Imperial SaGa (2015)

by Ji-yeong May 5, 2024

written by Ji-yeong May 5, 2024 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2015
Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: Web browser
Developers: Square Enix
Publishers: Square Enix

Imperial SaGa: A Grand Adventure on the PlayStation Vita

Imperial SaGa is a role-playing game developed by Square Enix for the PlayStation Vita handheld console. It was released in Japan in December 2015 and in North America and Europe in February 2016. The game is the fourteenth installment in the SaGa series, and the first to be developed exclusively for a handheld console.

Imperial SaGa features a traditional turn-based battle system with a unique twist: the “閃技” (Senki) system. Senki are special abilities that can be used by characters to unleash powerful attacks or support their allies. Each character has their own unique set of Senki, and they can learn new ones as they level up.

The game’s story takes place on the continent of Elysium, which is divided into four empires: the Holy Empire of Asgard, the Grand Duchy of Valois, the Kingdom of Galgastan, and the Republic of Bahn. The player takes control of a group of heroes from each empire as they band together to defeat a common enemy.

Imperial SaGa was praised for its deep and engaging gameplay, its beautiful graphics, and its memorable characters. However, it was also criticized for its high difficulty level and its lack of a traditional world map.

Gameplay

The Senki system adds a great deal of depth and strategy to the combat in Imperial SaGa. Players must carefully consider which Senki to use in each situation, as each one has its own unique strengths and weaknesses. For example, some Senki are best used for dealing damage, while others are better for healing or buffing allies.

In addition to the Senki system, Imperial SaGa also features a number of other gameplay systems that add to its depth and complexity. These systems include:

Formations: Characters can be arranged in different formations, which can affect their stats and abilities.
Tactics: Characters can be assigned different tactics, which will determine their behavior in battle.
Skills: Characters can learn new skills as they level up, which can give them new abilities or enhance their existing ones.

Story

The story of Imperial SaGa takes place on the continent of Elysium, which is divided into four empires: the Holy Empire of Asgard, the Grand Duchy of Valois, the Kingdom of Galgastan, and the Republic of Bahn. The player takes control of a group of heroes from each empire as they band together to defeat a common enemy.

The story of Imperial SaGa is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The game’s story is not particularly complex, but it is well-written and engaging. The characters are all well-developed and likeable, and the player will quickly become invested in their journey.

Graphics

Imperial SaGa features beautiful 2D graphics. The game’s character sprites are detailed and expressive, and the backgrounds are lush and colorful. The game’s art style is reminiscent of the classic SaGa games, but it has been updated with modern technology to create a truly stunning visual experience.

Music

The music of Imperial SaGa is composed by Masashi Hamauzu, who is known for his work on the Final Fantasy and SaGa series. The game’s soundtrack is a mix of orchestral and electronic music, and it perfectly captures the game’s epic and emotional tone.

Reception

Overall, Imperial SaGa is a great RPG for fans of the SaGa series and for anyone looking for a challenging and rewarding gaming experience.

Score: 8.5/10

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Ji-yeong

Ji-yeong is a passionate gamer and whose love for video games blossomed during her childhood. Growing up in the midwest, without many friends, she spent countless hours exploring the enchanting worlds of classic JRPGs like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger, which sparked not only an enduring love for gaming but also a keen insight into its evolving landscape. Today, Ji-yeong channels her deep-seated passion and nostalgia into thoughtful, engaging reviews that resonate with both longtime gamers and newcomers alike. Her unique perspective, rooted in a rich history of gaming, offers readers a heartfelt journey through the pixels and stories that have shaped her love for this dynamic medium. Her favorite game series of all time is Harvest Moon.