Is Shadowrun Returns difficult for new players?

Shadowrun Returns can have a steep learning curve due to its tactical combat and rich lore. However, with patience and by understanding the basics of cover, ability usage, and squad composition, new players can certainly enjoy the game. Starting on easier difficulty settings is recommended.

How long is the main story of Shadowrun Returns?

The main story of Shadowrun Returns typically takes around 15-20 hours to complete, depending on your playstyle and how much side content you explore. Completing all side quests and exploring all dialogue options can extend playtime considerably.

Are there character classes in Shadowrun Returns?

While there aren't strict 'classes' in the traditional RPG sense, you choose a starting archetype (e.g., Street Samurai, Decker, Shaman, Mage) which heavily influences your initial skills and abilities. You can then further customize your character's development as you gain karma, allowing for hybrid builds.

Shadowrun Returns

In short: Shadowrun Returns is a strategy game released in 2013 by Roadwarden, available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo and Mobile. Our score: 8.5/10 (highly recommended).

A turn-based tactical RPG where players command a squad of mercenaries in a harsh, unforgiving world. It blends deep squad management with challenging combat and a grim narrative.

Shadowrun Returns is a tactical role-playing game that plunges players into a dystopian cyberpunk future infused with high fantasy elements. Developed by Roadwarden, this 2013 title meticulously blends turn-based combat with a rich, branching narrative. Players assemble and command a squad of diverse mercenaries, each with unique skills, to navigate the shadows of a Seattle ripe with corporate intrigue, arcane magic, and dangerous street-level encounters. The game's isometric perspective and detailed environments perfectly capture the gritty aesthetic of the Shadowrun universe. The core gameplay revolves around tactical turn-based combat, where strategic positioning, cover utilization, and judicious use of abilities are paramount. Players must manage their team's resources, including health, mana, and ammo, while facing a variety of enemies ranging from corporate security forces to awakened mythical creatures. Beyond combat, the game emphasizes exploration and dialogue, with numerous choices impacting the story's progression and character relationships. The character creation system offers extensive customization, allowing players to craft unique protagonists with various archetypes like Street Samurai, Decker, Shaman, or Mage, each offering distinct playstyles. Shadowrun Returns is celebrated for its compelling storytelling, which delves into themes of corporate greed, social inequality, and the struggle for survival in a world where magic and technology collide. The narrat…

Game details

Developer: Roadwarden
Publisher: Harebrained Holdings
Release year: 2013
Platforms: PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo, Mobile
Category: strategy

Our review

Shadowrun Returns expertly blends cyberpunk and fantasy into a compelling tactical RPG. The turn-based combat is deep and rewarding, demanding strategic thinking and careful squad management. The narrative is a standout, offering a dark, mature story with impactful choices. While the graphics show their age slightly, the art style remains atmospheric. Replayability is high due to different character builds and branching storylines. A must-play for fans of the genre.

Pros

Deep and engaging turn-based combat
Rich, mature, and branching narrative
Extensive character customization
Atmospheric cyberpunk-meets-fantasy setting
High replayability

Cons

Graphics are a bit dated
Steep learning curve for new players
Some minor performance issues on older platforms

FAQ

Is Shadowrun Returns difficult for new players?: Shadowrun Returns can have a steep learning curve due to its tactical combat and rich lore. However, with patience and by understanding the basics of cover, ability usage, and squad composition, new players can certainly enjoy the game. Starting on easier difficulty settings is recommended.
How long is the main story of Shadowrun Returns?: The main story of Shadowrun Returns typically takes around 15-20 hours to complete, depending on your playstyle and how much side content you explore. Completing all side quests and exploring all dialogue options can extend playtime considerably.
Are there character classes in Shadowrun Returns?: While there aren't strict 'classes' in the traditional RPG sense, you choose a starting archetype (e.g., Street Samurai, Decker, Shaman, Mage) which heavily influences your initial skills and abilities. You can then further customize your character's development as you gain karma, allowing for hybrid builds.

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Last updated: 04/04/2026