Level Up your Tactical Gaming Experience with Arcadian Atlas: A Stunning Tribute to Final Fantasy Tactics

Highlights

The game takes cues from beloved titles such as Final Fantasy Tactics, but stands apart with its unparalleled class and skill system, along with a plethora of other captivating features that define its unique essence.

Arcadian Atlas, a must-see for fans of the genre, particularly Final Fantasy Tactics, is set to join the rising popularity of tactical RPGs. Taylor Blair, from Acadian Atlas, attributes this resurgence to the fact that individuals who once played and adored these games during their childhood are now adults creating similar experiences.

In recent years, tactical RPGs have experienced a remarkable resurgence, with no signs of slowing down. Not only are classic games in the genre being remade, but new titles continue to enter the scene. Amongst these fresh additions is Arcadian Atlas, a game that pays homage to the genre's past while carving out its own unique space.

Within the realm of Arcadia, a bitter conflict has arisen due to a rift between a queen and her princess daughter. The oppressed masses have rallied behind the princess in an attempt to overthrow the entrenched queen. Declared illegitimate by her stepmother, Queen Venezia, Princess Lucretia Belneive is the rightful heir to the throne. Both factions have taken up arms, setting the stage for our heroes, Vashti Dahlman and Desmond Rhines, as they navigate the chaos. Adding to the mix is the awakening of a powerful artifact known as the Atlas, which holds sway over the events that unfold.

Influenced by the rich history of the genre, including renowned games like Final Fantasy Tactics, Arcadian Atlas strives to forge a new path. In an interview with Twin Otter Studios' Taylor Blair, Game Rant recently uncovered this ambition to create something fresh and innovative.

Peasant uprisings, internal strife, political intrigues involving monarchs and aristocracy, and mystical artifacts resting dangerously close to the turmoil collectively create a quite recognizable setting for enthusiasts of this genre. In overall presentation, the game bears resemblance to long-established titles in the genre, such as Final Fantasy Tactics and the subsequent productions by Square Enix.

While Arcadian Atlas acknowledges the comparison, it goes beyond being a mere homage to a beloved classic.

"We're all huge fans of Final Fantasy Tactics. It's the only PS1 disc that I still have, and our entire team spent countless hours playing it during our childhood. While we draw inspiration from several aspects of FFT, we also wanted to create a unique experience with a distinct class and skill system (taking more influence from Ragnarok Online and, oddly enough, Diablo 2). Moreover, the storyline places a stronger emphasis on the growth and development of the central characters amidst a crumbling world."

During the current revival of the genre, Final Fantasy Tactics is receiving a lot of attention and anticipation for a potential remaster. However, it is not the sole reason behind this resurgence. Games such as Diofield Chronicles, Persona 5 Tactica, and Tactics Ogre Reborn have also contributed to the rising tide of TRPGs in recent years, particularly in 2022. Additionally, established franchises like Disgaea and Fire Emblem have continuously strengthened the genre over time.

Joining this renaissance is Arcadian Atlas, which will make its mark upon release. Bair, the creator of Arcadian Atlas, shares his viewpoint on what has led to the current era of TRPGs, akin to Twin Otter's perspective. The answer is simple: fans of classics like Final Fantasy Tactics now have the ability to create their own games, thanks to tools like Unity, which Arcadian Atlas is developed in. This accessibility has empowered everyday creators to bring their visions to life.

The resurgence of the genre often appears to align with age. As adults, many of us who grew up immersing ourselves in the timeless classics of the likes of Tactics Ogre and Final Fantasy Tactics now seek a creative outlet to express ourselves. Consequently, we witness the gradual infusion of these influences, as former players transition into developers, paying tribute to the genre they once adored. In their quest to forge something fresh and innovative, they inevitably leave their indelible mark, thus imbuing a touch of personal flair to the genre.

Arcadian Atlas finds its influences in more than just two TRPG icons. The artwork draws inspiration from Chrono Trigger, Secret of Mana, and other SNES and original PlayStation titles. The character design, influenced by games like Final Fantasy 6, is a unique aspect employed by Twin Otter.

However, Arcadian Atlas goes beyond these inspirations to establish itself as a significant addition to the TRPG genre. The game revolves around setting traps, strategically blocking checkpoints, and navigating complex decision-making between classes, creating a multi-layered strategic "playground." Additionally, the four base classes can be promoted to different specializations, with skill trees tailoring units to specific playstyles. Furthermore, the game boasts abundant side content to enrich the world and keep players engaged.

Arcadian Atlas releases July 27 on Steam.