| Developer | Publisher | Platforms |
|---|---|---|
| Mimimi Games | Daedalic Entertainment | Microsoft Windows-Xbox Series X/S-PlayStation 5 |
Shadow Tactics: Aiko’s Choice is a standalone expansion to the critically acclaimed real-time tactics game Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun, originally released for PC in 2016. Developed by Mimimi Games, the series has earned praise for its intricate gameplay mechanics, challenging level design, and captivating stealth-based strategies. Following the success of the original game, Aiko’s Choice continues the story and gameplay style that fans of the series have come to love, offering a focused experience that expands upon the narrative of Aiko, one of the main characters.
Set in Edo-period Japan, the game builds upon the events of its predecessor, following the elite team of assassins and spies as they face new challenges. The narrative revolves around Aiko’s past, providing players with insights into her backstory while delivering suspenseful twists and character-driven drama. This focus on character development enhances the storytelling and gives players a stronger connection to the protagonists.
The gameplay in Aiko’s Choice
The gameplay revolves around careful planning, stealth, and tactical execution. Players control a team of specialized characters, each possessing unique abilities that complement one another. Aiko, the titular character, is a master of disguise, allowing her to distract enemies and create opportunities for stealthy maneuvers. Other characters provide skills such as long-range attacks, traps, and brute force.
Players must navigate intricately designed maps, avoid detection, and eliminate enemies using creative strategies. The game encourages experimentation, offering multiple solutions to each scenario. Whether it is luring guards into traps, poisoning drinks, or distracting enemies from slipping by unnoticed, the variety of tactical options ensures that no two playthroughs feel the same. The Shadow Mode feature enables players to plan and execute synchronized actions between characters, adding an extra layer of strategy.
The controls are intuitive, particularly on the PlayStation controller, with smooth character switching and precise command inputs. Using a controller feels natural, with responsive button mapping making complex maneuvers manageable. However, the complexity of the gameplay may prove daunting for newcomers. The game assumes prior familiarity with the series and does little to introduce its mechanics in a beginner-friendly manner, which can lead to a steep learning curve. New players might be overwhelmed by the lack of detailed tutorials and explanations, requiring persistence to master the systems.
How is it crafted?
The tactical gameplay in Aiko’s Choice is nothing short of exceptional. Its deep mechanics and strategic possibilities make each mission highly rewarding. The level design deserves special praise for its complexity and attention to detail, offering diverse paths and approaches. However, this same complexity can sometimes overwhelm players, especially when navigating dense environments with multiple layers of verticality and hiding spots.
Each mission is meticulously crafted to challenge players’ critical thinking and patience. The enemies are smart, with sharp AI that reacts to disturbances, forcing players to carefully plan every move. The game also incorporates environmental elements, such as shadows, water, and foliage, to enhance the stealth experience. Utilizing these features adds depth and satisfaction to the gameplay. The stealth system is the heart of the experience and shines throughout the game. Mastering the line-of-sight mechanics, enemy patrol patterns, and environmental interactions is challenging and satisfying. The Shadow Mode feature stands out as an invaluable tool, enabling players to synchronize actions seamlessly and feel like true tactical masterminds.
Despite its strengths, the game’s high difficulty level may alienate less experienced players. The assumption that players are already familiar with the previous title means Aiko’s Choice caters primarily to series veterans, leaving newcomers struggling to grasp its systems without significant trial and error. For seasoned players, however, this difficulty is part of the appeal, offering a rewarding sense of accomplishment after successfully executing plans.
The Artistic Design of Aiko’s Choice
From an artistic standpoint, Aiko’s Choice excels in every aspect. The visual design combines detailed environments with a painterly aesthetic that perfectly complements its Edo-period Japanese setting. Each level feels alive, brimming with atmospheric details that enhance immersion. The architecture, landscapes, and character animations reflect the historical period with impressive accuracy.
The voice acting is top-notch, bringing characters to life and adding emotional depth to the narrative. Each voice performance conveys personality and emotion, helping players connect with the characters. The soundtrack also deserves recognition, featuring traditional Japanese instruments that reinforce the historical setting and heighten tension during critical moments. Music dynamically shifts with the gameplay, providing a sense of urgency during high-stakes encounters and tranquility during exploration.
Visually, the game utilizes an isometric perspective to give players a clear view of their surroundings while maintaining an artistic charm. The lighting and shadow effects are awe-inspiring, enhancing the stealth mechanics by allowing players to exploit darkness effectively. Even the smallest details, such as ripples in water or falling leaves, contribute to the game’s immersive atmosphere.
How Worthy Aiko’s Choice is?
Shadow Tactics: Aiko’s Choice is a masterclass in tactical stealth gameplay. It builds upon the foundation of its predecessor, offering an intricate and rewarding experience for fans of the genre. Its beautifully crafted environments, engaging mechanics, and polished presentation make it a standout title. However, the game’s high difficulty may deter newcomers, making it better suited for players already familiar with the series. For those who enjoy methodical gameplay and are willing to embrace its challenges, Aiko’s Choice is highly recommended and serves as an excellent addition to the Shadow Tactics universe.
The review code was provided by the publisher
| GAMEPLAY | ART | VALUE |
|---|---|---|
| 95% | 95% | 100% |