It’s seldom that I come across a game that involves sneaking around like the very first Metal Gear Solid. Going around undetected and then going for the kill gives a sense of satisfaction somehow. So coming across Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun, I got intrigued to see what this RTS stealth game for the PC steam has to offer.
Taking place in the Edo period in Japan, you assume a group of characters hired by the Shogun with the objective to fight crime and bring forth peace to the nation. You begin the game controlling a ninja named Hayato, who like every other ninja (at least in the world of video games) can slash enemies with his sword, climb all the way to roof, and throw ninja stars. As you progress further in the game, you will eventually end up with five characters in your group to control.
In terms of controls, Shadow Tactics is quite easy to pick and play. But just in case, the game has its tutorial mission that really acquaints you to the basics and mechanics. And while every character has their own unique skill sets and abilities, even then you won’t have trouble navigating through and executing what you need to do. Nevertheless, you’ll need to know under what circumstances you can best use each character’s abilities. For instance, there’s the sniper named Takuma who is very effective if you place him on roof tops. Figuring this out doesn’t take long thanks to the ease of controls.
In my point of view, Shadow Tactics plays out like a puzzle. Every enemy has a pattern that you have to figure out and then sneak around and perhaps go for the kill. If there’s an object or rock between you and them, they won’t be able to see you. That said though, the enemies are smart and can cause quite the trouble for you when do you do get detected.
Each of the missions in Shadow Tactics can take an hour or so to complete. This can serve as a double-edged “swordâ€. It shows that there’s a lot of care and attention to each mission design. Additionally, it keeps players committed to the gameplay. On the flip side, impatient players may potentially feel worn out or even discouraged for the long ordeal. Thankfully, there is the quick save feature as well as an indicator on the screen that tells you how long it’s been you saved.
Graphics-wise, Shadow Tactics does a good job in showcasing its beautiful environments. Every object and character has been drawn with nice artistic effects. The audio component is also executed very effectively with the music fitting appropriately with the overall setting.
Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun is very inviting and should win over heart. If you’re seeking a game that will tickle your need for some stealth strategy implementations, then definitely “sneak†this title into your gaming library.
