Sword of Convallaria

Sword of Convallaria is a jRPG inspired by the biggest hits of the genre from the 8-bit and 16-bit eras. The game was developed by the XD studio from Singapore, which has the project Torchlight Infinite in its portfolio. It is distributed in a free-to-play model.

Plot

Sword of Convallaria takes us to the fantasy world, specifically to the resource-rich country of Iria. Various factions are trying to take control over it and incite the citizens, which ultimately leads to the outbreak of riots. During the game we lead a group of mercenaries and our task is to find a way to calm down the situation in Iria before things get completely out of control.

Gameplay

In Sword of Convallaria we watch the action in an isometric view. We explore the game world, get to know its inhabitants and carry out various quests for them, thereby gradually pushing the plot forward. Along the way, we make decisions that affect the course of history, the appearance of our city, as well as our relationships with other team members.

As we progress, we can recruit companions with different combat skills and preferred weapons. Together with them, we visit different locations and face opponents. The battles take place in a turn-based mode, on a map covered with square fields. The key to success during combat is not only juggling the abilities of the protagonists, but also properly positioning them on the battlefield. For example, we can use elements of the environment as cover.

Each character has individual strengths that come in handy in specific situations (and during battles with specific types of enemies). Changing the team and adapting it to current needs can proves successful. In addition to this, we develop both our mercenaries and our city over time. The city serves as a base of operations, where we can find a tavern (used to recruit new companions), a forge (used to produce new equipment), or even a training field (we can improve the statistics of our heroes).

Graphics and music

The graphic design of Sword of Convallaria was done in pixel art technique. The game uses technology dubbed by the creators as NeoPixel, which combines solutions from the era of 8 and 16 bits with modern features, such as real-time shading or HDR. The gameplay is accompanied by a soundtrack composed by Hitoshi Sakimoto, who has created music for such titles as Final Fantasy Tactics, Final Fantasy XII and Tactics Ogre.