Excave II: Wizard of the Underworld for the 3DS is a dungeon hack and slash RPG that aims to bring back the nostalgia of classic retro games. As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast, I appreciate the effort put into creating a game that reminds me of the good old days.
One aspect that adds to the nostalgic feel is the classic JRPG style gameplay. Players can choose between two adventurers, each with their own unique attacking style. This brings back memories of games like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest, where the choice of character greatly impacted the gameplay experience.
What sets Excave II apart from other RPGs is its lack of a leveling up system. Instead, the player's strength is determined by their equipment. This is a refreshing take on the genre, as it adds an element of strategy and encourages players to seek out the best weapons and items. It reminds me of games like Zelda, where finding legendary weapons was key to advancing in the game.
However, I must also provide some critical feedback for Excave II: Wizard of the Underworld. Despite its nostalgic charm, the game falls short in several areas. The graphics, while reminiscent of classic 8-bit games, lack the polish and detail that could have made them truly stand out. The gameplay can also become repetitive, with little variation in enemy designs and dungeon layouts.
Additionally, the lack of a leveling system might not appeal to all players. Some may miss the satisfaction of watching their characters grow stronger over time through experience points. This can make progress in Excave II feel slow and discouraging at times.
Overall, Excave II: Wizard of the Underworld is a game that blends nostalgia with modern mechanics. While it may not be a perfect experience, it offers retro gaming enthusiasts a taste of the past with its classic JRPG style and emphasis on equipment rather than leveling. It's worth a try for those seeking a trip down memory lane, but may not satisfy those looking for a more polished and varied RPG experience.
