Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

3.8/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 17,029

Mobile Support: No

About Shadow Hunter (Amstrad)

Step into the shoes of Jack Slimer, an ambitious young ghost hunter, and experience the electric thrill of Shadow Hunter (Amstrad)—the indie browser adventure that resurrects retro gaming with contemporary charm. Set in the eerie yet irresistible Sandy Candy sweet factory, nestled deep in New York's legendary Hell's Kitchen, you'll uncover floors teeming with spectral mischief and mystery. The factory, shrouded in rumors and devoid of its enigmatic owner Sandy, becomes your haunted playground—a pixel-perfect setting that keeps the heart racing and your adrenaline high.

Shadow Hunter fuses classic 8-bit Amstrad visuals with a fresh, easy-access experience built for explorers of all skill levels. Each floor is a wickedly designed puzzle, laced with hidden hazards and inventive ghost types, challenging you to outsmart rather than overpower your foes. The gameplay is deceptively simple: clear each screen of all ghosts to trigger a ghost trap, then catch and contain the supernatural chaos. But beneath this simplicity lies a surprising depth—a perfect blend for speedrunners, retro diehards, and newcomers chasing modern indie hits.

Expect the unmistakable crunch of nostalgic chiptune soundtracks, charmingly vibrant pixel sprites, and tactile on-screen controls that make every ghost encounter memorable. Every level introduces new ghost behaviors and labyrinthine layouts, demanding nimble navigation and calculated risk-taking. Players will delight in platforming action, clever use of environmental objects, and the rewarding sense of progress as you ascend through the sweet-filled, shadow-haunted factory floors.

True to its roots yet built for the browser, Shadow Hunter requires no installation and runs seamlessly, inviting players to pick up and play anytime. It stands out in the indie scene for its accessible difficulty, allowing both veterans and first-time ghost hunters to claim victory. Whether you’re hunting for high scores, secret rooms, or just savoring the playful narrative, Shadow Hunter’s blend of retro style and intuitive gameplay will haunt you—in the best way possible. Play now and join the ranks of legendary ghost catchers!

How to Play

Begin your journey in Shadow Hunter by stepping into the mysterious Sandy Candy factory. As Jack Slimer, your task is to cleanse each floor of wandering ghosts. The game flows screen-by-screen; clear all ghosts on a screen to activate the special ghost trap. Move Jack using your keyboard’s arrow keys (or mapped keys on browser controls), navigating around sweets, obstacles, and shifting ghosts.

To catch a ghost, simply approach and touch it—Jack uses his ghost-catching device to automatically capture. Keep an eye out for sneaky spectral patterns: some ghosts zigzag, others chase or retreat, requiring you to plan your approach and avoid getting cornered. Once all ghosts are caught, race to pick up the glowing ghost trap, then activate it to proceed to the next area.

Along the way, you'll encounter environmental puzzles—activate levers, dodge moving platforms, and search for hidden shortcuts. Scour each screen for candy power-ups to boost your score. Since the controls are easy to master, Shadow Hunter rewards thoughtful play: watch enemy patterns and anticipate their moves. New players should take time to get familiar with each floor’s layout before chasing down every spirit. Remember, while there’s no mobile compatibility, its browser play makes jumping in a breeze—just open, play, and hunt!

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Observe ghost movement patterns before engaging to avoid getting cornered.
Use environmental objects to block or steer ghosts into easier catch positions.
Activate traps only after securing a safe path—don’t get caught off guard by respawning dangers.
Replay cleared levels to discover hidden candies and secret bonus rooms for score boosts.
Speedrunners: Plan your route ahead for time-save opportunities and optimal pathing.
Listen for distinct chiptune cues alerting you to rare ghost variants or secret doors.
Take advantage of the easy difficulty—experiment with different strategies to maximize your fun and scores.

Game Features

Classic 8-bit Amstrad pixel graphics for authentic retro flair
Browser-based, free-to-play HTML5 game—no installs required
Intuitive controls and easy difficulty, suitable for all experience levels
Dynamic ghost AI with unique behaviors and adaptive challenges
Inventive platforming elements and environmental puzzles on each floor
Chiptune soundtrack and retro sound effects that capture nostalgic vibes
Secret rooms, collectibles, and offline high score challenges for replay value

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Shadow Hunter free to play?

Yes! Shadow Hunter is 100% free to play in your browser via itch.io—no downloads or purchases needed.

Can I play Shadow Hunter on my mobile device?

Currently, Shadow Hunter is designed for desktop browsers only and does not support mobile play.

Do I need prior experience with Amstrad or retro games?

No retro experience required! The controls are intuitive and the easy difficulty means anyone can jump in and enjoy.

Are there secret levels or hidden items?

Absolutely. Each factory floor hides rare candies and secret rooms—explore thoroughly for bonus points and surprises!

What makes Shadow Hunter stand out among indie adventure games?

Its blend of authentic Amstrad visuals, modern browser convenience, creative ghost-trapping mechanics, and engaging story make Shadow Hunter a uniquely charming retro adventure.