Summary
A highly original premise saves an otherwise average RPG
The Good
I picked up "Tsugunai: Atonement" (which I will refer to as TA from now on) on a whim after reading the blurb on the back of the box. Atlus are known for their esoteric RPG games and "TA" is no exception.
As a warrior cursed for stealing a sacred blah blah blah, your soul and body have been separated. The only way they can be reunited is by atoning for your sin by helping the downtrodden and heartbroken of a nearby town find happiness. You do this by possessing the bodies of these people, much like in the old TV show "Quantum Leap". You possess various people and even a dog and guide them on various quests.
Like I said, Atlus games are esoteric, and this one's got a hell of an original premise.
Beyond the premise though, it's pretty much standard RPG puzzle solving and hack and slash all the way.
The battle system is limited but pretty unique. You are limited to one physical attack (though you can also summon some pretty wild looking magical creatures to attack on your behalf) but have up to four different defensive moves. Each time you successfully defend against an attack, your attack strength (or whatever) bar increases. When this bar is full you can unleash a much stronger physical attack. Defensive moves have to be timed pretty accurately to succeed, making combat a bit more interesting.
The graphics are strictly first generation PS2. Adequate, but nothing to write home about. Backgrounds are a little dark. Character and monster models are fine, and summoned monster models are pretty cool.
Music is excellent throughout and is one of the games other strong points.
Translation is good.
The Bad
Combat is rather limited and could become tiresome.
Areas are quite small and there is a bit too much loading between areas for my liking.
Gameplay is very linear.
The Bottom Line
"Tsugunai: Atonement" is a much maligned game in my opinion, and doesn't really deserve the poor reviews it's gotten elsewhere. It's highly original (for an RPG) plot and somewhat innovative combat system should keep the casual gamer (like me) happy for a while. Not much replay value. I wouldn't pay full price for it, but if you can find it used or cheap, it's well worth checking out.
PLOT: 8/10
GRAPHICS: 7/10
CHARACTERS: 7/10
GAMEPLAY: 7/10
REPLAY: 2/10
OVERALL: 7.5/10
