Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Links

Twitch

MONSTER

Shadow Labyrinth

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Shadow Labyrinth
Item: Shadow Labyrinth
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Platformer, Single Player

AvailableJul 18, 2025

PlatformXbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5

DeveloperBandai Namco Games

Overview

Shadow Labyrinth is a 2D action platformer and a genre-twisting alternate take on the iconic Pac-Man. As Swordsman No. 8, awoken by a floating yellow orb, PUCK, on a mysterious planet where relics from past wars remain, you are chosen to become the instrument of its will. To survive you will discover many secrets, start preying on your enemies, and become the apex predator as embrace your true purpose. Search the remnants of an age-old intergalactic conflict, started long before your arrival, and discover new powers and abilities. Use them to traverse an alien world as you battle dangerous creatures and evolved monstrosities. Team up with PUCK, and dive deeper into the maze of a mysterious alien world. Find out the truth behind your presence in this world, what does PUCK want and why it chose you.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shadow Labyrinth impresses with its rich narrative and connections to the Bandai Namco universe, featuring intriguing twists and a dark setting. However, critics highlight its convoluted structure and excessive exposition, which can overwhelm players and detract from the experience. While some appreciate its ambition and depth, others find it lacking clarity and resonance, making its storytelling a polarizing element of the game.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Shadow Labyrinth has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, particularly regarding its intriguing connections to the broader Bandai Namco universe. Critics like CGMagazine and But Why Tho? appreciate the narrative's twists and the incorporation of familiar elements from other franchises, which adds depth and interest to the gameplay. The character of PUCK, described as a manipulative entity with a dark secret by 4P.de, also contributes to the story's allure, while the complex narrative set in a dark sci-fi future, as noted by MondoXbox, enhances the overall atmosphere of the game. Moreover, critics like Noisy Pixel highlight the engaging pacing and the inclusion of lore notes that enrich the storytelling experience, making it a compelling journey through a war-torn world. However, several reviewers have pointed out significant shortcomings in the narrative structure. Critics such as Push Square and Atomix have described the storytelling as convoluted, with excessive exposition that may overwhelm players. The complexity of the plot, while intriguing, can also lead to a lack of clarity, as noted by IGN Spain, which found the narrative lacking the engaging simplicity of other titles. Additionally, some critics, including Hobby Consolas, emphasized that the story is not the main focus of the game, suggesting that it may not resonate with players looking for a strong narrative experience. The reliance on external media for context, as mentioned by Gameliner, could alienate those unfamiliar with the Bandai Namco lore. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Shadow Labyrinth offers a rich and interconnected narrative with intriguing twists, it suffers from a convoluted structure that may detract from the overall experience. Many reviewers appreciate the ambition of the story and its attempts to reimagine classic characters like Pac-Man in a darker context, as noted by Saudi Gamer and SpazioGames. However, the execution leaves room for improvement, with some critics urging for a more straightforward approach to storytelling. In summary, Shadow Labyrinth presents a complex narrative landscape that captivates some while confusing others, making it a polarizing aspect of the game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shadow Labyrinth combines metroidvania elements and classic mechanics, earning praise for its engaging exploration and combat. However, critics flag issues like imprecise controls, tedious pacing, and frustrating difficulty spikes, suggesting its execution falls short of its promising concept.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

39%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Shadow Labyrinth has garnered a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for its incorporation of metroidvania elements and unique mechanics inspired by classic games like Pac-Man. Reviewers such as Hobby Consolas highlight the successful blend of familiar mechanics with fresh elements, noting the engaging aspects of backtracking, skill unlocking, and diverse combat styles. MondoXbox commends the game's vast interconnected map and solid platforming system, while IGN Spain appreciates the integration of action, puzzles, and platforming, which keeps the gameplay experience engaging. Additionally, critics like Noisy Pixel and Gameliner point out the well-designed exploration loop and the enjoyable combat system, suggesting that there are moments of strategic depth and excitement throughout the gameplay. However, despite these positives, many critics have voiced significant concerns regarding the gameplay experience. CGMagazine criticizes the imprecise controls and mindless combat, stating that exploration can feel tedious and lacking in engaging mechanics. Atomix mentions that the gameplay starts slow and linear, which may deter players early on, while XboxEra points out clumsy platforming mechanics that detract from the overall experience. Critics like SpazioGames and But Why Tho? also note issues with inconsistent mechanics and frustrating difficulty spikes, leading to moments that feel more annoying than challenging. Furthermore, GameBlast and Saudi Gamer express concerns about clunky controls and the pacing of the game, indicating that some aspects can become tedious over time. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Shadow Labyrinth has a solid foundation with its metroidvania structure and unique gameplay elements, it struggles with execution in several key areas. Many reviewers appreciate the engaging exploration and combat mechanics, yet they also highlight significant flaws such as imprecise controls, pacing issues, and inconsistent difficulty. Critics like Push Square and Multiplayer.it note that the gameplay takes time to become interesting, which could be a barrier for some players. Ultimately, while Shadow Labyrinth offers a promising concept, its execution leaves room for improvement, as reflected in the mixed sentiments of the gaming community.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shadow Labyrinth boasts some striking visuals and unique art design praised for character aesthetics and environmental flair, but critics overwhelmingly slam its graphics as low-quality and inconsistent, likening them to a cheap Flash game. While there are standout moments, the game's overall visual experience suffers from low resolution, lack of polish, and distracting design flaws, leaving a disappointing impression.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

40%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

27%

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

The opinions of critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Shadow Labyrinth reveal a mixed bag of sentiments, with some positive aspects highlighted across various reviews. Critics like But Why Tho? and MondoXbox commend the game for its unique art style and well-designed environments, describing the gritty aesthetic as visually striking and engaging. The use of light and shadow is particularly praised by Hobby Consolas, who notes that while the visuals may not be groundbreaking, certain elements such as boss designs stand out. Additionally, Noisy Pixel appreciates the vibrant character designs and stark environments, suggesting that the game has moments of visual strength that enhance its overall aesthetic. However, the negatives are quite pronounced in many reviews, with several critics pointing out significant flaws in the game's graphics. CGMagazine criticizes the visuals as appearing cheap, akin to a mid-tier Flash game, while XboxEra describes the overall visuals as "ugly," citing low-resolution assets and busy foregrounds that obscure gameplay. GameBlast echoes this sentiment, noting the low resolution and lack of depth in the environments, while Multiplayer.it mentions a lack of coherence between character silhouettes and backgrounds. Critics like Saudi Gamer and Vgames also highlight inconsistencies in the artistic direction, leading to a distracting visual experience that detracts from immersion. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Shadow Labyrinth has some visually appealing elements, particularly in character design and certain environments, it is marred by significant shortcomings in graphical quality and coherence. The game struggles with issues such as low resolution, repetitiveness, and a lack of polish, leading many reviewers to deem the visual experience inferior to expectations set by both indie games and the potential of the studio behind it. Critics like Atomix and GamersRD emphasize that while the game may have its moments, the overall execution falls short of delivering a polished and cohesive visual experience, reflecting a broader disappointment with the game's graphical presentation.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

TL;DR: Shadow Labyrinth boasts impressive sound design and music, with critics praising its atmospheric themes and engaging techno-metal during boss fights. However, it faces criticism for clichés and a lack of memorable tracks, with some reviewers noting it fails to leave a lasting impact. Overall, while the game excels in certain auditory aspects, it still needs improvements for a more unforgettable sound experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

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 Labyrinth have garnered a mix of praise from critics, highlighting several positive aspects. CGMagazine commends the impressive area themes that create an otherworldly atmosphere, particularly noting the intense techno-metal music during boss fights, which enhances the overall gaming experience. Similarly, Saudi Gamer appreciates the blend of techno and metal, emphasizing that most tracks are excellent and memorable, contributing significantly to immersion. Atomix also acknowledges the effective balance between atmospheric sound design and engaging music during action sequences, particularly during boss battles, while GamersRD points out that the sound effects referencing other Bandai Namco games serve as a nostalgic highlight. However, the critiques also reveal notable shortcomings in the game's sound design and music. XboxEra mentions that while the music conveys level themes effectively, it occasionally falls back on clichés, suggesting a lack of originality. Vgames expresses disappointment, stating that the soundtrack is not particularly memorable and lacks a lasting impact, despite some enjoyable tracks. Additionally, Atomix notes the absence of voice acting and the fleeting nature of memorable tracks, which limits the overall impact of the sound design. GamersRD echoes this sentiment by stating that while the soundtrack serves its purpose, it ultimately lacks standout pieces. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment towards the sound design and music of Shadow Labyrinth. While many reviewers, like CGMagazine and Saudi Gamer, appreciate the atmospheric elements and the engaging music during key moments, others, such as Vgames and XboxEra, highlight the forgettable nature of much of the soundtrack. The combination of nostalgic sound effects and the effective use of music during boss encounters is praised, yet the lack of standout tracks and the reliance on clichés detracts from its overall impact. This blend of admiration and criticism suggests that while Shadow Labyrinth succeeds in certain areas of sound design, it still has room for improvement in creating a more memorable auditory experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shadow Labyrinth shows mixed technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch impresses with a smooth 60 fps, but future update concerns linger. PS5 delivers stable gameplay but suffers from unresponsive controls and mechanics. Xbox Series X has strengths but is bogged down by frustrating gameplay issues. Overall, while the game has potential, technical flaws detract from the player experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The technical performance of Shadow Labyrinth varies across different gaming platforms, showcasing both strengths and weaknesses. On the Nintendo Switch, Hobby Consolas notes that the game runs well, achieving a commendable 60 fps in docked mode, which is a significant positive for players seeking a smooth experience. On the PlayStation 5, Noisy Pixel emphasizes solid technical stability, reporting no crashes or frame drops, while Multiplayer.it suggests a generally stable experience without major issues. This indicates that the PS5 version has a reliable performance overall. However, the Xbox Series X version, as pointed out by But Why Tho?, also has its merits but is overshadowed by notable gameplay frustrations. Despite the positives, the criticisms highlight several technical shortcomings across platforms. On the Xbox Series X, But Why Tho? expresses frustration with poorly defined hitboxes and inconsistent mechanics, which detract from the gameplay experience. For the PS5, while Noisy Pixel reports stability, other critics like Saudi Gamer and SpazioGames raise concerns about unresponsive controls, particularly with dodging and jumping mechanics. SpazioGames further indicates issues with gameplay mechanics and collision detection, suggesting that these problems could affect the overall technical performance. Meanwhile, Hobby Consolas mentions limitations regarding the Switch 2 update, hinting at potential future issues for the Nintendo platform. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed bag of technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch version stands out for its smooth frame rate, but concerns about future updates linger. The PlayStation 5 generally offers a stable experience, yet issues with controls and mechanics are prevalent, as highlighted by multiple reviewers. The Xbox Series X version, while having its strengths, suffers from significant gameplay frustrations due to technical inconsistencies. This divergence in experiences suggests that while Shadow Labyrinth has the potential for solid performance, it is marred by specific technical flaws that could impact player enjoyment across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

TLDR: Shadow Labyrinth has mixed reviews on replay value—some praise its rich content and collectibles for completionists, while others criticize its tedious mechanics and pacing, potentially deterring players from returning. It’s a hit-or-miss experience that may appeal to some, but frustrate others.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

14%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Shadow Labyrinth present a mixed bag of sentiments, with some critics highlighting positive aspects that could encourage players to revisit the game. For instance, Hobby Consolas notes that the game offers a substantial amount of content, including secrets and upgrades, which can entice players aiming for 100% completion. Similarly, MondoXbox emphasizes the game's longevity, citing over 30 hours of gameplay for the main story, appealing particularly to completionists and fans of the metroidvania genre. IGN Spain also supports this positive view by mentioning the generous amount of collectibles and optional challenges, which enhance the overall replay value. On the flip side, several critics express concerns regarding the game's mechanics and pacing, which could hinder replayability. CGMagazine describes the gameplay as lacking engagement and exploration, making it feel laborious, while But Why Tho? points out that frustrating gameplay mechanics may deter players from replaying the game. Atomix echoes this sentiment by highlighting the lengthy and sometimes tedious gameplay, which could lead to a lack of interest in revisiting the game. Additionally, Push Square mentions that while the game is lengthy, it lacks the quality necessary to sustain interest, suggesting a bloated experience that may not reward players for their time. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a divided opinion on the replay value of Shadow Labyrinth. While some reviewers, like Hobby Consolas and MondoXbox, find enough content and engaging elements to encourage exploration and replay, others, such as CGMagazine and Push Square, warn of tedious gameplay and lack of depth that could dissuade players from returning. This dichotomy suggests that while Shadow Labyrinth has potential for replayability, particularly for completionists, its execution may leave some players feeling discouraged, ultimately leading to a mixed reception regarding its replay value.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding Shadow Labyrinth is mixed, with several reviewers highlighting its positive aspects. Critics like Hobby Consolas and MondoXbox praise the game for its engaging storytelling and deep gameplay mechanics, with the former noting its successful integration of Pac-Man elements into the metroidvania genre. IGN Spain echoes this sentiment, describing it as a "highly interesting reimagining" that effectively adapts the Pac-Man mythology into a compelling experience. Additionally, Gameliner points out the rewarding exploration aspect, while Noisy Pixel appreciates its homage to the genre's roots. These positive remarks suggest that Shadow Labyrinth has a solid foundation and offers enjoyable gameplay for fans of the metroidvania genre. However, the game is not without its flaws, which have been pointed out by numerous critics. CGMagazine expresses disappointment, stating that it feels like a "shadow of better Metroid-likes," lacking meaningful gameplay despite its interesting ideas. But Why Tho? mentions technical issues and difficulty spikes that hinder the experience, while GameBlast criticizes the long areas and low-quality visuals. Critics like Multiplayer.it and Push Square also note that while the game is enjoyable, it lacks depth and innovation, with the latter describing it as a "standard Metroidvania" that doesn't measure up to its peers. This collection of critiques indicates that while Shadow Labyrinth has potential, it suffers from execution issues that detract from its overall quality. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Shadow Labyrinth is an ambitious but flawed title within the metroidvania genre. While many reviewers, such as Gamesurf and Saudi Gamer, acknowledge its creative reimagining of the Pac-Man franchise and its engaging elements, they also highlight significant shortcomings in gameplay design, visual quality, and overall execution. Critics like Atomix and GamersRD emphasize that the game has potential, yet it feels undercooked in various aspects, resulting in a product that is enjoyable but ultimately lacking in depth and innovation. This mixed reception suggests that while Shadow Labyrinth may appeal to genre enthusiasts, it may not satisfy those seeking a polished and innovative experience.

TL;DR

Shadow Labyrinth garners mixed reviews; praised for its engaging storytelling and innovative Pac-Man integration, yet criticized for gameplay flaws and technical issues. While it offers enjoyable metroidvania elements, many see it as an underdeveloped echo of better titles, lacking depth and polish. It might satisfy die-hard fans, but don't expect a standout experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

57 reviews found

Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Jul 17, 2025