Specter of Torment is the first time I've completely enjoyed myself playing Shovel Knight. Shovel of Hope didn't have any glaring issues, it just wasn't anything spectacular. Plague of Shadows had some issues, but they were ironed out by the finale. Specter of Torment is extremely fun from beginning to end. The whole mode is a serious of engaging platforming challenges where you're frequently using the enemies and obstacles as the answer to whatever platforming puzzle Yacht Club has laid before you. The story is fine, nothing spectacular, although I do like that SoT takes place before SoH and PoS. This is far and away the best Shovel Knight has to offer (unless King Knight mode really blows my socks off).