Disgaea: Hour of Darkness

Disgaea PC is the first instalment of the popular tactic jRPG strategy series created by Nippon Ichi Software from Japan. The production is an extensive port of Disgaea: Hour of Darkness from 2013, released on PlayStation 2 combined with an updated edition for PSP published four years later. The Disgaea series has worked out a peculiar formula that has won hearts and minds of players across the world. The series is seasoned with humour which often breaks the so-called fourth wall. There are dozens of references to pop-culture that laugh at schemes and clichés known from films, books, comic books, and fantasy anime. The series feature a wide gallery of independent characters and main heroes. Over the years, the series sprung numerous main titles and spin-offs.

Plot

The plot and characters in Disgaea PC are regarded as one of the finest in the RPG strategy games in general. You assume the role of an underground demon prince named Laharl who, after awakening from two-years’ sleep, learns of the death of his father – Overlord Krichevskoya. The young lord is determined to regain the throne and the loyalty of his demonic subjects. During the long and dangerous adventure, you get to meet a number of allies and fight hordes of opponents. The campaign is divided into episodes, which resemble typical anime series. At the end of each episode you are presented with a humorous summary and a preview of the next chapter. The developers provided the players with a few alternative campaign endings – which one you’ll see depends on the choices you make and the outcome of the battles.

Mechanics

Just like in every other game of the series, you will spend most of the time on the three-dimensional battlefields. Combats take place on arenas divided into square tiles on which both your and your opponent’s units move. In a given turn each character can move and attack the enemy within the attack range. You can use different attack combinations, spells, special attacks, and combos that deal severe damage. Your subordinates possess unique sets of abilities, moves, and equipment that can be modified during play. The title for PC, PSP and PS2 utilises an interesting option of bringing in new legislations to the Dark Assembly. Players can vote on acts that, for example, allow for buying better equipment. Then, they wait for the decision of the ministers, who can be threated or bribed.

Technical aspects

Disgaea PC is not just another port from PlayStation 2. Nippon Ichi Software enhanced the game with the content and improvements available on the PSP version. Keyboard and mouse are now supported, rendering the gameplay swifter and more enjoyable. The interface and visuals have also undergone some positive changes. Disgaea PC features all the additional utilities that Steam offers, such as achievements or Trading Cards.

Last updated on 10 December 2007