RPGs nowadays rarely feature lost Eidolons. Despite taking clear inspiration from Fire Emblem, it uses realistic-looking characters instead of stylised characters that would look at home in AAA blockbuster movies. That’s important, because Lost Eidolons feels decidedly thrown together, particularly in terms of presentation and performance. A strange mix, to say the least.
Throughout a 26-chapter campaign, you take control of Eden, a local gang leader whose muddy village exploits develop a mercenary company. The story takes place in a medieval world where an emperor’s once iron grip is loosening, a rags-to-riches tale. Even if the dialogue and cutscene pacing is tediously drawn out at times, Eden and his merry band of mercs prove themselves to be a major player.
It’s natural for Eden and his initially ragtag group (which is composed of individuals, much like Fire Emblem) to fight for their right to ascend the empire’s hierarchy, resulting in tactical, turn-based battles. You move units across grid-based maps and take advantage of enemy weaknesses — like heavy weapons being effective against plate armour — but depth comes from how each character class has its own abilities. Knights, for example, can attract the ire of their foes, attracting opponents away from weaker party members.
As you progress through the campaign, you’ll find yourself having enough to think about – even during minor skirmishes. The difficulty curve is usually well judged, and new concepts are introduced at a manageable pace. Combat only fumbles when dealing with monsters, since these beasts require the chaining of specific attacks to deal meaningful damage. If you don’t have the right weapon types available at the right time, monster encounters can quickly become a slog.
Despite some serious rough edges, Lost Eidolons is an ambitious outing that just about sticks.
Pros:
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System that engages.
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Character progression.
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Fantasy world.
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Several difficulty settings.
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Great orchestral music.
Cons:
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Presentation is rough.
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Facial animations are non-existent.
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Battles with monsters.
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Dialogue is dreary.
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Tearing of the screen.
This game gets a 6 out of 10.
