Child of Light for PlayStation VITA is a digital download that brings together the enchanting charm of Studio Ghibli's art style with the immersive world of a 2D side-scrolling role-playing game. As a retro gaming enthusiast, I was instantly drawn to the nostalgic feel this game evokes. The vibrant hand-drawn visuals and whimsical soundtrack took me back to the golden age of gaming, reminding me of classic titles like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger.
One of the standout features of Child of Light is its poetic narrative, which is delivered in rhyming verse. This unique storytelling technique adds a layer of sophistication to the game, immersing players in a world of magic and wonder. It's refreshing to see a game that prioritizes the art of storytelling, and the poetic dialogues truly add depth and beauty to the overall experience.
The combat system in Child of Light is reminiscent of classic turn-based RPGs, where strategic planning and execution are key to success. The Active Time Battle system keeps you on your toes, requiring you to carefully choose your actions and utilize the strengths and weaknesses of your party members. This old-school combat mechanic is a welcome throwback for retro gaming enthusiasts like myself, offering a gratifying challenge that is rarely found in modern games.
While Child of Light manages to capture the essence of retro gaming, it falls short in certain areas. The gameplay can feel repetitive at times, especially when exploring the game's vast world. The lack of variety in enemy encounters and quests can make the experience feel monotonous, dampening the overall enjoyment. Additionally, the level of difficulty may deter some players, as the game tends to favor a more hardcore gaming experience rather than catering to a wider audience.
Furthermore, the PlayStation VITA version of Child of Light is not without its technical hiccups. The game suffers from occasional frame rate drops and minor glitches, which can disrupt the immersion and flow of gameplay. While these issues may not be game-breaking, they do detract from the overall polish and quality that one would expect from a retro-inspired title.
In conclusion, Child of Light for PlayStation VITA is a nostalgic journey that successfully captures the essence of classic RPGs. Its beautiful art style, poetic storytelling, and engaging combat system make it a worthwhile experience for retro gaming enthusiasts. However, the repetitive gameplay and technical hiccups prevent it from reaching the heights of its inspirations. If you're looking for a dose of nostalgia and don't mind some minor flaws, Child of Light is a solid addition to your retro gaming collection.
