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Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew
Item: Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresIndie, Action, RPG, Stealth, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Military and Warfare, Single Player

AvailableAug 17, 2023

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5

DeveloperMimimi Games

Overview

Welcome to the Lost Caribbean! In this stealth strategy game, join a ghost ship with a living soul and assemble a cursed pirate crew. Embrace magical powers to defy the menacing army of the Inquisition, who stands between you and the mysterious treasure of the legendary Captain Mordechai.

Elsewhere

8.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew wows with its whimsical pirate setting and quirky characters, blending humor with themes of death and loss. Critics praise its imaginative premise and engaging dialogue, but many fault its narrative coherence and depth. While some find the story charming, others deem it dull and disconnected, resulting in a mixed reception. Ultimately, the game teases potential but fails to fully deliver on its narrative promise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

72%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its unique setting and imaginative characters. Many reviewers appreciate the whimsical and supernatural elements that infuse the narrative, with Gamersky noting the engaging premise of pirates executing strategic assassinations and Multiplayer.it highlighting the intriguing twists and character interactions. Critics like IGN Italia and Shacknews commend the lighter, humorous tone of the story, which features quirky characters and engaging dialogues. The narrative's exploration of themes such as death and loss, as mentioned by Malditos Nerds, adds depth to the overall experience, while the blend of linear and non-linear storytelling, pointed out by INVEN, allows for player choices to shape the adventure. However, the story is not without its drawbacks, as several critics have pointed out issues with coherence and depth. Gamersky and Riot Pixels describe the narrative as dull and monotonous, lacking a broader narrative arc and depth, which detracts from the overall engagement. Gamer.no echoes this sentiment, stating that while the story begins engagingly, it loses coherence towards the end, with side missions that feel disconnected from the main plot. Critics like GamingBolt and Checkpoint Gaming also express that while the story does its job in keeping players engaged, it never truly captivates. This suggests a missed opportunity to fully develop the narrative and its characters, leading to a somewhat underwhelming experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed, with a divide between those who find the story charming and engaging and those who feel it lacks depth and coherence. While many reviewers, such as COGconnected and GameGrin, appreciate the whimsical high-seas fantasy setting and the unique characters, others like GameOver.gr and GamesRadar+ highlight the shortcomings in narrative structure and character development. The overall sentiment suggests that while Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew presents an intriguing premise with potential, it struggles to maintain that intrigue throughout the entirety of its story, leading to a varied reception among players and critics alike.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is lauded for its engaging stealth and strategic gameplay, encouraging experimentation with unique character abilities. Critics praise its depth, replayability, and innovative mechanics like the "memory" system for quick saves. However, some highlight issues with repetitive missions, limited enemy variety, and a clunky control scheme for newcomers. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a compelling tactical experience that rewards creativity, making it a strong entry in the genre.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

90%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

10%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew has garnered significant praise from critics, who highlight its engaging blend of stealth mechanics and strategic planning. Many reviewers, such as Eurogamer and Shacknews, commend the game for its rich tactical gameplay that encourages experimentation with unique character abilities. The variety of approaches to missions, as noted by critics like Press Start Australia and GAMES.CH, allows players to choose their path, whether through stealth or direct confrontation. The introduction of mechanics like the "memory" system for quick saving and reloading, mentioned by multiple reviewers, enhances the overall experience by allowing players to refine their strategies without severe penalties. Additionally, the game’s level design has been praised for its depth and replayability, with critics like Malditos Nerds emphasizing the multiple solutions available for each challenge. However, despite the overall positive reception, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks that could affect the gameplay experience. Gamersky and Riot Pixels noted a sense of repetitiveness in mission design and a limited variety of enemy types, which could detract from the long-term engagement with the game. Additionally, while the control scheme is generally well-received, Press Start Australia mentioned that it can feel clumsy at first, potentially leading to a learning curve for new players. Critics like GameOver.gr and Metro GameCentral also highlighted that while the game offers a sandbox element, this freedom could lead to repetitive gameplay if players are not careful in their mission selections. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew delivers a compelling gameplay experience characterized by its strategic depth and engaging mechanics. The majority of reviewers, including IGN and PC Gamer, found the gameplay to be very good, praising its blend of stealth and tactical elements, as well as the variety of character abilities that enhance player choice. While there are some criticisms regarding mission design and control responsiveness, these do not overshadow the overall positive sentiment. The game is seen as a rewarding tactical experience that encourages creativity and strategic thinking, making it a noteworthy addition to the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew dazzles with its vibrant, stylized visuals and smooth performance (60 FPS on PS5), winning praise for its detailed environments and unique character designs. Critics commend its charming art style, though some note visibility issues and a lack of innovation in graphics. Overall, it impresses with an immersive pirate-themed aesthetic, despite a few critiques on visual execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

69%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew have received considerable praise from various critics, highlighting the game's vibrant and stylized aesthetic. Finger Guns noted the game's solid performance on PS5, achieving a constant 60 FPS, while GameSpew emphasized the varied and detailed environments. Critics like Press Start Australia and Eurogamer celebrated the charming art style that creates a rich, immersive world, with Eurogamer describing it as beautifully presented. The environments were frequently mentioned as colorful and filled with intricate details, enhancing the overall experience, as noted by Shacknews and New Game Network. Additionally, the character designs received accolades for their uniqueness and appeal, as pointed out by IGN and Player 2. Despite the numerous positive remarks, some critics pointed out shortcomings in the game's visual presentation. The So Videogames Podcast mentioned that the isometric view could hinder visibility, making graphics appear small at times. XGN described the graphics as well-crafted but not award-winning, suggesting a lack of groundbreaking innovation. Riot Pixels went further, labeling the visual design as cartoonish and unremarkable, which could detract from player engagement. Critics like RPG Fan also noted that while the artwork is wonderful, some visuals felt dated, potentially impacting the overall impression of the game's aesthetic. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew boasts a vibrant and engaging visual style that successfully captures its pirate-themed narrative. Many reviewers, including those from GameMAG and SECTOR.sk, highlighted the game's ability to create a visually appealing world filled with detailed environments and unique character designs. While some critiques regarding visibility and a lack of groundbreaking graphics exist, the overall sentiment leans heavily towards appreciation for the game's artistic direction and the immersive experience it provides. The combination of charming animations and well-crafted environments appears to resonate well with players, creating a positive reception for the game's graphics and visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew impresses critics with its immersive sound design and music, which perfectly complement its pirate theme. While standout features like the iconic bong of the Red Marley and cheerful compositions by Filippo Beck Peccoz receive high praise, some voice performances are inconsistent, and certain sound effects can feel repetitive. Overall, the audio elements significantly enhance the game’s charm, with most reviewers asserting the positives outweigh the negatives.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew have received a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's ability to create an immersive atmosphere that complements its pirate-themed narrative. Many reviewers, such as Eurogamer and GRYOnline.pl, praised the sound design as integral to the game's identity, with Eurogamer specifically noting the thematic bong of the Red Marley as a standout feature. The music, composed by Filippo Beck Peccoz, has been described as cheerful and fitting for the game's adventurous tone, with critics like Malditos Nerds and IGN France emphasizing its effectiveness in enhancing the overall experience. Furthermore, the voice acting has been generally well-received, with many critics, including XboxAddict and RPG Fan, commending the performances for their ability to enhance character depth and engagement. However, there are some criticisms regarding the sound design and music that cannot be overlooked. While the majority of voice acting was praised, some critics, such as GamingTrend and Gamereactor UK, pointed out inconsistencies in performances, with specific characters like Suleidy receiving mixed reactions. Additionally, some reviewers noted that certain sound effects, particularly enemy vocalizations, could become repetitive, as mentioned by TheXboxHub. This inconsistency in voice performances and the potential for repetitiveness in sound effects may detract from the overall experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew excels in its sound design and music, successfully creating an engaging and immersive atmosphere that aligns well with its pirate adventure theme. While there are some criticisms regarding specific voice performances and repetitiveness in sound effects, the majority of reviewers agree that the audio elements significantly contribute to the game's charm and enjoyment. Critics like COGconnected and Softpedia encapsulate this sentiment by highlighting the strong audio work that enhances the gameplay experience, suggesting that the positives far outweigh the negatives in this aspect of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew has been widely praised for its charm and narrative depth, with critics lauding the performances as "superb" and "outstanding." While most agree it enriches character engagement, some point out inconsistencies, with a few performances feeling lackluster. Overall, the voice acting is a standout feature that significantly enhances the game's experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

26%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from critics, with many highlighting its significant contribution to the game's charm and narrative engagement. Reviewers such as PlayStation Universe and Press Start Australia praised the voice performances as "superb" and "exceptional," respectively, noting that they enhance the authenticity and compelling nature of the characters. The So Videogames Podcast emphasized the "outstanding" voice acting, particularly the engaging banter that deepens the player's connection to the crew. Critics like IGN and INVEN echoed this sentiment, describing the voice acting as delightful and a strong point of the game, adding depth to the characters and enriching the overall experience. Despite the general acclaim, there were some criticisms regarding the voice acting. Gamereactor UK described it as "hit and miss," indicating that while some performances shine, others may not resonate as well. GamingTrend pointed out that while the voice acting is generally well-received, there are standout performances that could overshadow others, specifically mentioning that Suleidy's voice was noted as particularly unappealing. This suggests a degree of inconsistency in the quality of performances, which some critics like God is a Geek acknowledged, noting that while the characters are well-written and acted, there are moments that flirt with clichés. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is a highlight of the game, with the majority praising its quality and effectiveness in enhancing character depth and narrative immersion. Critics such as XboxAddict and TheXboxHub emphasized the strong performances that contribute significantly to the game's engagement, particularly in fully voiced cutscenes. While a few criticisms exist regarding certain performances, the overwhelming sentiment is that the voice acting elevates the game, making it a memorable experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew impresses with solid 60 FPS and swift loading on PS5, but critics cite issues like lengthy loading times and camera control. Performance is smooth on Xbox Series X/S, though some graphical hiccups were noted. PC gamers report good optimization, yet minor bugs exist. Overall, the game shines technically but needs polish in certain areas to elevate the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

50%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew has garnered generally positive feedback across various platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 5. Critics from Finger Guns and PlayStation Universe noted that the game achieves a solid and consistent 60 FPS, with minimal differences in graphics compared to mid-to-high-end PCs. The PS5's SSD is praised for enabling quick loading times and mid-mission saving, enhancing the overall gameplay experience (as highlighted by PlayStation Universe). Similarly, Xbox Series X and Series S users reported smooth performance without encountering significant issues (Press Start Australia), and MondoXbox noted the availability of different graphical modes that allow for performance optimization. On PC, many reviewers, including Games.cz and GRYOnline.pl, emphasized the game's excellent technical performance, with stable gameplay and good optimization even on lower-end machines. Despite the positive aspects, several critics pointed out notable negatives across the platforms. On PS5, GameSpew mentioned that while the framerate is mostly solid, loading times can be lengthy, and the camera control can be unwieldy. TheSixthAxis echoed concerns about character movement clarity and the pacing of kill animations, which could lead to frustrating gameplay moments. On PC, while many reviews highlighted stability, some critics like COGconnected and IGN Italia reported minor technical issues, including bugs and camera management problems that could hinder gameplay. Additionally, Eurogamer pointed out that some old-school mechanics might disrupt the tactical experience, suggesting that not all aspects of the game are polished. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew offers a solid technical performance across platforms, with the PS5 and PC versions generally receiving favorable reviews. While the game excels in terms of stability and smooth gameplay, particularly on PS5 (as noted by XGN) and PC (highlighted by Riot Pixels), there are some recurring issues related to camera control and loading times that detract from the experience. The Xbox Series X also performed well, though some critics like SomosXbox noted potential graphical issues. In summary, while the technical performance is commendable, there are areas for improvement that could enhance the overall player experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew receives mostly positive reviews for its strong replay value, thanks to non-linear missions and diverse character options that promote experimentation. Critics commend its substantial gameplay (over 30 hours), but some note potential repetitiveness in mission design and limited variety in team compositions. Overall, while there are concerns about fatigue and recycling environments, the game's strategic mechanics and flexibility keep players engaged, making it a solid choice for those seeking replayability.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

42%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions regarding the replay value of Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew are largely positive, highlighting the game's flexibility and diverse gameplay options. Many critics, such as GameSpew and Press Start Australia, praise the freedom to approach missions non-linearly, which encourages experimentation and strategic thinking. The inclusion of badges for in-game achievements and character upgrades, as noted by PlayStation Universe and GameGrin, adds an extra layer of motivation for players to revisit missions. Furthermore, the game’s design allows for different character combinations and tactical approaches, with critics like PC Gamer and Eurogamer emphasizing the significant replay value stemming from these features. The game also promises a substantial amount of gameplay, with reviews mentioning over 30 hours of content, which is appealing for players seeking longevity. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. Some reviewers, such as Metro GameCentral and Gamersky, point out that the mission design can feel repetitive, which may detract from the overall replayability. Critics like Shacknews and Riot Pixels echo this sentiment, mentioning that the slow crew expansion and the recycling of environments can lead to a sense of fatigue. Additionally, while the game encourages experimentation, some players may find that certain character abilities are more effective than others, leading to a lack of variety in team compositions, as noted by GamesRadar+. This potential for repetitive gameplay experiences raises concerns about the game's long-term engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew offers a solid replay value, primarily due to its non-linear mission structure and diverse character options. While some reviewers highlight issues with repetitive mission design and limited variety in environments, the majority agree that the game’s mechanics foster experimentation and strategic play. Critics like IGN Italia and Malditos Nerds emphasize the significant replay value, suggesting that players will find ample reasons to return to the game. Ultimately, while there are some caveats regarding repetition, the game's design elements and potential for varied gameplay experiences contribute to a generally favorable outlook on its replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment towards Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging gameplay, unique themes, and visual presentation. Reviewers like Press Start Australia highlighted the game's stunning visuals and compelling narrative, while Shacknews noted the fun mechanics and engaging gameplay that set a new standard for Mimimi Games. Critics such as PC Gamer and IGN France emphasized the game's replayability and refined mechanics, suggesting that it stands out in the stealth strategy genre. Additionally, The So Videogames Podcast even labeled it a masterpiece, reflecting the high regard in which many hold this title. However, not all feedback is positive, as some critics pointed out significant drawbacks. Gamersky criticized the game for failing to meet expectations set by previous titles, citing repetitive gameplay and a lack of engaging elements. Gamer.no echoed similar sentiments, mentioning issues with repetition and narrative disconnection, which detracted from the overall experience. Other reviewers, like GameMAG and Gamer.no, also noted that while the game is enjoyable, it does not innovate significantly, leaving some players wanting more depth and variety in the gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is a strong entry in the stealth strategy genre, with many considering it a worthy successor to Mimimi Games' previous titles. While there are criticisms regarding repetition and narrative depth, the majority of reviews highlight its engaging gameplay, charming setting, and impressive visuals, making it a recommended experience for fans of the genre. Critics like Eurogamer and God is a Geek praised the game for its thoughtful refinement and inventive design, suggesting that despite its flaws, it represents a significant achievement for both the developer and the genre as a whole.

TL;DR

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew garners mostly positive reviews, praised for its stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and replayability, with some critics calling it a masterpiece. However, it faces criticism for repetitive elements and narrative issues, leaving some players craving more depth. Overall, it’s seen as a strong addition to the stealth strategy genre, showcasing Mimimi Games’ talent despite its flaws.

MONSTER

Reviews

85 reviews found

100

Finger Guns

PlayStation 5

Aug 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is a high-performance wave-slicing ghost ship on PlayStation 5 and calls it a masterpiece on any system. It also mentions that the game is the best IP and the best game Mimimi have made to date.

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100

God is a Geek

Aug 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is an incredibly inventive, impeccably designed, and superbly paced stealth strategy game, making it the best example of the genre created by MiMiMi.

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100

Eurogamer Germany

Aug 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is praised as a significant achievement in the stealth genre, offering depth, flexibility, and enjoyment.

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100

Games.cz

Aug 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is praised as a near-perfect tactical stealth strategy game that builds on its predecessors while introducing new elements, offering a rich and enjoyable experience.

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GamingTrend

Aug 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is praised as a significant improvement over its predecessors, delivering a fresh and enjoyable tactical experience.

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GameGrin

Aug 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Shadow Gambit is a near-perfect game for stealth strategy fans with a new sandbox approach.

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COGconnected

Aug 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is a challenging and extremely entertaining stealth action and tactics game with a charming setting and story. It is highly recommended for fans of the genre.

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Impulsegamer

Aug 29, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is a must-play for fans of the genre and offers a cerebral gameplay experience with a colorful narrative.

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KeenGamer

Aug 17, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew is a satisfying pirate adventure that combines a compelling story with engaging gameplay and impressive audio-visual elements.

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Player 2

Aug 16, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly recommends Shadow Gambit: The Cursed Crew, stating that it is a fantastic tactical game that surpasses the developer's previous work. It is described as right up there with the best the genre has to offer.

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