Growlanser: Wayfarer of the Time PSP

Growlanser: Wayfarer of Time is an enhanced and improved port for RPG Growlanser IV: Wayfarer of the Time, which was originally released on PlayStation 2 in 2003. This title never went to players outside the Land of Cherry Blossom, so converting to PSP is his debut in the West. Characteristics of the Growlanser series, which was born in 1999, are a tactical turn-based combat system, character designs created by the famous Japanese draughtsman Satoshi Urushihara and an extensive storyline, offering many different game ends. Wayfarer of Time is produced by Atlus studio, known for its popular RPG series Shin Megami Tensei and many other representatives of the genre.

The world in which the action takes place was once home to highly developed cultures, but as a result of the catastrophe caused by divine powers, their heritage has been forgotten and destroyed. Two thousand years after these events, the perpetrators of the Holocaust are once again making themselves known, threatening the existence of the world. According to the story, they can only be stopped by the legendary warrior-picker, to whom the main character of the game is likely to turn out to be the main character.

Fans of Japanese RPG games should feel at home. Growlanser gameplay: Wayfarer of Time draws inspiration from the best representatives of the genre. We command a team of characters with a wide range of skills, attacks and spells. The game world is presented in isometric view, all characters and elements of the environment are hand drawn animated graphics. Our opponents are still visible on the map, and the game does not use the system of random meetings. As soon as we get closer to them, we initiate a duel. The fights take place in turn-based mode, thanks to which we have time to choose a strategy appropriate to the situation. With each member of our team we can establish closer relations, and even go on holiday. In this way we will not only learn more about their motives and past, but also unblock one of more than 40 game ends.

Graphic design has not changed much compared to what the game offered on Playstation 2, but lovers of Japanese dash and animation should be pleased with it. Particularly noteworthy are the animated portraits of the characters, prepared with great attention to detail. In the Japanese version, most of the dialogues are played by actors, unfortunately, due to the costs associated with the location, the distributor had to give up English dubbing, limiting it only to animated film interludes.

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Last updated on 17 February 2012