Introduction

Picture this: You and 11 of your closest friends have just experienced a cataclysmic event that would make a Michael Bay film look like a snooze-fest. You all die and, instead of heading to some fluffy cloud city, you end up on an alien planet. Welcome to 'Exist Archive: The Other Side of the Sky.' This side-scrolling RPG is like the fiery explosion of a party where everyone's invited, and the challenge? Outlast your own mortality (and maybe your sanity).

Gameplay

Gameplay in 'Exist Archive' plays out more like a test of endurance than a casual romp. The game features a real-time combat system, which means you’ll need more than just thumbs of steel—you’ll need a brain to outsmart enemies that seem determined to make you make the wrong move. Expect to combine quick reflexes with strategy as you exploit enemy weaknesses while managing your character's skills effectively. You might want to start practicing your reflexes just in case; pouring hot coffee on your lap might help. The whole ensemble cast of twelve characters each comes equipped with unique abilities and skill trees. What’s that, you ask? Is it a mini-series? Nope, it’s just that you’ll need to strategize and combo their skills like some sort of RPG Dos Equis ad; “I don't always play RPGs, but when I do, I prefer to build synergy.” Each character excels in specific areas—be it combat or support—and understanding their roles while maximizing their potential is crucial. And guess what? Each character has their own backstory, which rolls right into how you can tailor their skills and development. You’ll want to keep their special abilities in mind during fights, not only because they’re necessary, but also because these abilities can turn the tide of particularly frustrating battles in your favor. And speaking of frustrating, let's talk about how every single monster in this game seems like they spent extra time in the gym, so prepare some serious tactics ahead of time because, spoiler alert: grinding isn't just something you do before a gym session.

Graphics

Visually, 'Exist Archive' gives a nod back to the classic art styles you’d find in a retro anime—vibrant colors and character designs that are flamboyant enough to make a peacock feel self-conscious. The landscapes you’ll traverse lie on that fine line between creepy and beautiful, often giving you short glimpses of your enemies that’ll have you saying "Surprise!"—in more ways than one. The aesthetic complements the gameplay well, giving the impression that one beautiful animation can lead to the next fatal misstep. Think of it as a surprise party, where the surprise is your instant demise. The 2D side-scrolling nature of the game is a stark reminder to cherish your reflexes. The relatively simple player-to-enemy interactions put players on their toes, as dodging an incoming attack while planning your own counters requires some serious multitasking. Get ready to tip-toe through levels and weave through enemies like a ballerina who’s also double-jointed. Basically, prepare yourself to click your grappling fingers at the controllers as you fly across stages—if you’re not careful, “murder” is always just a misstep away.

Conclusion

'Exist Archive: The Other Side of the Sky' is like that weird indie film you watched once that you think you may have enjoyed—but with RPG elements instead of existential dread. The game packs complexity in its challenge and character management, making it one to sink your teeth into while forcing you to think in ways you didn't think were possible. It might frustrate you enough to make you throw your controller once or twice (hey, I won’t judge), but for the most part, if you enjoy digging deep into characters while navigating through expertly designed levels, you’ll find 'Exist Archive' rewarding. Just keep your coffee cup close and maybe invest in a stress ball or twelve. It may not go down as your favorite RPG ever, but it will certainly be one that you won’t forget... or emerge from unscathed.

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