The unexpected release of Shadows Over Loathing on PlayStation platforms has opened the doors for a whole new audience to experience its offbeat charm. Originally launched in 2022, this RPG from Asymmetric Publications combines humor, strategy, and a distinctive visual approach that sets it apart from conventional role-playing games.

Set in a Gothic, Prohibition-era America, Shadows Over Loathing follows in the footsteps of West of Loathing but with a darker, more mysterious tone. Both games share a signature stick-figure art style that might seem simplistic at first glance but perfectly complements the series' focus on witty writing and player choice. The dialogue system, inspired by legendary text-based games like Zork, encourages exploration and creative problem-solving.

A Surprise PlayStation Debut

In a move that caught many by surprise, Asymmetric Publications announced via Twitter that Shadows Over Loathing had quietly arrived on the PlayStation Store on May 15, 2025. Priced at $22.99, the game's description teases players with promises of uncovering "the shady side of an already black-and-white world."

The PlayStation release marks a significant expansion for the title, which was previously only available on PC and Nintendo Switch. This follows a growing trend of games crossing between Nintendo and Sony platforms, though it's worth noting that West of Loathing remains a Switch exclusive for now.

Why Players Love the Loathing Series

The Loathing franchise began with Kingdom of Loathing, a browser-based MMORPG that launched in 2003. What started as a humorous experiment quickly gained a dedicated following thanks to its absurdist humor and unconventional game mechanics. This legacy continues in Shadows Over Loathing, where players might find themselves:

• Battling eldritch horrors with a jazz trumpet
• Earning "Meat" instead of traditional currency
• Choosing bizarre character classes like Pig Skinner

The game's Steam reviews, which sit at "Overwhelmingly Positive," frequently praise its clever writing and willingness to embrace the ridiculous. With the PlayStation release, even more players can now enjoy this unique blend of humor and RPG mechanics.

Critical Reception and Availability

With an OpenCritic average of 81/100 and 89% of critics recommending it, Shadows Over Loathing has proven to be more than just a novelty. The game's ESRB T for Teen rating reflects its occasionally mature humor, though it maintains an overall lighthearted tone.

Currently, players can enjoy Shadows Over Loathing on:

• PlayStation 4/5 (digital)
• Nintendo Switch
• PC via Steam

Asymmetric Publications has built a reputation for creating games that don't take themselves too seriously, and Shadows Over Loathing might be their best example yet. For PlayStation owners looking for an RPG that prioritizes laughs alongside loot, this surprise release is well worth checking out.