TGS: Valkyrie Profile impressions

[09.18.99] » Tri-Ace's latest RPG outing resurrects 2D tradition

   Tri-Ace, developers of Namco's Tales of Phantasia and Enix's Star Ocean series returned to the Tokyo Game Show with a surprisingly strong showing. Their marquee title, Valkryie Profile, combines one of their trademark action-filled battle systems and stunning 2D graphics.

   A few more details about Valkryie Profile's storyline have been revealed. The game is heavily steeped in Norse and Scandinavian mythology. The player controls an avenging valkyrie (think "female battle angel") sent by Odin to train souls for the forthcoming apocalyptic battle between the gods. Each of the 20 or more party members that joins your party throughout the game is actually the spirit of a deceased warrior.

   The battle system is more action-oriented than almost any other RPG's; the GIA's TGS correspondent described it as "almost like a fighting game." Up to four party members fight at one time; each is assigned one of the PlayStation's four buttons. When a character's "meter" is filled, the player mashes that character's button to unleash a flurry of regular attacks. In the playable demo at TGS, only one magic spell was available, but it was unleashed in the same manner: the meter filled, a dialogue box declaring "Push "X" to cast a spell!" appeared on the screen, and you did. Additionally, characters and enemies can dodge, feint, counter, and jump while attacking and defending. This makes for an extremely visceral battle experience.

   One of the most surprising aspects of Valkyrie Profile is its entirely 2D nature. Battles take place in a traditional RPG battle environment, but nary a polygon is to be seen. Moreover, the field and adventure maps are completely two-dimensional; characters scroll from side to side across environments, branching up and down to enter houses, dungeons, etc. The developers said this design decision was made because of current limitations on 3D environments and characters. The 2D environments are certainly impressive.

   With a unique setting, enjoyable battle system, and stunning 2D graphics, Valkyrie Profile established itself as one of the RPGs to watch. Enix will publish Valkyrie Profile in Japan this November 25th. A U.S. release is likely, although no publisher has been announced.