In 2015, the Tales series hit a rough patch with Tales of Zestiria. While the battles were fun, the story and characters fell flat. Fast forward to 2017, and Tales of Berseria burst onto the scene, offering a gripping revenge tale that revitalized the franchise. The recently released remaster for the Switch introduces handy features that make replaying the adventure worthwhile, even if some visual aspects remain unchanged.
The story revolves around Velvet Crowe, a young woman driven by vengeance after her brother, Laphicet, is tragically sacrificed. Her quest against the exorcist Artorius Collbrande serves as the backbone of the narrative. Velvet’s character stands out as a compelling antihero, contrasting sharply with the typical noble protagonists of earlier Tales games.
As Velvet travels, she forms meaningful bonds with a diverse group of characters. One standout is Laphicet, who begins as a boy stripped of his emotions due to Artorius’s spell. Velvet becomes his protector, helping him rediscover his feelings. Eleanor is another noteworthy character who shifts from a staunch Abbey follower to an ally of Velvet, showing real growth as she witnesses the Abbey’s dark side.
The optional skits throughout the game enhance character development, showcasing engaging dialogue that deepens player connections to the cast. This addition, combined with exceptional voice acting, makes the game feel alive.
The combat system in Berseria is fast-paced and strategic. Characters use a Soul Gauge to power special moves, promoting a mix of offensive tactics and defensive maneuvers. You’ll need to manage this gauge wisely, as it adds a level of depth to battles. If you’re careful, you can unleash thrilling attacks known as Break Souls, enriching the combat experience with flashy, cinematic moments.
However, one of the original game’s major flaws was excessive backtracking. Players had to use limited items to teleport and often faced slow pacing. Thankfully, the remaster addresses these issues. Players can now gain unlimited teleport items early in the game, and the running speed has been increased, making the experience much smoother.
The Grade Shop is another exciting feature available right from the start. Players can adjust settings for New Game Plus, providing a fresh twist for returning players. Some players have reported choosing ten times the experience points for a more casual run, while others prefer a challenging playthrough.
The Switch port holds up well with minimal performance hiccups, though some players have noted frame rate limitations and texture pop-ins. Despite these minor drawbacks, the game remains enjoyable in both handheld and docked modes.
In summary, Tales of Berseria remains a top-tier entry in the Tales series. Its rich story and well-crafted characters hold up even years later. The remaster adds just enough to make it appealing for newcomers and veterans alike. For fans seeking a portable experience, this version is worth your time.
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