Release date: April 15
Platform: Nintendo DS
Genre: Strategy RPG
Publisher: Atlus USA
Developer: Success
Official web site: http://www.atlus.com/rondoofswords/
Reviews
Nintendo Power: 6.5/10
Play: 8/10
Previews
1UP
IGN
Story
This is the story of the war of the Bretwald Kingdom, the continent that's situated at the center of Bravord, against the empire Grand Meir. After the funeral ceremony of the fallen king, the neighboring empire, Grand Meir, sent their soldiers to attack the knights of Bretwald. Several men have fallen by their hand. The only survivors, led by Serdic, fled to the Federation of Shalem Emirate.
Serdic, the game's protagonist has lived in the shadow of the Prince of Bretwald his entire life. Due to his uncanny similarity to the Prince in appearance, Serdic has been the Prince's body double for years. He took the place of the crown prince during the invasion of the Meir Empire. The Crown Prince handed him the Holy Blade, and asked him to fulfill his dying wishes. With this, Serdic heads on a quest to reclaim the Kingdom of Bretwalde. In order to avoid awkward situations arising, he must not tell his comrades that he is not the real Serdic.
Gameplay
Errand System
Throughout the course of the game players recruit a variety of characters, some of which may not be able to participate in battle. This is where the Errand System comes in. The player can send inactive party members do various chores. These activities range from buying supplies to entering the player into various Quests.
Battle System
Rondo of Swords makes use of a unique battle system known as the "Route Maneuver System." Players will get to set a character's course through an area. If enemies counterattack, or block an attack, that character's advance will be stopped. Players can also attack multiple enemies in one swift move. However, the character's path cannot double back, so players should plan character routes carefully before beginning the maneuver.
OverBreak
Each person has a unique special ability called an OverBreak or OB. These OBs may be one of several types;
* Attack
* Supportive
Some characters have abilities that do not fall into either of these categories. OBs also have three ranks. As the player directs characters to attack enemies, the ranks will continue to increase. At the third ranking (or level), each character can unleash the OB's most powerful effect.
Skill Points
Players will earn Skill Points throughout the game, which in turn lets them purchase various items. These include Magic and Supportive Skills that are unique to each specific character. However, not only will characters will be able to purchase new skills, but also they will get to strengthen the ones they already have.
Multiple Endings
Like with the Chrono Trigger and Chrono Cross series, completing certain events or tasks will net gamers various endings. There are 4 possible endings in this game.
Journey of Trials
Players will endure various trials to show their strength and overall prowess. They will be awarded various items necessary to change their job class plus increase their overall potential.
Pix
Cover
I seriouly cannot wait to pick this game up, did anyone at VGC picked this gem up? Atlus can do no wrong. Show the Game some love.
