Review of Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero – A Predictable Yet Enjoyable Strategy Game
Phantom Brave, developed by NIS America, stands out as a unique entry in the strategy game genre, diverging from the typical themes showcased in other titles by the company. Unlike games that revolve around demonic conquerors or antihero protagonists, Phantom Brave offers a refreshing narrative centered on Marona, a kind-hearted young woman. This iteration, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero, retains the essence of its predecessors while introducing a storyline that, while satisfying, may feel somewhat formulaic.
Storyline Overview
Set after the events of the original game, Marona has transitioned from being a misunderstood figure feared for her supernatural abilities to a celebrated heroine. Following her and Ash’s triumph over Sulphur, she earns respect and admiration worldwide. Yet, during one of their charitable journeys, they face a new challenge: the Shipwreck Fleet, led by a masked villain who absconds with some of Marona’s powers. Luckily, Ash intervenes, ensuring Marona’s escape.
New Alliances and Adventures
Marona soon finds herself on an island home to Apricot, the spirit of a pirate captain’s daughter. Apricot’s father has been missing after setting out three years prior to confront the Shipwreck Fleet. Together, along with a remnant of the Argento Pirates crew, they embark on a quest to rebuild their strength, locate missing loved ones, and ultimately confront the antagonist.
Predictability in Plot Development
If you’ve seen the promotional material featuring the masked villains, you can likely predict the narrative trajectory of The Lost Hero. The lack of unexpected turns may diminish the intrigue for some players. Nonetheless, the story has an uplifting quality, particularly in how Marona now receives the recognition she deserves, making for an enjoyable experience despite its predictability.
Engaging Gameplay Mechanics
The gameplay of Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero remains as addictive as fans expect. Players will create unique Phantoms to assist Marona in battles, gradually unlocking new characters as they progress. The strategic component is heightened through various facilities that allow for weapon upgrades, dungeon exploration, and the execution of side quests. This incremental approach enhances player engagement and fosters a greater sense of mastery.
Combat System and Unique Features
Continuing from the original title, players control Marona on the battlefield, utilizing her ability to confine Phantoms to various items, thus summoning them for combat. Each Phantom has a limited number of turns for active participation, with Marona capable of extending their duration. The real-time movement system is intuitive, allowing players to navigate freely without the constraints of grid-based movement.
One notable feature is the interaction of items on the battlefield, which can provide strategic advantages through buffs and debuffs. Players may need to consider how to utilize these items effectively, including destroying or repositioning them to affect combat outcomes.
Introduction of Gadgets and Confriend System
Introducing an innovative element, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero offers gadgets that can be summoned during battles, enhancing the tactical experience. With examples like cannon attacks or catapults, these gadgets add layers of strategy to every encounter.
Additionally, the new Confriend system provides Marona with potent buffs when she establishes a bond with Phantoms. While this feature empowers her significantly, it can lead to a less challenging experience, making it preferable to reserve its use for more formidable foes.
Performance and Quality of Life Enhancements
On the Nintendo Switch, performance generally holds up well, although players may experience occasional slowdowns when battlefields become crowded. Some players might find the absence of quality-of-life improvements, such as the option to skip extended animations or streamline attack selection, somewhat limiting.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero offers a delightful blend of strategy and character development, providing a gratifying experience for players. While the story may lack surprises and some quality-of-life features could be improved, the engaging gameplay mechanics and character progression make it a worthwhile addition to the series.
This title is set for release on the Nintendo Switch, PS4, and PS5 on January 30, 2025, with a PC version via Steam following later in the year.
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