Sea of Stars, developed by Sabotage Studio and played on the PlayStation 5, emerges as a heartfelt homage to classic JRPGs while introducing refreshing elements that elevate it beyond mere nostalgia for one of this year’s best in the genre. The game takes players on an enchanting journey, offering a captivating narrative, engaging gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals – here’s our take.
At its core, Sea of Stars revolves around the tale of Valere and Zale, two Solstice Warriors with the ability to wield the powers of the sun and moon, embarking on a mission to thwart the sinister Fleshmancer alchemist and his malevolent creations. The storyline, a blend of epic quests and unexpected twists, bears the unmistakable Sabotage touch for those who played The Messenger. It gracefully pays homage to classic adventure and friendship themes while infusing a healthy dose of humor and emotional depth into the narrative as well.
One of the standout features of Sea of Stars is its distinctive combat system. Turn-based battles feel rhythmic and accessible, ensuring they never become monotonous. The game encourages players to synchronize their attacks with animations to maximize damage while minimizing incoming harm. Moreover, the combat system includes multi-character combo attacks, strategic “locks” that allow for versatile damage types, and well-timed hits, adding layers of strategy and immersion into the mix.
Navigating the game world is a seamless experience, thanks to a platformer-inspired traversal system. This design choice breaks free from the traditional grid-based movement seen in classic RPGs, enhancing the overall sense of exploration and interaction with the environment. The meticulous attention to detail in the game’s visuals brings the pixel-art world to life, pushing the boundaries of 2D pixel-art aesthetics.
Sea of Stars’ gameplay stands out with its innovative approach to puzzles and brain teasers, fusing Metroidvania elements with JRPG gameplay. Instead of relying on an array of flashy superpowers, the game offers a more modest selection of tools like pushing blocks, utilizing grapple hooks, and wielding hammers creatively. These tools, when used strategically, open up a wealth of possibilities in different locations, providing a fresh take on puzzle-solving within the genre.
The world of Sea of Stars is brimming with interactive locations that encourage players to return and uncover hidden secrets. The game’s attention to detail and thoughtful level design shines through, with diverse environments like haunted houses with hidden passageways, underwater cities, and sky islands with giant tribes that live there. Each discovery feels like an exciting new avenue that opens up, reminiscent of classic JRPGs but with a lot of modern polish.
On the flip side, the game’s combat, although engaging, does have a few drawbacks. The interruption system, while initially intriguing, tends to disrupt the flow of battle over time. Players may find themselves ignoring this mechanic due to its lengthiness and relative lack of meaningful consequences. Additionally, managing MP (Mana Points) and dealing with attack interruptions can be challenging, sometimes feeling like a little bit of a drag rather than enjoyable gameplay elements, while the game’s stat upgrades could offer more meaningful choices. The design often steers players towards prioritizing MP points, which can feel limiting in terms of character customization.
In conclusion, Sea of Stars shines as a love letter to the JRPG genre while carving out its identity in the gaming landscape. Its accessible and rhythmic combat, coupled with engaging puzzles and platforming challenges, make it a standout title. The game successfully modernizes classic elements while avoiding the pitfalls that plagued earlier JRPGs, such as random encounters and excessive grinding. While it does have its minor flaws, such as combat interruptions and limited stat customization, Sea of Stars remains a must-play for both genre veterans and newcomers looking to explore a beautifully crafted world filled with adventure and surprises.
Score: 8.4/10
Press Play Media 