Shadow Tower is an action role-playing video game developed by FromSoftware for the PlayStation console in 1998. The game was initially released in Japan on June 25, 1998, by FromSoftware, and in North America on November 19, 1999, by Agetec. It shares many similarities with the King's Field series, also developed by FromSoftware. A sequel titled Shadow Tower Abyss was exclusively released for the PlayStation 2 in Japan.
Gameplay
In terms of gameplay, Shadow Tower is a first-person dungeon crawl, akin to the King's Field games. Players engage in combat with enemies, search for hidden items and traps, and interact with non-playable characters (NPCs). Unlike traditional RPGs, the game does not feature an experience point system for character growth. Instead, defeating different types of non-respawnable enemies raises fixed stats for the player character. To increase specific stats, players must defeat a variety of different enemies. Additionally, an item allows manual increases of specific stats, offering some character customization. Players should note that stat names in Shadow Tower may not correspond to their conventional RPG counterparts. For instance, the "Strength" stat affects the character's hit points rather than their attack power. Each piece of equipment in the game has a durability rating, meaning they will wear down and require repairs or replacements. Notably, Shadow Tower lacks music and an automap feature. Some new elements introduced in Shadow Tower include a functional shield that must be raised to block attacks, an enhanced equipment screen, and a revamped progression system.
Plot
The plot of Shadow Tower unfolds on the continent of Eclipse, specifically in the Holy Land of Zeptar. Players assume the role of Ruus Hardy, a mercenary returning home to Zeptar. However, Ruus discovers that the entire city, including the central tower, has been mysteriously pulled into the underworld. An encounter with an old man leads to the acquisition of the Dark One's sword, the sole weapon capable of harming the demons responsible for Zeptar's plight. Swearing to rescue the old woman who raised him and save Zeptar, Ruus embarks on a perilous journey into the underworld.