In 2007, FASA Interactive and Microsoft Game Studios released a largely ignored first person shooter named Shadowrun. Shadowrun was an ambitious title: It was to launch the Windows Live service--finally bringing PC and 360 gamers together--and introduce an entirely new generation of gamers to the Shadowrun universe. Unfortunately, the game was a commercial flop, FASA Studios closed their doors in September 2007, and the Shadowrun forums were shut down in early 2008.

So, why was the game such a commercial failure? Well, there were three main reasons: First, the market wasn't ready to pay $60 for a multiplayer-only title with a mere 9 maps. Second, fans of the Shadowrun franchise were pretty mad to see their beloved RPG series transformed into a first person shooter. Third, it takes a relatively open mind to appreciate the depth of the "Shadowrun experience."

Well, great news, everyone! The failure of Shadowrun has had two long-term benefits: The game is now absurdly cheap ($5-20 for the 360 or PC version) and is primarily played by a mature, douche-free audience. Unrelated to it's commercial failure, the game is really well balanced and extremely fun. For a taste of the Destructoid Legends™ playing Shadowrun, look no further than here:

Mxyzptlk (the leaderboard says it all)
Tino (Jersey scum)
Ronaldo Workmeng (destroyer of joy; cblog link conspicuously absent)
king3vbo (you may as well shoot him for that abortion he calls FAILcast)
HarassmentPanda (sweet, knowledgeable, and won't put his willy in your ear)
Hoygeit (hurts women)
Justin Villasenor (sexy contributor extraordinaire!)
PetiePal (fist-pumping Jersey guido scum)
BFeld13 (all around rad dude)
LostCrichton (I only understand him about 2% of the time)

"How can I join this list of god-men?" you ask. The answer is simple:

1. Buy Shadowrun
2. Post a comment or send a PM with your gamertag.
3. Play through the Shadowrun tutorial.
4. ?
5. PROFIT!

The lot of us were talking outside of Destructoid and decided it would be a lot of fun to get the community involved with this game. I hope to be playing tonight and throughout the weekend, but with enough interest I would like to get a weekly game going.

"But, Panda, Team Fortress 2 is only $9.99 this week and it's still being supported by the developer!" you cry. Well, dear reader, does TF2 have MYTHICAL BEASTS? No! How about MAGIC? No! The ability to unite 360 and PC gamers? No!! Conclusion: You can take your "updates" and "stable community" and shove them straight up your ass! I'll be the rifle-toting, teleporting gay elf named "Phelta Mansreer" playing Shadowrun. Hope to see you soon.