Undershadows for Windows

Undershadows is a hand-drawn indie adventure that plunges players into a bizarre, melancholic world where reality distorts and identity fractures. Developed by ChelseaGrinEden, this 2D side-scroller blends eerie storytelling, real-time point-and-click combat, and a sardonic companion to craft an experience that is as unsettling as it is captivating. 

Players navigate a surreal realm shaped by personal loss, fragmented memories, and evolving shadows. Every choice, whisper, and flicker of light in Undershadows tests the player’s resolve, urging them to uncover buried truths and confront the darkness both within themselves and in the world unraveling around them.

Hand-drawn nightmares and evolving shadows

At its core, Undershadows is an exploration of loss and transformation. Players assume the role of a soulless child, guided — or perhaps taunted — by a talkative mask through a world submerged in shadow. The game's more than 800 hand-drawn scenes evoke a sense of unease, each illustration meticulously crafted to immerse players in its surreal landscape. Combat is executed through a unique real-time point-and-click system that amplifies tension and unpredictability.

Enemies exhibit diverse behaviors: some morph mid-battle, others retaliate upon defeat, and certain foes can end the journey with a single strike. Boss encounters are particularly noteworthy, reshaping entire levels and introducing mechanics that keep players perpetually on edge. A standout feature is the evolving shadow companion, which reflects the player's choices and transforms along paths such as Nature or Tech, influencing both gameplay strategy and narrative direction.

However, the game's pacing may not appeal to all. Initial progression is deliberately slow, with combat and significant interactions unfolding after extended periods of exploration. While this design choice enhances immersion and atmospheric build-up, it might test the patience of players seeking immediate engagement. Additionally, some puzzles lack clarity, which may occasionally lead to moments of aimless wandering or frustration during critical narrative beats.

A haunting odyssey through self and shadow

Undershadows offers a distinctive journey that intertwines atmospheric artistry with introspective storytelling. Its commitment to a hand-drawn aesthetic, combined with innovative combat and character evolution, crafts an experience that lingers long after completion. While its deliberate pacing and cryptic puzzles may not suit every player, those willing to delve into its depths will find a rich, haunting narrative that challenges and rewards in equal measure.​

• Fixed an issue where global settings could reset after updating
• Affected features: desktop start screen, character selection, and language settings
• Players may need to manually delete config.rmmzsave to restore functionality
• To reconfigure, press "P" on the desktop screen after the tutorial to select your character and language