Valkyria Chronicles is a game that will be memorable for many years to come.
Valkyria Chronicles is a strategy RPG like never seen before. Traditionally, strategy RPG's have used geometrical grids in a 2D turn-based environment. Valkyria Chronicles is also turn-based, but functions in a 3D world using combat most similar to a third-person shooter. There are a range of different classes all with their own strengths and weaknesses including Lancers, Scouts, Stormtroopers, Snipers, Engineers and even Tanks. Each unit accommodates each-other and the abilities involved create tactics that mimic the high-quality strategy of games like chess. Thankfully, unlike other SRPG's, Valkyria Chronicles gives out a ranking at the end of every battle that rewards you for how well you did. This translates into not only experience points but currency as well. The experience points are then used to level up the different classes whichever way you would like, and since classes are levelled rather than individual units, the system prevents you from feeling like whatever characters you started with you are stuck with. On the other hand, the currency is used for research & development which means new weapons, armour and outfitting for your tanks.
The game progresses through a series of chapters within a book, and each chapter includes at least 1 battle as well as several cut scenes. The story itself is simple but the variety of characters and relationships help create a very intriguing tale with some intense moments and also a great finale. In summary, the story is very light-hearted and the character development is great. One great thing is that Valkyria Chronicles is very easy to pick-up and play and the introduction really helps ease even the newest newcomer into the gameplay mechanics and strategies involved. It is easy to say that this is one of the easier strategy games to get into, and while there is a lot of depth, the game is enjoyable and entertaining for just about everyone.
Valkyria Chronicles is based on a 3D strategic plane, and the controls really accommodate the gameplay. Once a unit is selected from the tactical map, the camera is brought down to the player's level and you are free to move about. Movement distance is restricted on each turn based on the class of the character, and the movement is very tight and responsive. Once your character is in position for an attack, the press of R1 pauses the map and allows you to line up a shot. At this point the game turns into somewhat of a third-person shooter, which gives the game some interesting action elements and some versatile gameplay. The menu also doesn't suffer from lag whatsoever and really helps make the experience smooth and intuitive.
One of the most unique features of Valkyria Chronicles is the art style. Valkyria Chronicles features fully 3D cell-shaded graphics like never seen before. The game's art mimics a beautiful drawing and the vivid palette helps support the light-hearted atmosphere. Each unit, texture and background looks like it has been hand drawn and the presentation is absolutely magnificent. It is easy to mistake Valkyria Chronicles as a well-drawn anime which in the end proves successful in every regard
The sound effects of Valkyria Chronicles are basic but also very fitting. However, the real strength of the audio is in the original sound score. Valkyria Chronicles quite simply has one of the better RPG music scores of this generation. The theme song is captivating and just about everyone song heard captures the mood of the game. To accompany that is a terrific voice cast featuring many successful actors and actresses from all over Hollywood. The sound coupled with the beautiful artistic design really create a terrific experience that Sega should be proud of.
With a 40 hour campaign mode as well as some extras on the second play-through, Valkyria Chronicles has plenty of re-playability. The first playthrough is well-worth the purchase alone and once you've finished the game, your save file allows you to keep your character levels and unlocks on your second play-through. Also, on the second play-through you're allowed access to Hard mode on skirmishes which aren't just harder versions of their former selves, but rather a completely different battle on the same map. The lack of trophies is a serious bummer but there is some great DLC available on the PlayStation Store.
Valkyria Chronicles is hands down one of the best strategy games this generation and one of the best RPGs period. It isn't very often that a game of this quality comes out, and it's definitely worth it's sticker price. Valkyria Chronicles is an incredible experience all wrapped up in rich gameplay. With a stunning look, sound and feel, Valkyria Chronicles is a game that will be memorable for many years to come.