Issue 041 — July 2026
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About the game

About 9 Years of Shadows

9 Years of Shadows poster

For nine long years, the world of 9 Years of Shadows has been drowned in darkness, drained of color, joy, and hope after a fateful night of grief and ancient magic. The corruption spreads from Talos Castle, a long-abandoned orphanage, and every brave soul who ventured inside to end it has failed but one. Armed with little more than a halberd and unshakable resolve, Europa sets out to reach the source of the darkness and return color to the land before it slips away for good.

She doesn't go alone. In her darkest moment she meets Apino, a small magical bear who can heal, cleanse corruption, and shield his allies. As you explore the castle, Apino fires powerful projectiles, opens locked doors, and blocks ranged attacks, making him a constant partner in both combat and traversal.

Progress comes through elemental armors that grant mastery over lightning, water, earth, and fire, each opening new ways to fight and move. Swapping armors on the fly lets you cross the map dynamically, catch bosses off guard, and string together strong combos, while special abilities deepen your options further. This hand-crafted indie action-adventure platformer for PC wraps a metroidvania-style journey around a story about restoring hope.