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« on: July 12, 2015, 09:25:13 AM »
Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch:
As a huge Studio Ghibli fan, I was floored by the presentation of this title, as it literally looks like one of their movies brought to life. Also coupled with an incredible soundtrack, the one weakness I would give this game is the story, which feels a bit strange and drawn out. However, the gameplay of Ni No Kuni is very unique, and I would argue that it's one of the most enjoyable combat systems I've used in recent memory, having played through the game alongside a friend and never really feeling like the progression of mechanics went beyond me. However, it is very tactical and features many layers of depth, so many different players can enjoy something about this title. It's certainly a very beautiful and classy JRPG, which stands out from the rest of the bunch for a number of reasons.
Digimon World: Dawn/Dusk:
Looking for more monster catching? How about more traditional RPG combat? I guess Digimon World: Dawn and/or Dusk might be the game for you. While Digimon hasn't enjoyed the same popularity as Pokemon, the games are always solid, and this title is no exception. The story requires no understanding of previous titles, and features a staggering amount of Digimon that actually manages to stick in your head quite a bit, since it's interesting and exploitable evolution mechanics are intertwined in many ways. The music is fairly good, as well, with quite a few great tracks. The game's content, even after the main story, is pretty impressive, and I'm glad to say you'll invest a lot more time doing unique things in this game than your normal Pokemon entry. Also, the final, post-game "boss" is insanely impressive and will make you feel truly accomplished.
Etrian Odyssey IV: Legends of the Titan
Ah, Atlus. You make many games, but they usually feature a very traditional battle system that is expanded upon with a franchises' unique "twists". Like Etrian Odyssey! The team-based mechanics and job skill classes make this game's combat an initially-frustrating but ultimately rewarding delight. Mixed with the exploration mechanics, Etrian Odyssey IV in particular seems to have the most original ideas in the series, mixing dungeon exploration with specific gimmicks (thanks to the inclusion of smaller-sized caves), overworld travel where avoiding FOEs is key, and a wealth of jobs with unique traits that synergize in many different ways. Its time-based system that effects enemy placement, type, and even your own personal resource management is quite novel too, but here it gels the best. Add a absolutely amazing soundtrack and one of the best final dungeons I've ever played, and I rank Etrian Odyssey IV pretty high on my personal list of favorites.