Summary
- Release Year: 1997
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy
- Platforms: Super Famicom
- Developers: SAS Sakata
- Publishers: ASCII Entertainment
Dark Law: Meaning of Death (1997)
Introduction
Dark Law: Meaning of Death is a role-playing game developed by SAS Sakata and published by ASCII Entertainment for the Sega Saturn. It was released exclusively in Japan on March 28, 1997. The game is set in a dark fantasy world and follows the story of a group of mercenaries who are hired to investigate a series of mysterious deaths. As they delve deeper into their investigation, they uncover a sinister plot that threatens to destroy the world.
Gameplay
Dark Law: Meaning of Death is a traditional turn-based RPG with a strong emphasis on exploration and character development. Players control a party of up to four characters as they travel through a variety of dungeons and environments, battling enemies and solving puzzles. The game features a unique “Law” system, which allows players to align their characters with one of three different factions: Law, Chaos, or Neutral. Each faction has its own unique abilities and spells, and players must carefully consider their choices in order to create a balanced party.
Story
The story of Dark Law: Meaning of Death is complex and engaging, with multiple twists and turns. It begins with the player characters being hired to investigate a series of mysterious deaths in the city of Elkrone. As they investigate, they uncover a sinister plot by a group of demons to resurrect an ancient evil. The player characters must race against time to stop the demons and save the world.
Characters
Dark Law: Meaning of Death features a cast of memorable and well-developed characters. The player characters include:
- Elric: A skilled swordsman and the leader of the mercenary group.
- Fiona: A powerful mage and Elric’s childhood friend.
- Garr: A strong and loyal warrior who is fiercely loyal to Elric.
- Rei: A mysterious and enigmatic thief who joins the group later in the game.
In addition to the player characters, the game also features a number of other characters, including allies, enemies, and potential love interests.
Setting
Dark Law: Meaning of Death is set in a dark fantasy world that is both beautiful and terrifying. The game’s environments are richly detailed and atmospheric, and they help to create a sense of immersion for the player. The game’s world is also home to a variety of creatures, both good and evil.
Graphics and Sound
Dark Law: Meaning of Death features impressive graphics for its time. The game’s character sprites are well-animated and the backgrounds are detailed and atmospheric. The game’s music is also excellent, and it helps to create a sense of mood and atmosphere.
Reception
Dark Law: Meaning of Death was well-received by critics upon its release. The game was praised for its complex and engaging story, its well-developed characters, and its beautiful graphics and sound. However, the game was also criticized for its high difficulty level and its repetitive gameplay.
Legacy
Dark Law: Meaning of Death is a cult classic RPG that has been praised for its unique blend of exploration, mystery, and character development. The game has been cited as an influence on a number of other RPGs, including the Final Fantasy series.
Conclusion
Dark Law: Meaning of Death is a classic RPG that is still worth playing today. The game’s complex and engaging story, well-developed characters, and beautiful graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
7/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
