way better than expected; playing it on "casual" was a quick run and on "normal" was more my style. The writing's good; the voice acting funny at times. Don't listen to folks pissing about how it's like this game or that game -- it's a great "upgrade" to side-scrollers. The quick cut scenes (i.e. an above-head shot of a descending elevator when you take an elevator) add to the atmosphere of the game. Worth it. The plot's somewhat easy to figure out, and I suspect they left it wide open for a sequel...that I will most likely purchase.… Expand
  23. SamF
    Sep 20, 2009
    9
    A near perfect game that involves puzzle solving, hidden items and a great side scroller with a 3d perspective. I played through this game twice and both times were amazing. If your a gamer you should at least download the demo and give this a try. If there is one negative I can say its the Respawning of enemies after you clear a room and return, but thats the only one I can think of. A A near perfect game that involves puzzle solving, hidden items and a great side scroller with a 3d perspective. I played through this game twice and both times were amazing. If your a gamer you should at least download the demo and give this a try. If there is one negative I can say its the Respawning of enemies after you clear a room and return, but thats the only one I can think of. A great storyline with a pretty exciting ending IMO But everyones tastes are different. With leaderboards to follow with various topics and the endless hours looking for that 100% achievement this game has alot of replay value and will surely win Arcade game of the year.… Expand
  24. JeffG.
    Aug 19, 2009
    9
    Talk about bang for your buck?? This game is incredible. Not wholly original, but who cares. Solid stuff.
  25. GeoffG
    Aug 25, 2009
    9
    I was a bit skeptical when I overheard Epic Games was managing this project (Gears of War was crap) anyways, I was pleasantly surprised when I played this game. Totally unoriginal, but it does rip off from the best (ie, Metroid). For an XBLA game I had a lot of fun. I would highly recommend this. You won't be disappointed.
  26. RobB
    Aug 27, 2009
    9
    Anyone who ever loved a metroid game (back before it made its 3d debut) will love this game. The mechanics whilst having it's own flavour is very similar. The graphics are top notch thanks to the Unreal Engine 3 and the gameplay is addictive as all hell. It's one of the few games in recent memory i've wanted to re-play through after completion. Even if you don't want Anyone who ever loved a metroid game (back before it made its 3d debut) will love this game. The mechanics whilst having it's own flavour is very similar. The graphics are top notch thanks to the Unreal Engine 3 and the gameplay is addictive as all hell. It's one of the few games in recent memory i've wanted to re-play through after completion. Even if you don't want to do the story again there's a section for you to go through a number of challenges and compete against your friends, and the world, for the highest scores.The fact that it's a 15 dollar arcade title should make this a must buy for anyone who owns a 360. Get it!… Expand
  27. SethW
    Sep 25, 2009
    9
    A great game from start to finish however aiming into the background is ridiculous. The items are well spaced and the game is an amazing deal however during certain moments can be boring. Going through the entire complex for a wrist band can seem a bit frustrating at times but nonetheless more then enough of bang for your buck.
  28. Massacyre
    Sep 7, 2010
    9
    An amazing game. No doubt about it this is the best arcade game ever and I got it when it was half-price!
    I had it for only a month though and I got 100% completion so now the campaigns pointless as I have unlimited everything and i'm pretty much unkillable. BUT, there is also awesome challenges to keep you occupied and these and the campaign all look gorgeous. So get this game no matter    An amazing game. No doubt about it this is the best arcade game ever and I got it when it was half-price!
    I had it for only a month though and I got 100% completion so now the campaigns pointless as I have unlimited everything and i'm pretty much unkillable. BUT, there is also awesome challenges to keep you occupied and these and the campaign all look gorgeous. So get this game no matter what the cost, i'm just lucky I got it half price. :D    … Expand
  29. starmario123
    Apr 28, 2011
    9
    9/10 = Amazing = Tons of replay value, and overall a very fun game. I still prefer the metroid's and castlevania's of the world though. Horrifyingly bad story.
  30. Markc
    May 15, 2011
    9
    Great game. My only complaint is aiming at the enemies in the background is very difficult. But once you get the rocket launcher that becomes a lot easier. Also, the story, while good, isn't ver in depth. Other than that, it is one of the more enjoyable games I've played with some of the best gameplay.
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Awards & Rankings

12
#12 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2009
19
#19 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2009
16
#16 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2009

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
88

Generally favorable reviews - based on 73 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 71 out of 73
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 73
  3. Negative: 0 out of 73
  1. Eurogamer Italy
    80
    A perfect working mix between fights and exploration: high rhythm, never boring. You're going to feel pure fun as if you're back again playing coin-up, being stuck with your pad, achievement after achievement, enjoying it for hours. Nothing more to ask from a game such this.
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  2. Computer and Video Games
    90
    A stunningly-executed, modern-day Super Metroid.
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  3. Eurogamer
    90
    It's a game that will delight gamers old enough to recognise the classics it celebrates, while captivating those oblivious to its inspirations.
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