Atelier Shallie Plus: Alchemists of the Dusk Sea for PlayStation VITA is the final installment in the beloved Atelier Dusk series, and it brings together the best elements of the franchise. As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast, I was excited to dive into this game and see how it captured the nostalgia and charm of classic RPGs.
One aspect that immediately stood out to me was the battle system. It masterfully blends strategy and speed, giving players the ability to think tactically while also keeping the action fast-paced and engaging. This is a refreshing change from many modern RPGs, which tend to favor one style of combat over the other. The result is a combat system that is not only fun to play, but also keeps you on your toes and constantly thinking ahead.
In addition to the battle system, Atelier Shallie Plus also offers a unique time management system. Unlike other games in the genre, there are no restrictions on how much time you can spend in the game world. This freedom allows for unlimited playtime and gives players the opportunity to fully explore the world and all it has to offer. It's a feature that harkens back to the days of classic RPGs, where the focus was on exploration and discovery rather than rushing through the main story.
Of course, no Atelier game would be complete without the engaging Synthesis system. In Atelier Shallie Plus, this system is straightforward and easy to navigate, making it accessible to both newcomers and long-time fans of the series. As someone who appreciates the nostalgia of classic games, I was delighted to see the simple menu design reminiscent of older RPGs. It's a small touch, but it adds to the overall charm of the game.
That being said, while Atelier Shallie Plus has many positive aspects, it does have a few shortcomings. The first is the graphics. While the game is on the PlayStation VITA, a handheld console, the visuals are lacking compared to other games in the series. The character models are not as detailed as they could be, and the environments lack the level of polish that is expected from a modern RPG. It's a disappointment, but it doesn't detract too much from the overall experience.
Another area where Atelier Shallie Plus falls short is the narrative. While the dual main character system offers multiple storylines and endings, the overall plot feels somewhat lacking. The pacing is uneven, and the character development leaves something to be desired. It's a missed opportunity, as the potential for a deep and engaging story was there, but it ultimately falls flat.
In conclusion, Atelier Shallie Plus: Alchemists of the Dusk Sea is a game that captures the essence of classic RPGs while also incorporating modern gameplay elements. The battle system is a perfect blend of strategy and speed, and the time management system allows for unlimited playtime. The Synthesis system is straightforward and accessible, giving players a taste of nostalgia. However, the graphics and narrative could have been improved. Nevertheless, for fans of the Atelier series and retro gaming enthusiasts alike, Atelier Shallie Plus is worth a playthrough.
