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Shadows on the Vatican - Act I: Greed

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2014

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Quick resume

The ex-priest James Murphy answers a mysterious call for help from his friend Cristoforo. The disappearance of a briefcase containing compromising documents convinces James that his friend is a victim of something sinister. The Vatican's involvement inspires James to get to the bottom of this mystery.

Global score

74/100

Genres

Adventure, Indie

Pros

  • Interesting and engaging story
  • Well-written dialogues
  • Comic-style cutscenes and artwork
  • Good soundtrack and atmosphere
  • Logical and varied puzzles

Cons

  • Short and episodic length
  • Dated and stiff 3d character models
  • Some illogical or arbitrary puzzles
  • Linear gameplay with limited freedom
  • Some voice acting criticized

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players can explore locations and solve puzzles with some freedom, but progression is linear and some actions must be done in a fixed order."

  • Competence
    2

    "Puzzles require some logical thinking and problem solving, though they are mostly easy and some are illogical or arbitrary."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No competitive elements or comparison with others; focus is on individual story progression."

  • Continuation
    1

    "Players express interest in continuing the story with subsequent acts, but the game is short and episodic, which may reduce attachment."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Single-player experience with no cooperative or multiplayer elements."

  • Creativity
    1

    "Players engage in puzzle solving and exploration within predefined environments; some appreciation for comic-style cutscenes and artwork."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of exerting control or superiority over others; cooperative and narrative driven."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Players use the game as a distraction and immersion into a mystery story, escaping real life through narrative and atmosphere."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest in the genre and story; no obligation or external pressure noted."

  • Experimenting
    -2

    "Gameplay is mostly linear with established routines; limited experimentation beyond puzzle solving."

  • Exploration
    1

    "Players explore multiple locations in Rome and the Vatican, though environments are limited and small."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Minimal customization or personalization; players experience a fixed narrative and character presentation."

  • Fantasy
    -3

    "Story is grounded in realistic conspiracy and thriller themes related to the Vatican; no strong fantasy elements."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "Solo play with minimal social interaction or community involvement."

  • Growth
    2

    "Players develop problem-solving skills and follow a narrative that encourages learning about the story and characters."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay typical of point-and-click adventures."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention to solve puzzles and follow story; not designed for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -4

    "Limited emotional connection through story and characters, but no close social relationships formed."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or management roles; player follows a linear narrative."

  • Progression
    3

    "Players progress through story acts, collect items, and unlock achievements; episodic structure encourages advancement."

  • Relaxation
    2

    "Generally a calm experience with some tension from mystery and puzzles; overall relaxing gameplay."

  • Sensation
    1

    "Enjoyment from soundtrack, comic art style, and atmospheric elements; sensory stimulation is moderate."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social recognition or status elements; focus on personal experience."

  • Story
    5

    "Strong narrative immersion with well-developed characters, dialogue, and comic-style cutscenes."

  • Strategy
    1

    "Some logical puzzle solving and problem solving, but overall straightforward and linear gameplay."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Mystery and suspense elements create some tension and intrigue, though gameplay is low risk."

  • Value
    1

    "Generally considered good value at discounted price; short length and episodic nature limit perceived value."

  • Violence
    -3

    "No direct combat or destruction; story involves crime and intrigue but gameplay is non-violent."

  • Survival
    -4

    "No survival mechanics or threat avoidance; stable and safe gameplay environment."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026