If you're a fan of retro gaming, you might be intrigued by the concept behind Citizens of Earth, a charming title developed by Eden Industries and published by Atlus for the PlayStation 4. In this game, you step into the shoes of the vice president, tasked with uncovering the mysteries of your hometown that has suddenly become host to some very peculiar happenings. While the premise sounds promising, it's essential to manage your expectations before getting too invested.
One of the most endearing aspects of Citizens of Earth is undoubtedly its nostalgic design. The visuals evoke a charming pixelated art style reminiscent of classic games, instantly transporting players back to the golden age of gaming. From the overworld map to the towns and dungeons you explore, there is an undeniable sense of nostalgia that will warm the hearts of retro gamers.
However, beneath its retro exterior lies a gameplay experience that may prove underwhelming for some. Citizens of Earth suffers from an unfortunate lack of polish and depth, preventing it from reaching the lofty heights of its nostalgic inspirations. The combat, for example, often feels repetitive and lacking in strategy, with battles boiling down to mindlessly clicking on enemies. It's a missed opportunity to inject some much-needed excitement and engagement into the gameplay.
Furthermore, the story, while promising at first, fails to deliver on its potential. The strange happenings in your hometown should be an intriguing mystery to unravel, but instead, they feel disjointed and unsatisfying, leaving players craving for a more fleshed-out narrative. Characters and their interactions, although quirky, lack the depth needed to truly connect with the player, making it difficult to become emotionally invested in their journey.
That being said, Citizens of Earth does have its redeeming qualities. The vast array of characters you can recruit to join your party adds an element of variety to the game, and each one comes with their unique abilities and skills. This gives players the freedom to mix and match their party to find a combination that suits their playstyle, which adds a touch of strategy and customization to the experience.
Furthermore, the game's humor deserves praise. Citizens of Earth doesn't take itself too seriously, injecting lighthearted humor into its dialogue and interactions. While the jokes may not always hit the mark, they contribute to the game's overall charm and make for an enjoyable, if not particularly deep, experience.
In the end, Citizens of Earth for PlayStation 4 may appeal to a specific niche of gamers who both appreciate retro aesthetics and enjoy less demanding gameplay experiences. It offers a glimpse into the past and successfully captures the essence of classic games, but falls short in terms of gameplay depth and storytelling. While the journey may not be as fulfilling as we had hoped, it's still worth a try for those seeking a temporary escape to a simpler, more nostalgic era of gaming.
