Customer Reviews

Blue Dragon: Awakened Shadow

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*4.5

I've never actually played the other 2 Blue Dragons...but I'm loving this one.

The first hour is exposition-heavy, and the dialogue/story is really cheesy and cliche.

However, once you start questing, this game is a blast.

PROS:

+Camera is controlled by L and R. Will rotate in 8 "clicks," making it easier to focus in a direction than other games (DQIV/V).
+Excellent item/weapon synthesis system. All equipment is reflected on your character, and some of the weapon designs are really cool, with different animations depending on type.
+Aiming and attacking is really simple, even with no analog stick. Combat takes place in real-time, and there are no random encounters.
+Optional bosses and side quests aplenty. Great grinding material.
+I really enjoy the enemy designs - less lighthearted than DQ, but still fun and interesting.

CONS:

-Ugh...some of the dialogue/script is cringeworthy. I'm actually glad there's very little VO.
-The character designs are decent for the main party members, but some of the townsfolk/NPCs look like they're created out of mashed potatoes.
-Story elements can get so generic that I find myself saying what will happen next before it happens. *yawn*

I've heard tremendous things about the online play - haven't touched it yet. Apparently there's only a toy item and maybe one other piece of equipment that can only be garnered through multiplay. Everything else is doable solo (although you may have to grind for hours to even touch some of the higher bosses).

I'd encourage you to play this if you have enjoyed DQIV/V, FF:CC, or Suikoden Tierkreis. Not perfect, but a solid RPG with plenty of content.