Shadow of the Beast (TurboGrafx-CD) Playthrough
4Playthrough of NEC's 1992 action-platformer for the TurboGrafx-CD, Shadow of the Beast.
Shadow of the Beast for the TurboGrafx-CD is a side-scrolling action-adventure game known for its atmospheric presentation, challenging gameplay, and dark fantasy aesthetic. Originally developed by Psygnosis for the Amiga, this version retains much of the original’s signature style, featuring richly detailed environments, eerie soundscapes, and fluid character animations that immerse players in its haunting world.
The game follows the story of a warrior who has been transformed into a monstrous creature and embarks on a quest for revenge against the evil forces that enslaved him. Players traverse vast, interconnected levels filled with deadly enemies, environmental hazards, and intricate platforming challenges. Combat is fast and unforgiving, requiring precise timing and strategic use of the protagonist’s abilities to overcome relentless foes.
Graphically, the TurboGrafx-CD version does an impressive job of translating the original’s visual complexity, with beautifully layered backgrounds and smooth sprite animations that enhance the game's surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. The CD format allows for an enhanced soundtrack, featuring hauntingly atmospheric music that adds to the sense of mystery and isolation.
Despite its stunning presentation, Shadow of the Beast is notoriously difficult, with punishing enemy encounters, limited health, and a labyrinthine level design that demands careful exploration and memorization. Players must navigate through sprawling environments, solving puzzles and uncovering hidden pathways to progress.
Overall, Shadow of the Beast on the TurboGrafx-CD offers a visually and aurally immersive experience, staying true to the original while leveraging the system’s capabilities. However, its steep difficulty curve and demanding gameplay mechanics may appeal more to dedicated fans of the genre than casual players.