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Review of Daikoukai Jidai IV on PlayStation

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Feb 1999
Cover image of Daikoukai Jidai IV on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 8
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 26 Feb 1999
Genre: Simulation, Role-playing
Developer: Koei
Publisher: Koei

Introduction

Let's set sail into the vast ocean of 'Daikoukai Jidai IV,' or as the cool kids call it, 'Uncharted Waters IV'. This game brings together swashbuckling, treasure hunting, and enough trading to make Wall Street brokers jealous. It's like becoming a merchant pirate without the risk of actually getting scurvy. Get ready for a whimsical journey through the Age of Discovery!

Gameplay

In 'Porto Estado', you become the captain of your own ship with a crew that probably smells of salted fish. Your mission? Search for the legendary Proof of the Conqueror in a world that feels expansive, especially when you're getting lost trying to find your way back from spending too much time in a tavern. You have different characters to choose from, like João Franco, who just can't escape the legacy of his father, or Catalina Erantzo, who has a personal vendetta against the Franco family. It's basically the 'Game of Thrones' of sailing games, but with less backstabbing and more nautical terms. If you like sailing, you'll begrudgingly enjoy the combat too-now it's in real-time, which is a new twist, considering you previously had the luxury of planning the demise of your enemies while scrolling through social media. Don't forget the trading mechanics; you can ruin a port's economy by monopolizing all the fish and reveling in the chaos that ensues. Character development matters, and as you progress, you'll strive to balance your pocketbook and your sanity while simultaneously searching for treasure and avoiding suspicious-looking ships. The more reputation you build, the more you can do while not being chased by angry merchants whose fish you've stolen.

Graphics

The graphics are what you'd expect from a late '90s game-somewhere between pixelated nostalgia and an art style that screams "we tried our best but don't expect the latest Pixar flick". The character illustrations are surprisingly pretty, making you think that you might just be in an art museum rather than attempting to conquer the high seas. The maps are cool too, as long as you remember your worst day of geography class.

Conclusion

'Daikoukai Jidai IV: Porto Estado' resurrects what we love about classic sailing sims while adding enough fresh (or salty) elements to keep the adrenaline pumping. It's not just about who sails the fastest-it's who can outsmart their way through the economies of the world while avoiding tavern brawls. Sail forth, noble captains, and may your voyages be filled with treasures, crazy stories, and absolutely none of the real-life responsibilities of actually being on a ship. If you can endure some trial and error, your ship will be mighty, and your crew moderately sober enough to follow your orders. Grab your controller, accept your pirate destiny, and don't forget to raise the anchor!

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