PGC NEWS

Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun captivated players with its blend of stealth and tactical gameplay. Aiko’s Choice, a standalone expansion, offers a welcome return to Edo-era Japan, reuniting players with the beloved cast of characters. Does this “side dish” live up to the main course? Let’s delve into the shadows and find out.

Aiko and her team

A Compelling Narrative Interlude

Set between acts two and three of the original game, Aiko’s Choice focuses on the titular kunoichi, Aiko, as she confronts a ghost from her past: Lady Chiyo. This narrative thread allows for deeper exploration of Aiko’s character, shedding light on her transition from geisha to skilled assassin. While shorter than the main campaign, the story effectively strengthens the bonds between Aiko, Yuki, Hayato, Takuma, and Mugen, offering poignant moments and enriching their backstories. Aiko, in particular, shines as a complex character navigating the constraints of feudal Japan.

Gameplay screenshot

Elevated Challenges and Engaging Gameplay

Aiko’s Choice features three main missions and two shorter interludes, each presenting unique challenges that rival the complexity of the original game’s final act. Players must carefully orchestrate their team’s actions across expansive levels, utilizing their distinct abilities to overcome intricate enemy placements. One standout mission tasks players with juggling multiple objectives across five islands, with some characters hindered by their inability to swim. This clever design forces players to adapt and strategize with limited resources. Another mission introduces a unique mechanic involving footprints in the sand, adding another layer of tactical depth.

Aiko in action

Leaving Players Wanting More

Despite its engaging gameplay and compelling narrative, Aiko’s Choice’s brevity is its biggest drawback. The three main missions, while well-designed, leave players craving more. The desire to further explore these characters and the world they inhabit is palpable. Additionally, a pivotal choice presented to Aiko feels somewhat undermined by the player’s prior knowledge of events in the main game, diminishing its impact.

Scenic view

Conclusion

Shadow Tactics: Blades of the Shogun – Aiko’s Choice is a worthwhile expansion for fans of the original. While the short length leaves players wanting more, the challenging gameplay, compelling narrative, and deeper character exploration make it a satisfying return to this beautifully realized world. It’s a delicious appetizer, leaving us hungry for the next full course from Mimimi Games.