REVIEW : Arcadia Fallen (PC)
In Arcadia Fallen, you take on the role of Morgan, albeit you have the option of changing their name. Morgan is an apprentice to a competent alchemist in Anemone Valley, a tranquil mining town in the Empire where magic and spirits exist but are typically treated with fear and mistrust. After a disturbing series of events reveals the beginning of a demon infestation in town, Morgan inadvertently becomes bound to a cheerful spirit named Mime. The two end up possessing the only means to seal the malevolent spirits away. Morgan and Mime must work with a small group of misfits from all walks of life within the Empire and beyond to figure out what is causing the demons’ abrupt appearance.
Arcadia Fallen begins with a basic yet surprisingly thorough character creation process, as if to underscore the strong degree of options you have. Morgan’s name, gender, and body type (feminine, androgynous, and masculine) can all be changed, as well as their hair and outfit colours, pronouns, and voice. I was impressed by the character creation options offered, particularly the pronouns! The narrative begins in earnest once you’ve finished customising Morgan to your liking.
At its foundation, Arcadia Fallen is a classic visual novel. You use a map to navigate to various locations in and around Anemone Valley. Story sequences are frequently depicted with still character art against bright backgrounds. On occasion, you must decide how Morgan should react to a situation or how the plot should progress. I was genuinely astonished by the sheer amount of options available to the player throughout the game. Instead of wading through mountains of material to reach decision points, there is a relatively small gap between them.
Obviously, the storey path in Arcadia Fallen is reliant on the player. Because there are so many triggers and results during conversations, it depends on how you choose to play it. It’s absolutely one of a kind as a whole. Despite the fact that the plot is cliched, this title sticks out as unique. There was something about this game that drew me in and made me want to learn more. Each character has a compelling motive for being in their current location. While some people merely happen to be in the wrong place at the wrong time, others use violence to justify their actions, and it’s your job to figure out why.
Personality systems are also taken into account while making decisions. Morgan, for example, can react to an event with shyness, determination, humour, or displeasure. In a circumstance, you’re never pigeon-holed into one reaction type, as I frequently found myself fluttering between bashful, kind, or determined reactions, with the occasional funny or diplomatic remark tossed in for good measure. Given how complex humans are, I believe this contributed to Morgan becoming a more believable figure. I also enjoy the fact that there are no consequences for storey advancement decisions.
It helped that each character had their own motive for being there, albeit the game tries hard to keep those details hidden until the right time. Every personality had a reason behind it, whether it was Kaidan’s fun facts about his people’s customs, Mime’s attempt to name your group, Ann’s informative rants, Victoria’s party-pooper ways, or Michael’s teasing, which I appreciate because it’s something that’s often overlooked in these types of games. Despite falling into certain character stereotypes, the cast was incredibly likeable. I only wish they hadn’t skimmed over some of their more fascinating themes so soon, since it made the game’s pacing feel rushed.
As you may expect given the nature of the game, controls are pretty basic. As I already stated, all you have to do is read and click when appropriate. As a result, anyone can use it. However, each dialogue has multiple outcomes that are determined by the player. You get to choose how you wish to approach the game. The power is in your hands, whether you’re angry, curious, or really friendly.
The majority of the love parts were enjoyable, but I believe they should have been extended and developed out further. The plot changes based on who you choose as your companion, but the outcomes are generally the same. .Arcadia Fallen’s artwork is lovely and hand-drawn. Each individual has a distinct personality, and the settings are vivid and colourful. Colors play an important role in this game, reflecting the overall tone of various areas and interactions. While your home may appear bright and pleasant at first, things quickly darken as you learn more about the scenario. Whether this is done on purpose or not, it contributes to the story’s immersion. However, I must make a special mention of the colour pallet used during sorcery. Your screen is covered in amazing purple hues and bright pinks, and it is simply stunning. It has a magical quality to it.
PREVIEW : Smart Factory Tycoon (PC)
