Beyond Shadowgate

Players feel nostalgic due to the game's strong ties to the original Shadowgate on the NES, including its story, graphics, music, and atmosphere. The game's callbacks to the old point-and-click adventure games from the 80s, along with its puzzles and references to other MacVenture games, evoke memories of childhood and the classic gaming experience.

The excitement stems from the game's immersive lore, puzzles, and the anticipation of discovering what lies behind specific doors. Players are also thrilled about the modern design decisions, the game's quality, and the developer's dedication, which makes the game hard to put down.

Joy is derived from the game's mix of nostalgia and new elements, making it enjoyable for both retro and modern audiences. The gameplay, reminiscent of the original but more user-friendly, along with great music and a wonderful NES-style aesthetic, contributes to a highly enjoyable experience.

Players feel satisfied with the game's distinct areas, unique musical themes, and its balance between nostalgia and modern quality-of-life improvements. The game's length and the experience of discovering new details and text also contribute to this satisfaction.

Admiration comes from the game's excellent visuals, the protagonist Del, and the overall joy of playing. It is seen as the absolute best thing fans of the original Shadowgate could hope for.