Summary
- Release Year: 2000
- Genres: Visual Novel
- Platforms: DVD Player, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2
- Developers: Nitroplus
- Publishers: Digiturbo, Hirameki, Nitroplus, PrincessSoft
Phantom of Inferno: A Hidden Gem on the PS1
Released in 2000, Phantom of Inferno is an action-adventure RPG for the PlayStation 1. It was developed by Racjin and published by Enix. The game follows the story of a 15-year-old Japanese boy who is kidnapped and forced to join a secret organization of assassins.
Story
The game begins with the protagonist, Zwei, witnessing the murder of a reporter. He is then kidnapped and taken to a secret facility, where his memories of his past life are erased. He is given the choice to join the Inferno organization or die. With no other choice, he agrees to join and is given the name Zwei.
Zwei is then trained by Ein, the organization’s top assassin, who is also known as Phantom. Zwei quickly learns the ways of the assassin and becomes one of Inferno’s most skilled operatives. However, he soon begins to question the organization’s motives and methods.
Gameplay
Phantom of Inferno is an action-adventure RPG with a focus on stealth and assassination. Players control Zwei as he infiltrates enemy bases and takes out targets. The game features a variety of weapons and gadgets that can be used to complete missions.
Zwei can also use his PSI powers to slow down time, become invisible, and teleport. These powers can be used to gain an advantage in combat or to stealthily infiltrate enemy bases.
Characters
- Zwei: The protagonist of the game. He is a 15-year-old Japanese boy who is kidnapped and forced to join the Inferno organization. He is a skilled assassin with a strong sense of justice.
- Ein: The leader of the Inferno organization. She is a powerful assassin who is known as Phantom. She is a cold and calculating woman who is willing to do whatever it takes to achieve her goals.
- Drei: A member of the Inferno organization. He is a skilled assassin who is loyal to Ein. He is a ruthless killer who takes pleasure in his work.
- Vier: A member of the Inferno organization. She is a skilled assassin who is also a master of disguise. She is a cunning and manipulative woman who is always looking for an advantage.
Setting
Phantom of Inferno is set in a futuristic world where technology has advanced rapidly. The game’s world is divided into two factions: the Inferno organization and the Order of the Cross.
The Inferno organization is a secret society of assassins who are dedicated to overthrowing the Order of the Cross. The Order of the Cross is a religious organization that controls the world’s governments and military.
Themes
Phantom of Inferno explores a number of themes, including:
- The nature of good and evil
- The importance of free will
- The dangers of power
Reception
Phantom of Inferno received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its story, gameplay, and characters. However, the game was also criticized for its difficulty and its lack of polish.
Despite its flaws, Phantom of Inferno is a hidden gem on the PS1. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers a unique and engaging experience.
Legacy
Phantom of Inferno has a small but dedicated following. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay and its dark and atmospheric setting. Phantom of Inferno has also been cited as an influence on a number of other games, including the Metal Gear Solid series.
Conclusion
Phantom of Inferno is a classic PS1 game that deserves to be rediscovered. It is a challenging and rewarding game with a unique and engaging story. If you are a fan of action-adventure RPGs, then I highly recommend checking out Phantom of Inferno.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
