Shadow of Memories

• Platform:    PlayStation2, No Operating System
• ELSPA Minimum Age: 15
• Media: Video Game

Described by Konami as an "interactive novel", the game's plot follows the fortunes of lead character Eike, a man knifed to death in a quiet German town by an unknown assailant, who must save his own life and in the process discover why he was murdered in the first place.

This is a full 3-D world around which Eike can wander in a number of different time zones ranging from the present back to the middle ages, with suitable graphical treatments for all. It's a standard adventure game fare, with the usual array of objects to collect and use in the pursuit of altering history. Graphics are well above average and convey a real sense of being there; this is heightened by the superb 3-D sound, which makes a major mark on the gameplay, thoroughly enhancing the atmosphere in a way little seen in console games.

There are only two things which prevent Shadow of Memories from being a grade A PS2 title. The first is the length and frequency of the cutscenes. In the first 45 minutes or so of play there's so much scene setting that there's precious little for the player to do except watch--it can be frustrating, but the patient player is rewarded with a deep and immersive experience that becomes compulsive. The second is the short playing time--around seven hours to complete one of the game's half dozen paths. It's just not long enough for the serious gamer and does the title no justice.

However, if you can get past these hurdles, Shadow of Memories is a wonderful game, with the plot intriguing enough to have you arguing over who the killer was.

Shadow of Memories certainly won't be to everyone's taste. It's unusual mix of heavy storytelling and adventure action seems a little odd at first but perseverance is the name of the game and the player who sticks with it will be left with an engrossing experience. --Chris Russell

Manufacturer's Description
Eike, is murdered in the street His next memory is of being offered the chance to relive his life, this time with the ability to travel in time! You maybe able to cheat death once, but if You don't get to the root of the cause, fate will catch up with You. Who offers you a chance like this? Why do they want you alive? Who are You really? Do you have a higher purpose?

With the help of a handheld time travel device, Eike must try to change the future.

From the 16th Century to present day, time must be navigated, time lines maintained and paradoxes avoided if Eike is to have any chance of saving himself and discovering his purpose.

What is Homonculus? What is the Philosophers stone? Why would a 16th Century alchemist want it? Why is someone so keen you should live? Why is someone so keen you should die? What happens if you leave people in there wrong time?

• PC & Video Games > Games > Role Playing