[Japanese version reviewed]
One of the best early Dragon Quest clones, set in a fantasy version of Japan. The application of 心技体 to XP, MP, HP is clever. It's got a huge overworld, nice graphics, and a great sense of humor. There are a number of hilarious gimmick enemies, like the Game Oni who gets a continue after you defeat him, or the baseball guy who counters every attack. There are also friendly encounters that will give you an item or double your gold.
Unfortunately, the random battles are difficult and time-consuming, many taking 5-6 rounds to defeat and easily shaving off over half your health. You can only carry 8 items and MP is precious, so staying healed up between battles becomes quite challenging. The need to conserve MP becomes even more acute in the back half of the game, as many enemies are far too resistant to your normal attack.
The useful Rokkaku spell guarantees a critical hit and does reliable damage, but the spell cost increases as you level up so that it always takes around 25% of your total MP. I think the biggest issue is that you just don't feel like you're getting stronger. Pricey weapon upgrades barely increase your attack power, and leveling up does more for defense than offense.
Your level maxes out at 45, which is too low considering you need to be at least level 40 to realistically take on the last boss.
Annoyingly, the best healing items are only available at the suzume casino, which is tedious.
Despite its charm, the game becomes quite a slog in the second half.
One of the best early Dragon Quest clones, set in a fantasy version of Japan. The application of 心技体 to XP, MP, HP is clever. It's got a huge overworld, nice graphics, and a great sense of humor. There are a number of hilarious gimmick enemies, like the Game Oni who gets a continue after you defeat him, or the baseball guy who counters every attack. There are also friendly encounters that will give you an item or double your gold.
Unfortunately, the random battles are difficult and time-consuming, many taking 5-6 rounds to defeat and easily shaving off over half your health. You can only carry 8 items and MP is precious, so staying healed up between battles becomes quite challenging. The need to conserve MP becomes even more acute in the back half of the game, as many enemies are far too resistant to your normal attack.
The useful Rokkaku spell guarantees a critical hit and does reliable damage, but the spell cost increases as you level up so that it always takes around 25% of your total MP. I think the biggest issue is that you just don't feel like you're getting stronger. Pricey weapon upgrades barely increase your attack power, and leveling up does more for defense than offense.
Your level maxes out at 45, which is too low considering you need to be at least level 40 to realistically take on the last boss.
Annoyingly, the best healing items are only available at the suzume casino, which is tedious.
Despite its charm, the game becomes quite a slog in the second half.