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Game Review

This review may be long overdue, considering I first played the demo on the Switch back in 2020, but here are my thoughts on the game. As a longtime fan of Trials of Mana, I only recently had the chance to fully experience it.

Art of the Game
The art in this game is nothing short of outstanding. After playing through every character’s demo, I was so captivated by the visuals that I even ended up drawing Angela. The color palette and combinations used for each character are incredibly pleasing to the eye - something I deeply appreciate when it comes to character art. Each character’s design feels unique yet cohesive within the world, making them stand out without clashing against the game’s overall aesthetic.

Beyond that, the colors and designs of the class switch are also well done. The outfits for each class evolution are distinct and well-crafted, showcasing the growth of the characters while maintaining their original charm. The attention to detail in their costumes, from the intricate patterns to the way the fabric flows, really adds to the immersion. That said, I have to admit the class switch animation didn’t quite take my breath away. Maybe it’s just personal preference, but having grown up with Winx Club, I expected something a bit more magical. A more dynamic or cinematic transformation sequence could have elevated the moment even further. Still, that’s just a minor note in an otherwise beautifully designed game.

The game’s environments also deserve praise. From lush forests to burning ruins, each location is brought to life with vibrant colors and atmospheric lighting. The way the scenery changes depending on the time of day adds a sense of realism, making exploration even more enjoyable. Even the smallest details, like the flickering of lanterns or the sparkle of magic effects, contribute to the game’s immersive world-building. It’s clear that a lot of love and effort went into the game’s visual presentation, making it a treat for both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Plot and Dialogue of the Game
The plot is great , no doubt about it. The story draws you in, making you want to explore deeper into the lore - something I definitely stuck around for. The narrative follows the kind of plotlines often seen in stories featuring overpowered (OP) characters or classic fantasy tales where protagonists either strive to prove something to the world or break free from expectations. It has that familiar yet compelling mix of destiny, rebellion, and self-discovery, which is exactly the kind of storytelling that keeps me hooked.

That said, the dialogues are a bit hit-or-miss for me. Some lines didn’t quite land the way I would have liked, but that’s more of a personal preference since I write stories myself. While they effectively convey the characters' personalities and motivations, there are moments where they feel a bit straightforward or lacking depth. Still, it doesn’t take away from the overall experience, especially if you’re invested in the characters and their journeys.

At the end of the day, the plot is right up my alley. It’s engaging, full of intrigue, and delivers the kind of grand adventure that fantasy lovers crave. And as much as I’d like to downplay my enthusiasm, let’s be real - I’m a lore nerd through and through. (But don’t quote me on that one!)

Gameplay of the Characters
The gameplay is solid, smooth, and enjoyable. However, I personally prefer playing with a controller rather than a mouse and keyboard - it just feels more intuitive and makes navigation a lot easier. The controls are responsive, and combat flows well, but I do wish the special skills were more accessible. If they had a setup similar to Genshin Impact (E, Q) or Honkai Impact (J, K, I), it would make activating abilities much more seamless. Having to fumble through menus or button combinations mid-battle slightly disrupts the pacing, especially when things get intense.

That’s really the only downside for me, though. The rest of the gameplay is well-designed and fun, with satisfying combos and skill interactions. I often use Hawkeye’s close-combat skills, and the fluidity of his attacks makes the experience incredibly engaging. The ability to switch between characters mid-battle keeps things dynamic, and each class evolution brings new mechanics to explore, adding to the overall depth. Despite my nitpick about skill accessibility, the combat system is still a blast to play, especially when you get the hang of each character’s strengths and abilities.