Summary Review: Citizens of Earth for PlayStation VITA
Citizens of Earth, developed by Eden Industries and published by Atlus, invites players to step into the shoes of the vice president and delve into a quirky, small-town mystery. As a dedicated retro gaming enthusiast, I must admit that while this game evokes a certain nostalgia for classic RPGs, it falls short in several areas.
One can't help but appreciate the game's charming and vibrant visual style, reminiscent of the 16-bit era. The pixelated art and character designs pay homage to the golden age of gaming, drawing us into a world where nostalgia reigns supreme. Every screen exudes a delightful retro ambiance, capturing the magic of the past in a way that tugs at our heartstrings.
However, beyond its nostalgic aesthetics, Citizens of Earth fails to fully engage the player. The gameplay mechanics, though attempting to channel the turn-based combat familiar to retro gaming enthusiasts, lack depth and strategic nuance. Battles feel repetitive, with limited options for tactical decision-making. This lack of complexity leaves a void that even the game's quirky humor and enjoyable dialogue cannot entirely fill.
Exploration, another staple of classic RPGs, is an aspect in which Citizens of Earth showcases its potential. Poultown, the game's main setting, teems with NPCs and side quests to undertake, giving a sense of bustling life and a vast world to explore. However, these quests are often shallow and superficial, lacking the depth and meaningful impact found in other retro-inspired titles.
Furthermore, the pacing of the game suffers from inconsistent storytelling, hindering its ability to captivate players. While it successfully sprinkles humor and eccentricity throughout, the plot fails to provide a cohesive narrative thread, leaving players unfulfilled. The lack of a driving force behind the character's actions hampers the overall enjoyment and investment in the game's quirky world.
Despite its flaws, Citizens of Earth manages to salvage an element of charm through its witty writing and memorable characters. The dialogue, infused with humor and lighthearted banter, showcases the game's potential as a comedic gem. The interactions between the vice president and the eccentric townsfolk can elicit genuine laughter, offering a brief respite from the game's less engaging aspects.
In conclusion, Citizens of Earth for PlayStation VITA attempts to capture the essence of retro gaming with its nostalgic visuals and humorous writing. However, the lack of depth in its combat mechanics, shallow side quests, and disjointed storytelling prevent the game from truly reaching its potential. While it may appeal to die-hard enthusiasts seeking a brief nostalgic trip down memory lane, it falls short of leaving a lasting impression. With a rating of 3.5/10, Citizens of Earth proves that even with the best intentions, not all retro-inspired games can recapture the magic of the past.
