Elden Ring's fabled expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree, focused heavily on the Faith side of the spell-slinging spectrum, but that doesn't mean Sorcery was completely neglected. Though th?ere weren't nearly as many Sorcery spells added, a few of the ones that were are actually worth casting at a moment's notice.

Best Sorcery Spells in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

As someone who used a Strength/Intellect build for my playthrough of Shadow of the Erdtree, I was on the constant lookout for new Sorcery spells worthy of?? slotting into my spellbook. The following spells were consistently worthy of every FP I spent on them.

Fleeting Microcosm

One of the four Finger Sorceries you can get in the expansion, Fleeting Microcosm opens up a brief portal and spawns an orb. This orb pulses once, dealing moderate damage to enemies nearby it before exploding in an even larger area. The explosion's damage is immaculate, which is why you cast this spell during AoE (Area of Effect) engagements. What's better is that this this spell can be cast at a pretty long distance from your target, and still land. Charging this spell amplifies the damage, the size of the orb, and the explosion at the cost of a slightly slower payoff, but it's ??worth it if you can do so.

If you want to pick up this Sorcery for yourself, you must participate in the questline offered by Count Ymir, located at the Cathedral of Manus Metyr. The spell is one of the rewards you get for doing s?o.

Gravitational Missile

Arguably one of the most useful new Sorcery spells, Gravitational Missle offers a wide spectrum of useful utility depending on how you decide to cast it. When you perform a basic cast of this spell, it summons a purple orb that travels forward from you slowly, pulsing several times before exploding in a large AoE. Each of these pulses deals very minor damage, but, more importantly, each pulse also pulls enemies toward its center. The pull effect isn't very significant, but it does interrupt enemies that can be affected by it by staggering them. This opens up many opportunities for you to dish out damage while the orb is active.

Now, if you charge up Gravitational Missle, you get more of the above, just bigger, wider, and more potent. The explosion damage is more powerful and often immediately lethal to enemies caught within it. This larger orb dishes out even more damage while it actively staggers foes within its incredibly? large pull radius. This was a key strategy for me while dealing with the final invasion encounter before meeting the last boss face-to-face.

The most significant thing about Gravitational Missile is how the orb itself interacts with collision. When it touches any surface, the orb will explode, dealing its damage immediately, and knocking back or down enemies within the radius. This is useful because the direction of the orb is determined by your target or the direction your character? is facing. So, if you face toward the ground, the orb? will instantly explode on the cast, triggering the previously mentioned effects. Gravitational Missile can be cast extremely fast compared to most spells of its type, making this spell very useful for player-centered AoE and crowd-control. It is no slouch on damage either, as even an uncharged cast aimed at the ground will kill most enemies in only a few casts. I found this aim-at-the-ground casting to be the most useful application of this spell.

You too obtain Gravititional Missle by slaying the Fallingstar Beast in the crater located on Fingerstone Hill.

Impenetrable Thorns

When it comes to spells built for pure offensive onslaught, Impenetrable Thorns is probably the best added in the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. It funct?ions very similarly to the Blood-themed Briar spells of the base game. However, the main difference is that Impenetrable Thorns simply does significantly more damage, being able to three-shot some bosses in the DLC through powerful blood lost procs. Its improved range also outclasses the Briar spells, making it an exceptionally good opener to a majority of encounters througho??ut the DLC. As far as offense goes, Impenetrable Thorns easily tops the list of excelling Sorcery.

If you want to get your hands on Impenetrable Thorns, you can find it on a corpse in Shadow Keep, within the Storehouse, Seventh Floor. You'll first need to rotate the beams so make sure the? pull the lever first to reach t?he corpse's location.

Mass of Putrescence

If you recall the base game spell, Cannon of Halma, then this spell functions in a similar regard in terms of how it is cast. However, Mass of Putrescence is more closely associated w??ith the base game spell, Rolling Magma, only better in most cases. With Rolling Magma, you always needed to cast it so that the projectile did not hit an enemy to get its full effect. This? is not the case with Mass of Putresence. Direct hits with this spell will still cause it to properly explode for its core effect. Despite this, the ideal usage of this spell is still to cast it like Rolling Magma: Avoid direct hits.

Now, what is Mass of Putresence? When you cast this spell, you lob a foul glob of magic through the air like a mortar. When it hits a surface, it explodes, projecting ghostflam?e across a wide area. Enemies hit by the flames are subject to Frostbite build-up, which is why this spell is so excessively strong at picking off groups of enemies from a distance.

You can find Mass of Putrescence in the Stone Coffin Fissure, the furthest you can go south in the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. The spell is found on a corpse near the Fissure Waypoint Site of Grace. You'll need to do some careful platforming by dropping down a?? nearby cliff, so use caution when hunting this spell.

Rellana's Twin Moons

The final spell on this list, Rellana's Twin Moons is a third variety of the Moon spells from the base game. Unlike the base game versions, Rellana's Twin Moons are cast at your position. You float into the air and slam two Moons into the ground, causing Moon-level AOE explosions, concluding the spell cast with a shockwave slam that also deals big damage. This spell is extremely powerful, just like all Moon spells, but it does come with the caveat of needing significant Poise if you want to use it in close combat with enemies, This is because this spell is easy to interrupt. It isn't uncommon to be thrown out of the air mid-cast by enemies hitting you with merely a stick. Nevertheless, this spell is very strong and is easily one of the best in the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion.

To get Rellana's Twin Moons, you must first slay Rellana, Twin Moon Knight located within Castle Ensis, to earn her Remembrance. Take her Remembrance to the Finger Reader at the Roundtable and exchange it for this spell.

The post Best Sorcery Spells ad??ded in Elden?? Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree appeared first on Destructoid.

While levels and gear were the most important aspects of power progression in base Elden Ring, Shadow Realm Blessings take center stage in its exclaimed expansion, Shadow of the Erdtree. While this may be hard to ??believe, there are numerous reasons why you should be aware of this mechanic.

Should you use the Shadow Realm Blessing system in Shadow of the Erdtree?

Shadow Realm Blessings provide your char?acter with a significant amount of power and defense to help you kill your foes and survive them efficiently. Without using them, you'll find yourself struggling massively against the denizens of the Shadow Realm. Even basic footsoldiers will prove to be incredible challenges for you. So yes, you should be making full use of the Shadow Real?m Blessings. If you do not use these blessings and build them up, you're in for a hard time and a world of frustration. For your reference, there are two types of blessings you should know about.

• Scadutree Blessing - Provides your character directly with free offensive and defense stats. This blessing stacks in power and must be upgraded using Scadutree Fragments found throughout the Shadow Realm.
• Revered Spirit Ash Blessing - Boosts the offensive and defensive stats of your Spirit Ash summons, allowing them to remain relevant in the Shadow Realm. Like the Scadutree Blessing, you need a special resource called Revered Spirit Ashes to upgrade it, allowing it to stack in power.

When you find the necessary resources to upgrade a Shadow Realm Blessing, the process can be done by sitting at any Grace and selecting the Shadow Realm Blessing option.

Doing so will allow you to choose which of the two blessings you wish to upgrade. As you level both blessings up, eventually, the cost for each will increase. Note that the upgrade materials for both Blessings are scarcely found, and you'll need to search the Shadow Realm high and low to locate them. This is a process you'll be constantly doing throughout your playthrough of Shadow of the Erdtree.

As for where to find more, Scadutree Fragments an??d Revered Spirit Ashes are found throughout the Realm of Shadows. Some are hidden away in ca??tacombs or waiting after a tough boss room, while others are just tucked away in the open world. If you ever see a ghostly shade holding a pot, make sure to take them out and loot the body, as some appear to be held by those enemies.

One last thing you should know about these Blessings is that they only take effect while you're within the Shadow Realm. The benefits they reward you with is staggeringly high, so if you could use them elsewhere, you would effectively be trivializing base Elden Ring, in its entirety.

The post Why you should not ignore th?e new B?lessing system in Shadow of the Erdtree appeared first on Destructoid.

Final Fantasy XVI ended up being one of my favorite games from last year. Clive’s journey?? to liberate the oppressed magic-??weiding Bearers of Valisthea and cleanse the world of the spreading Blight won me over with its earnest and lovable characters, flashy and frenetic fights, serene and grandiose soundscapes, and the titanic, cinematic boss battles that are simply unforgettable.

But for all of its many achievements, Final Fantasy XVI felt a bit simple and underdeveloped at times. A number of design choices seem derived from the developer’s previous experience with Final Fantasy XIV, while other elemen??ts fail to meet the same complexity and variet?y as its MMO counterpart.

If the recently rebranded Creative Studio III gets an?? opportunity to follow up on this style of ?Final Fantasy game, these are some of the improvements that would truly elevate the game beyond its current potential.

Give us less busy-work in side quests

Side quests in FFX??VI are very commendable, delivering important context and full story arcs to many of the supporting cast members. However, the tasks themselves are not nearly as interesting, with too many side quests that ask players to go from point A to B, defeat a few enemies, hold a button to pick up three key items and return back to point A.

This kind of busy work is outdated even in the MMO space. For a cinematic action game, the process is boring and meandering. Future installments would benefit from more diverse objectives and sequences that differ from routine fights. Just imagine destroying nests of?? spawning deadly insects at a nearby village or c?apturing and holding multiple points from an invasion of Akashic. I’m sure the team can come up with ideas leagues better than my own with a bit more time and focus on them.

A great wide world with nary a thing to do 

The world of Valisthea is vast and beautiful, inspiring players to wander off into the open terrain and lose themselves in its various locales. The only problem is, there’s hardly anything rewarding to find amid it all. The existing design is full of potential for interesting events to occur and secrets to discover, but most of these moments are reserved until the correct side quest has been acquired. Outside of a handful of interspersed item chests and a few Chronoliths hosting combat challenges, the environments are barren of meaningful content to uncover.
If we?? ever get a chance to revisit Valisthea or?? its spiritual successor, the explorable spaces need more discoveries to stumble upon organically to incentivize players to roam the maps.

Over-reliance on cooldowns makes for stagnant battles

Eikon abilities are the c??ore mechanic that binds FFXVI’s combat together, serving as dazzling and impactful extensions to Clive’s basic abilities. However, every one of them is on a cooldown, and once access t?o these powers has been expended, players are left with a rather dull and simple base skillset. This is punctuated by the game’s opening hours, where players have to lean on this very limited array of abilities.

Upgrading moves and incrementally attaining new skills to work into comb??os is highly rewarding at first, but it’s all too easy to end up falling into the same groove, efficiently dispatching enemies with the same rotation of fiery uppercuts and laser blasts. Introducing additional button combos to the regular swordplay and magic casting would make it all the more fun to interweave alongside the Eikon powers to further amplify the pulse-pounding action.

The cast of supporting characters is under utilized

Party members are poorly integrated into the overall gameplay of FFXVI, con??sidering the presence of each member is contextual to the story. The only consistent party member is Togal, who gets a dedicated menu for action commands, but these aren’t particularly useful.

Imagine having a selection of party members on reserve at the hideaway that could be rotated in and out of the party, ready for the call to action for each mission you select. The partner options could still be limited by the events of the story, omitting charact??ers as needed but leaving room for more player choice and playstyle intricacies.

While it would be too cumbersome to control multiple party members with FFXVI’s style of action-RPG com?bat, the ability to customize each teammate’s abilities to better complement Clive’s would contribute greater depth ??to each encounter. Top it off with their own equipable items and gear to bolster their abilities, and suddenly, these ancillary companions would become invaluable comrades in battle.

Useless gear, loot, crafting and overall economy

With so much attention given to the fighting and Eikon moves, FFXVI offers shockingly little in the way of stat boosting and loadout optimi?zation. The game only includes the four basic stats: health, defense, attack, and stagger infliction. Technically there is also strength, vitality and willpower, but these only increase by leveling up and are unaffected by equipment.

In total, there are only six equippable slots to improve Clive’s attributes: sword, belt, bracers, and three accessories. The former three pieces of gear only serve to improve the character’s base stats, which makes the power scaling of weapon and gear upgrades incredibly linear. There's just no room for customizing attributes for different variations ??in play style. 

As for accessories, they provide a much?? wider range of different effects, including cooldown reduction, healing potency, and even stacking buffs on precise move executions. But with only three slots to choose from, it doesn’t take long to find a preferred loadout, making it difficult t?o get excited about acquiring new accessories in chests or as quest rewards.

The game could have significantly benefited from the integration of the franchise’s familiar materia system, allowi??ng for extra bonuses to attach to existing gear. This could also diversify the upgrades attained at the forge, allowing players to opt for expanding their materia slots instead of - or, simply, in addition to - ?base stat increases.

On top of everything else, the game’s economy is completely useless. There is no sense in buying potions since they are completely replenished any time you retry from a game over. Meanwhile, tonic buffs are rare to come across and exceptionally expe??nsive for routine restocking, so they are not compelling to purchase either. The only item of value to put money towards is orchestrion rolls, which serve more as a collectible than a value proposition for your hard-earned gil.

Crafting items are also obtained throughout the game, but since they only contribute to the basic forge upgrades and item crafting, they are seldom used. Perhaps if forge upgrades also required a monetary cost, or if there was more purpose to the crafting mechani??c that would facilitate a demand for buying crafting items, that could potentially improve the game’s economy systems. But as they stand, it is barebones and forgettable.

Final Fantasy XVI is still phenomenal, I promise!

While this may seem like a lot of problems, these are ultimately blemishes on an otherwise fantastic experience. The remarkable presentation, captivating action, and grimly optimistic story and themes still burn brightly as the Phoenix??’s flames, outshining any mars against it.

I’m confident that any effort from Creative Studio III to iterate and improve on the precedent set by Final Fantasy XVI is well worth being excited for.

The post Five improvements we’d like to see in a Final Fantasy XVI successor appeared first on Destructoid.

Artisan Studios, the developer behind Astria Ascending, has announced their next project. Lost Hellden is an action JRPG that is coming in 2025.

Alongside the announcement is a trailer that demonstrates the art style they’re using, which is confusingly called “Deep 2D.�They explain it: "You play in 3D in hand-painted artworks with dynamic lighting and weather.�To me, it looks like 3D polygonal models with hand-painted textures over hybrid 2D pre-rendered backgrounds. Maybe they’re referring to the way the lighting and real-time weather give the 2D backgrounds some tangible depth. That sort of sounds like how it was done in the 2002 remake of Resident Evil. 

Anyway, I’m getting off track. It looks pretty convincing. It reminds me of a more high-fidelity PS1-era JRPG, ?and I mean that as a co?mpliment.

The gameplay looks like instanced battles that mix “action and strategy.�It features eight characters that you can customize to your play styl?e.

The team working on it features Hitoshi Sakimoto on audio and music, best known for compositions on Final Fantasy XII, Tactics Ogre, and Valkyria Chronicles. The illustrator is Takeshi Oga, who worked on the Gravity Rush and Siren series. That’s some good pedigree.

Lost Hellden is planned for 2025 on PC and consoles.

The post The Astria Ascending devs are back with another vis??ually striking RPG appeared first on Destructoid.

The February 2024 games list is an exciting explosion of JRPG action and superhero f??are. We'll also be surviving in a car fro??m place to place in a much-anticipated indie.

Granblue Fantasy: Relink (PS4, PS5, PC)

Publisher: Cygames
Developer: Cygames
Price: $59.99
Release Date: February 1
Trailer

Granblue Fantasy: Relink kicks off February 2024 with an anticipated action-RPG. With a stunning watercolor-like look, Granblue Fantasy: Relink is based on the popular mobile game series, which also spawned an anime and a fighting game. The game features four-player co-op as you explore this stunning world.

According to the Steam listing, we'll be able to "choose from a diverse roster of skyfarers, each with their own unique weapons, skills, and combat styles." This action RPG plunges onto PlayStation and PC systems on February 1.

Persona 3 Reload (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC)

Publisher: Sega
Developer: Atlus 
Price: $69.99
Release Date: February 2
Trailer

Another RPG arrives later on February 2 just after Persona 3 Reload. It's a complete remake of the PS2 classic, featuring an all-new UI, gorgeous graphical upgrade, and voice cast. Both the classic and the PSP reinterpretation have their pros and cons, but the Reload version seems to be the best way to play, despite lacking the female p??rotagonist from the portable entry.

Like Persona 5, you'll be taking on tasks around the town, hanging out with friends, and pursuing an evil force in Tartarus. "I really didn’t feel like an hour had passed by," said Timothy Monbleau in his Destructoid preview. "I felt so caught up in Persona 3 Reload’s gameplay that I honestly thought I had twenty more minutes." That's a??lways a good sign.

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League (PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC)

Publisher: Warner Bros. Games
Developer: Rocksteady
Price: $69.99
Release Date: February 2
Trailer

Publisher Warner Bros. Games arguably fumbled the release of Gotham Knights, and fans of Batman: Arkham City developer Rocksteady hope that Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League succeeds. It may not be a single??-player game, but the story seems compelling. You pl?ay as the Suicide Squad, attempting to kill the Justice League, who have been turned evil by prominent DC villain Brainiac.

Harley Quinn, Deadshot, Captain Boomerang, and King Shark each have their own abilities to add to the mix. It's predominantly a third-person shooter as you explore the smashed??-up city of Metropolis.

Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League has been the subject of scrutiny. First, the game was in development for quite a while, and has been delayed several times. Second, its live service model has left some scratching their heads. Lastly, the game has already had launch issues for the 72-hour early access players, with saves ??acting as complete before they even begin the campaign.

Despite that, if the combat isn't repetitive and the story is intriguing enough, maybe Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League could still work out on February 2. Be wary of spoilers, however.

Pacific Drive (PS5, PC)

Publisher: Kepler Interactive
Developer: Ironwood Studios
Price: $29.99 (10% off for first week)
Release Date: February 22
Trailer

A surprise gem of the February 2024 games list could be Pacific Drive. In a stormy, post-apocalyptic world, you're journeying through a scary landscape with many obstacles along the way. ?To help you and your car on this adventure, you'll be picking up resources and crafting objects for the car. The problem is that the most valuable resources are found in the more dan?gerous areas of the map, adding a risk-reward system.

"Every time you venture out, new trials await: bizarre weather, unforgiving landscapes, and experimental remnants," says the official Steam listing. You can take on this task when Pacific Drive launches on February 22.

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth (PS5)

Publisher: Square Enix
Developer: Square Enix
Price: $69.99
Release Date: February 29
Trailer

Cloud's next adventure takes him into a stunning open world in Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth. As the second part of a trilogy, our heroes venture towards Sephiroth as he's be?come a dangerous threat to the world. We'll be learning more about all of the party members as the storyline features many twists and turns along the way.

You might want to hold off on a full replay of Remake before Rebirth, however. "Overall, it mostly felt like more Final Fantasy 7 Remake with a few additions I could take or leave," explained Timothy Monbleau in Destructoid's preview. "I honestly wouldn’t recommend replaying Remake leading up to Rebirth?, since I think you’d burn yourself out with how similar they are." It launches on? February 29.

Honorable mentions

Febru?ary 2024 is an immensely packed month of games. Some of the omissions may have surprised you. Here are the honorabl?e mentions you might want to check out.

• Jujutsu Kaisen Cursed Clash (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Switch, PC) - February 2
• Foamstars (PS4, PS5 - will be available for free with PlayStation Plus day one) - February 6
• Helldivers 2 (PS5, PC) - February 8
• Banishers: Ghosts of New Eden (PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC)
• Lysfanga: The Time Shift Warrior (PC) - February 13
• News Tower (PC) - February 13
• Ultros (PS4, PS5, PC) - February 13
• Tomb Raider I-III Remastered (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Switch, PC) - February 14
• PlateUp! (PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Switch) - February 15
• Mario vs. Donkey Kong (Switch) - February 16
• Skull and Bones (PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC) - February 16
• The Thaumaturge (PC) - February 20
• Nightingale (PC) - February 22
• Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons Remake (PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC) - February 28
• Star Wars: Dark Forces Remaster (PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Switch, PC) - February 28

The post Here are the most anticipated?? games of Feb??ruary 2024 appeared first on Destructoid.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet will soon be receiving DLC called The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero to expand the main game. The first half of the DLC is titled The Teal Mask, and it is set to release on September 13 while the second half, titled The Indigo Disk, will be available in Winter.

In the lead-up to the launch of The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero,?? a trailer has been released that teases a 19thTera Type. Not much has been revealed about it, though it has the potential to shake up Pokemon battles.

[caption id="attachment_396558" align="alignnone" width="640"] Image via Game Freak.[/caption]

Lots to discover in The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero

All we know so far is that the symbol for the new Tera Type is rainbow-colored and features six pentagons surrounding a hexagon. As it currently stands, Terastallizing a Pokemon strengthens moves of the same type. Though it is unclear how the 19th Tera Type works, it does appear that it may be related to the new Pokemon Terapagos, which also has a hexagon surround?ed by pentagons on its shell.

//youtu.be/0VLPfiX5VJU

The latest trailer primarily focuses on The Indigo Disk. Taking advantage of nostalgia, the upcoming DLC will feature several past Starters, with critters such as Froakie, Piplup, Totodile, and Bulbasaur making an appearance, to name a few. A couple of new Pokemon moves are al??so showcased in the trailer. Gardevior is seen using P??sychic Noise, a harsh attack that deals damage while preventing the target from healing, while Hariyama is seen using Upper Hand which allows it to strike before a target's priority move.

Two new Paradox Pokemon and their moves are also showcased. The giraffe-necked Pokemo?n named Raging Bolt is based on Raikou, and it can learn a new Electric-type move called Thunderclap. Iron Crown is a Paradox Pokemon based on Cobalion, and it learns a new move called T??achyon Cutter which is guaranteed to strike twice in a row.

There's more Pokemon on the way beyond the generational DLC

In addition to The Hidden Treasure of Area Zero, fans have a few more Pokemon events to look forward to this year. Detective Pikachu Returns launches on October 6, while the animated web series Pokemon: Paldean Winds will debut on September 6.

The post Pokémon teases vague 19th Tera Type for Scar?let and Violet appeared first on Destructoid.

Final Fantasy XVI is the latest entry in the long-running RPG franchise. It represents a new direction for the series, and the game earned itself considerable critical acclaim upon release, scoring a 9 here on Destructoid. This hasn’t quite ?translated into financial success, a?t least according to the latest reports following the release of Square Enix’s first-quarter financial briefing.

Square Enix’s financial report reveals that although net sales are up thanks to the release of new titles such as Final Fantasy XVI, operating income is down partly due to amortization of development cost. According to Bloomberg, Square Enix President Takashi Kiryu told analysts on a post-earnings call that Final Fantasy XVI did not meet the high end of the company’s expectati??ons.

[caption id="attachment_395215" align="alignnone" width="640"] Screenshot by Destructoid.[/caption]

The Final Fantasy franchise and the PS5's install base

Though Final Fantasy is one of Square Enix's flagship franchises, it appears it is not performing well enough to meet the company's goals. In a note to investors (per Bloomberg), Citigroup analyst Junko Yamamura stated that “the Final Fantasy franchise’s profitability is weakening and improvements will take time.�This doesn’t mean that Final Fantasy XVI was a complete failure, as it man?aged to sell 3 million units shortly after lau?nch.

The financial report also reveals that net sales are down year-on-year for its MMOs, though the dip is easily attributed to Endwalker launching last year and no new expansion until next year's Dawntrail. PC browser and mobile games were unable to “offset weak performances from existing titles.�News ?of Square Enix’s declining operating income has affected ??the value of the company’s stock, driving “the stock down as much as 15% in Tokyo�according to Bloomberg.

Square Enix isn’t about to give up on Final Fantasy just yet. Part of the problem, according to Kiryu via Bloomberg, is the slow adoption of the PS5. Addressing comparisons of FF XVI's launch numbers to FFVII Remake's, the company released a statement to IGN arguing that "the attach rate of Final Fantasy XVI is co??nsiderably high, given the PS5 install base," though the company has plans to "carry out a wide range of initiatives to encourage even more people to play the game." This should be easier now that supply constraint factors for hardware are no longer as big of a problem for Sony.

As the financial report also reveals, Square Enix has various initiatives in store to celebrate the tenth anniversary of Final Fantasy XIV: A Realm Reborn, and Final Fantasy XIV: Dawntrail is slated for a 2024 release. Of course, the highly anticipated Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth is also in the works and it has a 2024 release d????ate.

Final Fantasy XVI is available now on PS5.

The post Final Fantasy 16 failed to meet Square Enix’s high-end expectations appeared first on Destructoid.

Persona 4 has a treasured soundtrack with many great tunes that'll get you pumped for battle or grinning from ear to ear as you hear the Junes Theme playing. It also helps establish the season as the school year passes, like "Snowflakes," which plays during the final months of the game. While you're in battle, on the other hand, the rocking beat of "Reach Out To The Truth" keeps you focused on every attack. I am thou, thou art I, here are the best Persona 4 songs, ranked!

Note: This list includes Persona 4 and Persona 4 Golden tracks, no spin-off titles.

10. "Specialist"

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There are very few shopping video game themes that are cooler than this. This piece has a pleasa??nt, chill melody highlighted by a jazzy piano and an awesome percus??sion beat that will put on a smile on your face. You can't help yourself while you bob your head up and down to the rhythm.

9. "Reverie"

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Honestly, there's not much to say about this piece. "Reverie" plays when Yu and the gang reflect on what just happened. The piano plays a? beautiful tune while whirring instrumentals that float above the piece give a melancholy vibe. It's a striking song?? that perfectly reflects the situation the team is in whenever it plays.

8. "Never More"

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This ending credits song is a wonderful track that establishes the strong bonds between Yu and the friends he's made along the way. The vocals are lovely as Shihoko Hirata sings about the memories the investigation team has made over the past year. The piano in the track also gives a neat reference to "A Corner of Memories" from the beginning of the game. As Persona 4 is such a long gam?e, it actually feels nostalgic in a sense as you've known these characte??rs for weeks, maybe months.

7. "Your Affection"

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Rolling through Inaba, it was always a delight to listen to "Your Affection." It's a happy-go-lucky song as it encourages you to turn "your misery into meaningfulness" and take "pride from fear." This song is the levity we need after going thro??ugh all the dungeons during the Midnight hour. During sunny days, it matches perfectly with the colorful visuals of this lovely small town.

6. "The Almighty"

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This song is steeped with so much drama. The strings and heavy bass at the beginning illustrate a great tension, and then the gripping main melody from the guitar seeps in. About a minute in, the percussion goes faster, adding stakes to the boss battle. You then get a soothing, echoed ??piano and guitar taking over the piece, likely showcasing who you're fighting for, like Nanako and all the residents of Inaba. Later on, the main guitar and the soothing sect??ion collide in an epic clash that somehow works together. It's a unique take on a boss battle theme as it switches between the two styles constantly; it's like a tug of war about who's winning the fight.

5. "Signs of Love"

//open.s?potify.com/track/32NyN0Tby1YpKObfd8nrzN?si=?3554fce9e1514dfc

"Signs of Love" has everything I love about the Persona 4 soundtrack: a funky beat, charming lyrics, and some entertaining jazzy overto??nes that keep the track riveting. There are also strings in the background that reflect the slight tension that befalls the teenage protagonist. It's a ??great track that I'm happy to listen to over and over again as each in-game day passes.

4. "Reach Out To The Truth"

//open.spoti?fy.com/track/7JR73H8enwnGiYFS2I6eWW?si=183dea8a012f4691

"Reach Out To The Truth" is a fantastic battle theme. The rocking guitar gives tasty jams, while the jazzy keyboard provides more character to the piece. The drums also keep up the intensity while the Hirata nails her performance. It does get more repetitive than the other battle themes on the list, but it's still an exciting piece for many Persona 4 players.

3. "Snowflakes"

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Persona 4 Golden adds a beautiful track called "Snowflakes" that establishes the journey is almost over. It's a sad, yet calming track that fits into the winter season. It talks?? about the "friendship that is built to last" and the "laughter from this treasured place" that will stay in each character's memories. Similar to "Never More," it gives us a nostalgic feeling, reflecting on the past year, similar to thinking back on the past year during New Year's Eve. The tune from the piano, vocals, and beats are also stunning to?? listen to.

2. "Time to Make History"

//open.sp??otify.com/track/3fHtkMIsiv9kC0Tv2iSS3h?si=f25f817629ac422b

Goodness, I love this song! The bass absolutely slaps as the delightful vocals get us hyped to "step on up to the plate" and "time to make history." It's an absolute jam.  It's fun how all of the instruments ramp up together during the chorus, and the drums once again make their presence known in the best way. When I played Persona 4 Golden, I was always more excited to hear this num?ber over "Reach Out To The ?Truth."

1. "I’ll Face Myself (Reincarnation)"

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Drama. Intensity. High stakes. This is what "I'll Face Myself (Reincarnation)" brings to Persona 4. You have a slow unassuming beginning that ramps up quickly to an intense battle theme. The emotional strings play well with the intense drums. The flow also keeps changing, giving you unexpected twists and turns in this epic boss battle music. Composer Shoji Meguro wasn't afraid to include slower pieces to this boss battle theme, adding an emotional element to the track. He went all out with the ebb and flow of this piece. It's remarkable and is one of the best Persona 4 songs, absolutely.

The post Best Persona 4 songs, ranked appeared first on Destructoid.

Another remaster of a popular RPG

Japanese developer Sting Entertainment announced an upcoming HD remaster of their popular Game Boy Advance RPG Riviera: The Promised Land.

Riviera was the first entry into Sting's Dept. Heaven series that included Yggdra Union and Gungnir. There was no announcement in regard to which platforms the HD remaster will be coming t?o or any sort of release timeframe.

Overall, details on the remaster have been sparse, but we do have a short list of key features. The HD remaster of Riviera will have an extended storyline with over 50 reworked cutscenes. Furthermore, it will also include improved?? graphics, fully voiced audio, and even dual-language functionality.

A beautiful game when it was released two decades ago

The original release of Riviera was technically back in 2002 on the WonderSwan Color. However, it wasn't until 2004 with its Game Boy Advance release published by Atlus USA that Riviera really started to get popular. JRPGs were always pop?ular on the handheld, but there was just something about Riviera. The RPG had some absolutely beautiful art, arguably the best the GBA had seen. In 2007 an enhanced remake was released for the PlayStation Portable that was equally as beautiful.

Riviera is a turn-based RPG with strategy elements and even its own dating sim system. Play as Ein, a Grim Angel as you traverse a world inspired by Norse mythology. The plot takes place a thousand years after Ragnar??ok destroyed demons that overran the Norse gods. However, rumors have surfaced of the return of the demons, and it's your job to investigate and activate a secret power of the gods called Retribution.

I'm excited for this one. I remember being so infatuated with the art style of Riviera on the GBA. I'm curious to see what platforms the remaster will be coming to because so fa??r we've only had it on handhelds. While the obvious answer would be the Nintendo Switch, it would be great to see it on other consoles as well.

The post JRPG Riviera: T??he Promised land is getting an HD remaster appeared first on Destructoid.

A witch, an alchemist, and a wrestler walk into a bar...

March 2023 is heating up with plenty of exciting game releases. Resident Evil 4 Remake will modernize the horror classic with spectacular visuals, while Atelier Ryza 3 is takin?g the series open world for the first time.

In addition, we'll be getting a brand-new WarGames mode in WWE 2K23 and exploring a certain witch's past in Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon. Here's what to expect fr?om the March 2023 games li?neup.

Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & The Secret Key (NSW, PS4, PS5, PC)

[caption id="attachment_365614" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image via Koei Tecmo[/caption]

Publisher: Koei Tecmo
Developer: Gust
Price: $59.99
Release Date: March 24
Trailer

Firstly, the fan-favorite Atelier series takes its introductory steps into an open world, and this will sadly be the conclusion to Ryza's story. Koei Tecmo seems to be stepping up the action with 11 playable characters, a seamless open-world design with multiple biomes, and a grand story involving the Code of the Universe. It will also have some fun alchemy mechanics, which makes the series stand out among the rest of the JRPG juggernauts, like Final Fantasy and Persona. Atelier Ryza 3 was recently delayed by a month. Hopefully, the game is technically sound and will run? great when the game is?? in the players' hands.

Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon (NSW)

[caption id="attachment_365612" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image via Nintendo[/caption]

Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: PlatinumGames
Price: $59.99
Release Date: March 17
Trailer

Coming out of nowhere in an early 2023 Nintendo Direct, Bayonetta Origins: Cereza of the Demon tells the origin story of the legendary witch. Cereza (her name before being called Bayonetta), alongside her first demon Cheshire, is on a quest to save her mother with a power found within the forest. She'll be solving puzzles and fighting faeries, even as a child. This game will likely give some fascinating backstory to the beloved witch in the Bayonetta series. There's an expectation of quality from this cult hit series, so hopefully, this game will deliver?.

Resident Evil 4 Remake (PS5, PS4, XSX|S, PC)

[caption id="attachment_365615" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image via Capcom[/caption]

Publisher: Capcom
Developer: Capcom
Price: $59.99
Release Date: March 24
Trailer

One of the most prolific horror games ever made, Resident Evil 4, is finally receiving a remake in March. Similarly to the two prior remakes of Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3, RE4 is getting a complete reworking of its gameplay and graphics. The animation and texture quality is incredible, while the gameplay has been remade to fit more modern tastes. That means no more tank controls! In addition, the pesky quick-time events of the original have been completely removed. While Capcom's attempts to bring back Resident Evil 3 arguably disappointed fans, Resident Evil 4 Remake can hopefully pick up the slack.

Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty (PS4, PS5, XBO, XSX|S, PC)

[caption id="attachment_365626" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image via Koei Tecmo[/caption]

Publisher: Koei Tecmo
Developer: Team NINJA
Price: $59.99
Release Date: March 3
Trailer

After the tepid audience response to Wild Hearts (according to the UK charts via PlayStation Trophies), Koei Tecmo is likely hoping Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty will be a hit. This action RPG pits you against mighty bosses across the Three Kingdoms. Set in a dark fantasy interpretation of the late Han Dynasty, you'll face off foes with swordplay that's based on Chinese martial arts. You'll have access to multiple weapons like dual swords, glaives, a spear, a staff, and 14 other types. You'll also be able to use magic like fire and ice-elemental abilities against your enemies. Hopefully, this Souls-like hits with Team NINJA's many fans of Nioh. There's a demo out as well if you're curious about this JRPG.

WWE 2K23 (PS4, PS5, XBO, XSX|S, PC)

[caption id="attachment_365629" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Image via 2K[/caption]

Publisher: 2K
Developer: Visual Concepts
Price: $59.99
Release Date: March 17
Trailer

Unlike the 2021-2022 season, WWE has been red-hot over the past year with the return of Cody Rhodes, the championship reign of the E.S.T. Bianca Belair, and the incredible storytelling from the Bloodline faction. Hopefully, WWE 2K23 takes advantage of the hype that's been building toward Wrestlemania in 2023. The game is introducing a new WarGames mode, which has two wrestling rings combined within a cage. In addition, the MyGM mode is getting a big upgrade with new managers, match types, and more show options with four people instead of just two. Wrestlers like Logan Paul and the original GOAT Bruno Sammartino are a part of the roster as well. It's one of the March 2023 games that diehard f?ans will want.

Honorable Mentions

[caption id="attachment_365630" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Im?age via Awaceb & Kep??ler Interactive[/caption]

Thankfully, there's a promising indie that has to be included on this list: Tchia. It's an open world that has the titular character exploring the beautiful archipelago islands and sailing the seas. A neat mechanic in this game is that you can take control of any animal in the game. You can even learn the ukelele in Tchia. It's docking?? onto PS4, PS5, and the Epic Games Store on March 21.

Additionally, Crime Boss: Rockay City is making its way to consoles and PC (Epic Games Store) on March 28. Starring Hollywood talents like Chuck Norris and Michael Rooker, this crime-based first-person shooter has you planning heists, similar to Payday. The twist is it has roguelike mechan?ics as you take down enemy forces from rival gangs and avoid the custody of Officer Norris. The action seems fun and having more co-op experiences can only be a good thing.

The post Most anticipated game releases – March 2023 appeared first on Destructoid.

With a smile and a song

Over the past two decades, the Kingdom Hearts series has wowed its audience with powerfully emotional music fitting for the keyblade wielder's grand adventures. From the calming wonder of "Dearly Beloved" to the rocking "Rage Awakened," composer Yoko? Shimomura brings a magical? sound to each game.

With this list, we'll discuss the best Kingdom Hearts songs from Sora's b??eginnings on Destiny Islands all the way up to his stepping foot in Quadratum. Let us know your favorites in the comments section below as this article is just scratching the surface.

There will be spoilers for the Kingdom Hearts series within this article. You have been warned!

10. The 13th Struggle (Kingdom Hearts 2)

//youtu.be/dAAnOQxL5HI

"The 13th Strugg??le" successfully brings the chaos of an Organization XIII battle and turns it into musical form. The threat of danger signaled by the constant deep strings, the manic m??elody, and the heavy percussion all make this an epic battle theme that will keep your blood pressure rising until the end of the fight.

9. Edge of Existence (Kingdom Hearts 3)

//youtu.be/yVl3QRNkb8A

In the mysterious new world of Scala ad Caelum, this music piece by Yoko Shimomura heightens the drama unfolding in the story of Kingdom Hearts 3. The combination of brass, strings, and percussion all make for an epic track to explore this final level with. In addition, there is a beautiful few seconds of the piano playing that s??pins off from the? main melody, adding to the mystery of this long-forsaken place.

8. Rage Awakened (Kingdom Hearts 2)

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aa7SyxcKTbs

Ep??ic is one word to describe "Rage Awakened." During the boss fight with the Enigmatic Soldier, the stakes are raised and the music elevates with a rocking backdrop. The strings in this piece tell of the soldier's sad past as the thunderous drumming reflects his might a??s he strikes you down over and over again.

7. Vector to the Heavens (Kingdom Hearts 3 Re Mind/ Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days)

//youtu.be/g3xFtfdQwoI

In Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days, two friends are torn apart by fate, and "Vector to the Heavens" is an emotional piece that also works as a battle theme. Piano forward in 358/2 Days, this song hits you to your core as the stunning Xion's theme is impacted with drama from the strings and secondary piano backdrop. The central theme of Kingdom Hearts' "Dearly Beloved" is also woven through it as Xion is deeply connected to Sora and decides to return to him. The Kingdom Hearts 3 Re Mind version takes a wholly different approach with a rocking guitar and deep drum baseline. Both w??ork well within the context of each? game.

6. Destati (Kingdom Hearts)

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=w6zzv2KCcZo

Yoko Shimomura is a master of bringing atmosphere to her music, and "Destati" absolutely nails it. In the deep darkness of End of the World, the chilling vocals of the choir mixed with the dramatic piano all make for a groundbreaking piece. It's absolutely incredible how the pace picks up as the strings and percussion begin to reveal themselves throughout it. The Kingdom Hearts 3 rendition of this song is also striking.

5. Traverse Town (Kingdom Hearts)

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=DKOXLOsA2tA

If you want to talk about nostalgia, "Traverse Town" is certainly that. It's like a warm hug. The jolly melody embraces Sora and the gang as they explore the characteristic town. While it's not as epic as a  song like "Destati," the song is a wonderful jazzy piece that elevates the world and makes us feel welcome within it. This context also makes sense as Traverse Town is a place many have escaped to, like Pinocchio and Leon (Squall). The charming vibe of Traverse Town's theme makes it one of the best Kingdom Hearts songs in existence.

4. Lazy Afternoons (Kingdom Hearts 2)

//youtu.be/KBvXUIQfcbk

If you want some chill vibes after a long hard day, you can't go wrong by listening to "Lazy Afternoons." This is the song in Kingdom Hearts 2 that sets the tone for Roxas' v??ersion of Twilight Town. The beautiful playing of the flute next to the melancholic strumming of the guitar makes this yet another nostalgic-sounding piece. There is a subtle use of the xylophone in the background, calling you back to fonder times. If you want a nice Sunday walk, it's recommended to play this while strolling through your hometown streets.

3. Scherzo Di Notte (Kingdom Hearts)

//youtu.be/hk-7eifOh1E

When Sora?? enters Hollow Bastion, it is a time of uncertainty. He loses his keyblade, his friends, and almost his hope. However, he carries on forward with The Beast beside him. "Scherzo Di Notte" carries that brave attitude onward with strong instrumentals and a marching drum beat in the background. The melody is upward and onward, while the brass instruments add wavering one-off melodies that stray away, representing Sora's struggles. It's an epic piece that is fitting for a late-game world such as Hollow Bas??tion.

2. Roxas / The Other Promise (Kingdom Hearts 2)

//youtu.be/E_BS8egSU3k

Roxas' story throughout the majority of the Kingdom Hearts series is emotional. He is pulled away from his friends, stuck inside Sora's heart, and holds anger within him. He is the counterbalance to Sora's upbeat attitude, but Roxas holds much compassion within him too. His theme, otherwise known as "The Other Promise," shows that p?erfectly. The flute playing is absolutely tragic as the melody is beautifully charming while the backdrop of the piano is emotionally strained. The playing mid-way through the track in "The Other Promise" version is then intensified, adding to the drama.

"What I try to remember is not to repress your emotions," Shimomura said in an interview with Hatalabo (translated by KH13). "If you need to cry, cry outrageously [..], especially since music is an expression of emotion." She also mentioned, "the more expressive you are emotionally the more expressive the music becomes." You can certainly hear the emotion in this piece by the legendary game composer, and that is why it's one of the best Kingdom Hearts songs.

1. Dearly Beloved (Kingdom Hearts 2)

//youtu.be/sihC5l_gIak

For any great JRPG, you need an amazing main menu theme, and the Kingdom Hearts series delivers that in spades. "Dearly Beloved" is an awe-inspiring piece that has chronicled Sora's journey up to this point. It's highly adaptable, with each title in the series having an alteration on the piano-led track. Kingdom Hearts 3's version sounded momentous as it was the last entry in the Dark Seeker saga, while Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory has an eccentric jazzy take on the familiar song.

After much consideration, Kingdom Hearts 2's version of "Dearly Beloved" is the one that stands out the most. It has a sensational held string section at the top of the number with a stunning harp elevating the introduction. The piano then hits alongside the sweeping strings, stirring the heartstrings. It's melancholy and has plenty of tones within the piece that revolves around the main piano melody that resembles the adventurous and dramatic spirit of the game. This version of "Dearly Beloved" is simply perfect, and the piece itself has been featured in the ClassicFM Hall of Fame six times, according to KH13.

The post 10 best Kingdom Hearts songs, ranked appeared first on Destructoid.

These Disney worlds are not wishes your heart makes

The Kingdom Hearts series is known ??for its wondrous world design and impeccable recreation of Disney classics. However, as Sora strikes down the heartless one by one, the worlds he ?explores sometimes drag down the whole experience. They make you wish you were just watching the movies that inspired them.

From Sora feeling like the third wheel in the world of Arendelle to playing arduous mini-games in 100 Acre Wood, here are the ten worst Kingdom Hearts worlds.

10. Prankster's Paradise (Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance)

[caption id="attachment_361614" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

Pinocchio is one of the most cherished Disney classics, and yet Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance's interpretation of it is so forgettable. It's hard to remember a story element, boss, or landmark to find in this world. What saves it from being further down the list is being able to rail over the rollercoaster track with the Flowmotion me??chanic and the gorgeous music by Yoko Shimomura.

9. The Grid (Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance)

[caption id="attachment_361613" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

While the Rinzler battle at the end of the world is exhilarating, the rest of The Grid is absolutely dull. The environments are unimaginative open spaces with dark lighting and little wonder behind the art design. The Tron world in Kingdom Hearts 2 was colorful, unique, and had intri?guing areas to discover; it also has the light cycle mini-game that fits right into t?he canon of the world that Sora is stepping into. The repetitive electronic music in The Grid also gets irritating after ten minutes, and the storyline matters so little to the overall narrative. To add to all that, the live-action actors like Jeff Bridges look creepy with their low-poly models in this 3DS game.

8. Deep Space (Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep)

[caption id="attachment_362004" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

Lilo & Stitch is a beloved Disney film, and yet its world in Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep is lackluster. The reason? It's all set in the spaceship where Stitch is imprisoned. We don't get to explore the sandy beaches of Hawaii and surf along the waves. No, we have to find our way through a bland white ship, an annoying vertical area that requires plenty ??of platforming (not one of the series' strengths), and an awkward pinball-like exterior section that feels out of place. The boss fight with Gantu in Ventus' playthrough also leaves much to be inspired.

7. San Fransokyo (Kingdom Hearts 3)

[caption id="attachment_362362" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

San Fransokyo is a bad first impression of what Kingdom Hearts 4's Quadratum could be like. There is some neat Japanese-inspired architecture spread across the area, but it has so little to do. There? aren't any side quests like cooking in a fast food restaurant or defending citizens from the heartless.  It's also jarring that the world has invisible walls with Hiro calling you via video chat every time to move out of the area.

The original concept art for San Fransokyo in Kingdom Hearts 3 had so much promise. The idea is that the Baymax from the end of the movie, left in an interdimensional rift out of power, turns into a darker version of itself. The stor??yline in this world went for something way more forgett??able, however. One of the few entertaining moments in this world is seeing Sora sitting alongside Hiro and his friends on the film's Asian interpretation of the Golden Gate Bridge. It had a neat flashback to Roxas hanging out with his friends with sea salt ice cream on the clock tower.

6. Arendelle (Kingdom Hearts 3)

[caption id="attachment_362363" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

As one of the most successful Disney movies ever, Frozen was inevitably selected as a Kingdom Hearts 3 world, and it failed to impress during Sora's third adventure. The storyline within Arendelle hardly includes Sora, as the Frozen characters barely interact with him. There's also a pointless recreation of the scene where Elsa sings "Let It Go." We could just watch the movie instead. Sora, Do??nald, and Goofy don't even team up with the powerful princess and instead are stuck with a buff snowman lacking in personality as a party member.

Square Enix had to pad out the? story with a confusing maze out of ice. The strange waymar?king and level design within this area leave players scratching their heads before they eventually escape. While the snow does look beautiful in Kingdom Hearts 3 with Sora leaving footprints on the ground, Arendelle felt like it was thrown in because it was mega popular rather than a well-rounded world to experience. At least the music stirs your heart as Sora ventures through this wintry landscape.

5. Monstro (Kingdom Hearts)

[caption id="attachment_362364" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

Monstro is one of those Kingdom Hearts worlds that hasn't aged well. The insides of the whale are strung with untextured, alien-like blobs on the walls, and the overall level design makes you want to tear your hair out. The hallway placement is in a random manner as you traverse from chamber to chamber. It's hard to memorize which doorway goes where. This, mixed with the terrible camera in Kingdom Hearts, makes for an arduous experience.

While there's a l?ot of character development within this world for Riku and Sora, this is one part of the original game many fans grimace at the thought of.  The boss is also quite annoying as it poisons Sora whenever it touches the ground; thankfully, it's relatively easy if you use the Aero spell that helps defend the keyblade wielder.

4. 100 Acre Wood (Kingdom Hearts)

[caption id="attachment_362365" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

While Winnie The Pooh is a childhood favorite for many, the Kingdom Hearts games make his adventures so b?oring. It's supposed to be the one area that you feel safe in and take a break from battling the heartles??s. On the other hand, there are some mini-games that are time-consuming, irritating, or will make your brain go numb.

For example, the mini-game in which you're protecting Pooh from bees requires you to stand on a branch and strike the bees as they come by. This lasts for minutes??, but it feels five times longer while playing it. These mini-games truly test ?your patience.

Thankfully, this world is completely skippable, but it will give you valuable resources if you complete each chapter within the 100 Acre Wood, like an upgraded Stop spell and the Bambi summon. What makes it worse is that you have to collect torn pag?es in hidden areas of the game to gain access to each location of the 100 Acre Wood.

3. Atlantica (Kingdom Hearts)

[caption id="attachment_362366" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

Atlantica is commonly critiqued by the Kingdom Hearts fanbase, and for good reason. The controls feel awkward, your move ??set is limited due to Sora's new merman form, and both of Ursula's boss fights are annoying to deal with. In addition, getting around is awkward, especially towards the latter half of the world, where you have to ride a dolphin to get to Ursula. It's never explained in any of the cutscenes, and when you do find the dolphin, tons of enemies spawn around it before you can grab its tail.

Getting back to Ursula, she's the fi??nal boss of the Atlantica world, and, my gosh, she's a nuisance. The only way to attack Ursula is by hitting her head, but she keeps cas??ting spells that cause serious damage. Sometimes, it's really hard to avoid her incoming spells because of the awkward controls, and it's difficult to connect moves because of her frantic movement and Sora's limited move set. Atlantica truly is one of the worst Kingdom Hearts worlds in existence.

2. Disney Town (Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep)

[caption id="attachment_362367" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

Mini-games are the scourge of the Kingdom Hearts series, and most of your time in this world is spent playing them. From janky volleyball with fruit to the kind of kart racing you'd expect from a cheap Mario Kart clone, Disney Town is a curse on Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep. There's also a rhythm mini-game with Chip and Dale that feels out of sync. What makes it worse is that this sickly sweet world feels incredibly out of place within one of the darkest stories within the Kingdom Hearts canon. It's so bright, colorful, and silly that it doesn't match the tone Birth By Sleep is going for at all.

1. Deep Jungle (Kingdom Hearts)

[caption id="attachment_362368" align="alignnone" width="1200"] Screenshot by Destructoid[/caption]

While Tarzan is a nostalgia blast from the tail-end of the Disney Renaissance era, Square Enix plagues fans' memories of the film with terrible level design. The game doesn't clearly tell you where to go to activate the next story element, and even after multiple playthroughs of Kingdom Hearts, you'll ge?t lost in the manic nature of D?eep Jungle.

While the story is rock solid as it builds the relationship between Donald and Sora, Deep Jungle is simply a mess. Swinging around o??n the vines in this world is also awkward as you have to time your button presses between each jump. You'll fall many times due to the timing of these swings, the bad camera, and the strange jumps that Sora makes while platforming.

The post 10 worst Kingdom Hearts worlds, ranked appeared first on Destructoid.

The Road Less Traveled...

In a little over a month from now, Persona fans will be afforded the opportunity to revisit two classic titles in the stylish JRPG franchise, as Persona 3 Portable and Persona 4 Golden make their long-awaited debut on PC and console platforms. Ahead of their respective releases, publisher Atlus has detailed a handful of new features coming to these epic tales of demons and dating.

//twitter.com/p_kouhou/status/1602830739?2?46137346?s=20&t=s39AvXd7ai_x3zneH0RZ8A

High-Resolution Graphics

As explained by Morgana, (who... erm... doesn't actually appear in either game), both Persona 3 Portable and Persona 4 Golden will receive a fresh coat of paint in the form of newly remastered high-resolution visuals, optimized for larger displays and presenting each title's strange worlds sharper than ever before. In addition, the control system has received ?several tweaks, to? allow exploration and action to flow in a little more contemporary fashion.

Initial Difficulty Setting Option

Players can now select from one of five difficulty options from the start of the game. Originally, players could only select the difficulty when entering New ??Game +, but now you'll be able to set the challenge right from the off �So those who just want to experience the story will be able to rock modes such as "Easy" or the practically death-free "Safety". Don't fear the reaper.

//www.??youtube.?com/watch?v=S7tVV9zRFMM&ab_channel=OfficialATLUSWest

Album

Persona 4 Golden has a new "Album" feature, selectable from your save room. This allows the player to revisit cutscenes and conversations from earlier in the game. Additionally, for the sake of interest, players will be able to select different conversation options and decisions from the ones they initially took, offering a sneak peek at how the chatter might have played out should they have chosen a different path of dialogue. This feature will not, unfortunately, be included in Persona 3 Portable.

Persona 3 Portable and Persona 4 Golden will launch on January 19 on PS4, Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch pla?tforms. A price has not been officially confirmed, but the two tit?les are expected to retail for around $20 each.

The post New features d??etailed for Persona 3 Portable and Persona 4 Golden ports appeared first on Destructoid.

The real treasures were the friends they made along the way

I feel as though there are going to be two distinct opinions of Dragon Quest Treasures, the new Switch-exclusive Dragon Quest spinoff starring Echoes of an Elusive Age's Erik and Mia. The first is that the game is an enjoyable treasuring-hunting romp with hours of content, a unique combat experience, and the?? type of what-will-I-find-next obsession that drives people to empty their bank accounts into loot boxes and gacha. The second is that it’s a $60 busy-work simulator, where all you do is complete mundane tasks to progress through a mundane adventure.

Both perspectives fit the bill here, and whether or not you see this game as a cavort or a chore is really going to come down to your tolerance level for a game built on backtracking. Because, believe me, In Dragon Quest Treasures, you'll be visiting the same locations a lot.

Dragon Quest Treasures (Nintendo Switch)
Developer: Tose Co.
Publisher: Square Enix
Released: December 9, 2022
MSRP: $59.99

Set in a world where the bodies of dead dragons have given life to new landmasses, Dragon Quest Treasures sees siblings Erik and Mia teaming up with a couple of cute flying critters as they attempt to recover each of the Dragon Stones. Those, however, are largely a McGuffin, as the true goal ?of this game is to amass as many riches as possible while building the mightiest treasure-hunting crew in the land. The game will tell you your main goal is to find those stones, but it’s easy for?? them to take a backseat as you build up your war chest.

Building a competent crew requires some recruiting. You’re given a small team at the start of the game, taking control of Mia as you search for Erik in this strange new world. But it isn’t long before you’ve set up base camp at an abandoned train station?? and started growi?ng to your roster. As you defeat monsters in the field, some will ask to join your squad. To onboard them, you'll have to spend the materials you harvest in order to cover their fee. The better the monster, the higher their fee will be.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=DncSvDnGGrc

While the Dragon Quest series does have an extensive roster of monsters to pull from, the variety of available creatures in Treasures is quite small, with only a handful of monster breeds present, each divided into a few types. Some creatures are new to the series, such as th??e desert-dwelling Marble Slime, but I would have liked to have seen more of this franchise’s history represented here. Of course, the actual monster breeds and types don’t matter all that much outside of aesthetics. What’s really important in Treasures is each monster’s Forte and Favorite Treasure.

Fortes are skills monsters possess to help you in your search for treasure. Depending on what three monsters you have in your team, you’ll be able to jump to high pl??aces, glide to the ground below, s?ink underground to reach tight spaces, or race across the environment. There’s also a Forte that helps you locate materials for crafting, but I can’t remember a moment my the 45 hours of playing this game that I used that particular skill.

Treasure, that is what you are

A monster’s Favorite Treasure is how you’ll actually go about finding the ??best treasures scattered across the land. Each time you return to your base camp, you’ll be given a new Treasure Forecast. This will dictate what kind of treasure will be in each area. If the monsters on your team have Favorite Treasures that match those in the Treasure Forecast, you’ll earn a high Golden Ratio. The higher this is, the easier it will be to track down high-quality valuables.

As you venture through each of the game’s five lands, little gold chests will pop up over your monsters' heads to indicate a nearby valuable treasure location. When you are in the right spot, you can use your compass to generate three images of where the treasure is buried. The higher your Golden Ratio, the clearer and more obvious those pictures will be. With some quick digging, you’ll retrieve the treasure that can be appraised as soon as you get back to your base cam??p. And that is where the feeling of busy work can really sink in.

Monsters can only carry a few pieces of treasure each, and if you fill up on bric-a-brac–less valuable treasure that is easier to find??–you’ll be running back and forth between your base camp and the rest of the world an awful lot. Bigger monsters can carry more loot, but even if you surround yourself with nothing but big boys, you can fill up on treasure in as little as 15 minutes before you’re backtracking to the closest available train station so you can empty your pockets and set out? again.

Not only can the constant back and forth get a little tedious, but some of the requests you have to fulfill can also lead to tasks on top of tasks. One of the firs?t monsters I recruited to my base camp would only join if I recruited a different monster beforehand. To get that monster, I had to find one that wanted to join my ranks, and then I had to get the items to cover its fee. That meant another trip back out into the world to track down this one piece of material.

Thankfully, those types of multi-step side quests are few and far in between. For the rest of the game, I was plumb happy with just finding my way around the world, digging up treasure. As my collection grew, other treasure-hunting gangs would try and hunt me down or pillage my base camp, but dispatching them usually wasn’t much of a problem. Especially when I finally gained the muscle memory for Dragon Quest Treasure’s combat.

Combat straight out of '90s Bart Simpson

Unlike the mainline series, Treasures is an action RPG. Your monster crew will attack on their own, and while Erik or Mia can melee attack enemies with their daggers, they are far more useful as support characters. Both are armed with a slingshot, which this game calls a catapult because, of course, Treasures uses the Queen’s English (or should it be called the King’s English now?). The slingshot fires pellets that can hurt the enemy or heal and buff your monsters. The controls for this do take some getting used to, as the button layout isn’t as intuitive as it should be, but smart pellet play can quickly put an end to potentially difficult battles. They ??????????????????????????can also help you avoid combat altogether.

What I really appreciate about Treasures is how it gives me options on how I can approach a situation, and makes it possible to stand down higher-level enemies with simple planning. Some of the pellets you unlock can put monsters in the field to sleep or stun them, allowing you to sneak around them? or steal whatever treasure they’re holding without getting pummeled. Now, the AI for your monster squad will often engage sleeping enemies, but usually only if they’re of a lower or equal level. Your monsters may also have a tendency of getting stuck behind barriers, and it would be nice if the feature that teleports stuck monsters to your side worked more efficiently. But that's an issue I can deal with. One disappointment that's harder to look past is the Snarl.

At your base camp, one of the Orc monsters you recruit will dig through a building known as the Snarl. As they dig down, they unlock portals to new areas you must complete to find hints on where you can find the Dragon Stones. These areas are nothing more than a series of challenge rooms, which is arguably one of my least favorite elements from RPGs. The monster dens you find throughout ??the world are the same, and while those dens are optional unless you’re going for 100% completion, unlocking the full extent of the Snarl is mandatory if you want to see the story through t??o its conclusion.

In hindsight, the time it took me to beat each set of challenge rooms in the Snarl was easily less than 30 minutes. In the grand scheme of things, they’re not a massive part of the game, and for some people, they might be the only enjoyable aspect. As I said in the lede, I can easily see how somebody could play Dragon Quest Treasures and walk away with the opinion that it’s nothing but busy work an?d backt??racking. If that’s the prevailing impression out there, I get it; I just don’t agree with it.

Maybe it’s the Dragon Quest charm, or maybe it’s because I'm happy to be playing a game way less buggy than the last one I reviewed, but I got a kick out of Dragon Quest Treasures. This is the type of game I will happily sink hours into without caring about whether or not I’m actually progressing beyond just building up my cache. A perfect game for those long winter nights, Dragon Quest Treasures will more than tide me over until Square Enix finally gets around to releasing Infinity Strash.

Or Dragon Quest XII: The Flames of Fate. Whichever comes first.

_{[This review is based on a retail build of the game provided by the publisher.]}

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Thank you for the music

Next month, the legendary Persona franchise will take to the stage once again, as the returning Persona Super Live P-Sound 2022 concert will regale a packed auditorium with a playlist of memorable a??nd distinctive tunes pulled from the iconic JRPG series. However, anyone expec??ting any sort of reveal may want to keep their expectations in check...

According to a statement by publisher Atlus, the concert will not be used as an opportunity to reveal any new games set within the reality-bending universe. Fans can expect some awesome music, live vocals, bafflingly written lyrics, and appearances from the series' voice cast �but if you go in expecting a Persona 6 announcement, then you might come away a little disappointed. With ringing ears, tapping?? toes, and having had a great night, mind, but disappointed.

It's understandable that some fans might be getting a tad antsy, given that the smash-seller Persona 5 debuted way back in 2016, following a development cycle that lasted practically an entire generation. Since then, Atlus has released several new spin-offs, including musou-like Persona 5 Strikers, two new Persona Dancing titles, and Persona Q2: New Cinema Labyrinth for Nintendo 3DS. But if you're holding out for Persona 6 announcement, keep holding, friend. After all, even when we get the inevitable reveal, how long is that dev cycle going to be?

Persona Super Live P-Sound 2022 takes place October 8-9 at Makuha??ri Messe in Chiba, Japan

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The Phantom Thieves have returned

Atlus has opened pre-orders on the long-awaited PS5, PC, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch ports of its mega-selling JRPG Persona 5 Royal. The Digital Edition is available for wi??shlisting on various platforms or for outright pre-order on the PlayStation Network and the Microsoft S??tore.

For physical media fans, Persona 5 Royal is also a??vailable to pre-order on console in steelbook form at various retailers, priced at a pretty loft??y $60 USD. This edition includes a physical copy of the game on the console platform of your choice, along with 40 DLC items such as costumes, music tracks, and more.

For the more die-hard heart stealers, Atlus has revealed a "1 More" collector's edition, which is available exclusively at the official Atlus store. The snazzy set, which retails for around $120 USD, (not including shipping), contains a steelbook hard copy of Persona 5 Royal on the console platform of your choice, alongside a selection? of character art prints, an arcana tarot deck, a replica of that prick Akechi's satchel, a "La Grimoire" art frame, and over 40 pieces of post-release DLC.

The set is housed in fun "treasure chest" style packaging. Don't kick it open, ??though.

Persona 5 Royal launches October 21 ??on PS5, PC, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Game Pass.

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Coming to Japan on January 26, dood!

A very happy morning for JRPG fans, as Nippon Ichi Software (NIS) has officially announced Disgaea 7, the latest entry in the legendary anime adventure series. Currently in the works at NIS, the new mainline chapter will launch in Japan January 26 on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch p??latforms.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cMt71Z2w-s

Set against the backdrop of the "Hinomoto Netherworld Cluster," Disgaea 7 will see a wandering samurai, Fuji, team with a spritely otaku girl, Piririka, as the duo embark upon an against-the-odds mission to overthrow the wicked Ooedo Shogunate and restore peace and order to the land, currently occupied by a ruthless invading force. It will take strong-willed belief in friendship, honor, and loyalty if Hinomoto is ever to see its shattered peace and t?ranquility rightfully restored.

Of course, alongside Fuji and Piririka, players can expect to meet a huge cast of allies and enemies, including wild-eyed wolf-girl Ao, humanoid weapon Suisen, mighty swordswoman Higan Zesshousai, and pint-sized explosives expert Seefour (see what they did there?). Disgaea 7 will feature the deep exploration and chaotic combat that is a series trope, while including all new mechanics such ??as the "Dode??ka MAX" feature, which sees characters grow into literal giants for kaiju-style warfare.

The "Reincarnation" mechanic will allow players to rebirth party members over and over again, retaining combat knowledge and skills from previous iterations while afforded the chance to start an entirely new build. This mechanic also applies to weapons and gear, letting the player evolve their party and tools with reckless abandon. Additionally, over 45 generic characters will be featured in Disgaea 7, so you'll have no problem?? building up your home team of colorful freedom fighters out of a roster of new and familiar faces.

And this is all just scratching the surface of what will be available in Disgaea 7. Ranked battles, custom A.I. mechanics, new skills and abilities, and a range of limited and collector's editions will all be present and correct come launch day. Western fans should take heart that while localization is yet to be announced, it seems incredibly likely that NIS America will be picking up the new sequel for its overseas fan communiti??es, so stay tuned for further announcements.

In the meantime, you can find more screenshots, details, and character profiles over at the official website.

Disgaea 7?? launches in Japan January 26, 2023 ??on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch platforms.

Disgaea 7 announced for PS5, PS4, and Switch [Gematsu]

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Get thee behind me

We're just a fortnight out from the launch of the super stylish-looking Shin Megami Tensei title Soul Hackers 2, which will launch on PC and console platforms come August 25 �and while the demon-hunting adventure hasn'??t hit the streets yet, Atlus is already getting its DLC machine in gear.

On launch day, multiple paid DLC packs will be made available for Soul Hackers 2, comprised of additional music tracks, in-game costumes, extra in-game currency/items, and �perhaps a little more egregiously �a full alternate story chapter featuring a super-cool new devil summoner, Nana. Here's a shocker: She has a sort of "gothy/punky" aesthetic, as do day one DLC characters for all video games in existence.

You can check out a Japanese trailer spotlighting all of the DLC below. More images are available over on the official Atlus Japan website.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3QzKiFiVCE

There are four paid DLC packs in total. One featuring the extra character/scenario, one featuring a roster of additional demons, and one featuring a variety of character skins �including gear representing previous titles such as Persona 5, Shin Megami Tensei IV, and the original Soul Hackers, as well as the obligatory "swimsuit" wardrobe. Each pack can be purch?ased separately or in an "All-in-One" bundle for a discounted price of ¥4,840, or roughly $35 USD. Don't shoot the messenger.

Soul Hackers 2? launches August 25 on PlayStation, PC, and Xbox platforms.

Soul Hackers 2 ‘Ai-ho’s DLC Overview�trailer [Gematsu]

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Fated Fit

August is now well underway, and that means were are mere weeks out from the launch of the exciting-looking JRPG Soul Hackers 2. Publisher Atlus has dropped a brand new trailer for the stylish sequel, keeping fans teetering on high fervor ahead of the game's offici??al launch on Aug?ust 26.

The trailer itself does not offer us any new information regarding features or mechanics, it is purely a contextless, narrative affair �its one-minute runtime packed out with more melodrama than you can shake a Sabbath at. Perhaps the one element that stands out the most in this short preview is just how damn good everybody looks. While Shin Megami Tensei is most ?certainly full of demon-hunting, world-ending plotlines, its various protagonists and antagonists are never too busy to ensure that they look sharp as all hell. It's quite literally a franchise trademark at this point.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYdZZLhBYYM&t

Soul Hackers 2 will tell the story of specialized “Data Agents�Ringo and Figue, who have been dispatched to Earth to track down Persons of Interest related to an incoming apocalypse. What will follow is a lot of high-drama, social engagement, dungeon-exploring, demon-gathering, and strategic, elemental combat, all dressed up in SMT's unmistakably excessive aesthetic. Soul Hackers 2, for lack ?of a better phrase, simply came out of nowhere. It was only announced five months ago, and now it is just three weeks away from ?launch.

At least nobody was?? kept waiti?ng... It is the end of the world, after all.

Soul Hackers 2 launches August 2?6 on P??layStation, PC, and Xbox platforms.

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Physical edition available from NIS America Store

Earlier this year, during the New Game Plus Expo, NIS America announced that its 2016 release Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana would be winging its way to the PS5 platform �and yesterday, the publisher revealed a release date for the new port, with the fantasy JRPG hitting the PlayStation Store this November?.

Originally released on PS Vita, Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana was the then-latest chapter in the decades-long Ys adventure series. It tells the story of a shipwrecked adventurer who fin??ds themselves embroiled in a fated tale of ancient gods, primordial monsters, and, of course, the exti??nction of all life on the planet as we know it. I mean, it's a JRPG, so I'm not quite sure what you were expecting.

You can check out a brief overview of the story and its characters in the new trailer belo??w.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=brhfKfwtNH0

Ys VIII would eventually make its way to other platforms, arriving on PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch, and eventually Stadia. The PS5 port is expected to be a direct port of the PS4 edition, complete with all post-release updates and DLC. In regards to being an "upgrade" of the previous port, there is frankly little to improve, as the PS4 Pro already runs Lacrimosa of Dana at 60 FPS. We can probably expect faster load times, and maybe even some DualS??ense support, but not a whole lot else.

In addition, a special Limited Edition release is now available for pre-order over at the NIS America Online Store. This set contains a physical copy of the game itself in SteelBook casing, along with an art book, a replica journal of lead character Adol Christin, a "Seiren Song" soundtrack CD, two acrylic bookends, and a cloth poster of the Ys VIII artwork. The Limited Edition set reta??ils for a very princely $99.99 USD.

Ys VIII: Lacrimosa of Dana launches on PS5 on November 15 in North America and November 18 in Europe. It?? is available now on PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch, and Stadia. Mobile ports are also in the pipeline.

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A lot of it covers the first five hours

Nintendo just debuted a Xenoblade Chronicles 3 overview video on the company's Japanese YouTube account, ??and it's pretty comprehensive! Despite the fact that it's in Japanese, it's actually very easy to te??ll what's going on.

Here's what the Xenoblade Chronicles 3 overview touches on, vaguely:

• Intercut big picture/conflict story elements, and the war between the two major factions
• The interpersonal relationships between the six core party members
• Lots of footage of overworld exploration
• An in-depth look at combat, the different roles, combos, and swapping between party members
• The Ouroboros system unveiled in one of the first debut videos
• The "guest" party system (this is arguably the most spoiler-heavy part, as it showcases a ton of characters at once)
• Township wandering/camp use/gemcrafting
• A season pass recap and an amiibo support explanation (ours is more informational!)

In other Xenoblade-related news, Nintendo even came out with a digital calendar for July, which has a cheeky marked-off spot on July 29 to celebrate the release of the game. To grab it you'll need to spend 50 ?My Nintendo platinum points (just remember that it's a digital download, not a physical calendar).

Hopefully we'll get some news as to what the My Nintendo physical reward is soon enough! Typically that info comes within seven days of t??he game's release, give or take a week.

[Update: As of July 20, Nintendo has provided a new English vers??ion of the trailer. You ?can find the original Japanese video and the additional English one below.]

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 overview trailer (Japanese):

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=l2ueds3EWAU

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 overview trailer (English):

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmLXU2Yzqfo

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This game led to another rebirth of Square Enix JRPGs

The fourth Octopath Traveler anniversary is upon us, seeing as the original re??lease was back on July?? 13, 2018.

Square Enix is celebrating with a tweet, reminding us of the four-year anniversary, and providing a "commemorative illustration" of the crew from a member of producer Tomoya Asano's team: Tatsuaki Urushihara. They also remind folks that Live a Live is coming out later this month. So while we haven't gotten a direct sequel yet in the west (a mobile prequel called Champions of the Continent came out in 2020 in Japan, and is coming soon else??where), it's impacted many other projects since its launch, and has shifted Square Enix's priorities as a whole.

Octopath Traveler can be considered a bird of a feather with several other modern pushes for JRPGs within the company. One of the bigger waves involved Bravely Default, which came roaring in during 2012, and reminded people that yes, there is an audience for the genre still. There was another wave in 2016 with I Am Setsuna, which ushered in the creation of Tokyo RPG Factory, and led to Lost Sphear, and Oninaki.

The legacy of Octopath itself (amid this Octopath Traveler anniversary) is directly responsible for the existence of Triangle Strategy, as well as numerous other games in that same style. Square Enix even cited Octopath Traveler's aesthetic choice as an influence and drive to bring Live a Live back in the form of a remake.

//twitter.co?m/OCTOPATH_PR/??status/1547049576506736640

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The protagonist is not named Max

I fell hopelessly in love with Metal Max Xeno Reborn. It was my first time with the series, which has been running in Japan since 1991. It was quite the roller coaster for me. I immediately jumped online and placed an order for some of the series�early games. I felt the heartbreak of Metal Max: Wild West getting canceled. Then I found love again in Metal Max for the Famicom. Then I reminded myself that Metal Max: Wild West was canceled, and now I’m sad again.

Metal Max has largely stayed in Japan, outside of Xeno and its Reborn cousin. We got Metal Saga on PS2, but that went by without much notice. Maybe we’ll get a re-release on PS5 now that Sony is doing that again. There were many titles that flitted by without our anglophone notice, and I plan on delving through as many as I can get my nimble fingers on. Metal Max is one I ca??n communicate via Famicom Friday, so allow me to share ?it with you.

Get a real job

I love Metal Max. Famicom RPGs can be a struggle, whether or not they’re a Dragon Quest or a Mother. It was kind of a crappy era for console RPGs. No, maybe that’s inaccurate. It was an awkward era for console RPGs. A great era for PC RPGs, but console RPGs were kind of lopsided. Regardless, I ate Metal Max without any discomfort. Without any boredom.

It helps that a lot of what I loved about Metal Max Xeno Reborn was already true on the Famicom. It’s a post-apocalyptic JRPG th??at focuses on tanks. The plot is light, instead getting out of your way so you can hunt monsters. The focus is mainly on finding vehicles and accumulating enough money to make them over-powered. The monsters are ridiculous, and there’s this sly, dark se?nse of humor underlying all of it.

It’s also rather polished for a JRPG of this vintage. I had the option of playing the Famicom version or the Super Famicom remake, Metal Max Returns. I opted for the original, because its art-style is so classic for the system. It’s obvious that, much like other RPGs of the era, it got a lot of influence from Dragon Quest. Characters are squat, backgro??unds are sparse, and enemies are enormous. If you like the Famicom RPG aesthetic, it fits the look perfectly.

Mad Muscle

The gameplay reveals a similar shine. It’s entirely possible for you to overpower yourself, and grinding is an option, but in terms of gameplay loop, it got it down perfectly. You travel the world and hunt down Wanted Monsters. But the Wanted Monsters are only a suggestion; a great way to make loads of money rea?lly ?fast. There are more facets to the core gameplay: find better tanks, find better weapons, and solve the problems of the various towns you cross if you feel like it.

It’s almost open-world. The progression from town to town is largely linear, but it doesn’t have any objections to backtracking or skipping ahead. The Wanted Monsters aren’t bosses. You can proceed without killing them. There are some objectives you need to complete to get let through the gate, but these are largely in the early portions of the game. I suppose it’s more accurate to say it’s an open-narrative game. Character development mos?tly occurs in your head. You’re given your humble beginnings, but you figure out the motivation. Wealth, money, a kick-ass tank? I’m definitely in it for the tanks.

Mammoth Tank

It’s somewhat strange to call a turn-based RPG “fun.�Menu-based combat is not fun. I guess instead, I will say that Metal Max is compelling. It’s exciting to find new tanks and grab new equipment. It’s satisfying to line up your artillery against big bad monsters. If anything, I wish the world was more reactive. People don’t ask much of you, so they don’t really care about your successes. Towns are largely unchanging and static. Perhaps, that is the price of Metal Max’s polish.

The soundtrack is excellent but also repetitive; not really uncommon for a JRPG. I mean, off the top of my head, I can probably hum Dragon Quest’s overworld theme, and it’s not because I like it. However, there’s a decent amount of music. Every so often, when it’s not beating you with the battle or over???world music, it throws in something new and interesting.

The power of electricity

What makes Metal Max so enjoyable is the p??rogression, but the icing on top is its bizarre sense of humor. Many of the enemies are amalgamations of animals and war machines. The scenarios you get pulled into are sometime??s bizarre, like when you need to convince a factory full of flower lovers to give you a vehicle. But a lot of the mechanics are pretty strange to begin with.

You heal at the inn, you resupply your tank at the tank supply place, and when you die, you’re resurrected by a mad scient?ist. Seriously, whenever a character gets capped, they become a corpse that gets dragged behind the other characters. You deliver their ??“fresh corpse�to the doctor and he zaps them back to life. So, really, by the end of the game, all the party members are just zombies denied the peaceful embrace of death. If all your characters get wiped, your father begrudgingly revives you, and then you have to round up your dead teammates. It is absolutely the most morbid revival system I have yet to encounter.

One of the things that has really drawn me to the series is its sparse narrative. Not that heavy narrative was really that prevalent in the 8-bit days of the JRPG, but Metal Max amuses me in the fact that you don’t really know who the central antagonist is until you basically trip over them. Then, when it’s all over, no one realizes you saved the world because they never knew it was imperiled in the first place. James Bond probably knows how that feels, but the protagonist here doesn’t eve?n get any congratulator??y sex.

Save the world while you’re at it

Metal Max is, without hyperbole, the best RPG I’ve played on the Famicom. Yes, I’d rate it above the Dragon Quest tetralogy, Final Fantasy, and even Mother. It has Mother’s weirdness and the tightness of Dragon Quest. I can safely say?? that I have never gotten this much enjoyment from an 8-bit RPG.

We didn’t get it over here, though. Most of the series passed us by. To date, we’ve received Metal Saga on PS2 and Metal Max Xeno and its remake/remaster. Why we never got the DS titles, I will never understand. Unless I can convince a few million people to climb aboard the Metal Max Xeno Reborn wagon, I doubt we’ll ever really see them. I’m not confident we’ll ever even see the series again after Metal Max: Wild West’s cancellation.

Fortunately, there’s a fan translation of Metal Max, which you’ll see I used here, as there’s just too much Japanese text for me. I could have maybe pushed through, but I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much. As I mentioned earlier, Metal Max got a 1996 remake on the SNES called Metal Max Returns, and it also has a fan translation. It’s your call which you want to play. I’ll probab??ly get to the remake sooner rather than later, but I have a whole series that I now need to dig my treads into.

Check out previous Famicom Fridays right here.

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Persona 5 is coming to Switch this year on October 21, 2022

The Persona Switch dream is a reality.

Today during the Nintendo Direct Mini, which was aimed at third-party partner announcements, Nintendo showcased the release of Persona 3 Portable, Persona 4 Golden, and Persona 5 Royal on Switch. The former two are slated as a nebulous "coming soon" release, while Persona 5 is fully dated for October 21, 2022.

This news directly follows the recent announcement of the trio for t??he PC, PS5, and Xbox?? platforms two weeks ago. And really, it's not even something that needed to be leaked, rather than assumed! Nintendo isn't shy about collabora?ting with Atlus, and given that they aren't exclusive to any one platform, the company likely wants to see the trio out on as many platforms as possible: including one of the best-selling consoles of the modern era.

In any case, a Persona Switch announcement is great news. All of these games need to proliferate as far and wide as possible, and all of them have their own unique spins and cast members to differentiate themselves. I like all three of them for very different reasons, though Persona 5 has become the golden goose in recent yea??rs, and the favorite in many circles.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgbQIcjzq_4

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Art exhibition coming to Tokyo this summer

This year sees the 20th anniversary of the cult JRPG franchise .hack//. To celebrate ??two decades of dystopian sci-fi action, publisher Bandai Namco has announced several different endeavors that will look back at the video games, manga, anime, and novels set within CyberConnect2's new millen?nium.

The original run of the .hack manga has been digitally republished and is available for Japanese fans to purchase between now and July 4 directly from the CyberConnect2 website. In addition, a special anniversary book will launch on July 19, looking back at every release in the series �from the original  2002 PS2 release .hack//Infection through collectible card title .hack//Enemy. Unfortunately, Bandai Namco did not announce any plans to localize these re-releases for weste??rn fans.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ulUhubUdYc

A special exhibition will also be installed at Yurakucho Marui in Chiyoda, Tokyo between the dates of August 9 and August 28, 2022. The installation will feature original concept artwork and other audio/visual elements celebrating the multimedia franchise. In December, a second commemorative anniversary book will also be released, alongside a special three-CD set of .hack's evocative and melodramatic score.

But what in the way of new games? Well, Bandai Namco has not offered any such reveal, or even the announcement of a reveal, but mystery still surrounds the "Last Recollection" trademark, which the publisher filed back in April of this year. It is believed that this pertains to an as-yet-unannounced set of the four mainline titles in the .hack franchise, namely .hack//Infection, .hack//Mutation, .hack//Outbreak, and finally .hack//Quarantine. So just sit tight for new news, hack squad.

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A lot can happen in 10 minutes

June isn't done yet, and this afternoon, we've got another gaming showcase to watch. It's about time to check out the Final Fantasy VII 25th Anniversary Celebration, which will be streaming live at 3:00 p.m. Pacific today. What's on the docket? Officially, Square Enix has promised "all the latest information relating to the 25th anniversary of Final Fantasy VII."

Depending on who you ask (and which leaks you believe), this stream could touch on many different things �a Steam release of Final Fantasy VII Remake, a coveted glimpse of FFVII Remake Part 2, and potentially even some FFVII "expanded universe" news.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=wohQiEysqIA

You can watch the event live on YouTube and Twitch.

While the FFVII 25th Anniversary Celebration stream is supposed to be on the shorter side, the hype for this event has? really snowballed in the ??past 24 hours, as is the way.

Admittedly, I'm less interested in hearing about stuff like The First Soldier and Ever Crisis, and with Final Fantasy VII Remake Part 2 such an unknown quantity at this point, I'm sure many of you feel the same way. If we get anything concrete on the Naoki Hamaguchi-directed game, and maybe a fun wild-card announcement, I'll be happy. A few details �heck, even a bit of familiar imag??ery to latch onto �can go a long way while we ?wait.

(Worth reminding: if Dragon's Dogma is more your speed, Capcom is also hosting a 10th anniversary stream at the exact same time. I'm feeling re?served yet hopeful.)

Y'all ready for this?

Recap �that was a great showing!

• Final Fantasy VII Remake In??terg?rade is available on Steam tomorrow
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth is the next of the remake?s, coming next winter
• Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis is getting ??a closed beta some?time this year
• Crisis Core Final Fantasy VII Reunion arrives this winte?r for PC, consoles

It's nice to still feel a bit of that "E3" spark.

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The Portable, Golden, Royal trifecta

A long overdue fan-favorite RPG series will finally be accessible to Xbox players, and Phil Spencer showed up on stage at the Xbox & Bethesda Games Showcase to share the good news. That's right, the Persona series is on the way to Xbox, including Game Pass support, and Persona 3 Portable and Persona 5 Royal will be arriving on PC at long last. What a get!

Here's the full rundown: Persona 3 Portable, Persona 4 Golden, and Persona 5 Royal will be playable on Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, with P5R confirmed for October 21, 2022, and P3P and P4G coming sometime in 2023, according to an Xbox release calendar.

[Update: Persona 3 Portable, Persona 4 Golden, and Persona 5 Royal are also coming to PS5, and Atlus has confirmed Steam releases, per Eurogamer. The timing is up in the air.]

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=QESuddo8afY

This hype trailer should conjure a lot of fond memories with old friends, and Atlus also has a dedicated hub site for these Persona games showing up on "modern platforms."

How many hours of JRPGing are we going to need to set aside? On that note, once the Persona games show up in the Game Pass library, I hope they stick around for a long time. No one wants to have to rush through them, and no one wants?? to be left hanging.

//www.tiktok.com/@destructoid/video/7111438005788740869?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=705278??8164067706373

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Not your everyday JRPG

[This week Destructoid is brought to you by Metal Max Xeno Reborn, out now for Nintendo Sw??itch, PlayStation 4, and PC (via Steam). This ?is a sponsored post.]

The long-awaited Western release of Metal Max Xeno Reborn is finally here on Nintendo Switch, PS4, and PC, and Pochi t??he cannon-packing pooch is calling your name.

Not only can you "pet the dog" in this post-apocalyptic open-world JRPG from Kadokawa Games, he's actually an active part of the squad! Some might even say Pochi is the MVP. Together, ?you'll face ferocious oddball threats like dinosaur battleships, massive sand sharks, and missile-armed rhinos. This isn't your average JRPG tank adventure, that's for sure.

Metal Max Xeno Reborn is one of many RPGs in the lovably outlandish Metal Max series, which dates all the way back to the early '90s on Famicom. If you're looking for an easy entry point, Reborn is definitely it �it's a new-and-improved remake of 2018's Metal Max Xeno for PS4 and PlayStation Vita?. In an ongoing war against the supercomputer NOA, you'll join the fra?y as Talis.

While exploring the wastes of Tokyo Bay on foot and in a fleet of heavy-??duty vehicles, Talis will band together with fellow survivors to fend off machines and save what's left of h??umankind.

Real-time vehicular action in the post-apocalypse

Best of all, the skirmishes in Metal Max Xeno Reborn ??take pla??ce on the open-world map, so you can choose your moment to strike and even gain the upper hand from afar. The game's dynamic combat system blends fast-paced real-time movement with turn-based JRPG sensibilities.

As your party gains expe??rience points and scavenges for parts, you'll learn new combat techniques and have more heavily-armore??d toys to play with �customization is the name of the game here. Just don't forget to feed Pochi some snacks while you're out there grinding!

To take down the big boss monsters of Metal Max Xeno Reborn, you'll need to exploit weaknesses to burn, freeze, and beam, among other elements. And when you're picking out the ideal engine and weapons for your dream tank loadout, yo??u'll also want to consider special trait chips �they offer powerful bonuses like a multi-shot and increased critical c?hance. Who doesn't love to land crits?

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=VnLA0Yo4eaI

As the launch trailer shows, this game's cult-classic vibes are front and center. If you're looking for something different in the JRPG crowd that you can sink your teeth into, Metal Max Xeno Reborn?? could be your new jam??. Don't sweat it too much, but humanity is counting on you here.

You can cozy up with your monster-hunting, machine-blasting, apocalypse-canceling crew starting today. Metal Max Xeno Reborn is now available on Nintendo Switch, PS4, and Steam.

The post Don’t miss Metal Max Xeno Reborn now that it’s on PC, PS4, and Switch appeared first on Destructoid.

I'm just here for the gasoline

In the course of playing Metal Max Xeno Reborn, I reached the point where I could make a move on a female party member. I did so, and the game told me that the two protagonists lived happily ever ??after while the rest of humanity died. It then rolled credits and kicked me to the main menu. Cool.

I later got the opportunity?? to make a move on one of the male party members. I was curious, so I did so and got the same result. And that’s how my rampant bisexuality ended the w?orld.

Like many in the West, I had never experienced a game from the long-running Metal Max series before. While the series has been around since 1991 on the Famicom, it has only rarely reached our shores: Metal Saga in 2006 for PS2 and Metal Max Xeno in 2018 for PS4 and Vita. Xeno didn’t go over so well, so the teams at Kadokawa, Cattle Call, and 24Frame went back to the drawing board and overhauled it into Metal Max Xeno Reborn. Sorry if you? bought the origin?al a scant few years ago, I guess.

Metal Max Xeno Reborn (PS4 [Reviewed], PC, Switch)
Developer: Kadokawa Games, 24Frame, Cattle Call
Publisher: PQube
Released: June 10, 2022
MSRP: $39.99

Metal Max Xeno Reborn is certainly unique in the JRPG sphere, taking place in the crappiest imaginable future. Humanity developed a super??-AI called NOAH to help us with all the destruction we were wreaking on the natural environment. ??NOAH decided that humanity was the problem and went to work wiping us out. I have to say, that’s fair enough. That would probably be the most efficient way of fixing things.

The AI absolutely stomped all over humanity’s collective butt. Then it stomped some more. Ju??st as it’s lined up to shove its foot all the way in, Talis (or whatever you name him) shows up and suddenly becomes the savior of all humanity. What’s left? of it, anyway. Which isn’t a lot.

Your goal is simple; NOAH’s ultimate weapon, the Catastropus (I am absolutely not making that up), is primed to take out Iron Base, one of the final strongholds of humanity. Talis needs to fi??nd som??e weapons and some people to use them, and stop it.

[embed]//youtu.be/19BDLjxBK5o[/embed]

We're not smart creatures

Refreshingly, Metal Max Xeno Reborn is rather light on narrative. I’ve grown accustomed to JRPGs beating me over the head with exposition, so it’s nice to find one that gets its point across and leaves you to your own devices. In Metal Max’s case?, your devices are tanks. Forget magic and enchanted swords, you’ve got tanks.

You find a tank in the very next room that you start in, and while there are plenty of sections where you need to get dust on your boots, most of the action is from the armored? safety of a tank. Some of the most exciting? moments in the game are when you come across new tanks out in the desert and most of the combat strategy involves putting the right armaments on your vessel and finding the most effective way to fill the air with them.

Indeed, in the midst of battle, the??re’s little flexibility. It’s a mix between real-time and turn-based, but hiding behind things never really got me far. Instead, i??t’s best to equip for your enemy’s weaknesses and then try to hurl as much pain their way as you can before it strips the steel off your tank.

Where the legacy of the past lies dormant

It’s largely a linear RPG. As you progress from area to area, you hunt down and face off against “wanted�monst??ers, which are essentially bosses. Some directly block your way, others can be bypassed, and some need to be discovered. All of them put up a fight, and you can easily get sucked into one unprepared. You don’t always know how to prepare without throwing down first. Thankfully, the penalty for death is essentially nothing. It takes some of the tension out of the fights, but it does mean that you won’t pay dearly for biting off more than you can chew.

The battle system is kind of a mess, but also really ne?at. The enemies that roam the wasteland only get replenished if you take time to rest. Otherwise, if you clear a safe route, it’s going to be mostly safe if you need to backtrack. You alert enemies by crossing their line of sight, which is unreliable and weird.?? I’ve been in the face of enemies who didn’t notice me. I’ve been in the middle of combat and suddenly the foe decides it can’t see me anymore and the battle abruptly ends. They don’t replenish their health, so it isn’t much to resume fighting, but it is rather clunky.

In a lot of ways, Metal Max Xeno Reborn is incredibly basic. The graphics are ?more suited for the Switch or Vita, and even with that in mind, they aren’t ter??ribly impressive. The UI is also a heaping pile of butts. So much of the game involves simple crafting and improving your weaponry, and a lot of the details are simply not available or not easily found.

It's safer here in my armor-plated womb

You’re left to figure out a lot of things on your own. While I frankly prefer this over being overloaded with information early on, I have to wonder how many things I overlooked because the information I was provided on it was insufficient. Some weapons seem underpowered or innocuous, but maybe that’s just from a stat standpoint and they have some special function that isn’t stated. The arsenal in Metal Max Xeno Reborn is dizzying, and I simply don’t have the interest in testing out everything i?ndividually.

The storyline is going to be off-putting to some. The narrative itself is incredibly basic and doesn’t feature much at all in terms of twists and terms. A lot of the heavy lifting is done by the backstory, which? you pick up in bits and pieces. While it’s rather to the point, I found it to be strangely engaging. An apocalypse caused by man’s hubris is hardly a new perspective, but there’s this resigned “we probably deserved it�underlying everything. It’s a dark, almost humorous cynicism. It tickles me greatly that the overall backstory is the tale of a colossal screw-up?, then when our backs were against the wall, we continued to screw up.

There’s an assortment of party members to pick up, but while some of them are in?teresting enough, interacting with them isn’t. As you?? work with them, their lines of dialogue in the base change and you get more of their back story. That’s about it, though. There’s very little interaction, you just talk to them until there’s world-ending sex.

Everything is better with a dog

As for the improvements made Metal Max Xeno that gave it the reborn moniker, I can’t say for sure because I never played the former. Apparently, the art style was redone. Originally, character art was handled by hentai artist Non Oda, and they were toned down for this one by Takeshi Oga. Don’t worry, there’s still a soldier character wearing panties and a garter belt, so it hasn’t completely been painted over with the color prude, but it’s maybe more?? in line with a lot of other anime games.

The greatest addition, however, is a dog. Yes, someone looked at the game and decided that the best way to improve it was adding a dog, a??nd they’re absolutely right. Yes, you can pet him, and yes he helps you in combat. You strap a cannon to his back, cover him in armor, and he blasts the enemies alongside you. He’s even got his own skill line so you can use his experience to build him into the best boy.

I always found it hilarious when these big hulking enemies would look at a line-up of three tanks, then decide to focus their attention on the little Shiba Inu biting at its toes. Don’t touch my dog,?? though. I will blast you.

The translation is a bit screwy. I noticed quite a few typos, but those might be fixed in release patch. It happens. But even with that, there are some weird choices of words. For one thing, your dog has the ability to debuff foes by barking at them, at which point the word “dejected�crosses them. That’s the word you went with? Maybe they’re feeling dejected because they can’t be friends with your do??g. That’s reasonable, I guess.

Solid platinum

I really wasn’t expecting to love Metal Max Xeno Reborn as much as I did. I picked it up because I was curious. A tank-focused JRPG? It’s like the developers have been reading my diary. Sure, I could even see its jankiness on display in the screenshots that caught my attention, but that just deepened?? my curiosity. It’s definitely not a short game, at least 30 hours, but I absolutely ate it alive without slowing down.

It’s unique. As much as JRPGs always seem to try to one-up each other on spectacle, there’s nothing like a trio of tanks unloading their combined ordinance on a towering monstrosity of flesh and metal. And Metal Max Xeno Reborn seems to know it. It gets out of your way a??nd lets you?? go.

It sometimes feels antiquated; a late arriver to a bygone era of JRPGs. An amalgamation of the directness of SNES RPGs and the pomp of the PS2 flavor. I can only dream of what the series would be like with a bigger budget and staff. But even with what we have now, Metal Max Xeno Reborn is somethi?ng special. Now, you’ll have to excuse me while I go to work digging through the series past. I need more, and I? need it now.

_{[This review is based on a retail build of the game provided by the publisher.]}

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Remaster of a remake re-releasing in 2022

Square Enix has unveiled Romancing SaGa: Minstrel Song Remastered, a newly revamped edition of the cult PlayStation 2 fantasy JRPG. It will launch on PC, console, and mobile platforms in ?winter 2022

The story of a malevolent force's return and the quest to prevent the ensuing destruction, Romancing SaGa: Minstrel Song launched on PS2 in 2005, and is itself a remake of the original SNES Romancing SaGa adventure, which launched way back in 1992. Since its release, the original PS2 edition of the adventure often changes hands for a pretty penny on auction sites, and so this new release w??ill be welcomed by those wishing to experience the remake for themselves.

As is the case for most classic JRPG remasters, Square Enix's new edition of Minstrel Song will support HD resolutions and feature optimized controls and several quality-of-life features to aid playability on modern platforms. New content is also hinted at. You can check out an early trailer below, and see the first screenshots over on the game's official website.

Romancing SaGa: Minstrel Song Remastered is curren??tly in development for PlayStation, PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile platforms, w??ith a tentative release date of winter 2022.

Romancing SaGa: Minstrel Song R??emastered announced [Gematsu]

//youtu.be/1-sMRwc5boM

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