Another Eden Begins Review Summary
Another Eden Begins is a captivating transition from its mobile origins into a standalone RPG format, shedding the gacha mechanics that once defined it. Priced at $39.99 on PC, the game offers a true narrative experience with two of five planned DLC packs available for purchase, although these could increase the total cost to $85 for those wanting the complete experience.
Story
Set across three distinct eras, players follow Aldo as he navigates a time-traveling adventure to rescue his sister, Feinne. The story, penned by Masato Kato, is rich and emotionally resonant, blending grand conflicts with intimate character moments.
Characters
Feinne stands out as a delightful character, brought to life by Ai Kayano’s performance, enhancing the player’s emotional investment in the story. The game features 19 playable characters, each with unique traits, though the large cast sometimes dilutes the narrative focus.
Gameplay
Combat is turn-based with strategic depth, utilizing systems like Chain Skills and Valor Change. However, early encounters can be too easy, potentially undermining the combat experience until more challenging foes appear.
Exploration
Exploration starts off linear but becomes more engaging once time travel mechanics unlock, adding variety to environments and enhancing the sense of progression through time.
Visuals & Performance
The game utilizes charming marionette-style character designs and vibrant environments. While not graphically cutting-edge, its aesthetics are appealing and support the storytelling effectively.
Overall
Despite some drawbacks like uneven difficulty and pacing issues, Another Eden Begins delivers a heartfelt journey with compelling characters. With a review score of 73%, it’s recommended for JRPG fans looking for an immersive story without the pressures of gacha systems.
