Crack the CrossCode
CROSSCODE is a retroinspired action role play game (RPG) which takes the best elements from each genre and combines them to create an engaging game, all wrapped up in a unique story.
The world of CrossCode has its own massive multi-player online role-playing game (MMORPG) known as CrossWorlds – players log on and are transported to it, just as we would log on to an online game, only far, far more advanced.
This creates a unique gamewithin-a-game concept.
You play as Lea, an avatar who has lost her memories, and must explore CrossWorlds to uncover the reasons why, talking to players and non playable characters alike while hiding this fact (or rather listening to, since she also lost the ability to talk for the most part).
While this is a single-player game, you never feel lonely in a barren landscape, as other ‘players’ rush past you on their own adventures, and some of the players you meet along the way can be called on to join your party, such as Emilie, a competitive newbie who challenges Lea to complete the dungeons before her.
These characters breathe life into the game and enhance the game-ina-game concept, especially when she does things like log out for the day.
Compelling story aside, CrossCode is a beautiful game with stunning 16-bit graphics and atmospheric soundtrack. The controls are smooth and the combat is fun and addicting. The only issue I had with the controls was thanks to Nintendo’s infamous JoyCon drift, making precise movements tricky, and that is hardly the fault of the game itself.
You don’t feel like you’re grinding for experience (even though it is strongly advised to reach certain levels before taking on the dungeons or high level enemies), there’s always a side quest to be completed or item to be discovered, encouraging you to take your time and scour the world for all its secrets, some trickier to reach than others.
A big positive for me was that most enemies don’t attack until you throw the first punch (or ball, as Lea’s class is that of ‘Sphereomancer’), so if you just want to get from point A to point B without the aid of fast travel, you don’t have to worry about being sidetracked. My only complaint about combat with enemies is that the game doesn’t pause if you use an item; it can be frustrating to get hit just as you tried to heal yourself.
Aside from combat, the dungeons are one of the main attractions. They’re filled with puzzles that are challenging but not tediously so and could be likened to dungeons from Zelda. They also have their fair share of bosses and other enemies, so levelling up is recommended, as is upgrading your ‘Circuits’ – a skill tree that improves your health, focus, attack and defence.
Overall, CrossCode is a unique spin on classic RPGs, which supplies hours of exciting playtime and gripping story. If you like RPGs but aren’t too keen on dungeons, I am sure this game can win you over. ★★★★★
■ Buy it: £16.74 from microsoft. com. Splurge: Limited edition Steelbook and Collector’s Edition $59.99 from strictlylimitedgames. com (approximately £47).