[This review is based on a sample provided by the publisher.]
Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is a remastered version of the original Odin Sphere, which was released on the Playstation 2 way back in the day (well 2007). Created by Vanillaware and published by Atlus, the action RPG was heralded as one of the prettiest games of its era. I somehow managed to miss out on playing the original, so I was particularly pleased to hear about Leifthrasir‘s release. As mentioned in a previous article, this new edition features updated graphics, additional mini-bosses, and tweaks to the combat system. While I can’t compare the previous version to this one, I can review the game at face value with a pair of fresh eyes. Note: I played the game on my Playstation Vita.
The game is broken up into storylines focused on the five main characters: Gwendolyn, Cornelius, Mercedes, Oswald, and Velvet. The heroes’ backstories tie together, leading them to cross each others paths at certain points. The overlying story focuses on a great war between the nations of Erion, the game’s world. The plot was moving, but not overly dramatic and was the main thing that enticed me to continue playing during long gaming sessions. The notes and memos scattered throughout the realm’s battlegrounds help flesh out the game world’s mythology.
Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is a side-scrolling, action RPG. The areas are broken down into different stages, some filled with standard baddies or the larger, more imposing mini-bosses (with one room for the main boss). Other rooms can be designated “Rest Areas” or be tucked-away treasure rooms, occasionally housing a weapon skill-unlocking Phozon Prism. Finding these special items can be as easy as beating a required boss or as tricky as finding a hidden room. In the case of the latter, you are given vague hints in the “skill” menu as to its location.
Battles are fast-paced and require you to make use of blocking and breaking your enemies’ guard, “juggling” your opponents in a mid-air assault, and using available skills as well as alchemic potions. You learn on the go for most of it but there are mini-tutorials on occasion. In regards to alchemy, mixing up potions is simply a matter of either following the recipes (which you will find on the field) or trial and error. I found several mixtures to particularly helpful at certain points, particularly Shine and Restore.
By powering up Phozon Prisms with the phozons you acquire from felling foes, you can tailor your hero to match your fighting style. For example, some skills are more tactical in nature and rely on your character or the enemy to be positioned a certain way to be effective. Character abilities, which can be acquired by spending orbs earned through leveling up, further the tailoring process. You can focus on making your hero more defensive or offensive or even spend you orbs to unlock a discount at merchants. It is a fun aspect to the game that makes playing feel more personalized.
Now, I can’t speak for how the original looked back in the PS2 days but holy cow, the Vita version is eye candy at its finest. Between the fluid animation, colorful graphics, and the storybook-like art style, I couldn’t take my eyes off of it. And some of the food looked good enough to eat! The production values felt high overall, with tons of voice acting and a beautiful soundtrack.
I tend to be hesitant to pick up action RPGs because of my poor “gaming reflexes.” But I urge anyone who is even mildly interested in the title to pick it up. I certainly enjoyed my time with the title. What’s more, I can’t find a single thing wrong with it. I believe that earns Odin Sphere Leifthrasir a 5 out of 5.