Fans of classic Japanese role-playing games will want to check out Chained Echoes, the new turn-based RPG from solo developer Matthias Linda. A throwback to the classic pixilated 2D RPGs of the early to mid-90s, Chained Echoes puts a modern twist on the well-known JRPG formula to create a wholeheartedly enjoyable game. From the cast of stereotypically diverse characters to the simple, engaging combat system, the game proves that there's still plenty of life left in this aging genre.
Gaming is evolving at a rapid pace now, and as a result of this, many of the classic video game genres are being revamped in new and innovative ways. JRPG's are no exception to this, and huge franchises such as Final Fantasy are constantly looking for ways to modernize and innovate. The most recent entries, Final Fantasy 15 and Final Fantasy 7 Remake, have moved away from the turn-based combat that the series became synonymous with in favor of real-time, fast-paced combat, while retaining some strategical elements. This looks to be continued in the upcoming Final Fantasy 16, with Square Enix keen to ensure the game appeals to a wide audience. In direct contrast to this approach, Chained Echoes is a celebration of everything that made pixilated JRPGs so popular in the 90s.
Chained Echoes Has Old-School JRPG Vibes
Impressively developed by just one man, Matthias Linda, Chained Echoes has received near-universal critical acclaim and has become one of the highest-rated games of the year. Clearly inspired by the likes of Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger, the game intelligently weaves an engaging narrative through its well-constructed characters and bright, diverse game world. The journey sees players take control of a wide variety of characters while trying to end a war between three rival kingdoms.
Fans of turn-based RPGs will find plenty of familiar comforts, including a combat system that is simple enough to pick up and play, but nuanced enough to allow for more challenging encounters. One of the new mechanics introduced is the Overdrive meter. Each action the player takes has an impact on the meter itself, either raising or lowering it, and players must attempt to keep the gauge in the middle zone to prevent overheating which results in taking additional damage. It's a fresh, clever way of ensuring players must be strategic when choosing which actions to take, and it works extremely well.
The game also takes an interesting approach to grinding, which is something fans of JRPGs either love or hate. Instead of leveling up in the traditional way, players are granted magic stones after boss encounters, which allow them to add new skills. The skills themselves can be upgraded, as can the gear that players find and equip throughout their journey. This feels odd to begin with, but players will soon become accustomed to it and learn to appreciate the lack of grinding, which has been one of the genre's biggest bugbears over the years.
These tweaks and additions ensure that the whole experience feels fresh and new, and coupled with the more mature writing when compared to many of its compatriots, lead to a highly satisfying experience. Nostalgia is an incredibly powerful incentive for gamers. As such, having the ability to tap into memories of a game like Chrono Trigger, which is widely considered to be one of the best JRPGs ever made, ensures that Chained Echoes will be appreciated by fans, making it a welcome addition to the classic genre.
Chained Echoes is available now for PC, PS4, Switch, and Xbox One.