After Marvel's initial success bringing their comic book characters to the silver screen, superheroes have gained traction in all forms of media. This massive popularity and success is apparent in hits like Insomniac Games' Spider-Man for the PS4 and the upcoming Avengers game. Now, comic book publisher Valiant Entertainment is looking to grow in a similar fashion, and it is choosing to start with Shadow Man, one of its most popular characters.
Valiant's supernatural detective first made his video game debut in a title that released on the Nintendo 64, the PlayStation, the Sega Dreamcast and PCs. In a recent press release, Valiant announced that it would be working with Nightdive Studios to create a remaster of the old game. Previously, the publisher had teased video game adaptations of Shadowman and other characters, like Bloodshot and Ninjak.
According to the announcement, Shadow Man will be released for Microsoft Windows through Steam and GOG. The game will also be coming to the Nintendo Switch as well as the PlayStation and Xbox systems. It also explored Nightdive Studios' history with the game. Back in 2014, Nightdive had republished Shadow Man for modern PCs. For this remaster, the studio is using the KEX Engine, which Nightdive previously used to remake classic titles like System Shock and the Valiant-owned Turok. Valiant's press release also announced that a new Shadowman comic series would also be releasing in 2020 in anticipation of the game.
Although Shadowman lacks the notoriety of more mainstream comic book characters, this should not discourage interested players. Nightdive Studio's experience with Valiant properties and with restoring older titles will hopefully allow the cult classic to retain its appeal while modernizing some clunkier gameplay. Moreover, Valiant also has a history with video game development through its parent company Acclaim, which released several games based on its popular characters.
Hopefully, Shadow Man's re-release will kickstart Valiant's successful return to the video game industry. However, competition might be looming on the horizon. While fans are likely already aware of Marvel's Avengers, rumors claim that a Batman game might start a DC video game universe. Despite the fierce competition, this remaster will hopefully at least catch the attention and affection of Valiant and Acclaim's devoted followers.
Shadow Man: Remastered is coming soon to Microsoft Windows, Steam, GOG, the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation and Xbox.