Shadows of Malice is a cooperative game in which up to 8 player(s) work to unseal hidden Wells of Light to prevent the shadow demon Xulthûl from gaining a physical form and overrunning the Realm of Aethos.

The Wells are located in strongholds scattered throughout the Realm and protected by powerful Guardians. Over the centuries, many of the Wells have fallen Dark, but if players can find and unseal the remaining Light Wells they prevent Xulthûl from gaining substance and win the game. If Xulthûl’s Shadows, however, manage to defile a single Light Well, the demon gain a body and enter the Realm. If this happens, players must defeat Xulthûl in battle to save the Realm.

Players will control avatars, heroic champions imbued with unique masteries over Light. Each turn, players move through the Realm, confronting their fate, battling creatures with deadly abilities, and engaging the services of cities and mystics in order to gather the potions, treasure, and soulshards they will need to defeat the stronghold Guardians and unseal the Wells they protect. The Light or Dark nature of each Well is unveiled only when its Guardian is defeated.

Meanwhile, Xulthûl’s Shadows are thickening in the Shadow Realm and enter the game at random times in random locations, seeking the one Well that will bring about the entrance of their master.