Guardian Saga-1.99(9th Bit Games)

There are tons of RPGs on the appstore ranging from KRPG's to JRPG's. But what type of RPG I've really been hankering for is a classic RPG, something akin to the early days before grinding became a major part in games. Guardian Saga is what I feel appropriately fills that hole in the appstore for the time being.

The story of the game is fairly typical of the genre e.x(You have been sent to save the world from a great evil that is taking over the land etc) but does not detract from the overall experience. The controls are a simple D-pad that works smoothly and is very reactive as to not detract from the gameplay. There is a single menu you can access during any time(except battle) that includes quite a few functions like quick saving, equipping, and your items.

You have free roam in this virtual world and their are a variety of optional dungeons and places that deviate from the main plot. Every once in a while when you are traveling you run into an enemy which by turn based combat do you defeat. Once initiated in combat you have three different choices: Attack, Magic, or to run the heck away. Your attack strength depends on what equipment you have on you at the time as you can not change while in the heat of battle. You gain magic skills as you progress in the game and they take up your Mana points. Located around the map are various villages where you can save your progress, buy items, or take a nap to restore your health. Luckily theyre never so far apart you die trying to get their but if not well equipped when you step foot in the wild then your shit out of luck.

The chiptune soundtrack is quite delightful and definitely fits the retro vibe of the game. The 8-bit graphics are spectaculuar and well detailed. The gameplay time is roughly 8 hours but more if you take time to explore other dungeons and reach the level cap. The only complaint I have so far is the fact that their is no multitasking which im sure will be added in an update.

Overall this game takes everything we love about rpgs and puts it in one lovingly crafted game. This should definitely be added to your app collection. I give it 5/5.

Link:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/guardian-saga/id451887140?mt=8

Posted in: 1.99, 5 Stars, Adventure, Arashi541, RPG