Threads of Fate

"Incredibly fun, but with a few flaws..."

Let me begin this review by stating that, all in all, Threads of Fate is a decidedly wonderful adventure that will forever be etched into my memory. Is it astoundingly fun? Yes, it is. Does it have flaws? Of course -- there are very, very few games that have flaws so insignificant they aren't noticeable. Do these flaws hamper it greatly? Most certainly not. I admit, this game may not be for everyone; but I, for one, most certainly did enjoy the experience known as Threads of Fate.


Gameplay - 9/10: This is, in all honesty, where the game shines the most. The gameplay is about as fun as you'll find as far as Action RPGs go, with the basic system packed with just enough adventure and strategy to keep you well entertained. There are only a few points in which I considered it tedious; and these were few and far between. The most noteworthy was gaining gold. Threads of Fate's gold system was simple, and well done, in my opinion. Each monster you kill is added to a kill list, which can be sold at either of the two shops in the town. So, obviously, the more you slay, the richer you become. However, although you are offered much wealth through normal gameplay, there will be several times when you will find yourself trekking through a previous dungeon annihilating the monsters to gain some quick cash. This can, admittedly, become rather dull and loathsome. Fortunately, it isn't so bad that you have to waste too much time doing so, which is certainly a good thing.

As far as the dungeons go, which is the main focus of gameplay... they are, to put it in simple terms, fun! Minor puzzles are enjoyable (without the irritation of those nearly insolvable, intricate puzzles found in other games), and most of the action sequences are easy enough to do with minimal frustration. The bosses were particularly well-done; easy enough, once you found a weakness ... but, sometimes, finding that weakness could be difficult. What does that indicate? The game, while relatively easy, isn't a total pushover! In fact, with the coin system (the ability to start again after dying using one of the coins in your stock), you'll have no trouble finding any weakness of a given boss -- even if it does take a few battles!

However, the best thing about the gameplay is the dual main character system: Each of the main characters, Mint or Rue, has their own unique ability that aids them in battle and, for the most part, is needed in solving the puzzles. The thing is that both systems are so different that you've got no choice to play through the game on each scenario. With Rue, you collect monster coins from various enemies slain, and transform into the slain monster. Although that may not seem like a great deal of fun, it's incredibly interesting to try out new and different forms; plus, you can play with almost every monster met in the game (with the obvious exception of bosses). Mint's system is quite a bit different. There are seven types of magic (normal, wide, circle, etc.), and seven categories (red, blue, green, etc.) of magic. She starts with two of each, for a grand total of four spells. Throughout the game, she will acquire new magic colors and magic types, each with different and unique usage. Almost all of Mint's puzzles are solved with magic (for example, using fire magic to melt an ice block). With such diversity and constant new additions, the gameplay is a roller-coaster of exhilaration of excitement.


Sound/Music - 7/10: Although most of the tunes are generally very befitting to the dungeon or backdrop that they're pertaining to, although a few of the scores can become somewhat grating. The prime example is Carona's (the town that is the center of activity) music--you can tell right away when you've completed a dungeon or have been sent back to the town by the slightly irritating music in the town. This is, however, my only large complaint. The random sound effects throughout the game are superb, with no real mishaps.


Graphics - 8/10: While polygonal, I thought the graphics were incredibly suitable for Threads of Fate. The character sprites are awesome, despite the sometimes blocky appearance. I simply cannot understand why this area has been put down in other reviews; I found the backgrounds to be, at the very least, beautiful, and the characters almost perfect. While a bit more detail on various things could have helped, I do believe Square did an excellent job in this department.


Story/Plot - 9/10: I was very, very surprised here. I was expecting a childish, immature story that would provide a few laughs and nothing more. I was, needless to say, very wrong. The laughs were there (real laughter; not simply amusing scenes and such), but without the immaturity I had anticipated. There are so many things within the game that caused me to either crack a wide smile, or simply chuckle to myself. It provided for a very laid-back and easygoing atmosphere; something I very much enjoy. And, as previously stated, the plot, despite the general look of the game, was not at all childish. Of course, it seems geared towards a younger crowd; however, we're talking late preteens, not six or seven year olds. In fact, with the great characterization that on both stories, the plot adds up to be something rather memorable. While certainly not intricate and in-depth like games such as Xenogears or the elaborate Final Fantasy Tactics, the storyline was easily perceived and very enchanting; in the end, it left me with a good feeling. Needless to say, the endings were spectacular--something that seems to be waning in RPGs nowadays. The storyline is deserving of it's high rating because of the awesome characterization and excellent plot; while, of course, it did have a few flaws, and one or two clichés, it overall offered a solid package of intrigue and drama. Well done, Square.


Replay Value - 7/10: Undoubtedly, a serious gamer will play through both Mint's story and Rue's story, preferably one after another. When both are completed on the same save (when finishing, you will be prompted to start a new game and keep the clear data), you will be able to start one of the two adventures once more--with all the character's enhanced stats. This will lead many to play through the game once or twice more, for the sheer fun of it. However, I myself chose not to; if only for the number of RPGs being released that have grasped my attention. But, Threads of Fate has an undeniable amount of replay value that rivals some of the best.


Overall - 8/10: While the score may seem just a tad bit low for how much I enjoyed it, when taking everything into account, I find the given rating all-too-fair. A great game, and certainly one of the best (if not the best) Action RPGs, on level with the classic Zelda series. While it was a bit short (roughly 10-12 hours per character; a total of about 20-25 hours), I think if it had been too much longer it may have lost some of it's flair. If you aren't a fan of Action RPGs, rent it. If you are, I can assure you that you won't be disappointed with Square's latest package of goodies, Threads of Fate.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 07/26/00, Updated 07/26/00