Cris Tales

Cris Tales is carried along by a good story and an extraordinary art direction that tell of heroic acts, self-acceptance, courage, revolutions and hopes in a "fairytale about time". His non-linear tale is based on a classic JRPG gameplay but it's able to present itself with its own clear and distinct personality, unique mechanics and good ideas, trying to give depth to the combat system. Unfortunately these possibilities do not match well with the lack of strategic situations and the very high frequency of random encounters does not help to make the most banal encounters less unpleasant. Cris Tales remains a well done game, but could have offered much more.

Cris Tales‘ number one selling point is its use of time manipulation as both a plot device and battle mechanic. It’s what makes the entire experience. It’s a solid mid-range game, great for teens and adults looking for a fairly breezy thirty-ish hour adventure. However, there are better games out there that you should experience first, especially if you have to be more selective with your cash.

Cris Tales stumbles more than we would like it to. It's a shame because, with some adjustments, the game might have been a true classic.

While Cris Tales offers a stirring adventure — packed full of wit and character — numerous mechanical shortcomings frequently put the brakes on its excitable spirit. A victim of unfulfilled ambition, Cris Tales doesn’t quite deliver on its clever premise or its chrono-combat. There’s no denying the passion and talent of the developers, however, manifested in stunning visuals and a wonderful cast. Cris Tales will definitely ostracize some players, but those with a little patience may see past its flaws to embrace its heartfelt homage to gaming’s bygone era.