Preview: Enchanted Arms (PS3)

What the Xbox 360 lacks in terms of quantities of RPG’s available, it certainly more than makes up for it when it comes to quality. Playstation 3 owners are about to experience the two big hitters of the 360 stable, namely The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion and the overlooked Enchanted Arms come March 23rd.

Whilst much has been said and written about Oblivion (and Gamestyle will be adding to this in its forthcoming PS3 preview), Enchanted Arms is seen as the runt of the next-gen RPG litter, skulking in the background and only appealing to those who actively seek it out its delights. And that is partly true, as it would be quite easy to focus on the problems within this RPG, rather than the fruit it brings. Luckily the Gamestyle Xbox 360 review determined what a strong release Enchanted Arms was in the face of many critics of its apparent defects.

You take the role of the boyish adolescent Atsuma who is the dumb one of a trio university friends. First introductions do not fool, yes, your character is lacking in the IQ department (although he packs quite a punch) while your two friends divide themselves amongst the overly clever and gay camps. Set in a thriving world that combines the best of medieval architecture and cutting edge futurism, the world of Enchanted Arms is visually stunning. Although the paths through each settlement are entirely linear, it is well worth taking the time to retrace steps and digest the glorious sights – especially if you’re playing high definition – by moving that camera around.

The inhabitants are extremely optimistic about their future but all too aware of events long ago that still overhang in their thoughts. Many centuries before the world was almost destroyed by Devil Golems, god-like creatures whose power came from an exclusive natural element, such as fire, ice, wind and so on. Good triumphed over evil and the forces of destruction were sealed away allowing the civilisation to rebuild and grow. Now a game wouldn’t be fun if you were merely content to walk the streets taking in the sights, so those Devil Golems will play a part in a memorable storyline.

Some of the issues that all players will have with Enchanted Arms start with the voice acting. Although it didn't trouble Gamestyle too much, we can certainly understand why some gamers became tired of the dramatic and over zealous voiceovers. This split in opinion has been identified by From Software who included the original Japanese audio and the option for text only. Whatever your preference, the detractions can be removed allowing you to focus and enjoy onscreen events. The Playstation 3 version is also meant to ship with an all-new English language track; it'll be interesting to compare it to the much criticised original.

Levelling up comes from experience gained in battles and spending your special points to boost your character levels. The only way to do this is through the random battles and you'll certainly experience more encounters than usual. Enchanted Arms is almost on a par with Sega's Skies of Arcadia that threw battles at you at every few steps. To minimise the tiresome repetition of encounters you do have the option to switch to an Auto function, where you can sit back and watch your characters fight. Although it does have its limitations, it does, in more cases than not, get the job done. And you can intervene yourself or restart the battle if things start to go wrong.

Thankfully the SpeedTatics battle system is one of the best turn-based examples Gamestyle has experienced in several years. Dividing the stage into squares, you can plan your attacks singularly, or in combination with fellow characters, creating some devastating moves and overcoming some strong boss characters. From Software is known for developing challenging titles full with memorable and original characters, and Enchanted Arms keeps this tradition alive.

The Playstation 3 version also promises to take advantage of the SIXAXIS controller by allowing you to harness weapons, recover points through its motion–sensitive function. This will also be utilised to solve puzzles and unleash powerful attacks, adding a twist to an already strong battle system. Thirty exclusive creatures to the Playstation 3 edition have been added to the strong list of monsters.

While most eyes will be on (quite rightly) The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion come launch day, those seeking a more novel and structured experience will do no wrong in picking up Enchanted Arms.

Words by Jason Julier