Chained Echoes is a fantastic indie game that hearkens back to the good old days of the 16-bit RPGs while also introducing some outstanding elements that make it stand out from other titles in the genre. These elements include an engaging combat system, compelling characters, and stellar worldbuilding. In addition, the game offers beautiful pixel art, a great story and characters, balanced combat, lovely music, and lots of systems that work well. Ultimately, it is a love letter to classic RPGs that is sure to become an indie JRPG darling.
Chained Echoes stands out from other indie games in a few ways. Firstly, it is inspired by classic Japanese role-playing games from the 1990s and features turn-based combat, 16-bit-style visuals, and a multi-character narrative. Secondly, the game features a unique combat system that includes an 'overdrive' meter, which reaches an optimal green zone where abilities are more effective. In addition, the game does not feature the usual level-up system, instead relying on skill point rewards. Lastly, the game offers a beautiful pixel art style, a great story and characters, balanced combat, lovely music, and lots of systems that work well.
Chained Echoes features an interesting cast of characters, each with their own unique backgrounds and motivations. The player takes control of a party of characters, including:
Along the way, the player can recruit additional characters into their party. Throughout the game, the player will experience character-driven narratives, making choices that will affect the outcome of the story. The characters also have their own unique abilities and weapons to use in battle.
Let's take a dip down into each character in chained echoes.
Glenn in Chained Echoes has something special. He is the protagonist of the game and is an ace Sky Armor pilot with a mysterious past. He has the ability to use a unique Overdrive ability during battles that allows him to temporarily increase his stats and unleash powerful attacks. He also has a unique bond with his Sky Armor, which gives him access to powerful mechs to use in battle. He also has a unique relationship with other characters in the game, which will shape the story and affect the outcome of the game.
Sienna is a sassy thief and is the second character to join the party. She is a master of crowd control and capable of engulfing large areas in flame. She is also quite quick-witted and can be playful and jovial, but also completely focused when she needs to be. Her versatility is one of her greatest strengths, as she is able to rapidly switch between her different abilities in battle, making her an awesome and fun character to play. She also has a unique bond with the protagonist, Glenn, which will shape the story and affect the outcome of the game.
Robb is the loyal bodyguard of Princess Lenne and a skilled archer. He is a cold-hearted warrior, but also shows signs of great loyalty and caring for his comrades. His poison and pandemic combo is great for delivering passage damage and taking out enemies. He is also proficient with a bow, and his paralyze shot is invaluable in battle. His character arc is a bit small compared to the other characters, but his archer abilities make him a great addition to the party.
Victor is one of the best-supporting characters in Chained Echoes that can provide heals, shields, buffs, and debuffs, while also being able to dish out some decent damage. His Heal Overdrive can heal the entire party and revive any fallen members, while his Shield Overdrive can protect the party from physical attacks. He can also use his Cleric Class Emblem to provide big party heals. Victor's support role is invaluable in battle and will make a great addition to the party.
There are many other characters for us to learn about while playing the game.
As a quality indie game, speaking of indie games, there are dozens of other quality games. When indie games are a genre where creators are not pressured into the stereotypes of game-making. They freely create and create unique games, bring their ideals, serve the gaming community, and do not follow a safe motif.
There are many great indie JRPGs available, but some of the most critically acclaimed and popular include:
Again, this list is not exhaustive and there are many other great indie JRPGs out there. It is best to try a few yourself and find which one you like the most.
Chained Echoes is an excellent indie title and a must-play for fans of classic RPGs.