8Bit/Digi

Return to the World of Ivoire

One thing video games can do that movies can’t is release a great sequel decades later. When a sequel to a classic film is announced, there’s a good chance it’ll be disappointing. With video games, the opposite is true—a long-awaited sequel can still surprise and impress fans. That is the case regarding Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero.

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is the long-awaited sequel to the cult classic NIS title. Players will once again step into the role of Marona as she journeys across the oceanic world of Ivoire. Along the way, she’ll meet new friends, lend a hand to those in need, and confront sinister forces.

A Pirate Showdown

Marona is a captain with the power to communicate with Phantoms—the spirits of the departed. Alongside her friend Ash, she sails the oceans of Ivoire. Together, they offer help to those in need. But when their ship is attacked by the Ghost Ship fleet, Marona is separated from Ash. With the help of a new friend, Apricot, she must gather a new crew. Together, they will work to defeat the Ghost Ship fleet and rescue her lost companions.

This is actually my first time experiencing the Phantom Brave series, as I never played the original. I bring this up because the game does an excellent job of welcoming new players to the world of Ivoire. Even as a newcomer, I’m already won over by Marona’s loyalty to her friends and her unwavering desire to help others. I’m also fascinated by the world itself and the unique characters that bring it to life.

While the world is rich with whimsy, the story doesn’t quite match that energy. Its narrative feels somewhat lackluster at times, lacking a true sense of engagement. I do care about what happens to Marona and Ash, but the story doesn’t fully share that passion and occasionally falls short. This doesn’t mean it’s a bad story, just that it could have been handled better.

A False Reunion

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero features classic turn-based JRPG gameplay. Players control Marona who can summon Phantoms and strategically deploy them in battle. The battle themselves requires a lot of planning if you want to get the best outcome. So be prepared and make sure you take the time to work with everyone in your party so they can be ready for a major battle. At times, you might need to grind until your Marona and the phantoms she commands are up to par. When done right, the end results are rewarding. However; if you fumble the first time you could always go back and try again.

One of the biggest changes compared to other JRPGs is the switch from a grid system to a radius system. Players can move freely within a limited radius on the map before they must attack, perform an action, or end their turn. While unique at first, the radius system functions similarly to a grid system, requiring tactical movement and planning. This makes the only challenge being the player becoming better accustomed to the new layout.

Overall, the mechanics are simple to grasp, making it accessible for newcomers and fans of other NIS titles. Combat rewards experience points, allowing characters to level up and grow stronger with each victory.

Facing the Shipwreck

One thing I noticed right away about Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is how much it feels reminiscent of the Disgaea series. The similarity shines through in the character designs, gameplay mechanics, and overall aesthetic. The main difference is that the demonic Netherworld has been swapped out for the oceanic world of Ivoire. I mean that as a compliment—it gives Disgaea fans a welcome sense of familiarity from the very beginning.

Don’t go in thinking this is just Disgaea with a new coat of paint. Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero stands on its own, with unique core characters, a whimsical tone, and an upbeat setting. These qualities are reinforced by its distinctive design choices and the lively soundtrack.

Wrath of the Ghost Fleet

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is a fun adventure, but it has its share of issues. Besides the underwhelming story, the game’s tutorial doesn’t adequately prepare players for what lies ahead.

When I said Disgaea fans will enjoy the sense of familiarity, it’s because they’ll already have a solid grasp of most gameplay mechanics. Everyone else, however, may find themselves struggling, as the tutorial offers only limited guidance. This lack of explanation can put newcomers at a disadvantage right from the start. Despite this shortcoming, players should not be discouraged from giving Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero a playthrough.

A New Journey Begins

Only video games can release a sequel to a title from decades ago and still deliver a great experience. Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is a perfect example of that.

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero reunites players with Marona for another adventure in the world of Ivoire. With its familiar setup and the return of key characters, it’s the perfect way to reintroduce a cult classic to a new generation of gamers. It has some shortcomings, but they are easily forgivable compared to everything else.

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.

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero (PC)

8

Excellent

8.0/10

Pros

• It's a good sequel to a game that was released 20 years ago.
• Story is welcoming for those new to the series.
• Game feels familiar if you are a fan of the Disgaea series.
• Its whimsical tone and setting make it stand out.

Cons

• Story feels underwhelming at times despite the energy of the characters and world.
• Tutorial doesn't do a good job of teaching some of the gameplay mechanics.