Shadow Hearts
Dublin Core
Title
Shadow Hearts
Identifier
20014.021.002
Description
Jewel Case
Rulebook
Game CD
Rulebook
Game CD
Creator
Aruze Group
Publisher
Midway
Contributor
Steven Savage
Date
2001
Format
PS2
Subject
Video Game - Softtware
Physical Object Item Type Metadata
Repository
Box 118
Condition
B-
Notes
Shadow Hearts is the first game in the series, with two alternate endings.
The Shadow Hearts series is a series of horror/role-playing games that had moderate success and a definite following. The series is unusual in several ways:
The Judgement Ring – Character action success, especially in combat, are determined by how well a player can hit “marks” on a spinning dial. This added a visceral element to the usual turn-based activity.
The Shapeshifter – In the Shadow Hearts game one character (Yuri in the first two, Shania in the last one) can change forms in battle, and unlock new forms.
Sanity – A popular element of pen and paper RPGS, there was a sanity mechanic in the game. As combat wears on characters loose sanity and if they loose it all, they behave erratically.
Parody – Especially in the second and third games, there are definite parodic elements of other games.
Homosexuality – Homosexual side characters are prominent in the Shadow Heart series.
Unusual Monsters – Monsters in the game are derived from a variety of myths, legends, and horror ideas.
The Valentines: A family of vampires, a different family member appears in each game.
The Shadow Hearts series is a series of horror/role-playing games that had moderate success and a definite following. The series is unusual in several ways:
The Judgement Ring – Character action success, especially in combat, are determined by how well a player can hit “marks” on a spinning dial. This added a visceral element to the usual turn-based activity.
The Shapeshifter – In the Shadow Hearts game one character (Yuri in the first two, Shania in the last one) can change forms in battle, and unlock new forms.
Sanity – A popular element of pen and paper RPGS, there was a sanity mechanic in the game. As combat wears on characters loose sanity and if they loose it all, they behave erratically.
Parody – Especially in the second and third games, there are definite parodic elements of other games.
Homosexuality – Homosexual side characters are prominent in the Shadow Heart series.
Unusual Monsters – Monsters in the game are derived from a variety of myths, legends, and horror ideas.
The Valentines: A family of vampires, a different family member appears in each game.
Entered by/date
Steven Savage 10/15/2014
Citation
Aruze Group, “Shadow Hearts,” Digital Game Museum Collection, accessed October 23, 2026, https://www.digitalgamemuseum.org/collection/items/show/1204.