It's that time again for a new episode of Chichuki Plays, the show where I go hands-on with upcoming games and show them off. Usually, it's about an hour or so but I don't want to spoil too much of the game for you. This time we're looking at Shrine's Legacy on Steam. I was lucky enough to play this at PAX East this year and loved it!
Shrine's Legacy reminds me a lot of classic Super Nintendo games like Chrono Trigger, Secret of Mana, and The legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. It takes inspiration from all those and more and gives the game a fresh feel. A fresh feel that works!
Long story short, the demon of legend, Aklor, has returned. AND it's up to us, Rio Shrine, and Reima to save the day. Rio is the ancestor of the hero of legend and Reima is a magic user. She tried to steal the Sword of Shrine from Rio. In a twist of fate, Rio decided to Reima and defeat Aklor. Along the way, you'll have to find the gems to power the Sword of Shrine, the Elements of Magic. These will help you defeat Aklor and restore order to the world.
You'll be able to attack enemies with magic and swords/weapons. You can also play the game co-op and have each player control one of the characters. You have a magic meter under your health meter. You can run out of magic but you'll replenish it when you attack enemies. You can also replenish it by attacking magic statues strewn about the different locations. There are plenty of enemies in locations that you shouldn't run out of magic. Keep an eye out so you don't get too low when you might need magic. I really like the idea of using ice magic to freeze enemies and stones to use in puzzles. The puzzles are interesting in this game because they're challenging but not too tough you won't figure them out. You'll feel an accomplishment when you do because they make you think a little bit.
You'll also be able to equip jewels to your party. Both Reima and Rio can have different jewels equipped. Jewels have a certain cost to equip. A nice feature is that the two characters have different equip totals. I liked when I got a jewel that showed off enemy HP, my character didn't have to wear it to use it. There are enemy boss fights in locations and they're guarding the Gemstones needed to power the Sword of Shrine. Destroy the monsters to get the gemstones and power up!
Fans of classic SNES RPGs will want to check out Shrine's Legacy. It is a loveletter to the classics of the time and plays like a dream!
Make sure you check out the hands-on video below!