Shady Part of Me Thumbnail

Shady Part of Me similar games & best alternatives

Shady Part of Me

Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2020

Related articles

Quick resume

Overcome emotional struggles across a touching narrative filled with twists and surprises. Embark on a dream-like journey, with breathtaking artistic direction and the enthralling voice of Hannah Murray (Game of Thrones, Skins).

Global score

94/100

Genres

Indie, Platform, Role-playing (RPG), Puzzle, Adventure

Pros

  • Beautiful art style and atmospheric soundtrack
  • Innovative light and shadow puzzle mechanics
  • Emotional and symbolic narrative
  • Accessible and forgiving gameplay with rewind feature
  • Moderate puzzle difficulty with optional challenges

Cons

  • Some puzzles can be too easy or repetitive
  • Ambiguous and sometimes unsatisfying story resolution
  • Voice acting can be grating for some players
  • Short game length
  • Limited character customization and social features

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players control two characters independently (the girl and her shadow) and switch between them to solve puzzles, allowing freedom in approach and decision-making."

  • Competence
    3

    "Puzzles range from easy to moderately challenging, with some requiring thoughtful problem solving; rewind mechanic reduces frustration and encourages experimentation."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No competitive elements; gameplay focuses on personal puzzle solving and narrative experience without comparison to others."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Players often engage in multiple sessions and some replay to collect optional origami birds; the game encourages continued play through collectibles and story interest."

  • Cooperation
    4

    "Core gameplay involves cooperation between the girl and her shadow characters, requiring players to coordinate their actions to progress."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Creative use of light and shadow mechanics, combining 2D and 3D environments, with unique puzzle designs and artistic expression."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No elements of domination or superiority; interactions are cooperative and balanced between the two characters."

  • Escapism
    4

    "The game provides an immersive, dreamlike atmosphere and emotional narrative that allows players to escape into a surreal world."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily for intrinsic interest in puzzles, story, and atmosphere; no indication of obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    3

    "Players explore new mechanics and puzzle solutions, encouraged by the rewind feature and evolving gameplay elements."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Players explore diverse and artistic environments with hidden collectibles, encouraging curiosity and discovery."

  • Expression
    2

    "Some self-expression through puzzle solving and engagement with narrative themes, though limited character customization."

  • Fantasy
    4

    "The game features a surreal, imaginative world with metaphorical storytelling and dreamlike visuals."

  • Fellowship
    -3

    "Primarily a single-player experience with limited social interaction or community involvement."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop problem-solving skills and emotional understanding through gameplay and narrative progression."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay typical of puzzle platformers with no physical activity elements."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention to solve puzzles and progress; not designed for passive or background play."

  • Intimacy
    2

    "Emotional connection to characters and narrative fosters a degree of intimacy, though social interaction is minimal."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements; gameplay is individual and cooperative between two controlled characters."

  • Progression
    3

    "Players progress through levels and collect optional origami birds, gaining achievements and unlocking new puzzles."

  • Relaxation
    4

    "Calming soundtrack, forgiving mechanics, and moderate puzzle difficulty create a relaxing and immersive experience."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Visually striking art style and atmospheric music provide sensory enjoyment and emotional engagement."

  • Status
    -4

    "No social status or recognition systems; focus is on personal experience and achievement."

  • Story
    3

    "Narrative is symbolic and emotional, delivered through dialogue and environmental storytelling, though somewhat ambiguous."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Puzzles require logical thinking, spatial reasoning, and planning, though complexity is moderate."

  • Thrill
    -2

    "Game maintains a calm, contemplative mood with minimal suspense or risk; some tension in puzzles but overall controlled."

  • Value
    3

    "Offers good value for its price with engaging puzzles, art, and soundtrack within a 5-8 hour playtime."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No violent content; gameplay centers on puzzle solving and cooperation."

  • Survival
    -4

    "No survival or threat mechanics; stable, low-risk environment focused on puzzle progression."

Similar games

    Where to buy

    Last update: 06/03/2026