Threads of Fate

"“World Domination, Baby!”"

One relic which can do anything. Two adventures that intertwine. The fate of the universe is at balance. Anyway, here is Square's second 32-bit release in the action platform genre after the legendary(?) Brave Fencer Musashi, still mixed with role playing elements here and there. It does seem to fail in living up to Musashi's popularity, but it's still a fun game.

There are two main characters which you can choose to play first: Rue, a mysterious young man who only wishes to be together again with his beloved Claire; and Mint, a spunky ex-princess who, to put things simply, aims for world domination and reclaim her right as succeeding ruler of the East Heaven Kingdom. The two of them reach the (once) peaceful town of Carona, the closest place to where the relic is rumored to be. Thus, their adventure of a lifetime nears it's final chapter. But things seem to get even messier the more they come closer to the end as they discover the relic's true nature, which turns out to be something far beyond what they can handle. Only then after you beat the two scenarios in one file, a true special ending will be revealed and you can play the game all over again in an extra mode.

At first, the game introduces a simple yet interesting storyline which can be seen from two ‘point of views'. One as Rue, the other as Mint. But eventually their story differs in certain details as an incense of interest so players won't get bored. Rue has the more twisted and revealing scenario while Mint has the longer but wackier one. Both are filled with a good sense of comedy I've never seen in any game before and after you've beaten them both in one file, then you can see the satisfying special ending and play the game all over again in extra mode.

Gameplay differs in the two scenarios too. Though rather easy in difficulty, each provides its own type of challenges. Rue, who uses the axe-like Arc Edge, is strong in physical attacks and comes over his obstacles by transforming himself into the various monsters he recently defeated, together with their own special traits and abilities. On the other hand, Mint, who is very proud of her fabulous drop kicks, relies on magic. The power of Elements she has gathered is channeled through various Effects, which prove to be more than enough to get over her problems. Both of them have a HP and MP gauge. HP is your usual life bar, while MP is your magic bar. Both bars will increase the more you ‘practice' while attack and defense numbers are determined by the use of equipments.

The graphics are all colorful and sharp. From raging waterfalls to a silent pitch black space. The locations where the scenes take place were somehow breathtaking in my first try, and the BGM which goes with each brings us exactly into the mood too. Sometimes, the camera angle is so dynamic and makes all the slash and pounding seem so artistic. The sound effects could've been amazing, but still good nevertheless. The sprites are surprisingly detailed too. Their facial expressions can be seen clearly with every move and action.

There is a very wide cast of characters in the game which build the serene situations in the town of Carona and all the adventures outside it. You may possibly love ALL the characters in this game. Playable, non-playable, minor or major, friends and rivals or foe, and I even felt bad about leaving Carona in the end since I know I'll be missing everybody! These characters are the reason why the treasures you find could be more useful (but less impressive) than they look!

Short, like all other action RPGs, but highly memorable. Most may regret buying it, but others may cherish it for the rest of their lives.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 01/07/05