LIVE A LIVE

Developer: Square Enix
Release: Apr 27th 2023
Platforms:
Adventure
RPG
Innovative
Nostalgic
Varied
Grinding
Confusing Combat
LIVE A LIVE Poster

" Innovative adventure RPG with multi-era storytelling and HD-2D art but uneven chapter depth "

LIVE A LIVE Review

LIVE A LIVE is a unique RPG that offers multiple distinct chapters, each with its own protagonist, setting, and gameplay mechanics. Players appreciate the game's innovative concept of exploring different time periods and storylines, culminating in an epic and surprising final chapter that ties everything together. The graphics and soundtrack receive consistent praise for their quality and nostalgic charm, enhancing the overall experience.

However, some players find the chapters too short to fully develop characters and stories, leading to a lack of emotional depth in certain parts. The battle system, which combines grid and time-based mechanics, is divisive—while some enjoy its creativity, others find it unbalanced and frustrating, especially during the final boss encounters. Grinding is often necessary to progress, which can feel tedious. Despite these criticisms, many players recommend the game, particularly at a discounted price, highlighting its fun gameplay and memorable finale.

Highlights

Players praise LIVE A LIVE's innovative multi-chapter structure that explores diverse time periods and gameplay styles.

The graphics and music are standout features, with many noting the nostalgic and high-quality presentation.

The final chapter delivers an epic and satisfying conclusion that surprises many players.

Unique gameplay mechanics in each chapter, such as stealth and hunting, add variety and keep the experience fresh.

Overall, the game is considered fun and engaging, especially for fans of classic RPGs.

Criticisms

Many players feel the chapters are too short to develop meaningful characters or stories, resulting in shallow narratives.

The battle system's hybrid grid and time-based mechanics cause confusion and imbalance, leading to frustrating combat experiences.

The final chapter requires significant grinding, which some find tedious and detracts from enjoyment.

Some story motivations and transitions between chapters lack clarity, possibly due to translation differences.

The game can feel like a chore at times, especially during the prolonged final battles and leveling requirements.

Pros

  • Innovative multi-chapter storytelling set across diverse time periods.
  • High-quality graphics with nostalgic pixel art style.
  • Memorable and well-composed soundtrack enhances atmosphere.
  • Each chapter offers unique gameplay mechanics and themes.
  • Epic and surprising final chapter ties stories together well.
  • Fun and engaging overall experience for RPG fans.
  • Creative battle animations add visual appeal to combat.

Cons

  • Chapters are often too short to develop depth in story or characters.
  • Battle system is confusing due to mixed grid and time-based turns.
  • Final chapter requires excessive grinding to progress effectively.
  • Combat difficulty spikes make boss fights frustrating.
  • Some story motivations and transitions feel unclear or underexplained.
  • Repetitive gameplay in later stages can feel like a chore.
  • Lack of unique identity in some chapters beyond basic gimmicks.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

The legend is alive! LIVE A LIVE, originally only released for the Super Famicom in Japan, is being revived on Steam! Experience this legendary RPG, brought alive in the same HD-2D visual style as OCTOPATH TRAVELER.

Release Date Apr 27th 2023
Publisher Square Enix
Developer Square Enix, historia Inc.
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (315)
90% Positive 10% Negative