Kirika: “If I were to dress like someone else, whose attire do you think would best suit me?” “Rinna's”; “Agnum's”; “Sonia's”; Say nothing.
![]()
Fast EXP Part 1Grimoire is the best place to grind for EXP since it scales with your current level. If you use Egg Hunt Sigils, you will get a lot of EXP from killing EX/Master Eggs.The hardest part is getting your first Egg Hunt Sigil. Once you obtained one, use the Egg Hunt Sigil on Grimoire (save before using it) and search the dungeon for a Sigil Egg. There are always three eggs in every floor, so there will be a max of 6 eggs per dungeon. If you didn't encounter one, just reload your save and retry.Once you have found one, switch to Rinna and steal from it (equip God Hand aspect for steal rate up), then escape after a successful steal. You'll notice the Sigil Egg doesn't disappear. If you engage it again, you can steal the Sigil again.
This is how you farm the Egg Hunt Sigil. Grinding 1 tuning to 30 for all characters for +3 tunings.2. Chapter 2Kirika.Your Radiance, is there something your require of me?. Nothing, really. I just wanted to talk to you. Affection Up.Could you please speak normally?
Affection Down. I wanted to say thanks for saving me. Time OutChapter 3Kirika: I will talk to him.
I only ask that you stay your anger. I'm not angry.
Affection Up. He must be hard on you too.
Your brother is scary. Time OutChapter 4Kirika.My apologies. I am still getting used to calling Yuma. You'll get used to it eventually.
Affection Up. You can call me 'Your Radiance' if you want. Just remember next time.
Time OutChapter 5Kirika: It seems Rinna has been thinking a lot about her. I have mixed feelings about it. I still don't really know. Affection Up. I don't think she's a bad person. I think she's a bad person. Time OutChapter 6Kirika: I mean.
About stripping n-n-naked and sharing warmth.?. Uh, apparently it's true. Affection Up. You actually believed that joke?
Affection Down. I don't know. Time OutChapter 7Kirika: There is no greater proof of how far you've come. Congratulations. It hasn't really sunk in yet. Affection Up. It wouldn't be possible without the Shining Dragon.
Affection Down. It's all thanks to you, Kirika. Time OutChapter 8Kirika: I cannot help but feel anxious. Is this a bad omen? What should I do.?. It's okay, I'm here for you. Affection Up.
You're overthinking it. Affection Down. I feel the same. Time Out. Chapter 2Sonia: Oh, Yuma. How are things? Have you gotten used to the city?.
I don't feel comfortable here yet. Affection Up. I don't really know. Yeah! I feel comfortable here now!. Time OutChapter 3Sonia: I was told to wait here for him, but he hasn't returned yet. I wonder if something happened.
Do you want me to go look for him? Affection Up. C-Captain Burroughs!?. I think I saw him around the castle. Time OutChapter 4Sonia: How's it going, Yuma?
Have you been training? If you skip one day, you regress three, so you have to practice every day. I train every day.
Affection Up. I was totally about to train. You train every day, Sonia?. Time OutChapter 5Sonia: Yeah, I'm worried about my father. He's conscious now, but his wounds haven't fully recovered. I hope he feels better soon. We have to stay strong.
Affection Up. A lot of people were injured. He'll get better in no time. Time OutChapter 6Sonia: Still, Zest.
That might be obvious, but the enemies have their own reasons too, huh. But that doesn't change what they've done.
Affection Up. You don't have to worry about that.
Only if we can understand each other. Time OutChapter 7Sonia: It was to be expected, though. You've been working so hard this entire time.
Heck, I feel like it's long overdue. I still have a lot to learn.
Affection Up. Yeah, I think so, too. Affection Down. That's not true.
I'm just happy. Time OutChapter 8Sonia: Hey, Yuma. What do you think is going to happen? Do you think we can stop Deus?.
We can stop him. Affection Up. I'm worried, but have to do it. It's not a matter of can or can't.
We HAVE to. Time Out. Chapter 2Rinna: I should show you my gradtitude somehow. Is there something you want me to do?
I'll do anything!. You don't need to thank me. Affection Up. Hamburger steaks Affection Down. I want your heart.
Time OutChapter 3Rinna: How do you feel about that? Aren't you happy that Lady Kirika likes you?.
I want you to like me. Affection Up. I'm happy, but. I-I'm not happy about it.
Time OutChapter 4Rinna: That cynical smile! It totally gets on my nerves! Don't you agree, Yuma!?. I feel exactly the same way. Affection Up.
Calm down. Not really. Time OutChapter 5Rinna: Lady Kirika must be relieved to have him with us. It might not seem like it, but Lady Kirika depends on Master Lestin!. That's what I thought. Affection Up.
That's hard to believe. Are you joking? Affection Down. Oh really?. Time OutChapter 6Rinna: I want to ask him to run an errand for me, but I can't find him. What to do.?. Do you want me to go?
Affection Up. Can't you go by yourself?. He's taking a nap. Time OutChapter 7Rinna: You're the talk of the town because you're so reliable! I'm so proud!.giggle. It's thanks to you, Rinna.
Affection Up. I'm not that reliable. I have my friends to thank for that.
Time OutChapter 8Rinna: I know an important battle is coming up, but I'm really worried. I want to laugh it off like I always do, but it's hard. I'm scared, too. Affection Up. It's normal to be afraid. Affection Down. I always want you to be smiling.
Time Out. Chapter 2Agnum: I'm thinking about what to make for dinner. What do you want to eat?
Meat or Fish?. I'm feeling like fish today.
Affection Up. That's what bothering you?. It's gotta be meat!. Time OutChapter 3Agnum: Lemme ask you this: if Lestin and I were in an argument, whose side would you take?. Yours of course, Agnum.
Affection Up. Maybe Lestin's. I won't know until the time comes.
Time OutChapter 4Agnum: Even all those popular ghost stories are just fakes or misunderstanding! You think so, too, don't you, Yuma?.
Yeah, ghost don't exist. Affection Up. Huh? Affection Down. I can't say for sure.
Time OutChapter 5Agnum.What kind, you ask? Well, it wouldn't be any fun if I just told you! Go on, dig in!. Okay, thanks. Affection Up.
This is suspicious. I'm not hungry right now. Time OutChapter 6Agnum: What about you, Yuma?
Do you prefer the heat or the cold?. I like the heat. Affection Up.
I think I prefer the cold. I don't like either. Time OutChapter 7Agnum: That's an awesome title. I'd like something besides my nickname: the Blazing Pyromaestro.
I think the Blazing Pyromaestro is fine. Affection Up. Does Red-Hot Noble sound good? Affection Down. How about the Fiery Chief?. Time OutChapter 8Agnum.No better time then now to eat your fill!
You wouln't want to be caught with an empty stomach, right? Pick something!.
Skewers for good luck! Affection Up. But, I'm not hungy.
Affection Down. I'll go with roasted chicken. Time Out.
Chapter 4Marion: I'm not comfortable yet. Were you like this when you got here, too? How long do you think it will take for me to use used to it?. You'll get used to it in no time. Affection Up.
I'm still not used to it. I've been comfortable from the beginning. Time OutChapter 5Marion: When I told her it was too hot, she said I was a baby. What does she mean I'm a baby?.
She meant you don't like hot things. Affection Up.
Cute like a baby. I think. It means you eat a lot. Like a baby. Time OutChapter 6Marion: Lestin told me that a person who has to enter a battle should never let their guard down, even when it's peaceful. I don't think this is what he meant. Affection Up.
That's really unnecessary. You're allowed to rest, too. Time OutChapter 7Marion.It's fine if nothing's wrong. I thought you looked a little sad. It's nothing.
I'm all right. Affection Up. I want to be alone for a while.
I feel crushed by my responsibilities. Time OutChapter 8Marion: Yuma. Thank you for saving me. I should be thanking you.
Affection Up. You don't need to thank me. Why did you say that, all of a sudden?. Time Out. Chapter 5Lestin: We have arrived at a momentary time of peace in the midst of war.
As a warrior, what do you think is most important at a time like this?. Resting. Affection Up.
Training. Affection Down. Having fun. Time OutChapter 6Lestin: Let's say the city were under attack right now. What would you defend?. The Seagull Inn. Affection Up.
The City entrance. Affection Down. The Castle. Time OutChapter 7Lestin: Such a title changes a person's perception of himself. Do you understand what it means to be a knight?.
Yeah, I think so. Affection Up. The title is a bit much for me. Affection Down.
Honestly, I don't know. Time OutChapter 8Lestin: Compared to when we first met, I can hardly recognize you. What enabled you to come so far?. My friends.
Affection Up. All my hard work. Affection Down. You, Lestin. Time Out. Chapter 2Excella: Ah, sorry, I was feeling a little dizzy.
Have you rested up?. I'm okay. Are you sure you're fine? Affection Up.
Y-Yeah. I'm fine. Everything's all so sudden. Time OutChapter 3Excella: But I'm sure he just wants what is best for you. Don't let it bother you. I want to get stronger.
Affection Up. Yeah. But Lestin has a point. Affection Down. Thanks for worrying about me, Excella. Time OutChapter 4Excella: You look well. Are you feeling better?.
I feel better after seeing you. Affection Up. I thought I heard your voice, Excella.
I can't control the Shining Dragon. Time OutChapter 5Excella: I know the pain of seeing your father confined to bed. Is there anything I can do for her?. Why don't we think of something together? Affection Up.
Can you stay by her side?. Sorry I can't think of anything.
Time OutChapter 6Excella: What would you do, if I were ever to be captured?. I'd rescue you, of course! Affection Up.
You'd never get captured so easily. Affection Down. I'll never let that happen to you!.
Time OutChapter 7Excella: I am delighted you received such a prestigious title. What do you think of it?. I finally can stand next to you. Affection Up.
I'm afraid I don't measure up to it. Affection Down.
I don't want to dishonor it. Time OutChapter 8Excella: Every time I made a new memory with you. One by one, I felt my emotions being set free. When this war is over. I. When it's over, let's have fun together. Affection Up.
Tell me the rest after this is over. Let's focus on the battle for now. Time Out. Chapter 2Jinas: Ah, Yuma. Sorry, my mind was occupied.
Anything feel out of place?. You look worse than me, Jinas. Affection Up. We have more important things to worry about!. I'm all rested up now.
Sorry for worrying you. Time OutChapter 3Jinas: Agnum is loud, but he's good at looking out for others. He can help if you're in trouble. Are you getting along with him?. He does seem cheerful and reliable. Affection Up. He might be too cheerful for me.
Affection Down. Say, you two are kind of similar. Time OutChapter 4Jinas: I knew you'd be able to control it, but it still was quite frightening.
I'd tell you to do, but I doubt you'd listen. How'd you know I'd be able to control it?
Affection Up. I felt like I had no choice. Affection Down. I'd do the same thing again if I had to. Time OutChapter 5Jinas: That song reaches out and guides you.
When you;ve lost all hope, you should listen for it. Remember that. Okay.
I'll remember. Affection Up. I'll be fine!
I've got you all! Affection Down. What do you mean?. Time OutChapter 6Jinas: That power was like a curse to me. If I had been stronger. The future might have been different.
You're not weak. You're here by my side. Affection Up. The past made you who you are. Affection Down. Sorry. I don't know what to say.
Time OutChapter 7Jinas: My role will also be coming to an end, soon. What's wrong, Yuma? You look distressed.
Don't say your role is coming to an end. Affection Up. I don't see myself as that. Affection Down. It's thanks to the Shining Dragon's power. Time OutChapter 8Jinas: I have just one thing to ask of you.
Don't ever forget about the people who care about you. Not even for a moment. I say the exact same to you, Jinas. Affection Up. If we can save the world. Then I. Yeah.
I won't ever forget them.!. Time Out.
Kirika:.giggle. Do you suppose he has an owner?
He is quite friendly. Would you like to pet him?. Don’t mind if I do. No thanks.
Do you like cats, Kirika? Affection UpKirika: I would be happy to lend you a book, I think my collection has something to suit any taste. What would you like. A biography sounds good. How about horror?. Do You have, um romance?
Affection UpYuma: D-Don’t laugh, but. It was for world peace. No Change. I couldn’t even think of one. No Change. I wished for a girlfriend.
No ChangeYuma: Huh? Umm. You would be the older sister. No Change. Rinna, maybe?
No Change. I'm not sure. No Change. Time out No ChangeKirika: I could share them with you if you like. Thanks.
I'd love some. No Change. No, that's okay. No Change. You should split them with Lestin.
No ChangeKirika: If I were to dress like someone else, whose attire do you think would best suit me?. Rinna's. Agnum's Affection Up.
Sonia'sKirika: I am glad that makes you so happy Have any of my expressions left that much of an impression on you?. Your smile. Affection Up. Your anger. Affection Up. Your distress. Affection UpKirika:.giggle.
Well, it is only a feeling. Do you have a favorite season, Yuma?. Spring. Affection Up. Summer. Winter. Affection UpKirika: I amsure he would be happy to teach you in the culnary arts, if you asked.
Yeah, maybe I will. No Change. I'd rather you teach me, Kirika. No Change. I just like eating.
No Change. Time out. No ChangeKirika: Even worse.? What do you mean?. Cities could be destroyed.
I could die. My friends could get hurt. Affection UpKirika: Well, you have your chance. What would you like to do?. See the world.
Affection Up. Help rebuild he country.To be close.Yuma: L-Love? It's, uh. Having someone important to you? Affection Down.
Feeling your heart pound? No Change.
Your imagination? No Change. Time out. Sonia: I know. You can smell it every time you walk by, and then you basically have no choice but to stop. What did you get?. Frog-on-a-stick.
Fried chicken. Affection Up. Salt-grilled mackerel.Sonia: I have to, if I want to be as strong as captain Burroughs someday. What about you, Yuma?.
I usually take it easy. I go for walk around the city.
I actually train to Affection UpSonia: I know! How about you try wearing armor too?. Is there an armor that fits me? No Change. But you show a lot of skin No Change. It’s all too heavy for me. No Change.
Time Out No ChangeSonia:.sigh. Wish I knew some tricks to help me sleep better.
You just have to relax. No Change.
Don’t force it. No Change. Maybe if you eat something? No Change. Time Out No ChangeSonia: You think so?
Sometimes I wonder if this is the best I can do. Don’t give up. That’s not like you, Sonia. Affection Up. You want to protect your land, right?Yuma: What, right now?
Uh. Let’s go bug Agnum. No Change. How about Kirika?
No Change. Just you is fine by me. No Change.
Time out Affection DownSonia: It's all right. Even if something attacks us, I'll protect you!. We'll fight the together. Affection Up.
I can protect you, too. You're so dependable.Sonia:.giggle. Listen to yourself But it’d be amazing if we could. If I transform into a dragon?
Affection Up. Maybe from a really high place.
But it’s impossible, of course.Sonia: Where!? Oh, gotta make a wish! Mm Got it!. What did you wish for? Affection Up.
I made a wish too. I couldn’t think of onSonia: And. I just feel better when I know you're okay. How about you, Sonia? Affection Up. Don't worry about me. Am I that unreliable?Sonia: But when I think about my people suffering, I know I’m wrong for feeling like that.
It's okay to complain sometimes. Affection Up. Deep down, you're a normal girl.
Being a princess is tough.Sonia: Something seems different about you. Maybe. Someone got present? Affection Up. You ate something delicious?. You’re just happy to see me? Rinna: Perfect!
I’ve got just the thing! I picked up these apples just this afternoon. You want to eat together?. Yeah. If you eat late, you’ll gain weight. We don’t have a knife Affection UpRinna: Reeeaally? But a kid like you HAS to hate a whole bunch of different foods, right?.
Well I don’t like see cucumbers. Affection Down. I like everything.
No Change. What about you? No Change. Timed out No ChangeRinna: Walking in big ruin complexes is really fun! Don’t you think, Yuma?.
Yeah, it’s an adventure. Affection Up. I don’t think so. What about the traps?Rinna: It seemed like there were a lot of them. Maybe seven or eight But cats don’t have packs, do they?
I wonder why they were all together?. Maybe they were hungry?. Must’ve been a cat meeting. We’d have to ask them. Affection UpRinna: It’s pretty easy when you get the hang of it.
You want to try playing it, Yuma?. It looks hard. I think I’ll pass. Yeah, teach me! Affection UpRinna: On my bed there he was.
Was it a cockroach? Affection Up. Was it a ghost?. Was it an Imperial soldier?Rinna: Oh, hey! I know this one weird trick that’ll make allll your fears go away. You want me to help you out!.
Yeah, please do. Affection Up. I’ll pass. Does it work?Rinna: I SAID, I'm pretty delicate, huh!? What do you do whenn you can't fall asleep?.
I read a book. I talk to someone. Affection Up. I stay awake until I get sleepy.Rinna: Hey, I only just noticed!
Hee hee Yuma, you really are a kid. You must have spent the entire day with super bedhead. I’m jealous of your hair.
Affection Up. Wait, isn’t your hair messy too?. Ugh, I’m so embarrassedYuma: Wow Thanks, Rinna! I’ll take good care of it! But, uh what IS it?. An arrowhead?
Affection Up. A potshard?
Affection Up. An Instrument?Yuma: Really? I could swear something's different. You smell different. Did you change your hair?. You're even prettier than usual.
Affection UpRinna: It feels kinda weird. Don't you think, Yuma. It's a little creepy. It's romantic. Affection Up.
It feels lonely. Agnum: So I was hoping to get a second opinion.
What do you think would be good?. A color that hides dirt. Any color, as long as they’re pointy,. It’s gotta be black. Affection UpAgnum: But who do I give it to? Any Ideas, Yuma?.
Maybe. Sonia?. Someone like.
Affection Up. Why not ware it yourself?Agnum: Where's this coming from? Don't tell me you're getting interested in cartography now?. Yeah, I'm interested. They look hard to make. Nah, not really.
Time Out Affection UpYuma: New shops.?. No idea. I always go to the same place. Actually, there's this food stall.
![]()
Affection UpAgnum: Yeah. I mean, I studied a bit of magic, so I know the basics.
You want me to teach you?. Yes please. No Change. It sounds hard. Affection Down. Is that even pratical No Change.
Time out No ChangeYuma: You think so.?. It's all thanks to you, Agnum. Affection Up. Sonia's a good teacher. I have a lot of experience now.Agnum: What kind of person is she? Ahah, uh, well. Is she pretty?
No Change. Is she like you, Agnum? No Change. Is she like Emma? No Change. Time out No ChangeYuma: A favorite vegatable? Let me think.
Cabbage. Affection Up. I like everything.I don't think so.Agnum: More like me!? What's this all about?. I want to be more passionate.
Affection Up. I want to look more mature. I want to be more carefree.Agnum: It's a new dish I've been working on. Let me know what you think, and be honest. It's good!. Needs work. I need some more.
![]()
Affection UpYuma: Let's see. It's probably because. You like to travel?.
You like to draw?. You like to see new things. Affection UpYuma: No, I'll be fine. This is nothing.
I've got you here, after all. Affection Up. I'm use to it now.
I'm just sleepy. Marion: That happens to you, too? What do you do when that happens?.
I drink some hot milk. No Change. I go for a walk. No Change.
I just give up and stay awake. No Change. Time out. No ChangeMarion: I can’t bring myself to believe that, but a lot of people have been saying they saw ghosts. What do you think?.
They’re imagining it. They mistook something for a ghost Affection Up.
Ghost are 100% real.Marion: Really? It hard for me to tell. Do you want me to do an illusion of anything in particular? I can do almost anything. I want to pull a prank on someone.
I want to look more mature. I want to see my mom. Time out Affection UpYuma: Oh, no. I don’t think it’s a cold. It’s probably just.
Someone’s talking about me behind my back. Affection Up. I feel kind of chilly. I guess I COULD be sickMarion: No, no one said anything. Sometimes the people in town give me weird looks, though.
Don’t worry about it. Affection Up. I’ll give them a piece of my mind.
I think it’s something to be proud of. Affection UpMarion: You should drink lots of water.
You should drink lots of water. Eat something sweet to balance it out. Why don’t you try gargling? Affection UpMarion: About what?. Tomorrow's breakfast.
Affection Up. About everyone. Affection Up. About you.
Affection UpYuma: Oh, so that's what it is. It does almost look like a picture of something though. It looks like a dragon. Affection Up. Is it me?. It looks like Astoria.Marion: I've heard dreams are representations of your subconscious. So what could that hourglass mean?
What am I thinking, deep inside?. Maybe you're bored. I bet you want to go see the ocean.
Maybe you're thinking about. Affection UpMarion: Thats why I thought I'd ask you directly. What can I do? What would make you happiest?.
You don't have to do anything. Tell me something funny. Well. How about a kiss? Affection UpMarion: I see.
What should we do with it?. Let's keep it in a bottle. We should let it go. Affection Up. Let's ask Lestin. Affection Up.
Time out. Affection UpMarion: You don't have any family either, right? That's why I was wondering if. You feel alone like I do. I feel lonely sometimes, too. I'm not lonely. Affection Up.
I try not to think about it. Lestin: Special training? What exactly did you do?. I practiced swinging every day.
No Change. I analyzed everyone’s combat roles No Change. I observed your fighting style. No Change. Time out. No ChangeLestin: I see Then first I must ask you, Yuma.
What is strength to you.?. The power to beat anyone. Unwavering resolve. I don’t know. Affection Up. Time out.Yuma: I see.
Hmm, if I had to choose, it’d be. The front lines, maybe?. The rear guard, maybe?
Affection Up. Both maybe?Lestin.Perhaps this could be an opportunity for a lesson. Yuma, say an enemy found you unarmed. How would you deal with that?. Run away.
Improvise. Affection Up. Fight barehanded.Lestin: Then perhaps you could clarify. What about siblings do you envy?. They're always there for you. You can have sibling rivalries. I'd boss my little brother around.
Time out. Affection UpLestin: For example. This herb here, perhaps, I picked it because it's helpful in treating wounds. How do you suppose it's used. Boil it and drink it. Apply it directly to the wound.
Soak with it in a bath. Affection UpYuma: Unusual? You mean like. It toots itself in battle?.
You need a sense for music? Affection Up.
People ask you to perfrom?Lestin: If you speak in earnest, Yuma, I can teach you a method I used to deal with foods I didn't like. Sure teach me. Affection Up.
I'll manage on my own. Can't I just.
Not eat them?Lestin: Are you sure? I could treat it right now if you'd like. If that's okay. Affection Up.
No, I'm fine. It's kind of embarrassing.Lestin: Nights like these remind me of Wellant. The years I spent there were so. What about you, Yuma?. Reminds me of y hometown. Affection Up. Reminds me of Gaelritz.
Affection Up. This is what I'm fighting for. Affection UpYuma: Wh-what!?. Sh-She's just a friend. Affection Up.
I worry about her. Sometimes.?. Nothing much.Yuma: Your weaknesses!?
Le me think. You're to stiff.
Affection Up. You're overprotective of Kirika. You have no weaknesses. Excella.It's a mess. I didn't think I was swinging the basket that hard.
You many lose your appetite if you look, I'm afraid. It's just. Easier to eat now.
If you made it, I know I'll love it. Affection Up. It'll still taste good, right?Excella: It’s actually quite light, but does it trouble you that much? If I take it off now Perhaps you’d like to see?. That’s not what I!. A-Are you toying with me? Affection Up.
Wait, you’re okay with that?Excella: You seem curious. I can show you the execution, if you so desire. It looks scary, I’ll watch from afar. I’ll be safe here, right?. Can I see up close? Affection Up???: Who can this be?
Hmhm Take a guess. Captain Burroughs!. Um Sonia? Affection Down. Your voice gives it away.
Affection UpExcella: Ahem. So How do you feel about the night sky? Not me, that is; the night in general. I don’t know, but it’s mystical?.
I like it now. Affection Up.
I’m not a big fan.Excella: Hm. Very well; I accept your challenge. You may come to regret it. (I’ll make a funny face at her!). (Let’s see how she deals with my stare.) Affection Up. (maybe not)Excella: I cannot, but. Yuma, may I touch your ears?.
I can talk to you!. I don't have an instrument. I can play a blade of grass. Affection UpExcella: An old herbal remedy from the Empire. A fine scent, no?. It smells nice and sweet.
I didn't know you'd use your finger. Affection Up. I like that meaning tooExcella. If you have something to say, then say it. I was thinking how cut you were. You don't have to do that.
Affection Up. I-I can put it on myself next time.Excella: Yuma. How long have you been there? Were you sitting there watching me sleep!?. You had drool. Don't worry, I got it.
You were so cute, I just. Affection Up. I couldn't help myself. Sorry.Excella: I enjoy playing for you, but.
Would you like to perform with me?. I can talk to you!. I don't have an instrument. I can play a blade of grass. Affection UpExcella: 'You are mine alone.'
A strong sentiment, perhaps, but that's why I'm drawn to it. It's wonderful to care for someone with such power. That's very like you, Excella. It seems hard to take care of. I like that meaning too Affection Up. Jinas: I like being alone.
I have fought dragonkind more than once. I like ruins, and often explore them in my leisure time. Which is the lie?. You wouldn’t lie to me, would you?.
I think you don’t like being alone! Affection Up. Are ALL of them lies?Yuma: (He looks a little sad I wonder if there’s something I can do for him?
Hmm). Why don’t we do something relaxing?
Affection Up. Do you want some warm milk?. You don’t want to talk today?Jinas: Yuma. Are you listening?. You'd make a good teacher.
You're like a village elder. I wish I could always have you around. Affection UpJinas: Yes. Perhaps you'd like me to cut yours too?.
No way! Affection Up. What am I supposed to say?.Don't mess it up.Jinas: What is it?. It seems heavier than it looks. It looks so cool!
Affection Up. Do you think I'd look cool with it?Jinas.What are you trying to say?. Don't you get lonely.?. Am I causing you, problems?. I like doing unnecessary things.
Affection UpJinas. You seem happy. You want to stay up and talk too, huh? Affection Up. You’re so considerate. You can’t sleep either, huh?Jinas: If I need to. I usually prefer to leave it to others.
Does that mean I'm special?. This is a rare occasion! Affection Up. Sorry for the trouble.Yuma: (Jinas. He looks so sad.
I hope he doesn't give up on this.). I can make up for your lack of words. Affection Up. Your heart isn't something to hide.
A master shouldn't show weakness.Yuma: (Jinas looks really worried. But that HURT! But if it's in bad condition already.). Um. Try to make it hurt less, okay?. Can I do the same to you? Affection Up.
Please don't. It hurts too much.Jinas. What do you want to know?. Any embarrassing memories?. Tales of your heroic exploits. Did you have anyone dear to you?
Affection UpJinas: No, in the end. Perhas it was you that taught me the most. I'm glad to hear it, Jinas!. Then will you rely on me?
Affection Up.I don't really get it.
If there is one JRPG series that has been tragically overlooked, then it would be Shining. Making its debut with Shining in the Darkness on the Sega Mega Drive in 1991, the series saw hit after hit, helping to make SEGA’s early consoles a worthy destination for JRPG fans.However, when SEGA changed gears in 2001/2002, the Shining series changed forever. Not only was Camelot (then known as Sonic! Software Planning) no longer the developer, but the series shifted in presentation, theme and tone, becoming more like the other JRPGs that started to appear on the market at the time. Needless to say, this rubbed many fans the wrong way, and SEGA declining to release any core entry in the West from 2007 onwards (a spin-off arrived in 2016) didn’t help either. For a time, it looked like we wouldn’t see the series again; but thankfully, SEGA decided to throw fans a bone and offer a taste of what they’ve been missing out on since that fateful year with the release of Shining Resonance Refrain, an enhanced version of a game that came out in 2014 on the PlayStation 3.This, of course, leaves Shining Resonance Refrain in an odd position. It already has to contend with the fact that it has very little in common with the old Shining titles, but now it can’t even rely on its strengths in their entirety anymore.
Back when the original Shining Resonance debuted, its primary competitor was (2015) — both are action RPGs, incorporates a unique twist on traditional combat (music vs. Seraphim), features interconnected environments and utilizes an anime aesthetic.
And while some might argue that the original game is better than what Tales had to offer at the time, this isn’t something they can assert anymore. Not only has Tales stepped up its game substantially since then ( ), but there are also a variety of other similar titles ( NieR: Automata, Ni No Kuni 2, Ys VIII, Tokyo Xanadu, etc.) now out on the market as well.In other words, Shining Resonance Refrain often feels outdated when looking at what other titles in the genre now bring to the table.That said, the game still has its good points: the combat is fun, the character designs are sublime (all hail Tony Taka) and all the action takes place within a beautifully-constructed world. There are, however, a few easily recognizable flaws. I know Shining Resonance wasn’t the shining example of a game with a large budget back when it debuted in 2014, but there are some real headscratchers when it comes to design and implementation that can only be considered archaic by today’s standards. And we’ll take a look at what I’m talking about in a moment, but before then let’s take a look at what binds these features together: the story.Shining Resonance Refrain tells the timeless tale of a young man and his band of plucky companions working together to defeat an evil empire that’s threatening to throw the world into ruin. Specifically, the main character, Yuma, holds the soul of a powerful being known as the Shining Dragon within him, and upon being rescued from prison by a knight named Sonia, he is brought back to the Kingdom of Astoria where he is recruited by her father, the King, to help them defeat the Empire of Lombardia who seeks to take over the continent using the power of the dragons who used to roam the world a thousand years ago.All in all, the story is a generic 30-45 hour affair, featuring all the trappings of your stock JRPG. Fantasy-medieval setting?
Protagonist with mysterious past? Well, what self-respecting JRPG doesn’t have dragons in it?
Seriously though, the backstory is interesting, as are the characters who push everything forward, so if you’re not the type who places emphasis on an expertly crafted story with plenty of twists and revelations throughout, then this game will hit all the right notes for you. And as an added bonus you can switch between English and Japanese voices whenever you like! In particular, the game’s focus on music is thorough, and the overall artistic style is exemplary. Music is a central theme in Shining Resonance and many of the features within are designed to reflect that fact. Your weapons, known as Armonics, are basically musical instruments that are durable enough to smack enemies with. As such, you don’t enchant your weapons, you tune them; you don’t channel skills or spells, you “play” them.
Honestly, there’s something really cool about watching Agnum play a riff on his guitar before enveloping his target in a torrent of fire. As for the art — especially the character designs — I don’t think it’s possible to overstate how gorgeous it all is. I’ve always been a fan of Tony Taka’s work and it was hard for me to look at characters like Sonia, Rinna and Agnum, and not come to the conclusion that they were among the best he’s ever created.Regrettably, I can’t extend this level of praise to other areas of the game. Like I said, Shining Resonance Refrain exhibits a pattern of questionable design to the point where much of what the game does well is compromised by something else. Granted, the extent to which this occurs comes on a case-by-case basis.For instance, at face value, the battle system, which can most aptly be described as a watered down amalgam of those seen in various Tales titles, is quite good. And, honestly speaking, this approach is perfectly acceptable.
It’s refreshing to use a new character for the first time and not feel like you’re playing with two left hands. Combat is simple and clean (unless multiple skills/spells are being cast or active, in which case the usual 60 FPS takes a nosedive), so it doesn’t take much effort to get a proper handle on what you can (or can’t) do.However, things get complicated once AI gets thrown into the mix.
To put it charitably: the AI — of both the enemies and your allies — is stupid. For what it’s worth, enemies can always deal adequate damage since their level scales in accordance with your own and story progression, but they’re often too dimwitted to make themselves a legitimate threat. Larger enemies without aoe attacks will clumsily rotate in place as they try to face their target, and the only recourse smaller ones have from simple rushdown tactics is larger numbers. Meanwhile, your allies often decline to use the moves they have equipped to their full potential. I don’t know if it’s because of competing priorities or there’s something else going on, but you know something is wrong when your teammates are frequently unable to fulfill their given role. A tank neglecting to grab the attention of a boss or horde of enemies?
That’s happened. A mage choosing to melee said boss or horde of enemies instead of using spells from a safe distance?
Again, that’s happened. It’s like they’re willingly playing with a half deck of cards — and I mean that literally, since party members can only have up to four skills equipped at any given time.And what makes this so vexing is the fact that there’s little you can do about any of this. Adjusting the difficulty only affects the enemies’ damage output and they do more than enough already.
Meanwhile, there’s no AI optimization feature, with the game only offering rudimentary in-battle commands; and taking direct control of your party members, though viable, requires you to go to the pause menu. In the end, you’re just better off selecting characters with more complicated battle roles and using them yourself (hence why I now almost exclusively use my tank, Sonia, and mage, Rinna).Thankfully, no other aspect of the game is as compromised as the combat is (even if it’s still fun), though there are still other parts which will give you pause when you come across them, such as questing and exploration.
After your party emerges from battle victorious (or escapes like cowards), they’ll once again be able to explore the beautifully-crafted continent of Alfheim. The environments are numerous, ranging from a forest teeming with life, to a system of caverns that houses the remnants of an ancient civilization. Most JRPGs would just stop there and call it a day, but Shining Resonance takes things to the next level by incorporating a weather system that causes random areas to change after you rest in town or at one of the many campsites littered around the continent. Changes in the weather don’t alter a zone’s topography like in Final Fantasy XII, but there are some noticeable visual effects and, most importantly, the enemies and items within the area will change accordingly. For instance, when the forest is hit by a thunderstorm, the usual plant life will take cover beneath the forest’s massive trees and the insects will become infused with electricity, while the herbs and mushrooms often found on the ground will be replaced by crystals.As one might expect, this has a considerable effect on the way quests play out, as there will be times when the required items or enemies are only present in a single area during a specific weather pattern.
The issue with this, however, is that you actually have no control over the weather — you’ll have to keep resting or camping out until you get the one you want. And things only get worse once you start picking up multiple quests that could potentially require you to go to opposite ends of the continent (with a general lack of save points, no less) and you’re unable to fast travel to any of them. In fact, the only place you can fast travel to is the only town in the game, Marga. Fortunately, the quest listings (which can be seen by pressing R2) are useful in helping you get most of your quests done, showing you a picture of the area you need to go to and even one of the target enemy if applicable. Perhaps this is the compensation for designing a bestiary that can only be viewed in town, and a minimap that doesn’t show the location of collectibles and treasure?And once you’re done with all the battles, quests and exploration, you can head back to Marga (remember to pack the appropriate item or else you’ll have to walk!) where you can enjoy the calm atmosphere (in spite of the ongoing war), shop or create new items and accessories (this is also possible at the various campsites you come across), adjust your weapon and learn more about your teammates by going out with them on dates. Deepening the relationship with your teammates is a three-step process: first you have to build affection by battling alongside them, giving them gifts, viewing character events or answering questions while in town or at a campsite; then you have to invite them out for a private conversation at night and if all goes well they’ll ask you out on a date in town the following day. Overall, this process is exceedingly lenient.
You have to go out of your way to significantly lower any given character’s affection toward you and any such changes — regardless of how big — can easily be reversed, while general conversation and the night events can be done both in town and at campsites. Really, the only frustrating part about the whole affection and dating system is the fact that there’s no way to check how much a character likes you before the night event begins.Before closing out, there’s one last thing you should know about: Refrain Mode. This is a new mode exclusive to Shining Resonance Refrain which “adds” two new playable characters. SEGA suggested playing the original mode first so you could appreciate their role in the story beforehand, and I do agree with this after playing through the game (major plot points get spoiled within the first two hours). However, the most they offer is extra dialog, while the extra content within Refrain Mode is entirely optional and the story is still the same as before, rendering the original mode pointless.
I won’t try to dissuade you if you’re adamant about playing through the game twice (do be aware there’s no new game plus), but if you’re on the fence — or just don’t care — then go ahead and play Refrain Mode first. The VerdictWith all the questionable design choices present here, you would expect Shining Resonance Refrain to be unable to hold up in modern times, and in some cases that is correct. Combat being compromised by dumb AI and a restrictive skill set, a minimap that doesn’t show the locations of treasure, and exploration made tedious due to limited fast travel are just some of the legitimate gripes that can be levied here. Yet, despite all that, everything still works.Therefore, the mindset you approach Shining Resonance Refrain with is critical. If you only compare this with modern JRPGs, then you’ll likely find the experience to be wanting; and it will only come off worse if you compare it to the Shining titles of old. However, if you take the game as it is and judge it on its own merits, you’ll soon find that there is a lot to enjoy. The game is somewhat flawed and unambitious, for sure, but it’s still solidly made.- This article was updated on:July 9th, 2018.
![]() Comments are closed.
|
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. Archives
February 2023
Categories |