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The DioField Chronicle: A Real-Time Tactical RPG Review

The DioField Chronicle: A Real-Time Tactical RPG Review The DioField Chronicle: A Real-Time Tactical RPG Review

The strategy RPG genre is often synonymous with turn-based combat on a grid. While exceptions exist, games like Tactics Ogre, Final Fantasy Tactics, and Fire Emblem have solidified this image. The DioField Chronicle, developed by Square Enix and Lancarse and published by Square Enix, offers a refreshing take on strategic combat, even if some aspects outside battles feel underdeveloped.

This real-time tactical RPG unfolds on DioField Island, rich in Jade, the source of modern magic. DioField becomes the focal point of a power struggle between the Schoevian Empire and the Rowetale Alliance, disrupting the island’s existing political landscape and sparking intrigue between domestic rivals and foreign powers.

Andrias and the Blue Foxes mercenary companyAndrias and the Blue Foxes mercenary company

Players follow Andrias, a former chamberlain turned mercenary. Along with his friend Fredret, the knight Iscarion, and noblewoman Waltaquin, they form the Blue Foxes mercenary company. Through their experiences, players witness the unfolding chaos on DioField and the internal dynamics within the growing mercenary group.

A Narrative of Intrigue and Shifting Loyalties

Initially, the narrative can feel dense, filled with unfamiliar terminology and proper nouns. The political complexities seem distant from the characters’ lives, and the story often unfolds through impersonal narration rather than direct character interaction.

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The story of The DioField ChronicleThe story of The DioField Chronicle

However, the narrative gradually becomes captivating. Shifting loyalties and hidden manipulations keep players guessing. The story exposes the corruption within various societal institutions, mirroring the internal struggles of the Blue Foxes as their influence grows. Fans of SRPGs will find echoes of Final Fantasy Tactics, Tactics Ogre, and Fire Emblem. The political intrigue resonates with themes explored in Game of Thrones, a comparison further reinforced by the game’s score composed by Ramin Djawadi and Brandon Campbell, known for their work on the popular TV series. Their subtle yet fitting music enhances the narrative experience.

Real-Time Tactical Battles: A Fresh Approach

The DioField Chronicle replaces traditional turn-based grid combat with a “real-time tactical battle” system. This approach might feel familiar to MOBA players, with real-time action pausing for command input. Players control a four-character squad, issuing orders, managing auto-attacks, and activating skills. Strategy focuses on skill synergy, maximizing DPS, area-of-effect attacks, buffs, and cooldowns, rather than grid positioning. While flanking maneuvers and drawing enemies away are important, the core gameplay emphasizes real-time decision-making.

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Real-time combat in The DioField ChronicleReal-time combat in The DioField Chronicle

Elm Camp: An Underdeveloped Hub

Between battles, players explore Elm Camp, the Blue Foxes’ base. While initially promising, it lacks the depth of hubs in games like Dragon Age: Inquisition or Fire Emblem: Three Houses. Character interactions are non-interactive, lacking relationship-building mechanics. Conversations and sidequests primarily serve as a means to unlock upgrades, and Elm Camp’s physical space feels limited. Its functionality could mostly be accessed directly from the pre-battle menu, making its presence feel somewhat redundant.

Upgrading skills and weaponsUpgrading skills and weapons

Conclusion: A Promising New Direction

Despite the underdeveloped home base, The DioField Chronicle’s innovative combat system and engaging narrative offer a refreshing experience. While Elm Camp falls short, the core gameplay and intriguing story provide a compelling experience for SRPG fans, potentially paving a new path for the genre.

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Rating: 4 out of 5

The DioField Chronicle is available for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and Windows PC. This review was conducted on a PlayStation 5 using a review code provided by the publisher.

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