Status:
Complete and Play Tested
----------------------------------
Review: Styx: Shards of Darkness (PS4)
Styx: Shards of Darkness is a stealth-action game developed by Cyanide Studio and published by Focus Home Interactive. Released on March 14, 2017, it's the sequel to Styx: Master of Shadows and continues the adventures of the cunning goblin thief, Styx. (, )
🎮 Gameplay & Mechanics
Building upon its predecessor, Shards of Darkness offers refined stealth mechanics, allowing players to navigate expansive levels with multiple pathways. Styx can employ various abilities, such as cloning himself, turning invisible, and setting traps, to outmaneuver enemies. The game introduces new traversal options, including grappling hooks and zip-lines, enhancing vertical movement and exploration. Additionally, a cooperative multiplayer mode lets a second player control one of Styx's clones, adding a fresh dynamic to missions . ()
🌍 World & Level Design
The game's environments are richly detailed, offering a dark fantasy setting filled with towering castles, dense forests, and treacherous swamps. Levels are designed with verticality in mind, encouraging players to find creative routes and vantage points. However, some critics noted that certain areas are reused in later missions, which can diminish the sense of novelty . ()
🎭 Character & Story
Styx is portrayed as a sarcastic and irreverent protagonist, often breaking the fourth wall and delivering dark humor. While some players appreciate his wit, others find his personality grating over time . The narrative centers on political intrigue and betrayal, but it has been criticized for lacking depth and emotional engagement.
Technical Performance
Powered by Unreal Engine 4, the game boasts improved graphics over its predecessor, with better lighting and character models. Despite these enhancements, some players have reported issues with AI behavior and occasional bugs. The controls, particularly during platforming sections, can feel imprecise, leading to unintended falls or detection . ()
🧠 AI & Challenge
Enemy AI presents a moderate challenge, with guards reacting to noises and investigating disturbances. However, their patterns can sometimes be predictable, allowing experienced players to exploit their behaviors. The game encourages non-lethal approaches, but options for pacifist runs are limited, often forcing confrontations . ()
🤝 Co-op Mode
One of the standout features is the cooperative multiplayer mode, where a second player can join as one of Styx's clones. This mode introduces new strategies and requires coordination, adding replayability. However, certain missions are better suited for solo play, as co-op can sometimes disrupt the stealth experience . ()
📊 Critical Reception
Styx: Shards of Darkness received mixed to positive reviews. On Metacritic, the PS4 version holds a score of 75/100 . Critics praised the game's level design and stealth mechanics but pointed out flaws in story execution and character likability. The game is recognized as a solid entry in the stealth genre, especially for fans seeking a challenge. (, )
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-
Engaging stealth mechanics with multiple abilities
-
Expansive and vertically designed levels
-
Cooperative multiplayer adds variety
-
Improved graphics and animations (, )
Cons:
-
Repetitive environments in later missions
-
Inconsistent AI behavior
-
Clunky platforming controls
-
Protagonist's humor may not appeal to all (, )
🎯 Verdict
Styx: Shards of Darkness offers a rewarding stealth experience for players who appreciate methodical gameplay and exploration. While it has its shortcomings, particularly in narrative and character appeal, the game's strengths in level design and mechanics make it a worthwhile play for genre enthusiasts.
