13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim Review

I would have loved to see a stronger – and more beautiful – SRPG attached to this title. The permanent punishment of something like X-COM’s character deaths wouldn’t work for such an authored story that relies on its many peoples being in the right place at the right time, but cribbing from that series’ tactical freedom – and other SRPGs that are making waves in the scene today – a little more shamelessly would have been a worthwhile endeavour. As it stands its a little too easy to brute force your way through most encounters.

Presentation:

Outside of these drab battles, however, the game is eye-wateringly stunning. Vanillaware have, time and time again, proven themselves to be one of the most consistent defenders of 2D art in an industry that is quickly forgetting it in the Triple-A space. You can’t look at the likes of Dragon’s Crown or Murumasa and not be blown away by the beautiful Japanese art that seems to bleed through the screen in every frame. 13 Sentinels is no different, with its stunning scenes of Japan throughout the ages, with stark, memorable characters strutting through them.

The animation of these characters can feel a little simplistic at times, but they all carry that Vanillaware charm. Early scenes in the school, as golden hour basks everything in a sleepy orange glow and characters chat animatedly about their favourite movies, paints an instantly transportative picture. You’re there, eavesdropping on these inane conversations and becoming attached to not only these characters but to these places in a meaningful way. It’s something even the best anime achieves infrequently, so to see it pulled off so effortlessly here is a real treat.

It’s buoyed by the Japanes and English dubs, both of them rich and warm and full of life, that brings character to every line. 13 Sentinels is one of the few games I don’t skip through the dialogue as I read ahead – the voice acting really is that fun.

Conclusion:

13 Sentinels is another feather in a cap that’s already significantly feathered. If you have played their other titles, and love their incredible art and wonderful characters, you’ll get a lot of out this title. It’s a less interactive endeavour than most of their past games, but that doesn’t diminish it. It’s rote battles might slow the proceedings down a little, but they’re far from a dealbreaker.

If you have a thirst for a fascinating story that rewards you for every second of concentration it demands, I urge you to check this one out. You won’t regret it.