Children of Zodiarcs (2017)

I was initially drawn to this game because of its clear nods to Final Fantasy Tactics and Final Fantasy IX. It incorporates the fundamental mechanics from FFT, such as choosing the direction each character faces at the end of their turn, while the visual style resembles FFIX. Additionally, you begin the game as a group of charismatic thieves.

However, the creators decided to introduce card mechanics into the mix. This means that each character has a set of random skills in their hand that you need to manage. After selecting a skill, you also have to roll dice, which is done by shaking your mouse (fortunately, this can be disabled in the game settings). As a result, even when you simply want to attack the next guard, you have to contend with two layers of randomness, leading to turns that can take forever.

The combat system is rather lackluster. Although options like using up enemy cards or assigning them cursed dice are available, the most straightforward approach is usually just to eliminate them. On the other hand, the game truly shines when it comes to its characters, although that shouldn't be confused with the story itself, which is only passable. The narrative revolves around a young band of thieves who are given the task of stealing a relic by a mob boss. As it turns out, the relic is a sentient golem that joins the group. Over the course of two chapters, they infiltrate and then escape from various locations, which is fairly standard, if not a bit dull.

However, it's the characters that elevate the story. Each character has their own motivations, which are well-developed. For example, there's a girl who was treated like an exotic pet by nobles, a noble son who was abandoned in the slums and seeks revenge, a noble guard who has fallen from grace and aims to redeem himself, and a boy who believes that killing the gang leader will bring the girl he loves back to the right path. The final missions take a surprisingly grim and dark turn, as you find yourself having to eliminate all your friends one by one.

Sometimes, there's a tradeoff between a compelling story and solid gameplay. In the last mission, my reliance on the mage character was tested as they were unavailable, but luckily, the difficulty level was still manageable. The game also provides a pleasant surprise in the form of an epilogue during the credits roll.