I really like this game! I was (and still am) a big fan of the previous game in the series, Valthirian Arc 2 (a Flash game), and this game is kind of an expanded version of that. I do miss both the pixel art and the 2D non-pixel art style from the previous game, but I don't mind the 3D. It does make it easier for me to plan a cosplay from all angles, if nothing else.
My favorite parts:
- Slightly more class progression than in previous games
- Intriguing plotline (which the previous games also didn't really have)
- More worldbuilding. I like to ponder the political structure of this kingdom on occassion.
- I appreciate the introduction of parties. I liked to send my students in similar groups a lot in Valthirian Arc 2, but I kind of just had to remember the parties, so I'm glad that it's a built-in function now.
My least favorite parts:
- Definitely not enough errand quests. I relied on these in Valthirian Arc 2 to effectively level up all my students, and without them, I can kinda only work on 4 students at any given time. I rejoice whenever one pops up (which is rarely).
- I feel like there's not enough room for buildings. I want to have lots of students so they can all slowly level up in the background as I work on others, but if I build a lot of dormitories for them, then there isn't room for me to build all the other things I need, like training areas that unlock new classes.
- You can only make 3 parties. I'd prefer to be able to make more, but this also is really not a huge deal at all. It would also be pretty neat if I could name the parties.
Things I don't really care about either way but are definitely there:
- Equipment crafting is cool and all, and I'm sure there are people who care, but I definitely tend to forget about it. For me, it's kind of a chore to remember to make new equipment and even just to give it to a student. I don't mind it, I just don't really like it either.
- The controls are just a little tiny bit wonky whether I use my keyboard or borrow my roommate's controller. For example, when I use a mouse, it's easy to scroll past Party 2, but when I use a controller, it's hard not to zoom across the campus, past where I desire. It's perfectly navigable, just not 100% flawless and ideal.
Overall, I would recommend it, especially if you remember the flash games and are curious about the next installment in the series like me!
