Earthlock could be best described as an Action Role-Playing game, with very clear retro influences. It is clear this game picked up its inspiration in the vast universe of classic RPGs, but is that really ever a bad thing?
This game sets off in the wonderful world of Umbra, a colorful world that reminded me a little of Ever Oasis, incredibly beautiful to the eye and easily overviewed by using the map that you have at hand. While there is often a fixed camera and you can run out of sight, this is just a minor setback in an overall good use of the camera. In the outside world, I did not encounter any such problems, but in dungeons however, I can not say the same.
On top of being an Action RPG, this game does bring a more deep experience to the table. Imagine being able to switch between a possible 6 crew members and being able to also broaden your friendship with them. This game makes it all possible. A healer that you have a great bond with, so much more effective during battle. Add in a crafting system to make new items, a skill tree to get those stats pumped up and your crew even better, this game is very versatile as you can clearly see.
The story is nice too, it all really starts out with the tutorial like always, but as soon as you pass the initial test, the story moves on to the main hero, Amon, who is able to salvage heaps of scrap, shortly after meeting Amon, you already meet up with Gnart, a bunny like character that has an affinity for berries. The story advances quite quickly and well, I said it before, it is a good story that is being told.
Now, the main part, how is the action?
As this game is turn-based fighting, it must be said, it is frantically speedy. It might be what scares some players away, but it luckily did not for me. During the tutorial, you are taught the basics about stances and how some of them are more effective than others. Like how a healer can only deal a puny amount of damage compared to a battle-ready character. Do pay close attention during the tutorial, this can not be said enough, especially when playing RPGs, you can’t just skip the explanations given. Especially in this game, because of the vast variety of inner workings, heed my advice!
Most turn-based games do require a lot of focus during fights as to not suddenly lose the fight. It becomes clear very soon that Earthlock is exactly the example of this basic idea. There are maybe too many options how to fight, from stealing actions to healing to shooting spudguns. I sometimes felt this game brought too much to the table to be really a contender for a personal top 3 in the genre. But again, this is how I experienced the game. Your mileage may vary obviously.
In conclusion, Earthlock has a very elaborate control scheme and it might turn away some gamers. But if you do enjoy those kinds of games, this will be a great addition to your collection and my rating does reflect this at 80%.
