Shantae
A half-genie guardian who protects Sequin Land and uses her hair, magic, and transformations in battle.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Arrow LeftArrow Right | Move left or right |
|---|---|
Arrow Up | Enter doors and interact with certain objects |
A | Jump |
B | Attack with Shantae's hair |
Start | Pause the game |
Select | Open the inventory or status screen |
How it plays
How does Shantae play?
The game uses a side-view perspective. Shantae travels between towns and wilderness areas, enters dungeons, defeats enemies, and searches for items needed to reach new locations.
Players jump, whip enemies with Shantae's hair, collect rupees, buy supplies, and use magic. Animal transformations provide different movement abilities, while dungeon exploration and boss battles advance the story.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Shantae?
Explore each area thoroughly after gaining a new transformation. Many apparently inaccessible ledges, tunnels, and rooms become reachable only after the appropriate ability is learned.
Buy healing items before difficult dungeons, and practice the timing of hair attacks against bosses. Keep track of unexplored exits in towns and wilderness screens so new abilities are not overlooked.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Risky Boots
A pirate captain and Shantae's principal rival, who leads the plot's central threat.
Sky
Shantae's ally and a skilled creature trainer who supports her journey.
Bolo
Shantae's friend and traveling companion.
Rottytops
A zombie girl who appears as a recurring troublemaker and uneasy acquaintance.
Mimic
An inventor and Shantae's uncle, whose knowledge helps with the adventure.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use the hair attack from a safe distance whenever possible.
- 2
Return to earlier areas after obtaining a transformation.
- 3
Spend rupees on useful supplies before entering a dungeon.
Editorial context
What do players highlight?
A highly ambitious and polished late-era Game Boy Color platform adventure with excellent animation and exploration.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0