Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless, the latest Disgaea title from NIS America, proves that sometimes it’s best to stick with what works. Building on the success of its predecessors, Disgaea 7 strikes a balance between cherished traditions and a few new features, delivering a game that fans of the series have been yearning for.
Set in the richly detailed Netherworld of Hinomoto, Disgaea 7 introduces us to the zany world of demons with a samurai-era Japan twist. Protagonist Pirilika’s fascination with Bushido culture leads to hilarious misadventures as she partners with the sword-wielding demon Fuji to restore Hinomoto’s former glory. This vibrant setting and its quirky inhabitants create a backdrop that’s both engaging and endearing, and should resonate very well with Disgaea fans.
One of Disgaea 7’s standout strengths lies in its character roster. Each member is delightful in their own unique way, fitting seamlessly into the samurai-themed Netherworld aesthetic. The narrative unfolds with layers of humor and charm, making it a compelling journey worth savoring. Compared to previous Disgaea games, the cast here resonates with one another more deeply, creating a more memorable experience as a result. This blend of old and new, along with the vibrant characters, it part of what makes Disgaea 7 another standout entry in the series.
Gameplay takes center stage, and Disgaea 7 excels in this department. The introduction of Hell Mode and Jumbification injects a new level of excitement into battles. Hell Mode, exclusive to select characters, provides a strategic edge, while Jumbification offers a versatile tool that requires careful planning. These additions are not only fun, but also essential for overcoming challenges when used in the best possible way.
Unfortunately the need for grinding, which is a recurring concern in the series, persists in Disgaea 7 even though improvements in the Item World make the process feel less tedious and more rewarding. Item Reincarnation breathes new life into equipment, encouraging players to experiment with character builds. The vast array of character classes and the ability to swap between them offers near endless customization possibilities. This extensive customization for character builds, while sometimes requiring grinding, greatly enhance the gameplay experience, providing players with a satisfying level of depth and replay value.
Visually, Disgaea 7 shines. The shift to 3D graphics enhances animations, diversifies colors, and elevates the overall aesthetic. Character portraits remain beautifully illustrated, emphasizing the series’ commitment to style. On the PlayStation 5, performance is flawless, ensuring a seamless gaming experience.
The hub town offers a plethora of activities, from the Netherworld Hospital’s rewarding gacha-style system to bonus battles and unlockable character colors. The Dark Assembly and Cheat Shop provide valuable tools for customization and optimization, though it may take time to master them fully.
Disgaea 7 introduces Ranked Battles, allowing players to engage in online AI battles. While an intriguing addition, finding matches may be challenging if the player base doesn’t take to the online mode after launch. Still, it’s a welcome feature for those seeking an extra layer of challenge.
In summary, Disgaea 7: Vows of the Virtueless strikes a harmonious balance between old and new, delivering a strategic RPG experience that’s both familiar and fresh. The Hinomoto setting and its captivating characters provide a delightful backdrop to the engaging gameplay. For fans of the series, Disgaea 7 is a must-play, and it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of this beloved franchise. The game’s extensive customization options, exciting combat tools, and memorable cast of characters contribute to its status as another excellent entry in the series.
Score: 8.0/10
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