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Shadow Warrior 3

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Shadow Warrior 3
Item: Shadow Warrior 3
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Shooter, Comedy, RPG, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableMar 1, 2022

PlatformXbox One, PC, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 4

DeveloperFlying Wild Hog

Overview

Shadow Warrior 3 launches the offbeat first-person shooter series to the next level with a seamless blend of fast-paced gunplay, razor-sharp melee combat, and a spectacular free-running movement system.

Elsewhere

6.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shadow Warrior 3 receives mixed reviews for its humor and light-hearted tone, with some critics enjoying the comedic interactions and nostalgic references. However, the majority deem the story shallow, forgettable, and poorly developed, lacking depth and engagement, ultimately falling short of expectations for a sequel. While gameplay shines, the narrative fails to deliver a substantial experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

12%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

29%

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

The story of Shadow Warrior 3 has received some positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding its humor and light-hearted tone. Reviewers like Hey Poor Player and The Games Machine noted the engaging interactions between Lo Wang and supporting characters, highlighting the comedic elements that often elicit smiles. Critics such as Multiplayer.it and JeuxActu appreciated the nostalgic references and humor that may appeal to fans of the series, suggesting that the narrative, while simple, serves as an entertaining backdrop for the gameplay. The light-hearted approach, combined with the absurdity of the plot, has been recognized as a fitting continuation of the franchise, allowing for creative level design and combat, as mentioned by Shindig. However, the overall sentiment surrounding the story is predominantly negative, with many critics pointing out its lack of depth and engagement. PC Gamer criticized the narrative as shallow and unengaging, while Gamepressure emphasized the conventional and generic setup that fails to provide a strong motive for the player. Critics like Shacknews and PC Games echoed these sentiments, describing the story as forgettable and weak, with poor character development and little connection to previous installments. The writing has also faced scrutiny, with We Got This Covered labeling it as terrible and uninteresting, and IGN mentioning that the story feels rushed and nonsensical. In summary, while Shadow Warrior 3 does offer a humorous and entertaining narrative that may resonate with fans, the consensus among critics is that the story ultimately falls flat. Many reviewers, including GameMAG and Digital Chumps, found it to be simplistic and cliché, lacking the depth and engagement expected from a sequel. The criticisms of weak character development and a disjointed plot structure suggest that while the game may excel in gameplay and humor, its story is a significant area where it fails to meet expectations, leaving players wanting a more substantial narrative experience.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shadow Warrior 3 impresses with its fast-paced, fluid combat and dynamic mechanics like grappling hooks and wall running, drawing comparisons to Doom Eternal. However, critics highlight its linearity and repetitive gameplay, with a lack of depth and exploration leading to a tedious experience. While the combat is fun, it suffers from a lack of originality, leaving players craving more variety and challenge.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Shadow Warrior 3 has garnered a mix of positive feedback, particularly regarding its fast-paced and chaotic nature. Many critics, such as Shacknews and Eurogamer Italy, praised the game for its smooth movement mechanics and engaging combat systems, which are reminiscent of modern classics like Doom Eternal. The inclusion of unique mechanics like grappling hooks, wall running, and various combat techniques adds a layer of dynamism to the gameplay, as highlighted by Xbox Achievements and Attack of the Fanboy. Critics also noted that the game encourages a fluid playstyle, with enjoyable interactions between melee and ranged attacks, making the combat feel energetic and fun. However, the game is not without its criticisms. A significant number of reviewers, including PLAY! Zine and GameCritics, pointed out the linearity and repetitiveness of the gameplay, suggesting that it lacks the depth and variety expected from a title in this genre. Critics like Everyeye.it and GameMAG echoed these sentiments, describing the combat system as solid yet limited, with monotonous level designs and a lack of exploration elements. Many reviews indicated that while the combat mechanics are enjoyable, the overall experience can become tedious due to the repetitive nature of enemy encounters and the limited arsenal available to players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that Shadow Warrior 3 delivers an exhilarating and fast-paced combat experience but falls short in terms of originality and depth. While some reviewers, like Noisy Pixel and PC Games, appreciated the fluidity and intensity of the gameplay, others emphasized the game's shortcomings in variety and level design. The feedback indicates that while the game has moments of brilliance, particularly in its combat mechanics and movement, it ultimately suffers from a lack of innovation and can feel overly derivative, leaving players wanting more in terms of both challenge and creativity.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Shadow Warrior 3 dazzles with vibrant aesthetics and imaginative environments that many critics praise for their beauty and detail. However, its visual appeal is undermined by a lack of polish, linear level design, and cultural representation issues, leading to a mixed reception. While it offers an engaging experience, it fails to innovate or push the boundaries of current-gen graphics, leaving it visually striking but ultimately disappointing.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

48%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

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 Warrior 3 have garnered a range of opinions from critics, with several praising its vibrant aesthetics and imaginative environments. Many reviewers, such as IGN Italia and WellPlayed, highlight the game's use of bright colors and detailed character models, creating an engaging visual experience. The environments are often described as beautiful, with critics like XboxAddict and New Game Network noting the impressive vistas and artistic direction inspired by Japanese culture. Additionally, the game features strong enemy designs and well-executed animations, contributing to a visually captivating atmosphere that enhances the overall gameplay experience. However, despite these positive aspects, numerous critics point out significant drawbacks in the game's graphics. CD-Action and Malditos Nerds express disappointment in the lack of clarity and polish, with environments described as dull and repetitive. Critics like PC Gamer and GameMAG highlight issues with authenticity in cultural representation, while others, such as Wccftech and PC Games, mention outdated graphics and technical glitches that detract from the visual experience. Many reviewers also note that the level design feels linear and lacks depth, with some environments appearing washed out or poorly detailed, as indicated by Impulsegamer and GameSkinny. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Shadow Warrior 3 features some visually appealing elements and imaginative designs, it ultimately falls short of expectations in terms of technical execution and depth. The game is often described as visually striking but not groundbreaking, with many reviewers, including Eurogamer Italy and PC Invasion, noting that it does not push the boundaries of current-gen graphics. As a result, while the game offers a colorful and engaging aesthetic, it is marred by inconsistencies in quality and a lack of innovation, leading to a mixed reception regarding its graphics and visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Shadow Warrior 3 boasts an energetic, culturally infused soundtrack and strong voice acting that enhances gameplay, earning praise from many critics. However, some criticize the lack of localized voice options, underwhelming soundtrack compared to its predecessor, and excessive dialogue that detracts from immersion. Overall, reactions are mixed, highlighting both the strengths and weaknesses of the game's sound design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

32%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

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 Warrior 3 have received a variety of positive remarks from critics, highlighting the energetic and culturally infused soundtrack that enhances the gameplay experience. Reviewers like Attack of the Fanboy and GamersRD praised the blend of Asian influences with hard-hitting beats, which they found to complement the fast-paced action of the game. Eurogamer Italy echoed this sentiment, noting that the heavy metal soundtrack fits seamlessly with the chaotic gameplay. Additionally, several critics, including Ragequit.gr and SpazioGames, emphasized the strong voice acting, particularly from the protagonist Lo Wang, which adds a layer of humor and character to the experience. The sound effects, especially during combat, have also been described as satisfying and visceral, with NME mentioning the punchy weapon sounds that enhance the brutality of the gameplay. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music that detract from the overall experience. Critics such as Gameblog.fr and JeuxActu pointed out the lack of localized voice acting options, which can hinder enjoyment for non-English speakers, particularly during action sequences where subtitles may be hard to follow. Additionally, some reviewers, like GameGrin and PC Gamer, expressed disappointment with the soundtrack, feeling it lacks the impact of its predecessor, Shadow Warrior 2, or that it feels out of place within the game's context. Malditos Nerds also criticized the excessive dialogue and irritating voice acting, suggesting it detracts from the immersive experience. Furthermore, Games.cz noted that while the soundtrack is enjoyable, it often gets overshadowed by the louder sound effects of combat. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the sound design and music of Shadow Warrior 3 is mixed. While many appreciate the energetic soundtrack and strong voice performances, there are significant concerns about localization, the quality of the humor in the dialogue, and the balance between music and sound effects. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Xbox Tavern acknowledged the effective sound execution, but others, such as PC Gamer and Multiplayer.it, found the soundtrack and sound design lacking in variety and impact. This divergence in opinions suggests that while the game's audio elements have their strengths, they may not resonate equally with all players, leading to a somewhat polarized reception.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Shadow Warrior 3's voice acting, led by Mike Moh as Lo Wang, is a hit or miss. Critics praise his humor and engaging delivery, enhancing the game's charm with witty one-liners. However, many find the dialogue repetitive and reliant on juvenile jokes, with some calling it grating and annoying. The reception is polarized; while some enjoy the comedic style, others feel it detracts from the experience. Ultimately, the voice acting significantly defines the game, appealing to some but potentially alienating others.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

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

The voice acting in Shadow Warrior 3 has garnered a range of positive feedback, particularly for the performance of Mike Moh as Lo Wang. Critics like Gaming Nexus and Worth Playing commend his ability to deliver humorous and engaging dialogue that enhances the character's charm. Many reviewers, including Attack of the Fanboy and Hey Poor Player, appreciate the light-hearted tone that the voice acting brings to the game, with memorable one-liners and witty exchanges contributing to an enjoyable experience. Eurogamer Italy and Meristation also highlight the effective delivery of sharp dialogue, suggesting that the voice acting successfully aligns with the game's comedic style. However, there is a notable amount of criticism directed towards the voice acting, particularly regarding its repetitiveness and reliance on juvenile humor. IGN and PC Gamer express frustration with Lo Wang's incessant one-liners, labeling them as annoying and detracting from the overall experience. Critics like Malditos Nerds and XboxEra go even further, describing the voice acting as grating and poorly executed, which significantly impacts their enjoyment of the game. The mixed reception of the humor, with some jokes landing while others fall flat, as noted by IGN France, indicates that the voice acting may not resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics reveals a divided sentiment regarding the voice acting in Shadow Warrior 3. While many reviewers appreciate the humor and engaging performances that contribute to the game's charm, others find the repetitive nature of the dialogue and the low-brow humor off-putting. Critics like Gaming Age and TrueGaming encapsulate this dichotomy, suggesting that the voice acting may appeal to fans of the series but could also alienate those who prefer more sophisticated humor. Ultimately, the voice acting is a defining feature of the game, eliciting both enjoyment and irritation among players, reflecting the varied tastes in comedic styles within the gaming community.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Shadow Warrior 3" impresses with smooth performance on newer platforms like PC and Xbox Series X, but suffers from bugs and glitches that mar the experience, especially on PS4. Critics call for further polishing to resolve issues like corrupted saves and lagging animations, indicating the game needs updates to truly shine.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

21%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

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

Positives: Across all gaming platforms, "Shadow Warrior 3" has garnered praise for its generally smooth performance. On PC, several critics, including AusGamers and Gamepressure, highlighted the game's ability to run well even at maximum settings, with minimal issues reported. The Xbox Series X version is noted for maintaining a stable 60fps, as pointed out by Generación Xbox and XboxAddict, while also benefiting from fast load times. On the PS5, PlayStation Country commended the game for its smooth performance with very few frame rate dips, and Shindig echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the game's responsive controls. Overall, while there are some inconsistencies, many reviewers found that the game performs well, especially on newer hardware. Negatives: Despite its strengths, "Shadow Warrior 3" is not without its technical flaws. On PC, numerous critics reported bugs that detract from the experience, such as corrupted saves and collision issues, as noted by Gameblog.fr and Game Revolution. The Xbox Series X version, while generally stable, does encounter minor glitches and slowdowns during cutscenes, as mentioned by TheXboxHub and Xbox Achievements. On the PS4, critics like Dexerto and Impulsegamer pointed out significant technical problems, including lagging animations and frame rate issues that can disrupt gameplay. Additionally, GameMAG raised concerns about a lack of native support for the latest consoles, which could affect stability. Overall Consensus: The overall sentiment among critics regarding the technical performance of "Shadow Warrior 3" is mixed. While the game demonstrates solid performance on newer platforms like PC and Xbox Series X, it suffers from a variety of bugs and glitches that impact the gameplay experience, particularly on PS4. Critics such as New Game Network and Meristation recognized the need for further polishing to address these issues. Ultimately, while many players can enjoy a smooth experience, the presence of technical problems across all platforms suggests that the game may require additional updates to reach its full potential.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Shadow Warrior 3 offers some fun core gameplay and solid replay potential through difficulty levels and DLC, but its short campaign (4-6 hours), lack of New Game Plus, multiplayer options, and level selection severely limit replay value. Critics widely agree that the linear and repetitive nature of the game, combined with a frustrating absence of features like collectibles and a scoring system, makes multiple playthroughs hard to justify. Overall, while enjoyable, it's hard to recommend returning to this title, as it leaves players craving more depth and variety.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

45%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

53%

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

The opinions regarding the replay value of Shadow Warrior 3 reveal a few positive aspects that some critics have acknowledged. For instance, Gaming Nexus highlights that the game offers a solid replay value through different difficulty levels and the potential for DLC, which may encourage players to return for more content. Additionally, some reviewers, like But Why Tho?, appreciate the fun core gameplay mechanics, suggesting that while the game may not have extensive replay options, the enjoyable gameplay could entice players to revisit it. Furthermore, a couple of critics, such as Generación Xbox, note that there is potential for replayability through higher difficulties and collectibles, indicating that there are some elements that could draw players back into the game. However, the overwhelming sentiment among critics is that Shadow Warrior 3 suffers from significant limitations in its replay value. Many reviewers, including PC Invasion and GameSkinny, point out that the game is very short, typically lasting around four to six hours, which inherently restricts the incentive to replay. The absence of features such as a New Game Plus mode, multiplayer options, and level selection is frequently mentioned as a major drawback. Critics like IGN and Xbox Achievements emphasize the frustration of not being able to revisit levels to collect missed upgrades, which diminishes the long-term appeal of the game. Additionally, the repetitive nature of gameplay and lack of diverse content further exacerbate the issue, as noted by Game Revolution and Digital Chumps. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Shadow Warrior 3 has limited replay value, primarily due to its short campaign length and lack of additional content or modes. The game is described as linear and repetitive, with many reviewers expressing disappointment over the absence of features that could enhance replayability, such as a scoring system or co-op modes. While some critics acknowledge the enjoyable gameplay experience, the general agreement is that the lack of depth and variety makes it hard to justify multiple playthroughs. This sentiment is echoed by multiple reviewers, including Meristation and Attack of the Fanboy, who conclude that the game may not offer enough to warrant a second playthrough, ultimately leaving players wanting more.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

70%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment surrounding Shadow Warrior 3 reveals a mixture of appreciation for its combat mechanics and visual presentation, alongside significant criticisms regarding its content and depth. Many reviewers, such as PC Invasion and NME, highlight the enjoyable gameplay and satisfying combat, noting that the game excels in delivering fast-paced action and impressive graphics. Xbox Achievements praises the game for its "sheer, unapologetic fun" and "ludicrously overblown monster-dismembering violence," while God is a Geek appreciates the game's fluid traversal and frantic action. Additionally, GameSpew and Games.cz commend the humor and intense gameplay, suggesting that the game can be a thrilling experience for fans of the genre. However, the criticisms of Shadow Warrior 3 are prevalent and significant. Many critics, including PC Gamer and GameCritics, express disappointment in the game, describing it as a step backward for the series and lacking in features and depth. Everyeye.it and Malditos Nerds echo these sentiments, pointing out issues with gameplay, technical performance, and character design. Furthermore, PC Games and Game Revolution mention the game's repetitive nature and lack of replay value, indicating that while the combat may be enjoyable, it is not enough to sustain long-term interest. The consensus among critics is clear: despite some redeeming qualities, the game falls short of expectations set by its predecessors. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that Shadow Warrior 3 is a mixed bag, offering enjoyable moments but ultimately failing to deliver a compelling and robust experience. While some reviewers, like WellPlayed and AusGamers, find it to be a fun and engaging shooter, many others, including IGN France and Wccftech, criticize its linearity, lack of content, and uninspired design. The game appears to cater to a niche audience who may appreciate its fast-paced action and humor, but for many, it does not live up to the standards of the franchise or the broader first-person shooter genre.

TL;DR

Shadow Warrior 3 delivers thrilling combat and stunning visuals, winning praise for its fast-paced action and humor. However, critics lament its lack of depth, repetitive gameplay, and technical issues, marking it as a step backward for the series. While some find joy in the chaos, many deem it a shallow experience that fails to meet franchise standards. In short: fun but flawed – a mixed bag that may only appeal to a niche audience.

MONSTER

Reviews

138 reviews found

GameSpace

Feb 28, 2022

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

The reviewer enjoyed the comedic interactions, combat, and character development in the story. The lack of controller support was a downside.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Mar 7, 2022

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

Shadow Warrior 3 is praised for its engaging combat, beautiful visuals, and fun gameplay, making it one of the best modern ninja games despite its linearity.

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Games.cz

Feb 28, 2022

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

Shadow Warrior 3 is a thrilling, action-packed game that successfully combines humor and intense gameplay, making it a standout title for fans of the genre.

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Gaming Nexus

Mar 17, 2022

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

Shadow Warrior 3 is a highly enjoyable game that combines humor, engaging gameplay, and stunning visuals. It's a must-play for fans of the genre.

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AusGamers

Feb 28, 2022

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

The game is described as a gem of a first-person shooter, an interactive rollercoaster, and one hell of a good time. It is highly enjoyable despite its relatively short campaign.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Feb 28, 2022

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

Shadow Warrior 3 is praised as an excellent FPS for fans of retro-style shooters, with its focus on action and new mechanics making it the most enjoyable installment in the series.

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GameGrin

Feb 28, 2022

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

The reviewer loved their time with the game and considers it another solid entry in the Shadow Warrior franchise.

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GRYOnline.pl

Mar 2, 2022

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

While Shadow Warrior 3 simplifies many aspects compared to its predecessor, it still offers enjoyable combat and visuals, making it a decent but not groundbreaking title.

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XboxAddict

Xbox Series X

Mar 29, 2022

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

Shadow Warrior 3 is an enjoyable experience for fans of over-the-top shooters, combining humor and action, though its short length and linearity may deter some players.

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PlayStation Country

PlayStation 4

Mar 7, 2022

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

The game is enjoyable to play, offering varied weapons, a streamlined experience, and non-stop action. It is a fun and chaotic shooter that may win back those jaded by the FPS genre.

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