Recent reviews by HalC

I was very exited to play this game, as I am an art historian who regularly engages in translating texts that are hundreds of years old. The translation aspect of the game is unique, and an approach I hope is incorporated into games in the future. That said, the fun of translation is outweighed by other less than stellar aspects. Movement between locations occurs through an interesting mechanism, but is often tedious and time consuming (not to mention hard to control). There is no fast travel, and most locations cannot be visited more than once. In addition, the dialogue between characters is extremely hostile, and the player is rarely given any option to engage in dialogue that isn't insulting. Worst of all, the many enticing mysteries presented by the translations and artifacts are never fully resolved. Even after finishing the game, there are few answers, and it feels as though a suspenseful buildup led to nothing. I know many people play this game multiple times, but the clunky movement and unpleasant dialogue makes that idea unappealing to me personally.

Just completed this game. I am new to video games, but have played a few RPGs before (Thronebreaker, Disco Elysium, Operencia, Kingdom Come Deliverance, Pyre). This game is by far the best of those I've played. Specifically, I enjoy the turn based combat (although usually combat is not for me), and the visuals are really pleasant and varied by area of the game. It is easy to spend hours playing this game, or pick it up for a few quick minutes of play. The looting (which I always like) is a big part of the game, and some of the abilities given to you throughout the game are really unique. I also enjoy the different capabilities of each race in the game. The biggest issue I have with this game is the super awkward flirtations between characters that serves no purpose in the story. Every companion wants to jump my bones (literally) and it just isnt believable at all. I understand this is common in certain games, but I found it distracting during dialogue. Also the plot towards the end gets a little weird and seems no terribly well thought out. Considering how excellent so many aspects of this game are, it is strange that the plot is a weaker point. I liked how many characters I could interact with in the story, but didn't like how many conversations with animals lead to "mercy" killings. Though the visuals are not super graphic, there are definitely some mature themes that make this game unsuitable for children. Red Prince is the best character by far in terms of dialogue, story, and development. Lohse is the weakest story-wise. I strongly recommend ditching Lohse and having Red Prince on your team. Even though there are some flaws in this game, they are entirely outweighed by the visuals, dynamic environments and exploration. Buy this game. Play this game. You will have a good time, or at least become Red Prince's slave.

Nihon Falcom games are always wonderful. Tokyo Xanadu has characters you'll really root for, a fun battle system, and loads of content.