Sabotage Studio · Aug 29, 2023
WIth its beautiful soundtrack and aestethics, Sea of Stars was able to caputre the interest of RPG players, especially that of the last generations. It did not fail to deliver nostalgic elements especially with the music. Although there is a small aresnal of options within the game itself, in terms of diversity and depth, the battles and exploring can be engaging. While the game will not bore you of its story, it falls short on providing solid character and world building. My major point of criticism is the ending of the game, which lacked chalenge, and getting the next ending served as a chore with not enough motivation due to challenges in narrative. Although I did not see throught the second ending, Sea of Stars with its more than 25 hours of gameplay, is an interesting adventure with a sea of potential, and I cannot wait to experience what the developers will make for their next star (game).
Sea of Stars is a heartfelt homage to classic RPGs like Chrono Trigger, Secret of Mana, and Final Fantasy VII, making it a true gift to gamers who cherish these timeless titles. In the year 2023, Sabotage Studio has crafted a one-of-a-kind RPG masterpiece with Sea of Stars. Despite the passage of time, this game successfully transports players back to an era when these classic RPGs reigned supreme. Playing it on my Steam Deck added an extra layer of nostalgia as I reminisced about the countless moments I've spent with past consoles. The story in Sea of Stars is a standout feature. It delivers a rich narrative filled with humor and some clichéd dialogue (at times). With a 25-hour campaign, Zale and Valere's journey as Solstice Warriors is genuinely heartwarming and emotionally resonant. Unexpected plot twists and dramatic turns kept me engaged, and I admit, I shed a tear or two along the way. The side characters also shine in their own right, with Garl's subplot significantly impacting the overall story. What initially drew me to Sea of Stars, even before I played it, was its stunning art style. It immediately captured my attention and convinced me to dive in. In 2023, pixel art is far from obsolete, and Sea of Stars serves as a testament to that fact. Throughout the campaign, the game maintains a consistent art style while offering a diverse range of looks and atmospheres for each location. No classic RPG would be complete without a memorable soundtrack, and Sea of Stars certainly delivers in this department. The audio cues, soundtracks, and battle themes are the final piece of the puzzle that elevates the game to greatness. Frankly, the music is so enchanting that it lulled me to sleep on more than one occasion, only for me to wake up and realize that it was already morning. This isn't a criticism; it's a testament to the game's ability to help me unwind after the daily stress of adulting. Lastly, Sea of Stars' mechanics offer a classic turn-based RPG experience with a twist. I was genuinely impressed by the level of engagement required to execute attacks and counter them effectively. It's a seemingly simple mechanic that adds a significant layer of strategy to the gameplay. In conclusion, Sea of Stars stands as one of the finest RPG experiences you can immerse yourself in. With its captivating art style, compelling storytelling, outstanding soundtracks, and innovative mechanics, it has secured a special place in my heart as a gamer. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Sabotage Studio for not only rekindling my love for classics but also for reviving the joy and nostalgia of playing these kinds of games. 
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