4/1/2003
Before I dive into this review, there's one thing I need to point out, as it will directly indicate whether this game is for you: In Dragon Quarter, there are times when you will die and not be able to progress further. It'll be physically impossible for you to continue without restarting your game and going through it again with your built-up stats. If this sounds like something you can't handle, stop reading this review right now. But if you can open your mind concerning what's acceptable in an RPG (such as restarting midway through), please read on to find out about one of the most extraordinarily deep and innovative games I've ever experienced.
As we've stressed in the past, Dragon Quarter marks a huge departure for the series. Fans of the previous games will be shocked when they see how little this game has in common with the prior four, aside from some slight consistencies, such as the main character being named Ryu. I, for one, welcome the change. The Breath of Fire titles have always been solid diversionsgames I'd play while waiting for the next Final Fantasybut nothing more. DQ changes that.
Here's a game that introduces new ideas to the genre, drawing inspiration from the most unexpected places. Dragon Quarter's save system mirrors Resident Evil's typewriter ribbons, and the game's limited item inventory is also similar to that of its fellow Capcom franchise. Dragon Quarter does, however, takes several liberties. For example, it doesn't have any healing spells. This creates a rather interesting game of resource management and strategic planning.
Another surprise is Dragon Quarter's impeccable battle system, which blends turn-based strategy with action elements. Everything about the battles is well thought out, offering you an almost unending number of possibilities. I've never before been so engulfed by the battles in an RPG. You're also able to change into your Dragon form here, but there's a catch: You have a meter that counts up each time you change form, and there is no way to lower this number. Reach 100 percent and you die.
But what most astonishes me is Dragon Quarter's incredible storya thoroughly engaging tale about members of an underground civilization trying to reach the earth's surface. Rarely have I been so inclined to keep playing an RPG. I had to find out if the game's characters would make it. Best of all, though, is the Scenario Overlay system, which allows you to gain new story segments as you replay the game.
Factor in a wonderful soundtrack from FF Tactics composer Hitoshi Sakamoto and you have the sleeper RPG of the year.
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