Running Shadow for iOS: An Unusual Mix of Runner and RPG

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Yes, the title correctly indicates a mixture of genres. I was also surprised at first when I read that Running Shadow is a combination of RPG and runner. I could not resist such an interesting mix, and therefore, of course, I downloaded the game in order to share my impressions.

In fact, everything turned out to be quite … strange. I'm not a fan of runners, but I really love RPGs. What I saw turned out to be true: in this game there are indeed races from point A to point B, as well as character leveling, fiddling with clothes and even a PvP mode!

We play as a certain assassin thief who took possession of a magical artifact - the Glove of the Heavenly Guard, having stolen it from the ancient cultists. To unravel the mystery of the ancient artifact will be our goal.

On the global map (God, yes, there is such a one), we choose a task that we can do and set off for a race. Here everything is more or less usual: we run forward, jumping over or bending over from traps in time, kill enemies, collect coins and take out all the loot in exchange for new clothes. During these tests, our hero receives the cherished experience points, which can later be spent on the purchase of new tricks that bring additional income.

In addition, as we progress through the story, we equip our shelter. This is required for PvP. The “player versus player” matches are made quite interesting: instead of a direct collision with the enemy, we make a new run, only at the shelter of another assassin-player of the same kind. And the better he arranged his monastery, the harder it will be for you to return from it alive. Naturally, the rewards for such sorties are much more interesting than on regular missions.

Unfortunately, the free game hints at in-game purchases right away. And this time they did not go anywhere. The scheme is simple: either you swing long and hard at the same locations, or you buy upgrades and move on. And there is something to buy here. Apart from various tricks, you will need additional mana, energy, and amplification. There are also treasure chests and items for the PvP mode. Don't forget about equipment, weapons and upgrades for them. Well, without home improvement, too, nowhere: the size, complexity, number of traps, damage from them and protection - all this can be pumped. And all this requires funds.

Nevertheless, the game will be able to hold onto the screens. Mainly due to the fact that the races here are not endless (yes, there were such games), but on the contrary, they are quite short. Taking out a smartphone or tablet for half an hour on a trip and pumping “something else” is just that. All that is missing is a twisted plot and a coherent story like in all good role-playing games. No, do not think, he is here, but absolutely nominal. It's a pity.

As a bonus - almost complete Russification of the project. In addition to the text, even the screensavers in their native language were voiced, which, I think, will delight many. However, from time to time, foreign phrases still slip through - but this is not critical.

Running Shadow is an interesting project, primarily because of its genre. The fact that the developers continue to experiment - we, ordinary players, only play into the hands. The main thing is that the ideas are interesting, and not for show.

What do you think about the mixing of genres? And what symbiosis do you think would be the most interesting? Let us know in the comments!