Atelier Iris: Eternal Mana

"EVERYTHING is made up of elements..."

After I delayed playing this game due to my revision for my tests and doing my programming homework, I finally took a break, unwrapping my copy of Atelier Iris: Eternal Mana.

Sitting back on my sofa, I started the game. As I watch the opening, the music and the whole visual effect really impressed me, and I realised that I did not spend my money on the wrong game.

When you first start the game, you will only be able to select either New Game or Options. In the options, what is extremely amazing is that you are able to select between the Japanese or the English voice acting. However, as I am playing, I noticed that there will be certain parts of the game when, if you select the Japanese voice, at certain point of the game, you will not be able to listen since certain parts are a little soft. To rectify this effect, either turn up the volume or turn up the Voice and lower the BGM (Background Music) volume in the same screen where you choose the Language.

In this game, you play as an Alchemist by the name of Klein. He joins up with Lita and later, meet Delsus. The whole thing revolves around alchemy, so you will see references to do with alchemy if you're interested in that topic.

You will start out with the Mana of Earth (Chief of Earth?), Popo. He will be alongside you and aid you in synthesizing of items, treat him well, for every Mana will prove to be play an important role in your party.

Graphics 10 out of 10

The graphics are beautifully drawn, they are not exactly 3D neither are they cel-shaded. But rather, they are beautifully drawn and portrait in 2D. The animations were very comically produced when something odd or funny happens and it fits in very well with the story.

Controls 10 out of 10

Comfortable controls and easily remembered buttons. Rotation of the wheel to execute your extraction of elements and jumping. Jumping must be timed rather well so you need to control your analog or directional controls pretty well. Be sure to keep your thumbs on the Square button, you'll need to use it often.

Gameplay 10 out of 10

The battle system is simply entertaining. It may seem as if there are plenty of enemies around, but you may be amazed when you realize that characters can attack widely, or as in area of effect. With a swing of her claws or knuckles, Lita can wipe out a few of those blobs and with them injured, Klein can easily finish them off and drain their element for future synthesis.

The ability to synthesize lies with Klein, and he can do the same in battle, provided you have enough elements to do so. The ability is extremely useful since when you synthesize an item, you can use them in combat. But while you are in the midst of a battle, once you synthesize, Klein will then use the item.

Besides the fun battle system and the awesome synthesizing, Klein can also jump. Timing your jump is extremely vital since you are require to jump from point to point to gain certain items.

Music and Voice 10 out of 10

I do not know the whole issue regarding the English or Japanese voice acting but I can only point out a few faults that I have seen. From the information I have gathered and experienced, sometimes the voice may just stopped talking or that it is extremely soft. As if the character is whispering. To somehow find a solution to this problem would be to turn down your BGM a little and raising the volume of the voice. Occasionally, before a sentence is completed, the characters just stops talking. But you get no complain from me since I usually read the text, the voice are only additional enjoyment added to the game itself.

Overall 10 out of 10

An extremely fun and innovative game. Gathering all your items and such to create even more power items through synthesizing, to collect cash and complete your mission. To even earn Bonuses in the game. Definitely a must-have for those who loves to have some sort of a non-stop fun in an RPG. Don't miss out on Atelier Iris: Eternal Mana!

The element of FUN is definitely included!

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 07/20/05