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Anyone pining for the old school days of eight to 32-bit games and the RPGs that defined them has got plenty of options for reliving the glory days. With remakes and brand new games in the 2D, pixel art style of the original Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest games, we’re in the midst of a second golden age for turn-based RPGs.
There’s one option in particular that stands out, especially if you’ve got a buddy you’d like to play alongside: the critically-acclaimed Sea of Stars, currently £25.99 down from £34.99 on Nintendo Switch from Amazon.
Following two protagonists with solar and lunar powers, this riff on old school RPG mechanics, complete with modernised turn-based combat that rewards engaged play and diverse traversal puzzles, evokes the very best in the genre whilst carving out its own identity.
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Along with stunning visuals, a fantastic soundtrack in the chip tune style of its myriad inspirations, and a fun and engaging storyline, a recent update means you can play through the entire campaign with a friend. It’s not too common to get a couch co-op game these days, especially not in the RPG genre, and it’s an absolute blast to team up with someone on this epic quest.
With 4.5 out of 5 stars from 57 ratings on Amazon and a Metacritic score of 90 out of 100, this one comes highly-recommended by customers and critics alike. “Really enjoyed playing this game,” said one five-star review on Amazon. “If you love turn-based JRPGs with a retro style, you'll adore this game. The only small criticism is that it’s a little too easy and very straightforward, but I enjoyed it from start to finish.”
“I could not put this game down, it has been one of the best games I played on the Switch,” raved another happy player.
Another said: “This game deserves all of the awards it’s won. Everything about this game is on point.”
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It’s not been to absolutely everyone’s tastes, however. “The colours are amazing and gameplay easy to play but I really struggling to get through it, bored even," said one more critical reviewer.
Another added: “It feels too basic in terms of gameplay. In my opinion, it does a good job of recalling the old-fashioned RPG but doesn't surpass the old masterpieces.”
If couch co-op adventures are on your wishlist, be sure to check out the fantastic It Takes Two for £34.99. For those who just want a slice of old school RPGs with a modern twist, Dragon Quest XI S: Echoes Of An Elusive Age is very highly-rated and available for just £35 at CEX.
At just £25.99, however, Sea of Stars is well worth a look.
Topics: Amazon, black friday 2024 , Indie Games, Nintendo Switch