Shadow Madness

About

Shadow Madness is a 1999 RPG where you play Stinger, a survivor of a coastal town reduced to dust by an unknown plague. Teaming up with a mystic and four bizarre allies, a floating head, a cyborg tinkerer, a droid, and a wild native, you travel across the fractured world of Arkose to uncover the source of the corruption. Combat hinges on classic turn-based mechanics with random monster encounters. Hiding from approaching threats lets you skip fights, while defeating enemies grants gold, gear, and experience to boost stats like strength, defense, and evasion. Character growth feels methodical, with each level offering tangible upgrades to tackle tougher challenges. The game stands out with its eerie setting and eclectic cast. The Wyldern region’s untamed landscapes contrast with the plague-ravaged towns, where Shadow Madness transforms victims into twisted creatures or piles of ash. Though its 90s visuals and clunky dialogue may show age, the straightforward quest structure and memorable character quirks have kept it a cult favorite among retro RPG fans. With a small but vocal community still discussing its lore, Shadow Madness remains a relic of early 2000s fantasy adventuring.

Storyline

The fantastic world of Arkose is under siege. Chaos reigns as a mysterious plague, known as "Shadow Madness", ravages the land. With no known cure, it strikes without warning, leaving behind vile creatures and piles of dust where its victims once stood. As the one hope to this doomed land, you must stop this scourge before it stops you.