Shadow of the Beast III (1992)

by Christopher January 10, 2024

written by Christopher January 10, 2024 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1992
Genres: Adventure, Arcade, Fighting, Platform
Platforms: Amiga
Developers: Reflections Interactive
Publishers: Psygnosis

Shadow of the Beast III: The Epic Conclusion

Released in 1992, Shadow of the Beast III is the third and final installment in the classic Amiga trilogy. Developed by Reflections Interactive and published by Psygnosis, the game is a side-scrolling platformer with stunning visuals, haunting music, and challenging gameplay.

Story

Shadow of the Beast III picks up where the previous game left off. The protagonist, Aarbron, has been transformed back into his human form and must now travel back to the Shadowlands to defeat the evil Maletoth once and for all. Along the way, he will face many challenges and powerful foes, including the four Beast Lords: Carnos, Ix, Gorgon, and Necron.

Gameplay

Shadow of the Beast III is a side-scrolling platformer with a heavy focus on combat. Aarbron is equipped with a sword and shield, and he can use a variety of attacks to defeat his enemies. He can also collect power-ups that will give him new abilities, such as the ability to shoot fireballs or turn invisible.

The game features a variety of different levels, each with its own unique challenges. Aarbron will have to navigate through treacherous forests, dark caves, and fiery pits, all while fighting off hordes of enemies. He will also have to solve puzzles and find hidden items in order to progress.

Graphics and Sound

Shadow of the Beast III is a visually stunning game for its time. The graphics are detailed and colorful, and the backgrounds are full of atmosphere. The game also features some of the best music ever composed for an Amiga game. The soundtrack is haunting and atmospheric, and it helps to create a truly immersive experience.

Critical Reception

Shadow of the Beast III was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Critics praised the game’s visuals, sound, and gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Shadow of the Beast III is considered to be one of the best Amiga games ever made. It is a classic example of the side-scrolling platformer genre, and it set a new standard for graphics and sound on the Amiga. The game has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains popular with retro gamers today.

Conclusion

Shadow of the Beast III is a masterpiece of the Amiga era. It is a visually stunning, musically haunting, and challenging platformer that will keep you entertained for hours on end. If you are a fan of platformers or action-adventures, then you owe it to yourself to check out Shadow of the Beast III.

10/10

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.