I was glad to see that SAO:HF was able to put forth a more earnest effort with its improved translation and gameplay tweaks but when it's all said and done, it's still not a particularly good game.
The Fafnir Knight is a fantastic addition to the Etrian Odyssey name. It features the deep, satisfying dungeon crawling action fans of the series have come to expect, all the while allowing newcomers a multitude of options to tailor the experience to fit their skill level.
While Zenzizenzic isn't going to set the world on fire with its visual style or gameplay innovations, it's a solid bullet-hell shooter with a kick-ass soundtrack that's modestly priced.
It promised an experience quite unlike anything I have played before but in the end, the surrounding pieces around the core began falling apart one after another until all I was left with was that idea itself, buried deep within the rubble of potential.
Luckily, the added difficulty modes and competing for the best score on the leaderboards adds some replay value, but some might consider the $19.99 asking price a bit steep for what's on offer. For others like me, this is a little slice of bullet heaven that the PS4 has been long awaiting.
A stronger emphasis on an overarching narrative, more flexible range of actions on the field and a proper save system could have made "The Masterplan" into an excellent game. Without all that, it's merely serviceable.
Fun Tidbit: There's also the inclusion of a mini story FMV that links FFX and X-2 together and the standalone tower climbing mini game for FFX-2 along with a credits/audio drama.
It's a no brainer for anyone who missed this gem of an SRPG when it first released and a worthwhile purchase even to those who have already experienced the original just to play through the new content.
At the end of the day, Omega Quintet is a solid first effort on the PS4 for IF/Compa with a neat premise and an enjoyable combat engine. All that's left to do to move forward is to be rid of this archaic progression structure and before we know it, they could very well become a powerhouse in the JRPG arena.
After my playthrough, I can safely say that while this is certainly no souls game, it's one worthy of the time of anyone who seeks a truly rewarding challenge.
Even though their gamble with the online connectivity and a few fundamental mechanics fell flat on its face, as a long time fan to the series, I found the experience pretty enjoyable all the same.
At the end of the day, I can say with confidence that Hyperdevotion Noire: Goddess Black Heart is easily the best game in the series, and certainly worth the time of any JRPG fan.
Playing ATTILA has taught me that this is a series that has a lot going for it. The scale of the battles, the depth of the seemingly innumerable mechanics all point to well-crafted title, but if I were to never play a Total War game again, I'd be perfectly fine with that.
[F]or fans of the genre who love beating down countless enemies as cute anime girls and don't shy away from a serious challenge, they can expect to have a good time with Phantom Breaker: Battle Grounds.
However, for those who haven’t, it’s a solid title jam packed with content, and while the characters and humor will be very much a point of contention, it’s worth checking out all the same if you’re into JRPGs.
I just wish that it could have been on the definitive version of the game.
[E]ven with its faults, GGXrd is an excellent foundation for the inevitable half dozen or so iterations to come. While it may prove to be a divisive title in the hardcore community, it's an excellent point for newcomers to jump in and learn firsthand why the name "Guilty Gear" commands so much respect in the fighting game community.
Fun Tidbit: I think I died and failed on some of these tables more times than I ever did in any boss or area in a Souls game. I'm terrible at pinball games.
Still, at the end of the day Tales of Hearts R is a testament to the fact that with enough care and attention to detail, a venerable series can make the transition to the portable market with great success.
At the end of the day Minimum is a great beginning for a new blend of MOBA/Arena Shooter, and while its rough spots hold it back from true greatness, I'm looking forward to seeing where it can go from here.