The overall design choices and visual presentation of Cris Tales are one of its stronest suits. The game looks like an animated film, and paired with lots of calm and relaxing tunes, you get a very cozy atmosphere that feels nice to get back to every single time.
Cris Tales is a classic example of a game that serves as a homage to games of the past, while managing to forge a path all of its own. Solid and satisfying combat merge with a storyline that moves things along nicely and if you enjoy turn-based RPGs, Cris Tales is definitely one to play.
Cris Tales shines with its astounding aesthetics and the way it manages the time travel elements, specially in combat. But, at the same time, it seems to be stuck on the past, bringing most of the glaring problems of the genre (grinding, areas that feels as corridors, repetitive optional tasks…). And it’s a shame, because it has potential.
An attractive JPRG with a hugely innovative central time manipulation mechanic, it seems as though the developers behind the game fell head over heels in love with that element of Cris Tales design at the expense of crafting a world with memorable characters, motivations, places and events. That said, Cris Tales non-linear story and neat use of time manipulation will still hold a fair amount of allure for genre newbies and stalwarts alike.
Cris Tales tells a charming JRPG tale in a gorgeous and weird world, but it’s hobbled by incredibly monotonous combat. Its battles undoubtedly overstay their welcome, but this unique odyssey still manages to shine through them a bit thanks to its style, characters, and the inspired (non-combat) time travel mechanics that make it so memorable.
The basic idea with the time crystals is great and provides the combat system a special tactical aspect. The graphics look nice and Crisbell is a pleasant heroine. But while there is nothing that really makes Cris Tales stand out of the JRPG genre, there are also some annoying weaknesses concerning balancing and comfort that can’t be justified by trying to be classic.
Despite valiant attempts to be additive to the genre, Cris Tales never quite escapes from under the weight of its own influences. If you don’t have a particular passion for the era, or a willingness to be swept up in a decidedly old-school adventure, Cris Tales’ charms will likely be lost on you. For the target demographic though, this love letter will likely be received with all the affection the developers put into it.
