Post by Bytor on Jul 5, 2009 8:39:55 GMT -5
-Visuals- 8.3/10
Like many games the graphics score should almost be several different scores. The 2D artwork is what I would call neo-gothic, it has a very dark feel while retaining some medieval aspects and yet doesn't appear aged. I think it is one of the strongest points of the game. Others will find it drab and uninteresting at best.This combination of elements is actually reflected throughout the game and is the problem with reviewing the game, either love it or hate it.
-Sound- 7.8/10
Once again a mixed bag, the soundtrack is certainly somewhat dark and moody sounding to attempt to set the mood for the game, and although it does get a tad repetitive at times over all I think it works. Atlus obviously thought it was good, they included a CD withe the sound track on it.
-Gameplay- 5.5/10
The game is basically a strategic, turn based RPG. It really does incorporate all three aspects in an attempt to make the basic formula more exciting...it fails here pretty bad. The game is set up on a grid system and you, your allies and the enemies all have a turn to go, a certain number of grids you may move and then certain attacks/defenses you may preform (one idea I did like, although nothing new, is the overkill system which allows you to make a dead enemy do your bidding). It simply takes forever and a day to accomplish absolutely anything, combine that with interminable load times and you are faced with a battle which should take maybe five minutes in a typical RPG taking twenty, you can imagine how long the larger battles take. I actually enjoy long strategic battles, but this system is beyond even what I can tolerate. Combine this with poor camera angles and mediocre animation and it simply does not work (there are also no "dungeon grinding" areas to level up, probably a good thing to be honest).
-Story- 8/10
Hmmmm, well, you play as one of three main characters (all whom have different attributes/strengths and motives) in a land called Besek which is ruled by a race of evil entities called the Majin. Turns out a princess has been kidnapped and a king offers a reward to any who rescue her. The story demands that you actually play as all three lead characters in order to fully understand what exactly is going on. I felt the character development and personalities to be pretty strong although it takes way too long, mostly based on the ridiculous battle system to actually get to know them.
-Overall- 7/10
A decent game that could have been a great game. What is a pretty good story with really interesting graphics is simply overwhelmed by unreal load times, controls that are at best described as unwieldy and a general inability to get any information about your enemies or even your own strengths/weakness, get ready for sub-menu chaos!