Ah, the classic JRPGs of yore! You don't need a magic crystal ball to know nostalgia is trending, and Tokyo RPG Factory has dusted off their old-school playbooks to create 'I Am Setsuna.' This little gem is like finding a hidden snowball in your freezer-a refreshing treat, even if it may leave you a bit cold in the aesthetics department.
Buckle in, because we're diving into a snow-laden tale! You control Endir, our silent protagonist (who needs a little more personality than that IKEA chair in the corner of your room) tasked with protecting Setsuna, the sacrificed maiden. The game employs an Active Time Battle system akin to classics like 'Chrono Trigger', where you frantically issue commands to your team like a kindergarten teacher during recess. Combat is straightforward-attack, use magic, or unleash 'Techs,' which are basically your fancy powers except they don't come with a side of fries. Each character collects experience points, boosting stats and that ever-important health meter until you're powerful enough to fight off an army of ice monsters. And let's not forget about the 'Combo Techs'! You can execute ridiculously powerful combo attacks, so long as you have the magic crystals available. Does it feel nostalgic? You bet! It's as if your childhood Nintendo accidentally showed up on your doorstep after a long night out and said, 'Hey, let's play some RPGs!'.
The graphics of 'I Am Setsuna' are like that pair of cozy winter socks you love but are a bit worn out-charming yet lacking in flair. The color palette is dominated by muted whites and grays, emphasizing the perpetual snowfall of its world. It's visually distinct, but If you've ever seen one snowflake, you've pretty much seen them all. The character models are similarly stylized, bearing that ol' JRPG charm but without the visual pizzazz found in more modern counterparts. But hey, just because it looks like a snowstorm doesn't mean it lacks depth. The cutscenes are nicely done and help flesh out the story, which, spoiler alert: is a sad one! Just prepare for a touch of drizzle in your tear ducts as you play, bucket optional.
'I Am Setsuna' is a hauntingly beautiful experience-like getting snowed in with no Wi-Fi! Sure, it has its fair share of flaws (seriously, can we get a little variety in aesthetics, please?) but it serves as a cozy reminder of the classic JRPGs that shaped many of our gaming lives. If you stick with it through the icy facade, you'll discover a touching story that pays homage to its predecessors while carving out its own special place in video game history. So toss on your favorite blanket, brew a cup of cocoa, and dive into a game that's not just 'setsunasa