Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: PlayStation 2
- Developers: Michaelsoft Inc.
- Publishers: Michaelsoft Inc.
Wizardry Xth: Zensen no Gakufu – Academy of Frontier: A Unique and Challenging Tactical RPG
Released exclusively in Japan in 2005, Wizardry Xth: Zensen no Gakufu – Academy of Frontier is a spin-off in the long-running Wizardry series. It takes the series’ classic dungeon crawling gameplay and adds a unique academy setting and a cast of student characters.
Players take on the role of a teacher at the Academy of Frontier, a military academy where students train to become powerful warriors and mages. The game features a team-based combat system, with players controlling a party of up to six students. Each student has their own unique stats, abilities, and equipment, and players must carefully consider their team composition and strategy in order to succeed.
One of the most unique features of Wizardry Xth is its dungeon generation system. Each time the player enters a dungeon, it is randomly generated, ensuring that no two playthroughs are the same. This keeps the game fresh and challenging, and it also encourages players to experiment with different strategies and tactics.
In addition to its challenging combat, Wizardry Xth also features a deep and engaging story. The game’s narrative revolves around the students of the Academy of Frontier as they train to become heroes and protect the world from evil. The story is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences, and it features a cast of well-developed and memorable characters.
Wizardry Xth is a challenging and rewarding tactical RPG that offers a unique and engaging experience. Its randomly generated dungeons, deep story, and cast of memorable characters make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Gameplay
Wizardry Xth is a turn-based tactical RPG in which the player controls a party of up to six students. The game features a wide variety of character classes and races, each with their own unique stats, abilities, and equipment. Players must carefully consider their team composition and strategy in order to succeed in combat.
The game’s combat system is relatively simple to learn, but it offers a great deal of depth and strategy. Players can choose from a variety of attacks and spells, and they must carefully position their units in order to maximize their effectiveness. The game also features a unique “elemental shift” system, which changes the element of enemies as time passes. This adds an additional layer of strategy to the combat, as players must adapt their tactics to the changing battlefield.
Outside of combat, players can explore the Academy of Frontier and interact with the game’s cast of characters. The academy is a large and complex environment, and there is much to see and do. Players can visit the library to learn new spells, the forge to craft new weapons and armor, and the infirmary to heal their students.
Story
The story of Wizardry Xth revolves around the students of the Academy of Frontier as they train to become heroes and protect the world from evil. The game’s narrative is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences, and it features a cast of well-developed and memorable characters.
The game’s story is not particularly complex, but it is well-written and engaging. The characters are all likeable and relatable, and the player quickly becomes invested in their journey. The story also does a good job of introducing the game’s world and setting, and it provides a solid foundation for the game’s challenging combat.
Graphics and Sound
Wizardry Xth is a visually impressive game for its time. The character models are well-detailed, and the environments are lush and atmospheric. The game’s art style is a bit dated by today’s standards, but it still holds up well.
The game’s soundtrack is also excellent. The music is catchy and memorable, and it helps to create a sense of atmosphere and immersion. The sound effects are also well-done, and they help to bring the game’s world to life.
Conclusion
Wizardry Xth: Zensen no Gakufu – Academy of Frontier is a challenging and rewarding tactical RPG that offers a unique and engaging experience. Its randomly generated dungeons, deep story, and cast of memorable characters make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
If you are a fan of tactical RPGs, or if you are looking for a new and challenging game to play, then I highly recommend Wizardry Xth. It is a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Review Score
7.5/10
