So there’s this company called Sega WOW. Which is part Overworks, who is responible for epic tales such as Phantasy Star, Sakura Taisen, and the epic Skies of Arcadia. The other part makes House of the Dead. Both are pretty cool games, but you can tell it was mostly the Overworks staff that made Valkyria Chronicles. Not only because it’s an RPG, but because there’s no zombies. Anyways, here’s a picture. Then I’ll rant about how I’m mad this game isn’t selling as well as it should.
So, Sega hasn’t been known to make really great games here lately. However, they made one excellent game called Valkyria Chronicles. I must admit I was very hesitant about trying this game. At first, I was gung-ho about playing it, because it was an RPG on the Playstation 3 system. Then, as I saw more trailers, I felt disconnected from the whole thing. I’m a fan of fantasy, not war. There are plenty of games that simulate war.
But this WAS fantasy. Although it was wartime stuff, which I usually don’t get into much, I found myself enjoying it. I was like the nervous kid at the swimming pool, who could only put his toes in without running back to mommy in fear of the cold cold waters beneath.
My employment at the time allowed for free rentals of movies and videogames. So I had nothing to lose. That’s when I fell in love with the game. I was impressed by its ability to imbue one title with so many variations of gameplay. It’s a strange mixture of Action RPG with RTS.
You get to control a Squad in this fantasy war that takes place in a fictional continent called “Europa” which is essentially a fantasy version of Europe with fantasy countries fighting over it. The initial plot device is a substance called “ragnite” for which two regions are fighting over. The story takes place in Gallia, which is usually a neutral nation, but they have a large supply of ragnite.
Sound familiar? I’m sure it does.
Apparently, this game isn’t selling so well, and I can see why. RPGs are a niche market, and strategy rpgs are even further a niche market. I’m astounded though. This game takes some really cool concepts to make a very well-rounded game. This game is one of those “classic” games that will stand the test of time. Stuff like Grand Theft Auto IV may get 10/10, but I doubt people will be talking about it in 10 years like they do other Overwork’s games.
I’m not sure where I want this post to go. I don’t really want it be a pity post. In my opinion, Sega hasn’t really published much lately that’s been top-notch save the Yakuza series. This game hasn’t sold very well here in the states. If I say, “you should buy it!!!!!” it may be misconstrued as some fanboy trying to propagate his favorite underappreciated game. However, I assure you this is not the case. I genuinely feel that this game is top-notch and worthy of not only recognition, but of a possible purchase as well. The only reason I say that, is because nothing speaks louder than your check book, and I’d sure as hell like to see more quality games like these from Sega. While you’re at it, pick Yakuza 2 while you’re out.
There’s also an anime coming out. That’s something I’m going to be keeping an eye on: http://www.valkyria-anime.com/
