Reynatis Review – Grand Ambitions With Messy Execution

Reynatis was introduced with a highly anticipated trailer showcasing great potential and was supported by notable figures like Kazushige Nojima and Yoko Shimomura. Fans of the Final Fantasy franchise were intrigued by the trailer’s nod to the canceled Versus XIII, raising hopes for a similarly ambitious experience. However, the final product falls short of expectations. Reynatis comes across as a game heavy on spectacle but lacking in substance. Its most significant flaw lies in its repetitive gameplay loop and weak narrative, which aims for grandeur but ultimately fails to achieve its lofty goals.

FuRyu, the game’s developer, is not new to creating Japanese RPGs. While they are not known for producing high-profile or critically acclaimed games, they have carved out a niche by developing JRPGs reminiscent of those from the 5th and 6th console generations—titles that have become increasingly rare. Reynatis is one of their most ambitious projects to date, but it falters early on and fails to match the quality of even average entries in the genre, let alone the best.

The combat system in Reynatis is intriguing, especially since action JRPGs rarely split combat into two distinct modes as this game does. Reynatis introduces two different real-time combat systems: Suppressed Mode and Liberated Mode. Suppressed Mode focuses on defense, where players cannot attack but can dodge enemy moves and prepare to counter with magic. Once you switch to Liberated Mode, you regain the ability to attack but lose defensive capabilities. This dual system aims to create a dynamic balance between offense and defense, though it often leans more toward frustration than enjoyment.

The design of this combat system seems like the developers wanted to offer a casual-friendly action RPG without oversimplifying the mechanics. Initially, it didn’t feel straightforward, but as I delved deeper into its various mechanics, I began to appreciate it more. The system incorporates a mix of stats that influence combat performance. MP is central to attacking and gradually depletes over time. To replenish MP, players must switch back to Suppressed Mode, where they can automatically dodge enemy attacks. Since there is no manual parry function—only the option to switch combat modes—the game feels more accessible, but the constant management of these modes adds a cumbersome layer to the experience.

Given its modest budget, it’s easy to overlook some of Reynatis’ shortcomings. One of the more noticeable issues is the lifeless character animations. Aside from a few in-game cutscenes, much of the story is presented in an uninspired way. The game centers around two main characters, Marin Kirizumi and Sari Nishijima, set in an alternate-reality version of modern-day Shibuya. It blends wizards, magic, and other fantastical elements with a touch of sci-fi. However, these elements fail to create a compelling and cohesive world.

The game’s greatest weakness lies in its writing. While the character development is passable, it doesn’t provide enough depth or memorable moments to make the audience care about the cast. This lack of emotional engagement, combined with a repetitive gameplay loop, makes it difficult to stay invested. Reynatis is not a bad JRPG, and there is fun to be had, but once you move beyond the initial allure of its modern, magical setting, the flaws start to overshadow the game’s stronger points.

The PC port of Reynatis is decent, though it doesn’t offer much in terms of visual flair. Given the game’s limited budget, the performance is stable with minimal issues. It ran smoothly on the Steam Deck, and while there aren’t many customization options available, they don’t feel particularly necessary for a game of this scale.

Overall, Reynatis was a disappointment for me. I had high hopes for this new JRPG, and while there were aspects I enjoyed, it ultimately fell short of expectations. With so many other games available, I would recommend passing on this one. However, if you’re still curious about trying it out, the PC port performs well, as should the console versions.

Reynatis Game Information

• Price: $59.99
• Publisher: NIS America
• Developer: FuRyu
• Platform: PC (Reviewed)
• Disclaimer: A review code was given by the publisher