PlayStation

Azure Dreams

Azure Dreams är ett spel som vinner i längden. Det kanske svävar iväg ibland, men samtidigt erbjuder det någonting alldeles extra. Dialogerna mellan karaktärerna i spelet är både snärtiga och roliga, men det finns även gott om allvar i form av elaka ovänner, faderns oförklarliga död, tornets väktare och livets hårda skola. Ingenting är gratis, allra minst i Azure Dreams där varje utflykt in i tornet är ett hårt och mödosamt projekt.

Azure Dreams offers unique twists on the RPG formula, but its repetitiveness, poor translation, and frustrating luck-based evolution result in a game that fails to deliver on its potential. Nevertheless, the game is addictive, and the interest villains and monster training are compelling. It's certainly a rent-first title, but fans of turn-based adventures like Suikoden or Vandal Hearts may find themselves having Azure Dreams (whatever that means).

In all honesty, it's a surprise that Konami even brought Azure Dreams to the US. Its main character looks like a cross between Edward Scissorhands and Ronald McDonald and has a sarcastic attitude that's a far cry from most of today's cookie-cutter heroes. With each successive RPG, Konami has gotten bolder and braver. With an ever-increasing respect to the original Japanese source material, Konami has translated what could truly be termed a niche RPG. Straying from any conventional formula, Konami has created an RPG that's equal parts SimCity, Monster Rancher, and role-playing game. With a heartwarming story of discovery and companionship to boot, Konami has struck RPG gold again. Third time's a charm, apparently.

Azure Dreams had a lot of potential as a ground breaking role-playing game in this country. Many aspects of the game have been exclusive to Japan for a long time and it could have lead the way for some new genres to make it to these shores. But instead we get an unfinished game that doesn't carry any of its aspects to even half of their full potential. The simulation aspect needed more variety and a lot more control and depth to them. The action portion needed much more variety and better control. I will admit that I enjoyed playing this game but when I view it objectively it really falls far short of its potential. I really expect more from Konami and I highly recommend renting this game or playing someone else's copy before buying it. It can be fun but it is not a game that can stand next to the best in either the simulation or role-playing genre.

In most cases, Azure Dreams is a very standard RPG but it does have just enough new elements to warrant a look. If you are a hard-core fan of the genre, or are just looking for something a little bit different than give this game a try. You might be thoroughly surprised.

Even with the random map generator for the Tower, I just couldn't get into Azure Dreams. To me, it is a genius idea gone awry. I'm sure some people will be able to enjoy this game slightly, but it won't appeal to a mainstream audience of RPG fans. I found myself wanting to play Monster Rancher and Final Fantasy VII separately, instead of Azure Dreams, which combines elements of both. Maybe next time, Konami.