Shadow Puppeteer2014

Shadow Puppeteer

2014 Sarepta Studio65Worthwhile

Playtime

ShortTypically 4 hours

Playable on

Available on

Game modes

Details

Launch
September 29, 2014
Themes
Fantasy

Overview

Manipulate light and darkness in this co-op puzzle platformer. Shadow Puppeteer combines platforming with puzzle-solving in a play of light and shadow. Having a truly Nordic yet original art style, the game tells the story of a boy and his shadow. Shadow Puppeteer is a co-op experience that focuses on teamwork and seeing the world through different perspectives. The combination of the characters' skills unite and complete them.

Screenshots

Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer
Screenshot for Shadow Puppeteer

Reception

Shadow Puppeteer is an enjoyable game—if you can get past a few frustrations. The platforming is tedious at times, with you controlling both the boy and his shadow, though figuring out how to get through each area isn't all that difficult. Sadly, the game is somewhat short, only taking a few hours to get through. But if you're playing with someone,...

The game was clearly not optimized for the system and some additional polish could have gone a long way. Next to that, it is just a really short game that I can only recommend in co-op. If you do decide to take the plunge, you can't go wrong with the puzzles and story, but you will have to put up with a lot to truly enjoy yourself.

In single-player mode, Shadow Puppeteer is a much weaker game, technical issues and control problems become more evident and it's not challenging enough to justify a new go. Despite being based on several good ideas, Shadow Puppeteer performs way below its potential.

Shadow Puppeteer is an admirable attempt at a fun, unique co-operative experience, but is ultimately let down by its lack of technical polish.

The puzzles are fun, it could benefit from some polish in terms of presentation, but you'll enjoy Shadow Puppeteer more with a second player by your side.