Introduction

Take a moment to ponder the many RPGs you're familiar with. Now, picture a game that harks back to the nostalgic feel of those classic turn-based adventures, coupled with some wild ideas and missteps that could have been plucked out of a 1990s gaming manual. Enter Earthlock, or as it was once known, Earthlock: Festival of Magic. This title emerges from the depths of the indie scene, waving a flag marked 'for the lovers of retro games.' In its journey across the various platforms, this youthful sprout finally found its way to the Nintendo Switch. But does it truly deserve a spot in your library, or is it another case of 'jumping the shark'?

Gameplay

Earthlock invites players to explore the charming yet divergent world of Umbra, a planet caught in eternal chaos due to a catastrophic event that quite literally halted its rotation. As Amon, a scavenger with dreams bigger than his resources, you're not just collecting loot, but unraveling the mysteries of a world lodged between perpetual sunlight, shadow, and a habitable patch squeezed between. Gameplay pivots around a unique turn-based battle system where characters engage in pairs: a 'warrior' unleashes attacks while a 'protector' casts spells and heals. Support points are crucial as they unlock special moves; the strategic element requires some thought, akin to planning your high school prom outfit - which is to say, a bit overwhelming, but hey, you might pull it off! The non-linear structure offers freedom, which is fun until you realize you're lost and your compass is broken. This crunch can lead to good ol' grinding, reminiscent of those RPGs that made you question every life choice you've ever made.

Graphics

Visually, Earthlock opts for a colorful, stylized aesthetic reminiscent of a childhood drawing that somehow escaped the fridge. Environments boast a charming art style that borders on whimsical, although it sometimes feels like the game is more enamel pin than epic visual saga. The character designs are quirky and memorable, but occasionally seem to lack polish, making you wonder if they passed a rushed creative meeting. For a port made to run on the Switch, it performs reasonably well, so don't expect a graphical revolution, but do expect your dreams of fantastical landscapes being showcased in a somewhat stately fashion.

Conclusion

Earthlock offers a nostalgic dive into turn-based greatness for RPG aficionados, albeit with a few cracks in its whimsical facade. Its blend of charming visuals, quirky characters, and a solid battle system holds merit, but it struggles against the barrage of modern gaming standards. If you're looking for the kind of game that feels like a warm hug from your childhood while you ponder if fallacies will remain unchallenged, Earthlock may indeed be your game. However, if you're a finicky gamer allergic to the slightest hint of imperfection, consider this a skip in favor of something shinier. For those ready to embrace its unique charms and imperfections, Earthlock is a solid, albeit slightly flawed gem. At the end of the day, maybe you just want something to occupy your time while you avoid responsibilities - this game fits the bill perfectly!

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