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Shadow of the Beast can mean the 1989 Amiga original or Heavy Spectrum’s 2016 PlayStation 4 reimagining. This review guide is about the PS4 game: critics found its timed combat and alien atmosphere compelling, but its stiff platforming and short campaign limit its appeal. It also includes the original Amiga game as an unlockable emulation, a notable extra for returning fans.
What is the PS4 game?
Released on 17 May 2016, Heavy Spectrum’s Shadow of the Beast reimagines the Amiga-era action game rather than simply rereleasing it. The official PlayStation Store listing describes a new action-adventure starring Aarbron, set in the alien world of Karamoon (also rendered Karemoon) and centered on a quest against Maletoth. Its store copy highlights battles against groups of enemies and bosses, with skill points used to unlock abilities; that is the publisher’s description, not a critical assessment. PlayStation Store listing
What did reviewers like and dislike?
Combat rewards timing and layered moves
In its 16 May 2016 review of the European PS4 version, Push Square awarded the game 7/10. Reviewer Stephen Tailby praised combat that asks players to time attacks and combine moves, giving encounters more texture than straightforward button-mashing. The combat depth is a better fit for players who enjoy learning a system than for anyone expecting a simple, effortless brawler. Push Square review
Platforming is less assured
Tailby’s main mechanical reservation was traversal. He described platforming as stiff, with mistimed jumps and fall damage making movement frustrating. That matters because the game is not combat alone: players also have to negotiate hazards and jumps, and the less responsive feel can interrupt the momentum of its fights.
#1 Best Overall
- Play and share with friends on console, mobile and Windows 10
- discover community creations in the new in-game store
- access new mini games and game modes through servers
Atmosphere stands out more than level variety
Push Square highlighted detailed alien scenery and atmosphere as strengths. Metacritic’s displayed excerpts point to a wider range of reactions: some critics also valued the atmosphere or combat depth, while others criticized dull levels, short length, or the reliance on replay. The excerpts are evidence of differing individual reviews, not a single consensus verdict. Metacritic critic review excerpts
How long is the campaign, and is there reason to replay?
Push Square counted seven levels and considered the campaign short. Its review also praised branching routes, collectibles, and replay incentives, so there is more to pursue than a single straight run. That structure may suit players who enjoy revisiting stages to explore alternatives or collect missed items; it is less persuasive if you want a long campaign that keeps moving forward without repetition.
Rank #2
- Harness the Spirit of vengeance to inflict brutal combos while mastering powerful new skills and weaponry.
- Exploit the individual fears, weakness and memories of your enemies as you dismantle Sauron's forces from within.
- Become the most feared force in Mordor in a new chronicle set before the events of the Lord of the Rings.
Does the PS4 version include the original Amiga game?
Yes. The 2016 release includes a full emulation of the original Amiga Shadow of the Beast as an unlockable bonus. Heavy Spectrum founder and CEO Matt Birch described it as “the entire original Amiga game alongside the new Shadow of the Beast!” The developer also said players could unlock David Whittaker’s original score as an alternative soundtrack and view Roger Dean’s original cover painting in a gallery feature. Heavy Spectrum on the PlayStation Blog
The emulation makes the PS4 release more interesting to Amiga fans, but it does not turn the new campaign into a faithful substitute for the 1989 game: they are distinct experiences bundled together. If the original is your main draw, the key question is whether you are willing to unlock it through play rather than access it as a separate, immediately available mode.
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- Go solo or team up in intense 4-player co-op play
- Conquer the ice-covered ruins of dystopian LA
- Fight huge hordes, special enemies and bosses
- Craft, upgrade and wield weapons with real-life movements
- Go head to head in fast-paced 4v4 combat
Is Shadow of the Beast worth playing today?
It is easiest to recommend to players drawn to its unusual setting, timing-focused combat, and the chance to revisit the Amiga original. The dated review evidence is less encouraging for players who prioritize fluid platforming or a substantial campaign: those are precisely the areas where Push Square raised concerns. The critical response was mixed rather than unanimous, so the 7/10 Push Square score is one reviewer’s verdict, not a universal rating.
The US PlayStation Store listing displayed 4.24 out of 5 from 6,177 player ratings when accessed in 2026. That is a storefront player rating, not a critic score, and the count and average can change. The US page identifies the product as a PS4 release and notes PS5 playability with possible feature differences; purchase access, price, and catalog availability can vary by region and over time. Check the current US PlayStation Store listing
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Be Blaze and 6 more heroes including Starla, Pickle, and Crusher
- Race with friends in 4-player split-screen mode
- Power up with speed boosts, upgrades, and unique character abilities
- Win the Cup at the Axle City grand Prix, the Monster Dome, and more
- Auto drive with optional simple controls for younger players
Rank #4
- Classic light gun rebuilt with modern graphics
- Fast-paced zombie shooting action with multiple endings
- Cooperative game mode for shared action
- Updated controls optimized for PS4
- Replayable game with scoring and updates
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
