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Review of King's Field III on PlayStation

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Nov 1996
Cover image of King's Field III on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 7
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 20 Nov 1996
Genre: Action Role-Playing Game
Developer: FromSoftware
Publisher: ASCII Entertainment

Introduction

Welcome to "King's Field III," the action RPG that makes you feel like a confused prince searching for his sanity. You take on the role of Lyle, the Verdite Prince, who must navigate a world as twisted as a pretzel in a funhouse mirror. If you're ready to battle on a battlefield that feels more like molasses than a high-speed chase, let's delve into this peculiar gem from the late '90s!

Gameplay

The main purpose here is to save your insanity-or your father, if that's more your speed. Set in a not-so-bustling world filled with dungeons and landscapes, you'll be exploring the kingdom as you take on various creatures. First-person battles are at the heart of this title, which can feel like a dreamlike waltz with the worst dancing partner known to man: a sluggish combat system that feels more like slow-motion kung-fu at times. Combat is less about quick reflexes and more about strategic planning, almost like you're trying to decide what toppings to put on your pizza while there's already a thousand toppings on it. You'll teleport between cities to save yourself from the boredom of traversing the same plain! Pro tip: stock up on healing potions. You'll need 'em.

Graphics

Graphically, this game feels like a throwback to the good old days. There's a certain charm to the pixelated graphics that should invite nostalgia, but can also prompt some head-scratching moments as you try to decipher what is supposed to be a tree and what is a cleverly camouflaged enemy. The environments have a branching beauty to them, but the world could use a bit more polish, or at least a few more brush strokes to differentiate a bush from a baddie. It's like an art class where the teacher was a little too ambitious with the watercolors. Still, there's a sense of wanderlust that lures you into the dungeons, even if they do feel eerily similar.

Conclusion

Overall, "King's Field III" may not be everyone's cup of tea, especially if you're looking for rapid action and snappy gameplay. It's a great option if you're looking for something to sink your teeth into while also testing the limits of your patience. Much like waiting for your slowest friend to get ready for a night out-it's more about the journey and the strange stories that arise during that waiting game than the destination. Grab your sword, put on your armor, and prepare yourself for a slow but potentially rewarding adventure. This one earns a hearty 7 out of 10 from me, best enjoyed with sarcasm and a sense of humor.

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