8Bit/Digi

A New Adventure in a New World

This game first caught my attention when it launched in Early Access in 2022. Even in its early stages, Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune showed immense promise. The available content was impressively polished, and I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with it. The game finally saw a release in 2024 and it was worth the wait.

Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune is a game that immediately captures your attention with its stunning visual design and familiar gameplay. While it starts strong by hitting all the right notes, it offers even more as you dive deeper. From its engaging story and immersive world-building to its polished gameplay, this is a title that truly understands how to leave a lasting impression.

Welcome to the Unknown

Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune is a follow-up to Tower Hunter: Erza’s Trial, which was released in 2019. After obtaining the legendary hunter license, Erza has become one of the best hunters in the Empire. Now, she is tasked with leading an expedition to an unexplored region. Unfortunately, the expedition encounters trouble, resulting in the airship crash-landing. With limited knowledge and resources, Erza, with the support of Ciara, must explore this strange world. They will battle unusual creatures and map out the land while uncovering its many secrets.

Right away, you might wonder if playing Tower Hunter is necessary. The answer is no! Frontier Hunter does an excellent job of catching you up while ensuring the lore is accessible, even without prior experience. The story stands strong on its own, offering a collection of well-developed characters. Each one brings unique charm and depth to the adventure. This makes the experience engaging for both new and returning players.

A True Hunter

Erza’s Wheel of Fortune is a Metroidvania adventure game. Players traverse a labyrinthine world filled with monsters, with unknown danger lurking at every corner. Connecting it all are platforms and mazes that players must overcome. At the same time, it’s a world rich in wonder that could be seen in the details. It also doesn’t stay stagnant but changes as you progress. Besides the wonders, the world is also rich in rewards that will boost your stats.

Combat is going to be based on what character you use. For example, those who prefer a hack’n slash would enjoy playing as Erza. Ciara is an ideal choice for those who prefer projectile weapons. However, you will not be using only one character as each one will also have a special skill that is needed. Additional characters can be unlocked as players progress through the game. The overall combat will be easy to learn and get into regardless of how familiar one is with the genre. Mastering the combos and special attacks will take some time.

Gear Up for a Hunt

As a high-quality Metroidvania experience, Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune excels on all fronts. It introduces a cast of likable protagonists driven by a thirst for adventure in a world brimming with challenges. The world itself is captivating, blending beauty with a constant sense of lurking danger. This dynamic keeps the gameplay immersive and engaging throughout. The game’s vibrant use of color sets the tone perfectly, while its anime-inspired aesthetics enhance the sense of wonder. Together, these design choices create an environment that masterfully balances allure and peril.

The game’s only notable shortcoming is its overly confusing map design. Its layout makes it difficult to determine your current location or where you need to go. On several occasions, I found myself wandering in circles due to the map’s lack of clarity. This issue turns exploration from an engaging experience into a frustrating one, as getting lost becomes far too easy without any meaningful guidance.

Erza’s New Adventure

Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune is a whimsical Metroidvania that has you exploring an unknown world. It has all the hallmarks of a quality Metroidvania with numerous dungeons and interesting bosses. There is variety in combat thanks to its many characters along with a balance between power and speed. Its use of color and anime inspired visuals work with the story and characters to set the moment.

Disclaimer: The publisher through a PR representative provided the game used for this review.

This review is the critique and thoughts of one writer. If you want to see how other critics felt then check it out on OpenCritic.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.

Frontier Hunter: Erza’s Wheel of Fortune (PC)

9

Excellent

9.0/10

Pros

• It has all the hallmarks of a quality Metroidvania.
• Verity in combat that is balenced between power and speed.
• Its use of color and anime inspired visuals know how to set the moment.
• Engaging story and great chracters.

Cons

• Overly confusing map design.