Developer: Silicon Studio

Bravely Default (2013)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Bravely Default: A Triumphant Return to Classic JRPG Roots

Released in 2013, Bravely Default is a role-playing game (RPG) developed by Silicon Studio and published by Square Enix. It was released for the Nintendo 3DS and was a critical and commercial success, selling over a million copies worldwide.

Bravely Default is a spiritual successor to the Final Fantasy series, and it shares many of the same gameplay elements, such as turn-based combat, character classes, and a deep story. However, Bravely Default also introduces some new and innovative features, such as the Brave and Default system, which allows players to strategically control the flow of battle.

The story of Bravely Default follows Tiz Arrior, a young shepherd who sets out on a journey to restore balance to the world of Luxendarc. Along the way, he is joined by a group of companions, each with their own unique abilities and motivations. Together, they must face a variety of challenges, including monsters, bandits, and even the gods themselves.

The gameplay in Bravely Default is classic JRPG fare, with players exploring a variety of dungeons and towns, fighting monsters, and completing quests. However, the Brave and Default system adds a new layer of strategy to the combat. By using the Brave command, players can increase the number of actions a character can take in a turn, while the Default command allows players to store actions for later use. This system encourages players to think carefully about their strategy during every enemy encounter.

In addition to the main story, Bravely Default also features a number of side quests and optional challenges. These side quests can be completed to earn rewards, such as new weapons, armor, and items. The optional challenges are more difficult than the main story, but they can also be very rewarding.

The Brave and Default System

The Brave and Default system is one of the most unique and innovative features in Bravely Default. This system allows players to strategically control the flow of battle by using two complementary commands: Brave and Default.

The Brave command allows players to increase the number of actions a character can take in a turn. This can be very useful for dealing heavy damage to enemies or healing party members. However, using the Brave command also increases the amount of damage a character will take from enemy attacks.

The Default command allows players to store actions for later use. This can be useful for building up a large number of actions to use in a single turn, or for saving actions to use in case of an emergency.

The Brave and Default system adds a new layer of strategy to the combat in Bravely Default. Players must carefully consider when to use the Brave and Default commands in order to maximize their effectiveness.

Characters

The characters in Bravely Default are all well-developed and have their own unique motivations and backstories. The main character, Tiz Arrior, is a kind and compassionate young man who is determined to save the world of Luxendarc. The other party members include Agnes Oblige, a princess who is on a quest to find the four crystals that will restore balance to the world; Ringabel, a thief who is looking for redemption; and Edea Lee, a scholar who is searching for knowledge.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Bravely Default are beautiful and colorful, and the character designs are top-notch. The game’s world is full of detail, and the environments are varied and interesting. The soundtrack is also excellent, and it features a mix of orchestral and electronic music.

Overall

Bravely Default is a fantastic JRPG that offers a deep and engaging story, challenging gameplay, and beautiful graphics. The Brave and Default system adds a new layer of strategy to the combat, and the characters are all well-developed and likeable. If you are a fan of JRPGs, then you owe it to yourself to check out Bravely Default.

Score: 9.0/10

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

3D Dot Game Heroes (2009)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

3D Dot Game Heroes: A Nostalgic Masterpiece

Released in 2009, 3D Dot Game Heroes is an action-adventure game that pays homage to the classic 8-bit adventure games of the NES era, such as The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy Adventures. The game’s unique visual style, which presents 2D retro-style graphics in a 3D environment using voxels, has garnered it a cult following among fans of retro gaming and JRPGs.

Story

The game follows the story of Dot, a young hero who sets out on a quest to save the Kingdom of Dotnia from the evil Dark King. Along the way, Dot will travel through a variety of dungeons and landscapes, battling monsters, solving puzzles, and collecting items. The game’s story is lighthearted and humorous, with plenty of fourth-wall breaking and self-referential jokes.

Gameplay

3D Dot Game Heroes is an action-adventure game with a focus on exploration and combat. The game’s world is presented in a 3D environment, but the characters and objects are all rendered in a 2D pixelated style. This unique visual style gives the game a charming retro aesthetic while still allowing for full 3D movement and exploration.

Combat in 3D Dot Game Heroes is simple but satisfying. Dot can attack with his sword, shield, and a variety of magic spells. He can also use items to heal himself or buff his stats. The game’s combat is fast-paced and engaging, and the variety of enemies and bosses keeps the gameplay fresh.

Exploration

3D Dot Game Heroes features a large and interconnected world to explore. Dot can travel through forests, deserts, mountains, and dungeons, each with its own unique enemies and challenges. The game’s world is filled with secrets and hidden items, and there is always something new to discover.

Character Customization

One of the unique features of 3D Dot Game Heroes is its character customization system. Dot can collect and equip a variety of different weapons, armor, and accessories, each with its own unique stats and abilities. This allows players to customize Dot’s playstyle to their liking.

Graphics

3D Dot Game Heroes’ voxel-based graphics are one of its most distinctive features. The game’s world and characters are all made up of tiny 3D cubes, or voxels. This gives the game a unique and charming retro aesthetic, while still allowing for full 3D movement and exploration.

Music

The music of 3D Dot Game Heroes is composed by Nobuo Uematsu, who is best known for his work on the Final Fantasy series. The game’s soundtrack is a mix of retro-inspired chiptune music and more modern orchestral arrangements. The music is catchy and memorable, and it perfectly complements the game’s charming visuals and gameplay.

Reception

3D Dot Game Heroes was released to critical acclaim. The game’s unique visual style, engaging gameplay, and charming story were all praised by critics. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

3D Dot Game Heroes has become a cult classic among fans of retro gaming and JRPGs. The game’s unique visual style and engaging gameplay have made it a favorite among fans of the genre. The game has also been praised for its innovative use of voxels, which has inspired other games to use similar visual styles.

Conclusion

3D Dot Game Heroes is a charming and nostalgic masterpiece that pays homage to the classic 8-bit adventure games of the NES era. The game’s unique visual style, engaging gameplay, and memorable music make it a must-play for fans of retro gaming and JRPGs.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Bravely Second: End Layer (2015)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Bravely Second: End Layer – A Triumphant Return to Luxendarc

Prepare yourself for a captivating adventure as Bravely Second: End Layer, the enchanting sequel to the beloved Bravely Default, graces the Nintendo 3DS. Embark on an epic quest that transcends time and space, unraveling a grand tale of heroism, sacrifice, and the indomitable power of friendship.

A Realm Shrouded in Darkness

Years have elapsed since the events of Bravely Default, and the once peaceful realm of Luxendarc finds itself teetering on the brink of chaos once more. The nefarious forces of darkness, led by the enigmatic Kaiser Oblivion, seek to plunge the world into eternal night. Amidst this impending doom, a beacon of hope emerges in the form of Agnés Oblige, the Vestal of Time.

As fate would have it, Agnés falls prey to the clutches of the malevolent Kaiser, casting a shadow over Luxendarc’s future. Duty-bound to protect his sovereign, Yew Geneolgia, a courageous knight, sets forth on a perilous journey to rescue Agnés and restore balance to the realm.

A Stellar Cast of Characters

Accompanying Yew on his extraordinary quest is a vibrant ensemble of companions, each possessing unique abilities and motivations. Magnolia Arch, a skilled thief with a mysterious past, joins the fray, her agility and cunning proving invaluable in the face of adversity. Edea Lee, a pragmatic and resolute swordswoman, lends her unwavering support, while the enigmatic Ringabel, a traveler from a distant land, brings his enigmatic charm and mastery of multiple jobs to the forefront.

A Tapestry of Time and Space

Bravely Second: End Layer introduces a captivating new mechanic known as the “Fairy’s Ripple.” This extraordinary ability allows Yew and his companions to traverse the annals of time, visiting different eras and interacting with key historical figures. By altering the past, they can reshape the present and forge a brighter future for Luxendarc.

Strategic Depth and Exhilarating Combat

The game’s combat system, a hallmark of the Bravely series, returns with even greater depth and complexity. Players can strategically employ the “Brave” and “Default” commands to manipulate the flow of battle, accumulating BP (Brave Points) to unleash devastating special attacks or defend against enemy onslaughts. Mastering this intricate system is key to overcoming the formidable challenges that lie ahead.

A World of Enchantment and Wonder

Bravely Second: End Layer invites players to immerse themselves in a breathtaking world brimming with enchanting locales and captivating characters. From the bustling streets of Ancheim to the ethereal landscapes of the Fairy Forest, every environment exudes a distinct charm and invites exploration. Along the way, players will encounter a myriad of side quests, puzzles, and hidden treasures, adding to the game’s already substantial replay value.

A Symphony of Sound and Visuals

The game’s soundtrack, composed by the renowned Revo, is a masterpiece that perfectly captures the epic scope and emotional depth of the narrative. Soaring orchestral pieces blend seamlessly with enchanting melodies, creating an unforgettable auditory experience. Visually, Bravely Second: End Layer boasts a vibrant and expressive art style that brings the characters and world to life with stunning detail.

A Legacy of Excellence

Bravely Second: End Layer stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Bravely series. It seamlessly blends classic JRPG elements with innovative gameplay mechanics, creating an experience that is both nostalgic and refreshingly original. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the Bravely franchise or a newcomer to its enchanting world, Bravely Second: End Layer promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting world of Bravely Second: End Layer. With its compelling narrative, endearing characters, strategic combat, and breathtaking visuals, this Nintendo 3DS gem is a must-play for JRPG enthusiasts and fans of captivating storytelling alike. Embark on a journey that transcends time and space, and experience the triumph of heroism in the face of overwhelming darkness.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail