2016 has been an incredible year for JRPG’s, not in greatness, but in volume. We’ve had a wide collection of new localizations, spinoffs, ports, and new franchises all trying to compete in this rather niche space. And even though we’re only halfway through the year, none have felt extraordinary, echoing that Persona, Chrono Trigger, or even Ni No Kuni feel we all know and love. Nevertheless, I kept my eyes on a couple, including Grand Kingdom, a turn based RPG with a couple of mechanical twists. And while I still stayed optimistic, I haven’t had a game surpass my expectations like this in ages. Nevertheless, here’s my full verdict of this wonderful title.

Gameplay:

I liked using the slash ability, but it’s always good to have a medic alive and well in case things go horribly awry

I think a game like Grand Kingdom is so memorable, because all of it’s components fit beautifully together. The first one of these is the gameplay, which is tactically easy on the surface, but gets so much more deeper as time goes on. You have your typical party, yes, but you can assign them in a lot more places, in order to fully manage your attacks. Screw up a move? You can thankfully restart, but Grand Kingdom doesn’t take this willingly. The AI is bloody fantastic, and this is further improved among higher level enemies and their defensive protections.

While you’re not battling, you’ll be moving a chess piece to progress the game’s map. It seems silly at first, but it’s crazy how different it feels when compared to other, more arbitrary systems. You already have the suspense going into let’s say a random encounter, as the game has already assigned this more strategical feeling, instead of something that’s immediately off-putting.

Story & Design:

The story in the game is also very detailed, impressive, and made with passion, and never once feels bloated or too weak. I even believe that players who aren’t interested in the story will still appreciate it’s caveats, such as responsive animations during dialogue slideshows and a range of voice acting that is anything beyond weak.

In addition, the game also has an extensive and enriching management system. Instead of getting members to join your attack group that you won’t really desire, you can actually create their appearances and traits. It’s yet another one of the things about Grand Kingdom that’s so secret in its greatness, but gratifying the more you implement it.

Presentation/ Visuals & Audio:

The game’s distinct cast of characters.

Part of the reason why the story feels so strong in Grand Kingdom, is it’s tone, setting, and undeniably accessible art direction. While not entirely original, the developers have brought it to new heights, and epic battles in custcene form are some of the highlights. There wasn’t a single time I thought, “just let me back into the gameplay!” I felt so enveloped in it all.

Conclusion:

Grand Kingdom is the best non-traditional role playing game I’ve played this year, and may even take a place on my end of the year list once I fully take in how outstanding it is. But right now, I’m doing things I couldn’t have dreamed of being fun yet are, a common trademark of Grand Kingdom’s incredible design.

Grand Kingdom gets a 10/10 (Masterpiece)

We’d like to thank NIS America for giving us a code!

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