Physics

Shadow Planet has a subtle level of physics that allow for weight based objects, certain puzzles and even a flow dynamic that means water plays a crucial role in some of the areas of the game. There are also physics that impact the projectiles fired by the enemy and by the saucer’s blaster, as well as guided missile. For instance, you can dip the saucer into the water and shoot bolts out; they will speed up somewhat when they leave the water’s drag. Shoot down into water, and they slow down. These little physics touches keep a sense of reality about the surreal world and designs, one that brings a tiny smile each time an effect is noticed.

AI

I’m reminded once again of the old-skool games of yore, ones with boss patterns and enemy patterns. This is a superbly retro feel and Shadow Planet ascribes perfectly to the whole ethos that you don’t need complex AI to make this kind of game fun, just AI that provides a suitable challenge.

Sound

Shadow Planet brims with sound and audio design, the quality of these audio snippets and sounds is extremely high. They also match the visuals perfectly and it’s yet another layer of atmosphere on an already atmospheric title.

Music

With the help of Dimmu Borgir and the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra (a great mashup), the music of Shadow Planet is utterly compelling and provides a sense of dramatic scope to the whole game. This is something that complements Gagné’s visual and animated style to the letter.

Co-op Multiplayer

There’s apparently DLC on the way for Shadow Planet, though we don’t know exactly what form it will take save for the fact it’s co-op. We are thinking it might be a co-op campaign or even a co-op side story. At the outset though, it’s possible to play Lantern Run with a local group of up to 4 people, or play online with the same. Lantern Run sees the players trying to outrun a dangerous massive beastie whilst delivering a large lantern down the random passage, full of nasty things and other obstacles.

There are upgrades available but it’s wise to share those out so you ensure your team has the best chance of survival. Lantern Run is also playable on your own, but really, half the fun is working with a group of people to survive the trials ahead.

Well it is twisted!

The only real issue with Shadow Planet besides the lack of mini-map is the short campaign, which last a few scant hours. Yet for a downloadable game it’s a price that is worth paying for a fun, unique and beautifully realised adventure. We'd recommend this one to anyone who loves Metroid, puzzle games and has a soft spot for starkly beautiful graphics and high levels of detail/animation in their downloadable games.

Quality production values throughout mean that Shadow Planet is a visual spectacle for those who aren’t playing it right now as well.