In 2001, Zener Works released their first(and final) PS2 game, Okage: Shadow King. In Japan, the game was titled, "Boku To Maou", or "Me and Demon King" which in America, Dubbers considered too controversial and changed it to Shadow King for the American Release. This game is about a teen aged boy, whose sister gets a curse where she can only speak Pig Latin. It gets weirder when the curse is broken, but her shadow turns hot pink. Ultimately, the boy (Ari) is tasked with unleashing "Evil King Stan"(can you see the dubbing changes? Off by 1 leter) from a pink and purple genie lamp-like vase. Little does he know this unsealing ends up to be a 30-hour adventure where he's his own shadow's slave.

Graphics-
In 2001, Playstation2 was just starting. This means, most games still had a Ps1-like graphics style only upgraded a little. This game in particular is one of those games. The graphics are great, not a pixelly piece of junk like most older games, and overall the graphics are really different, artsy and unique. This game's monsters and story sets it apart from all the other RPGs in existence, from demonic one-eyed rabbits, to devil kelp with claws for teeth, you'll definitely be surprised at what you'll find when playing.

Music-
Although this game is an RPG, some of the music sounds a little childish which adds humor to the game's situations. It's not unique music though, as many RPGs have repetitive music, this one joins on in as well.

Sometimes the music is repeated just sped up or a little remixed in the boss fights which doesn't add a ton of inspiration to battles.

Controls-
The controls within the adventure are very standard. You use X to confirm things, O or triangle to go back, and the Square button to talk to evil king Stan when outside of battles. Thankfully, the controls are extremely easy to get used to and right when you pick up the game, you'll already know what to do right away.

Gameplay-
Standard RPG gameplay, but with a much needed twist. This game was the first PS2 game to insert a relationship system that would depend on who you talk to and what you say to them. There's a lot going on in this game as far as traveling to distant places and adventuring.

On a side note: There's a long side quest that goes over the course of the game, where you collect gears (30 of them) to get the ultimate weapon of the game for Ari.

Replay Value-
Once you beat the game, there's actually different places to discover. In fact, there's so much side-content, all of the FAQs online can't cover them all and there are still new things being discovered.

Prices(On average):
Gamestop: 4.99
EB: 5.99
Game Crazy: 5.50/4.99 MVP

Rating: 9/10. While it might seem shallow when you start playing, the game unfolds nicely. Buy a copy if you can find one.

300 + 50 Viz bonus for picture = 350 Viz