Shadowrun
Top 10 Best Cyberpunk Games of All Time
Shadowrun is one of the well-known classic cyberpunk games, releasing in 1993 for the SNES. The title was adapted from the tabletop role-playing game of the same name, working the series’ themes into a virtual experience. Although Shadowrun does have a cyberpunk setting, it’s more science-fantasy than most series, weaving in elements like shamans and magic. The game is loosely based on the first Shadowrun novel, taking place in Seattle in the year 2050. You play as Jake Armitage, who at the beginning of the game is being gunned down in the street. Before he can react, a strange shadowy figure rushes in front of him and casts a spell. Most of the rest of the game is spent following Jake investigating the events around the assassination ordered on him, how he survived, and who the mysterious figure was.
Shadowrun is fondly remembered by most as one of the best old-school strategy games. Like many other isometric style RPGs, you navigate Jake around the screen and select various options. Combat can get incredibly hectic, however, as assassins will pop out from random locations at any time. Shadowrun was easily one of the best games on SNES, and it was one of the earliest examples of a mature, dystopian cyberpunk story in gaming. The game has a gripping narrative filled with film noir style, themes of self-reflection, and the dangers of technological advancement.
