Nice, but seemingly a bit over-complicated for what marginal choice it adds.Īll in all Earthlock is a solid JRPG experience that should be quite welcome on the platform since it is currently a bit lacking in the genre. A simpler straight-up interface without collecting cards and all would seem to be just as effective but it is what it is. Another area that is important but doesn’t seem to get enough focus or definition is the talent system that allows you to upgrade and somewhat specialize your character. I suppose these are in place to make the game more novel but in general for me they just felt like wasted time and more junk to carry around wondering if I really need it or not. Probably the most unusual part of the game for me is the sort of hub area where you’re able to grow plants that you can then cultivate, craft items, etc. ![]() Typically if you’re finding you’re not doing very well the problem is the composition of your team and you’ll need to adjust accordingly, looking for their weaknesses and then being sure to exploit them with the proper team. In general, though, it’s not until you hit the boss battles that you’ll typically start to feel the heat. I was pleased that you’re able to wander enough in the overworld to get yourself in trouble by going to the wrong places too early, I’ve always found if you can take a few battles here and there that are tougher it makes leveling up a lot quicker so it’s appreciated. Managing these effectively and making the best use of each character’s skills is vital so planning not just who is in your party but even which starting stance you want them in can make the difference in tight battles. In general you’ll want to change your line-up around periodically to be sure to level each character up enough to gain their main complement of skills and hopefully figure out which pairs of characters give you the combat benefits that suit your style best.Ĭombat is really where the game shines, as each character has 2 different stances they can change between in battle. ![]() Whether ultimately working out as some form of support, melee fighter, ranged fighter, thief, or some combination thereof each has skills that can become vital depending on the types of foes you face. The first few hours encompass this process, as you’ll move through some story beats and learn what they have to offer along the way. Making your way through the world of Umbra you’ll slowly accumulate a ragtag group of characters, all with their own backgrounds and motivations. Earthlock’s story and characters may feel a bit underwhelming but the challenge of its battle system compensates nicely, making it a decent way to fill some time if you’re looking for your JRPG fix. To this point I’d say the Switch’s uneven line-up reflects this, leaving opportunities for competent entries, whether AAA or indie. Its fourteen hours of game play swells thanks to a ton of side quests, hidden bosses, and lots of things to craft and collect, and is a true indie delight for any fan of the genre.While turn-based RPGs certainly reigned supreme for some time at Square’s peak in general they’ve slowed a bit. Nintendo Insider 8/10Ī beautiful game which features a host of challenging boss battles require tactical thinking, useful characters, and a big world to explore, Earthlock delivers a solid experience which scratches the turn-based RPG itch. ![]() And, while it can be seen that its inspiration has held it back in certain ways, the refreshing approach to turn-based combat and the strategising that underpins it will hopefully help the game to be remembered as a classic in its own right. This throwback to PlayStation-era JRPGs ranks among the best role-playing experiences that there is to be had on the Nintendo Switch so far. More than anything, it is a joy to exist in Earthlock’s painterly world. Feeling at once both reverential for classic 16-bit JRPGs and novel due to its western stylized setting and systems, Earthlock is a grand start to an RPG trilogy, and well worth the meagre price of admission. Originally launched as "Earthlock: Festival of Magic" over a year ago, the game has undergone significant improvements with a sort of "Director's Cut" on PC and the Switch, as well as other consoles. Right NOW, our physical release of EARTHLOCK for the Nintendo Switch goes on sale! Make sure you are there when the game goes live so that you don't miss out on this amazing JRPG.Įarthlock from Snowcastle Games is an absolute nostalgic joy to play.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |