‘Shadows of Valentia’ is a great entry point to game franchise
Unfortunately, the support system for the earlier games doesn’t carry over.
Capitalizing on the growing popularity in this country of Japan’s Fire Emblem,” Nintendo has turned to the franchise’s past to whet the appetites of fans here. The company’s latest entry is a remake of “Fire Emblem Gaiden,” the series’ second game.
Titled “Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia,” it marries the gameplay of the series to current production values. And it includes additional tweaks — making it a perfect entry for those curious about the franchise but intimidated by its deep gameplay.
The “Shadows” combat system has been simplified. Though players still have to worry about outflanking opponents as well as the strengths and weaknesses of the troops on the battlefield, they don’t need to be concerned about the durability of items. Units can now sacrifice health to cast magic or use special abilities.
Unfortunately, the support system for the two earlier games doesn’t carry over to “Shadows of Valentia.” Some characters can build relationships by talking on the battlefield and becoming closer. But heroes don’t collaborate while attacking an enemy, or have any downtime for conversations.
Instead, when bonded heroes are near each other, they get bonus points based on their relationship, which are helpful when they’re either attacking or defending their turf.
The games developer, Intelligent Systems, adds depth in the form of weapon levels, upgrades and an arts system. Heroes boost the power of weapons by using a smithy; the more they use it, the more arts they learn. These special abilities are tied to the particular weapon and stay with the player, giving the game a layer of character customization.
The improvements have been folded into a plot that’s straightforward and rather predictable.
The campaign follows a pair of starcrossed lovers — Alm and Celica, whose origins are mysterious, and who grow up together until a childhood incident forces their separation. Celica moves to an island, while Alm stays with his grandfather in the kingdom of Zofia.
After reaching adulthood, they become leaders of their own armies, each of which, for its own reasons, is trying to repel an invasion by the god Duma and the empire of Rigel, which is attempting to gradually conquer the con- tinent of Valentia.
Alm’s and Celica’s armies each have their own path and storyline, but those occasionally intersect. When that occurs, players can use intermediaries to send items from one army to the other.
In addition to exploring the map, both armies also venture into dungeons — 3-D environments that contain shrines, items and creatures called Terrors, who guard the dungeons.
The dungeons offer a change of pace from battles, and allow players to explore structures where stat- boosting fountains and treasure chests have been hidden. They’re also excellent places for players to grind through fights and level up characters.
The downside of battles in “Shadows of Valentia” is the dull map design. In addition, the majority of dungeon fights are set on pretty bland terrain. Fortunately, maps tied to the main campaign are more interesting, with hallways that wind through castles, deserts that make movement difficult and forests that provide cover.
Tackling “Shadows of Valentia” is like playing an elaborate game of chess. A notable plus for beginners is the gameplay element that allows them to jump back in time. After making a costly mistake, a player doesn’t just reset the game and start over. He or she can reverse the flow of battle and alter any decision that has caused the death of a character.
With its superior accessibility, “Fire Emblem: Shadows of Valentia” is a great starting point for anyone wanting to experience one of the world’s top tactical role-playing- game franchises.