Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered

Gamer Escape: 7 / 10 by Aaron Botts

Really, Hella Remastered is probably the best example of a video game that knows that it’s a video game and runs with it to the point where it almost falls off a cliff. The involvement and expertise of Mikami and Suda prevents it from careening towards the ground, but it’s still a solid game at the end of the day. The gameplay has aged surprisingly well, and the visuals have finally outgrown the limitations of its seventh generation console bretheren. Just be sure to leave any high brow notions at the door and enjoy the ride.

Saving Content: 3 / 5 by Scott Ellison II

Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered often breaks the fourth wall and embraces its own brand of humor to its credit and detriment. There’s a really stylish presentation akin to something like Devil May Cry, but its inconsistent gameplay mechanics and disappointing narrative hold it back. If you’re willing to overlook its flaws, this offers a decent adventure with some memorable moments. If nothing else, this is something that exists for the pursuit of video game preservation. Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered is just hella OK, and it’s one of the least exciting remasters I’ve played, but it still has some charm going for it, even in 2024.

Rectify Gaming: 8.5 / 10

Shadows of the Damned: Hella Remastered may be one of the wildest trips into the depths of hell you’ll ever take. It’s grotesque, it’s filthy, and it’s unapologetically crass—a fever-dream vision of the Underworld brought to life by some of gaming’s most creative minds. Just don’t forget to keep the light close, or the darkness might consume you whole.