Exploring FuRyu’s Latest JRPG: Varlet
In the immersive world of Varlet, players are introduced to a young protagonist who relocates to live with his cousin and uncle after a family crisis. Shortly after arriving at Kousei Academy in Meifu City, he encounters distinctive classmates: Noa, a short-haired girl donning a green jacket over her uniform, and Sota, a stylish young man with a bold orange aesthetic. Together, they join a group dedicated to supporting their peers and discover the protagonist’s newfound ability to traverse a parallel realm to assist others in need. This vibrant narrative bears a resemblance to the beloved title Persona 4, yet draws upon FuRyu’s unique storytelling style known from previous titles like The Caligula Effect and Monark.
A New Journey Begins
The story kicks off with a pivotal moment—after his mother’s hospitalization, the protagonist moves to Meifu City. Here he settles in with his cousin Yuri, who plays a crucial role at Kousei Academy by presiding over the Student Support Services Kousei Johari guild (also referred to as the Investigation Team).Eager to contribute, he joins the guild alongside his new friends. As they navigate their academic lives, the protagonist begins to experience haunting dreams about a classmate, Aruka, who desperately seeks help within the confines of a realm plagued by chaotic Desires, not unlike the Shadows encountered in the Persona series.
Gameplay Mechanics and Innovations
Fans of Persona 4 may find familiar themes in Varlet, especially as the protagonist’s quest unfolds through a dungeon resembling a labyrinth popular with the academy’s students. The narrative is structured with episodic content where players engage in activities throughout school hours, partake in Student Support Service events, and unlock character-driven episodes during their journeys home with guild members, echoing the school-life mechanics of its predecessors.
Yet, Varlet distinguishes itself with innovative gameplay mechanics. At the beginning of the game, players undergo a quiz to define their Triad Stats via 13 thought-provoking questions, offering a unique layer of personalization. Results can influence interactions with characters like Yuri, showcasing the impact of player choices. For instance, responses that reflect higher Sympathy or Machiavellian attributes unlock alternate dialogue options, enhancing the immersive experience. Engaging in selected choices later contributes to developing these stats further, such as gaining morality points when helping classmates.
Combat System Insights
Combat in Varlet adopts a turn-based format, requiring players to deliberate their actions strategically. Options include normal attacks, defending, and activating special powers. Combat mechanics allow players to see action triggers on a timeline, with opportunities to break defenses and inflict higher damage. The Varlet Blitz Mode, reminiscent of the All-Out Attack system in Persona 4, adds a layer of interactivity after successfully depleting an enemy’s Stun Gauge, requiring specific inputs for powerful attacks.
Looking Ahead: Expectations for Varlet
As I conclude my experience with Varlet, I am intrigued by the potential directions the game could take. Judging by the preview, it appears that the storyline will expand significantly, allowing it to establish a distinctive identity beyond its inspirations. The incorporation of the Triad and battle mechanics promises to enhance gameplay depth and engagement, particularly given the emphasis on player agency.
Anticipate the release of Varlet on the Switch, PS5, and PC on August 28, 2025.
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