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Review of Atelier Meruru: The Apprentice of Arland on Switch

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Dec 2018
Cover image of Atelier Meruru: The Apprentice of Arland on Switch
Gamefings Score: 7.5
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 04 Dec 2018
Genre: Role-playing
Developer: Gust Co. Ltd.
Publisher: NIS America

Introduction

In a world where alchemy rules, and more colorful characters than a candy store await you, 'Atelier Meruru: The Apprentice of Arland' has arrived on your trusty Nintendo Switch! This delightful gem not only invites players to explore the whimsical kingdom of Arls but also encourages them to craft, create, and sometimes cringe. Let's dive into the colorful chaos that is Meruru's journey and unearth what makes this game a must-play (or just must-consider) experience for any RPG aficionado out there - or for anyone who likes to hoard virtual items like it's a sport.

Gameplay

Gameplay in Atelier Meruru is packed with charming crafting mechanics that will warm your heart and potentially overwhelm your inventory space. You play as Meruru, the local princess who just *has* to spice up her kingdom with some alchemical magic. Completing quests and improving the kingdom are your primary tasks, but let's not forget the tedious 'collect all the things' role this game plays! You'll gather ingredients like you're training for a scavenger hunt - a fun scavenger hunt where your greatest treasure might just be that sweet new potion recipe. Add to that the turn-based combat system where you're the boss (literally), and you can command your quirky friends to help you escape grueling encounters with the local monsters while still trying to look good doing it. Seriously though, teamwork is key, and coordinating these characters is almost like herding cats but cuter!

Graphics

Let's talk visuals, shall we? In 'Atelier Meruru', the graphics are vibrant - so much so that you may momentarily think you've stepped into a 5-year-old's crayon drawing session. The character designs are ridiculously kawaii; each character seems as though they just leaped off an anime screen, complete with expressive animations that'll make you chuckle. However, if you're looking for ultra-realistic graphics like those epic RPGs with brooding heroes and wilted flowers, you're better off elsewhere. The graphics won't revolutionize the gaming world, but they do fulfill their cute quota splendidly. Plus, it fits the quirky tone of the gameplay perfectly.

Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on 'Atelier Meruru: The Apprentice of Arland'? This game is a delightful concoction of laughter, crafting madness, and cute characters that'll leave you smiling as you find yourself chaotically combining every item you can grab. Sure, it might not be the slice of adrenaline-filled action you were hoping for, but it's akin to sitting down for a cozy afternoon tea (or in this case, a potion-brewing session). Whether you're alchemist-obsessed or simply enjoy engaging in light-hearted RPG fun, 'Atelier Meruru' could be a charming addition to your gaming library. Just prepare for some adorable distractions and an excess of items that will surely clutter up your virtual shelves (and your stamina).

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