Top 5 RPGs of July 2017: A Gamer’s Guide

As a long-time fanatic of role-playing games (RPGs), I can confidently say that July 2017 was the month that truly stole my heart! Growing up, I spent countless hours immersed in the magical worlds of Final Fantasy, eagerly awaiting each new release like a starving wolf waiting for its prey. But it wasn’t until this fateful July that I realized the true potential of RPGs – their ability to reinvent themselves while still staying true to their roots.

Have you ever found yourself in a predicament where choosing between multiple great game options leaves you utterly undecided? Well, that’s exactly how Role-Playing Game (RPG) enthusiasts felt in July 2017! With the launch of games like Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age, Pyre, Sundered, and others, it was an RPG feast month indeed. From vastly expansive settings to intricately woven stories, the diversity was simply breathtaking. Let’s revisit this thrilling period and relive the games that made July 2017 a memorable month for RPG enthusiasts.

Key Takeaways

Rediscover RPG gems from July 2017: This month offered a treasure trove of unique RPG experiences, from remastered classics like Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age to innovative indie titles like Pyre and Sundered. Explore the diverse gameplay and storytelling that made this month special for RPG fans.
Indie developers shone in July 2017: Games like Sundered and Pyre showcased the creativity and innovation of indie studios, pushing the boundaries of RPGs with fresh mechanics, compelling narratives, and distinctive art styles. Discover these hidden gems and experience the impact of indie development on the genre.
RPGs thrive on blending classic elements with new ideas: The success of Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age demonstrates the enduring appeal of remastered classics, while games like Fallen Legion highlight the growing importance of player agency and choice-driven narratives in shaping the future of RPGs.

What Made July 2017 an RPG Goldmine?

2017’s July was particularly remarkable for role-playing game enthusiasts. It wasn’t just the abundance of releases that made it stand out, but the wide array of choices. There were blockbuster games like “Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age” alongside hidden treasures such as “Pyre”. This diverse selection ensured that every kind of RPG player found something appealing in July 2017, catering to a broad spectrum of preferences and gaming styles.

Not only were there numerous games available, but their quality was exceptionally high as well. Several Role-Playing Games (RPGs) launched during that month showcased new gameplay dynamics and captivating narratives. Independent games significantly contributed to this surge of creativity within the gaming world, often exceeding player expectations for the genre with their innovative approaches.

The air was electric with eagerness. The role-playing game (RPG) enthusiasts were abuzz, brimming with talks and suspense, which only intensified the effect of these launches. Fresh games and upgrades for established editions kept players hooked and yearning to delve deeper. Even big names like Square Enix stirred excitement with their announcements.

Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age: A Classic Returns

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but marvel at Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age! It’s not just a simple upgrade; it’s a total reinvention of the 2006 gem, breathing new life into the captivating world of Ivalice for modern gamers and enticing old-timers like me to delve back into this cherished JRPG. Square Enix has taken the PlayStation 2 original and meticulously revamped numerous aspects, crafting a more immersive, rewarding journey.

The Zodiac Job System: Redefining Customization

In the Zodiac Job System, they’ve swapped out the original game’s License Board with something more targeted for character advancement. Rather than one large board where everyone shares licenses, each character now selects from twelve distinct roles such as Archer, Knight, and Mage. Each role has its own unique set of skills and statistical growth patterns. This enables specialized development, making your team function like a well-oiled machine. You can even assign two jobs to each character, resulting in hybrid builds that offer strategic complexity and encourage exploration to find potent combos.

Quality of Life: Speed and Auto-Saves

In The Zodiac Age version of Beyond the Zodiac, you’ll find numerous enhancements that make gameplay smoother and more enjoyable. These include automatic saving, quicker loading times, and customizable difficulty levels, which help optimize your experience. You can concentrate on the narrative and game mechanics without distractions due to these improvements. Furthermore, trophy support is included, showing Square Enix’s dedication to updating this timeless game while maintaining its unique appeal. The speedier pace ensures that even those who have played the original find it engaging and refreshing.

Pyre: Where Strategy and Story Collide

Visual Novel Meets Tactical RPG

Supergiant Games, the creators behind games such as Bastion and Transistor, have crafted something exceptional with Pyre: an enthralling fusion of visual novel and tactical role-playing game (RPG). Here’s a snapshot of the gameplay experience: you guide a band of exiles through a mystical realm called Downside. Your goal is to secure their release via ritualistic contests, a departure from conventional combat scenarios. Pyre isn’t focused on hack-and-slash action but rather strategic gameplay with a strong emphasis on storytelling. Essentially, it combines elements of a sports game with the grandeur of a fantasy tale, where the outcome for your exiles could determine their destiny. If you’ve played Supergiant Games’ previous titles, you’ll be familiar with their knack for gripping narratives and immersive world-building. This summary of Pyre alongside other top RPGs from 2017 provides a more in-depth understanding of what sets the game apart.

Characters Drive the Narrative

In the game known as Pyre, you’ll encounter more than 20 diverse characters who are exiles, each with their individual backgrounds, goals, and skills. As you progress, you’ll grow these characters, unveiling new talents and enhancing their attributes. Before each crucial battle, which is the main focus of Pyre‘s gameplay, you’ll pick three exiles from your team. This setup offers a surprising level of strategic complexity and personalization for your squad. Will you construct a balanced team or concentrate on a specific approach? The decision is yours. What distinguishes Pyre is the way characters weave into the narrative, a strength Supergiant Games is known for. The bonds between your exiles, their personal hardships, and their longing for freedom form the essence of the adventure. Every win and loss affects their stories, making your journey through Downside feel intensely personal and significant. This focus on character development elevates Pyre above a typical strategy game, creating a deep, emotional journey.

Sundered: Hand-Drawn 2D Horror

Procedural Metroidvania

In a world devastated by apocalypse, Sundered – a 2D Metroidvania RPG created by Jotun’s makers – immerses you. You embody a traveler, navigating through a landscape that changes randomly each time, with interconnected labyrinthine caves and tunnels that alter in every gameplay session. This feature introduces an element of mystery and replay value since you won’t know what lies ahead at each turn. As you delve deeper into these winding passages, you’ll encounter formidable foes and tough bosses, compelling you to adapt your tactics. The continuous pursuit for better equipment and potent relics keeps you hooked, as you continually seek to improve your skills and endure the terrors lurking beneath.

Visuals Tell the Story

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but be captivated by the distinctive hand-drawn style that sets Sundered apart from other games. Drawing inspiration from genre greats like Symphony of the Night and Guacamelee!, it crafts a chilling, atmospheric realm brimming with nightmarish creatures. The unwavering dedication to hand-drawn visuals plunges you into an intricately designed yet terrifying world, where every grotesque monster and painstakingly detailed environment serves as a testament to the developer’s passion. Exploring this visually stunning game is both exhilarating and unnerving. The monstrous creatures and captivating landscapes not only add depth to the story but also intensify the feeling of dread and solitude as you venture further into the unknown. Critics have lauded the harmonious fusion of gameplay and artistry, emphasizing its replay value and immersive qualities, making Sundered a true Metroidvania masterpiece.

Fallen Legion: Sins of an Empire: Rule Your Empire

Real-Time Combat and Combos

In the game Fallen Legion: Sins of an Empire, you’ll encounter a unique blend of battle mechanics similar to those found in Valkyrie Profile, combined with a rapid-fire, combo-centric combat system. This fusion results in a battle experience that demands both strategic thinking and lightning-fast reflexes. To excel, you’ll need to grasp the art of combos while making split-second decisions, ensuring that each encounter remains thrilling and engaging. For more detailed insights into the gameplay mechanics, I recommend checking out this review from Hey Poor Player.

Factions and Consequences

In the realm of “Fallen Legion”, your actions carry significant consequences, influencing and molding your kingdom as you make each choice. This interplay between game mechanics and storytelling provides an immersive experience where even minor decisions can leave a lasting impact. The dialogue system is designed to highlight moral dilemmas, urging players to ponder the repercussions of their actions. Critics at PlayStation Universe and Blast Away the Game Review have both noted this intriguing dynamic in their reviews. As a result, “Fallen Legion” stands out as a distinctive RPG due to the combination of its thought-provoking moral choices and rapid-fire combat.

Immortal Planet: A New Perspective on Souls-like

The “Immortal Planet” video game for PC is an action role-playing game that resembles titles like “Dark Souls,” featuring a traditional isometric viewpoint. You’ll find yourself stranded on a frozen world as an awakened undead warrior, prepared to confront demanding battles and exploration. If you appreciate the thoughtful combat of “Dark Souls” but prefer a bird’s-eye perspective, this could be just what you’re looking for. Fextralife singled out “Immortal Planet” in their 2017 RPG roundup, and we’re diving deeper to uncover its unique aspects.

Isometric Challenges: Strategy and Patience

In the game Immortal Planet, each level is meticulously designed with singular checkpoints and progressively tougher adversaries. A variety of weapons are at your disposal, including swords, guns, and magic. The game’s mechanics favor caution over hasty attacks, and death is a frequent occurrence. However, dying isn’t the end; you can recover lost experience points, which motivates you to analyze mistakes and adjust your strategy. This results in a fulfilling feeling of advancement that appreciates strategic thinking and execution.

Retro Aesthetics, Modern Design

Immortal Planet seamlessly blends vintage vibes with sleek graphics. Its isometric view and dungeon exploration echo the familiar territory of classic RPG enthusiasts, yet the revamped visuals lend a modern touch. This unique blend caters to players who cherish both the nostalgic allure of old-school gaming and the sophistication of contemporary design. If you’re drawn to challenging gameplay and immersive dungeons, Immortal Planet presents an innovative twist on the Souls-like genre.

How RPG Mechanics Evolve

Genre Blending: Action, Strategy, and Narrative

Role-playing games (RPGs) often evolve by incorporating elements from different genres to maintain their appeal. For instance, a game like “Fallen Legion” combines action-packed combat with empire management, giving you not only the chance to battle but also to make decisions that impact your kingdom. This introduces a strategic layer to the usual RPG dynamics. By merging gameplay and narrative in this way, games like “Fallen Legion” create a stronger bond between player actions and the storyline. In “Fallen Legion”, your protagonist’s struggle involves sacrificing humanity for power, and the choices you make ultimately shape the ending. This fusion of storytelling and mechanics highlights how RPGs are growing in complexity and interaction. Games such as “Pyre” also reflect this trend by integrating visual novel aspects with tactical RPG gameplay.

Innovative Systems: Jobs and Rituals

Role-playing games (RPGs) advance by introducing novel gameplay mechanics. For example, the Zodiac Job system in “Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age” replaces the initial license board with a more targeted character development method. This facilitates specialized party roles, adding a tactical aspect to battles. It simplifies character progression while providing greater player control. However, innovation can be complex. “Fallen Legion“, despite its intriguing concepts, occasionally has difficulty fully materializing its mechanics, as noted in this TheSixthAxis review. This underscores the difficulties developers face: striking a balance between fresh ideas and seamless implementation. It’s an ongoing process of improvement, and it’s what keeps RPGs so versatile.

The Art of RPGs

Hand-Drawn vs. 3D Storytelling

Role-playing games (RPGs) provide a special platform for storytelling, and the art style used significantly influences the player’s experience. The game Sundered, with its hand-drawn graphics resembling classics like Symphony of the Night and Guacamelee, builds a gloomy and eerie world. This unique style, highly appreciated in the Z League’s Sundered guide, envelopes players in a world filled with fearsome creatures. The creators at Thunder Lotus Games, who made Jotun, deliberately kept this hand-drawn aesthetic for Sundered, emphasizing how it contributes to creating an epic atmosphere. This conscious decision highlights how the right art style can shape a game and make it stand out. Although 3D graphics provide a different kind of immersion, the hand-drawn approach in games like Sundered shows that this traditional technique still holds power.

Creating Atmosphere Through Art and Sound

In role-playing games (RPGs) like Sundered and Fallen Legion: Sins of an Empire, visuals and sound design collaborate to form a deeply engrossing environment. For instance, the intricate hand-drawn art in Sundered, showcasing both grotesque monsters and breathtaking landscapes, offers a visually captivating experience, as highlighted in this review of Sundered. This visual narrative is intensified by the game’s sound, enhancing the player’s immersion. However, a powerful art style alone doesn’t suffice; for example, while Fallen Legion: Sins of an Empire boasts appealing visuals, its underdeveloped choice system detracts from the RPG elements. This underscores the importance of a harmonious blend of compelling artwork, immersive sound design, and well-crafted mechanics to create a lasting impression. When these components synergize effectively, they lead to an unforgettable gaming experience.

Indie Developers’ Impact on RPGs

Breaking Conventions: Fresh Ideas

2017 was an exceptional year for gaming, with numerous outstanding titles appearing that went beyond the typical big-budget shooters and expansive open worlds. What’s striking is how many of these memorable games originated from small, independent game development studios. Games such as Sundered, a hand-drawn horror Metroidvania, or Fallen Legion, which combined real-time combat with empire management, are prime examples. These weren’t large teams with vast resources; they were independent developers offering innovative gameplay and captivating stories on a smaller scale. This year showcased the ability of indies to create unique gaming experiences and compelling narratives that often surpassed their larger counterparts. For a deeper exploration of this trend, take a look at some of the top indie games from 2017.

Balancing Accessibility and Challenge

One area where independent game developers frequently shine is in striking a balance between making games easy to grasp yet challenging. Consider the game Sundered as an illustration. The game’s visuals are captivating and draw you in instantly, but the gameplay itself demands skill and strategic thinking. It’s not just about blindly pressing buttons; you need to discern enemy patterns and utilize your abilities wisely. Similarly, Fallen Legion immerses you in swift-paced battles while also requiring quick decision-making as you control your empire. These RPGs provide a rewarding feeling of achievement when you conquer their challenges, demonstrating that indie role-playing games can be both user-friendly and highly captivating.

The Future of RPGs: What July 2017 Taught Us

Remastering Classics: Nostalgia Meets Modernity

2017 was an exceptional year for me as a gamer, especially when it comes to RPGs. One title that really stood out was Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age. This remastered version showed the magic of nostalgia mixed with modern upgrades, giving new life to an old favorite. The revamped job system and improvements made to gameplay mechanics brought in both veteran fans like me and new players who hadn’t experienced this classic before. As RPGamer pointed out in their 2017 awards, it was a year filled with fantastic RPG releases, and the remastered versions helped bring older games to more people. TechRaptor agreed, emphasizing how re-releases can broaden a game’s appeal significantly. This means that classic RPGs have a promising future ahead—developers can leverage existing fanbases while introducing timeless stories and mechanics to new gamers like me. If you want to learn more about Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age, check out its page!

Player Agency: Choice and Consequence Matter

A significant development in July 2017 was the emphasis on player control within games. Titles such as “Fallen Legion: Sins of an Empire” showcased narrative choices that players could make, influencing the game’s storyline in real-time. Although TheSixthAxis pointed out that the implementation of these mechanics wasn’t flawless, the underlying idea struck a chord with gamers. The preference for impactful decisions and outcomes in RPGs was evident. Hey Poor Player’s review emphasized the fusion of “Valkyrie Profile”-like mechanisms and swift combat in “Fallen Legion,” indicating an eagerness to explore various gameplay styles while still providing players with choices that mold their gaming experience. This exploration, although not always perfect, paved the way for future RPGs to concentrate on player agency, thereby fostering more captivating and customized narratives. Delve deeper into “Fallen Legion: Sins of an Empire” here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes July 2017 stand out in the world of RPGs? It wasn’t just about the number of releases, but the incredible variety of RPG experiences that became available. From updated versions of old favorites to groundbreaking indie games, July 2017 had a little bit for every type of fan. The blend of genres, visual styles, and gameplay mechanics made it an exceptional month for RPG enthusiasts.

What makes Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age stand out? It’s not just an update; it’s a substantial enhancement over its predecessor. The Zodiac Job system introduces a strategic element to character development, and features like automatic saving and adjustable difficulty make it easier for contemporary gamers to enjoy. Whether you adored the original or are intrigued by a classic title, The Zodiac Age is definitely worth exploring.

How does Pyre differ from other RPGs? Well, it combines storytelling in the style of visual novels with tactical RPG battles, offering a distinctive gaming experience. The emphasis on character growth and the significance of your decisions make it truly special. If you’re into games that blend narrative depth with strategic gameplay, Pyre is definitely worth checking out.

Is it worth giving Sundered a try if I’m not generally fond of horror games? Absolutely! While Sundered falls under the horror genre, its hand-drawn artwork is visually stunning, and the procedurally generated world ensures that exploration remains fresh. The gameplay challenges you but provides a satisfying experience, and the overall atmosphere will keep you captivated.

What insights did we gain from the Role-Playing Games (RPGs) of July 2017? We discovered that by incorporating innovation and diversity, RPGs can flourish. Independent developers significantly contributed to the progression of this genre, and the triumph of reimagined classics demonstrated the potential for revitalizing older games. Furthermore, the focus on player choice and consequences hints at a future where RPGs might provide even more customized and immersive storylines.

2024-11-26 15:46