I Am Setsuna

 PlayStation 4
User Score
7.4

Mixed or average reviews- based on 193 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 128 out of 193
  2. Mixed: 36 out of 193
  3. Negative: 29 out of 193
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  1. Jumballi
    Jul 19, 2016
    10
    I am Setsuna is an amazing take on the old school rpg genre that molded the games we play today, but what makes it stand out in that fashion is that it also, for the most part, play as those games did as well. The updated graphics and amazing soundtrack was just what was needed to revive the dying format. This game also provides an entry to the intense rpg genre that frightens most playersI am Setsuna is an amazing take on the old school rpg genre that molded the games we play today, but what makes it stand out in that fashion is that it also, for the most part, play as those games did as well. The updated graphics and amazing soundtrack was just what was needed to revive the dying format. This game also provides an entry to the intense rpg genre that frightens most players away from the long playtime required to finish it. Still at being roughly 40 hours long, this game provides a plethora of story. While this game doesn't serve much in the form of cut scenes, the narrative will keep you going for the hours that are up ahead, so keep in mind that a love for reading makes a love for this style of game.… Expand
  2. The_XIII
    Aug 1, 2016
    8
    I'm going to keep it simple

    Positive - The snowy environments look stunning at times, and little details like the trails behind the characters are a nice finishing touch -OST just with a piano is a interesting concept, and the themes are really diverse and often on par with older Final Fantasy Games - Momentum and Flux make the combat much more enjoyable. So basically Chrono Triggers    I'm going to keep it simple

    Positive
    - The snowy environments look stunning at times, and little details like the trails behind the characters are a nice finishing touch
    -OST just with a piano is a interesting concept, and the themes are really diverse and often on par with older Final Fantasy Games
    - Momentum and Flux make the combat much more enjoyable. So basically Chrono Triggers combat with little extra on the side
    -Hidden side quests, just like in the good ol' days
    -Obtaining sprinites aka abilities through battling is interesting.
    -Nidr
    -Nostalgia

    Neutral
    - Story, that is good and moving sometimes, but seems like a FFX ripoff and has quite clichéd twists and moments
    -Some piano songs are really forgettable
    - Isn't that long, but it doesn't matter that much
    -The grind is real, which brings back both happy and frustrating memories
    -Villagers don't have much to say

    Negative
    -Some of the characters are really boring, Endir most of all
    - Thou the scenery is breathtaking, it gets repetitive, but at least the game isn't that long
    -Either Bosses are bit too hard, or the regular enemies are too weak
    -World feels empty, at least before end game
    -Story feels like it goes a bit too fast towards the end. More dialogue and explanations could've been helpful
    - Lack of inns    … Expand
  3. GrumpyReviewer
    Sep 14, 2016
    7
    I really was counting the days to play this. Seeing the trailers, I was immediately connected to a great era of JRPGs, when I played masterpieces like Chrono Trigger on the Super Nintendo.

    It's not that Setsuna disappoints. It doesn't. It is a fun, turn based, JRPG that pays tribute to the great games of the past. I loved it from the beginning to end, but always had a bittersweet taste    I really was counting the days to play this. Seeing the trailers, I was immediately connected to a great era of JRPGs, when I played masterpieces like Chrono Trigger on the Super Nintendo.

    It's not that Setsuna disappoints. It doesn't. It is a fun, turn based, JRPG that pays tribute to the great games of the past. I loved it from the beginning to end, but always had a bittersweet taste in my mouth while playing it. It's like something is missing; the game feels bland, a bit uninspired, with over complicated combo/grind mechanics. Also, the story never really becomes interesting and the cast of characters falls short.

    I don't have any problems with the cliches, though. As a matter of fact, I was expecting every cliche possible. The game is just not as good as I wanted and expected it to be. It's a nice, small game, and a true product of love. But it's far from being nearly as good as the games it tries to mimic.

    Setsuna is a nice JRPG. Not a memorable, unforgettable one, though.    … Expand
  4. NotForThrees
    Aug 12, 2016
    9
    I must admit starting a couple of months back I was in the mood for a classic JRPG, so when this came out (I was not expecting it at all) it was the perfect timing for me. And man, it's been a while since the last time I enjoyed a game this much. The music is fantastic, the story is interesting (ok, ok, I love FFX) and the battle system is fun and never gets old.

    I found the momentum    I must admit starting a couple of months back I was in the mood for a classic JRPG, so when this came out (I was not expecting it at all) it was the perfect timing for me. And man, it's been a while since the last time I enjoyed a game this much. The music is fantastic, the story is interesting (ok, ok, I love FFX) and the battle system is fun and never gets old.

    I found the momentum system specially interesting, filling your SP and hitting the button in the exact moment gives your techs special abilities, more range or duration, even a regular physical attack will do more hits (hence damage). I don't know why but it is totally satisfying and addictive.

    I basically finished it (and even got the platinum) without reading any review, but then found that I agree with most of the critics. For example, I don't mind spending a whole game in the world of snow, but come on! the environments do get repetitive, even all the dungeons/ruins look the exact same.

    I didn't mind the duration at all, but I do think it is too easy, even without a lot of grinding I faced near to no challenge fighting the last and optional bosses.

    I cannot wait for the next project from Tokyo RPG Factory.    … Expand
  5. Bertoflyingfox
    Jul 19, 2016
    9
    I absolutely love this game. While the story hits a lot of familiar beats (as most JRPGs have done since '93), it's really the developers goal of making a spiritual successor to Chrono Trigger that brought a smile to my face.

    Glad this isnt some 75-hour long snooze-fest taking place in another school full of students that we need to make connections with because reasons.
  6. Joko
    Jul 19, 2016
    9
    This game is refreshing. The art style is beautiful, as well the music. I haven't beaten the game yet, but so far the story starts off interesting and is keeping me going. The combat has a classic turn based style to it, my only complaint is that the characters don't always line up in battle to where their stats are on the screen, and sometimes I get a little confused as to which characterThis game is refreshing. The art style is beautiful, as well the music. I haven't beaten the game yet, but so far the story starts off interesting and is keeping me going. The combat has a classic turn based style to it, my only complaint is that the characters don't always line up in battle to where their stats are on the screen, and sometimes I get a little confused as to which character Im currently at turn with. If you enjoyed ANY nes, snes jrpg, then you are going to want to play this game. And if you haven't played anything that old before, pick this up and see how it's suppose to be done.… Expand
  7. chronofantasy
    Jul 21, 2016
    10
    I originally wrote a review when I first started this game. At the time I was only a few hours into the game. I just beat the game moments ago, so now I can make a full review. I still stand by my 10/10 rating. This JRPG is a journey down a nostalgic trip through the traditional and old school RPGs, but with modern graphics and faster gameplay.

    There are quite a lot of references to    I originally wrote a review when I first started this game. At the time I was only a few hours into the game. I just beat the game moments ago, so now I can make a full review. I still stand by my 10/10 rating. This JRPG is a journey down a nostalgic trip through the traditional and old school RPGs, but with modern graphics and faster gameplay.

    There are quite a lot of references to Chrono Trigger, which is why I can see people claiming it to be a spiritual successor, but it is no where near as grand as Chrono Trigger. It does have some similar themes, but it also has a mash-up of other classic RPGs, like Final Fantasy X and even a slight bit of Persona in it.

    You can rename all your characters, which was also a good thing back in the day for old RPGs. For me, I like to rename my characters after characters I used for a story I wrote a long time ago. But of course you can keep the original names or choose something else. I am Setsuna can then become, I am (insert name).

    The artistic visuals, the whole piano soundtrack, and even it being unique with nothing but a snowy environment is what makes this a new masterpiece. It may not appeal to some, especially in this day and age when there's so many other RPGs in the market and so many classics, it's hard to impress, even for myself after playing hundreds upon hundreds of RPGs, it's hard to feel good about any new RPG.

    It is not the best, but it is also not the worst, and I think it's deserving of a perfect score, despite some minor things that could've been added. We can all relate to journeys and loss in our life, and this game represents that quite well.    … Expand
  8. TheRCA88
    Jul 19, 2016
    9
    This is a classic JRPG at its finest. The piano music is simple and effective, the battle system is classic 90s, as is the story; straightforward, simple, compelling, and engaging. The characters are written as classic JRPG characters, with that cheesy, predictable sense that just makes one smile upon reading all of its charm. Fans of Chrono Trigger, Final Fantasy VI and VII, and Ni NoThis is a classic JRPG at its finest. The piano music is simple and effective, the battle system is classic 90s, as is the story; straightforward, simple, compelling, and engaging. The characters are written as classic JRPG characters, with that cheesy, predictable sense that just makes one smile upon reading all of its charm. Fans of Chrono Trigger, Final Fantasy VI and VII, and Ni No Kuni will find something in this game to cheer about. A beautiful return to form. I can only pray that more titles and IP come from this new, growing subsection of Square Enix.… Expand
  9. mannytran
    Jul 20, 2016
    10
    I am setsuna is a game changer in this AAA world. The music, nostalgic battle system, and setting is amazing. The environment slows the gamer down and bring you in to a perfect place where emotions run deep. I bought this game to show my children that there is more to a game than graphics and shoot em ups. This is a game that faintly taps you on the shoulder when you ask “why don't theyI am setsuna is a game changer in this AAA world. The music, nostalgic battle system, and setting is amazing. The environment slows the gamer down and bring you in to a perfect place where emotions run deep. I bought this game to show my children that there is more to a game than graphics and shoot em ups. This is a game that faintly taps you on the shoulder when you ask “why don't they make games like they used to?” or ”What happened to the magic in Disney?" For the reviewer that gave the game a 0, its a sad story, ain't supposed to be rainbows and sunshine when you're setsuna._.… Expand
  10. JazGalaxy
    Jul 23, 2016
    9
    I am Setsuna is an incredibly strange game. Inevitably you will hear how "classic" it is, in both positive and negative reviews. But in reality it's not very "classic" at all. It is actually VERY experimental in terms of JRPG games. It's very much like Chrono Trigger, if Chrono was much deeper in it's mechanics, and didn't try to make you like it one bit. I am Setsuna is a moody,I am Setsuna is an incredibly strange game. Inevitably you will hear how "classic" it is, in both positive and negative reviews. But in reality it's not very "classic" at all. It is actually VERY experimental in terms of JRPG games. It's very much like Chrono Trigger, if Chrono was much deeper in it's mechanics, and didn't try to make you like it one bit. I am Setsuna is a moody, charisma-less game that took me a few hours to get into, but once i started to understand it, I really, really started to like it. It's like sitting down to talk with a stranger and spending the first 30 minutes thinking how weird the person is only to come to find that they are actually fascinating once you get past the weirdness. Weirdness in the case of IAS being it's quirky acoustic-piano soundtrack, omnipresent snow, tedious menu-system and off-kilter mechanics. What you come to find, though, is a compelling story about duty and purpose, a uniquely melancholy tone and atmosphere, and DEEP RPG mechanics that are fun and rewarding to master. HIGHLY recommended for any real JRPG fan, but understand that this is fruit you have to work to get a taste of.… Expand
  11. thaesino
    Jul 22, 2016
    8
    It isn't Chrono. It isn't Final Fantasy X. It isn't Final Fantasy VI. It isn't Pokemon (what? some of the enemy attacks look like Pokemon attacks, and I swear that was a Buneary in the snow).

    What it is, is a damn good game for those who enjoyed the first 3 mentions above.Yes, yes, it's a little confusing how normal enemies are normal sized, but bosses are colossal. Even I had trouble    It isn't Chrono. It isn't Final Fantasy X. It isn't Final Fantasy VI. It isn't Pokemon (what? some of the enemy attacks look like Pokemon attacks, and I swear that was a Buneary in the snow).

    What it is, is a damn good game for those who enjoyed the first 3 mentions above.Yes, yes, it's a little confusing how normal enemies are normal sized, but bosses are colossal. Even I had trouble understanding that, but then assumed it was a joke, since in many RPGs (not Chrono until Lavos), bosses tend to be rather disproportional to our hero sizes (read: every boss is the size of SIN from FFX).

    The battle system is basically Chrono Trigger. Wonderful combo attacks, just like Chrono. Enemy difficulties are a little uneven. You'll fight 5 enemies and easily kill them, but the boss right after will be 10x harder than the boss just twenty minutes ago. This, however, tends to happen with studios that focus a lot on certain elements (in this case nostalgia) while forgetting the other parts. And I would say it is precisely this unevenness that make me take away 2 points from a 10. I did not expect a NEW story. That is not what this game is getting at.

    The music is piano-only (probably synthesized), like other indies that use few instruments (Fez, To the Moon, etc), but for this game, this intimacy seems to work great considering the setting (no spoilers).

    I would say that the game should be in the $20-$30 price range. $40 is a little much, considering the studio making it isn't doing anything specifically new in the genre, so less creative time is needed... same for the music. But I understand Squenix was probably the one to put that tag on it, since - from seeing their mobile retros - they love overpricing "retro-oriented" things... and "I Am Setsuna." is no exception. This is an old soul in new rags.    … Expand
  12. Nagido
    Dec 4, 2016
    5
    The developers should be ashamed of themselves. How can one make a game that actually gives you choices just to blatantly disregard them two lines later? Why say that the main character is a cold mercenary but basically ignore any player choice that goes in that direction? If they did not wish the player to have any impact on the events of the game, then why not say that the protagonist isThe developers should be ashamed of themselves. How can one make a game that actually gives you choices just to blatantly disregard them two lines later? Why say that the main character is a cold mercenary but basically ignore any player choice that goes in that direction? If they did not wish the player to have any impact on the events of the game, then why not say that the protagonist is simply another one of Setsuna's guards from the get go and remove dialog options that go beyond small talk?
    I have played maybe one hour and the game already pisses me off. Bravo Square and Tokyo RPG Factory. It's been a while since anything managed to do that. Next time, maybe you should try to get someone who actually knows how to tell a story.    … Expand
  13. dkminus
    Jul 24, 2016
    8
    I am Setsuna is a cute, fun turn-based RPG. For what it is, it's amazing - a modern take on the classic (around early to mid 90's) JRPG format. I had heard before the game's release that it took cues from such RPGs as Chrono Trigger or Final Fantasy IV. Those influences can definitely be felt.

    I can easily sum up this game in a single phrase: simple yet beautiful. Regardless of which    I am Setsuna is a cute, fun turn-based RPG. For what it is, it's amazing - a modern take on the classic (around early to mid 90's) JRPG format. I had heard before the game's release that it took cues from such RPGs as Chrono Trigger or Final Fantasy IV. Those influences can definitely be felt.

    I can easily sum up this game in a single phrase: simple yet beautiful. Regardless of which aspect of the game we're talking about - graphics, music, story, characterization, settings, gameplay, etc - it's a very simple, yet beautifully constructed game. You won't find anything groundbreaking or revolutionary here, and the game never quite makes as strong an impression as you might want, but it's a delight to play.    … Expand
  14. phoenix_shade
    Jul 24, 2016
    4
    I'm probably 1/3 through the game (according to my stats) and as the title states, I'm very disappointed in this game so far. The story is just a mash up pof Dragon Quest 4 + FF10, so much so that I joke and call each character by a ff10 one. The game is plain old boring so far. Super linear, go to point A and then you cant go to point C unless you hit point B, complete some mundane taskI'm probably 1/3 through the game (according to my stats) and as the title states, I'm very disappointed in this game so far. The story is just a mash up pof Dragon Quest 4 + FF10, so much so that I joke and call each character by a ff10 one. The game is plain old boring so far. Super linear, go to point A and then you cant go to point C unless you hit point B, complete some mundane task to save the town and hit the next zone.... EVERYTHING IS SNOW. When I heard at e3 how impressed people were with snow I was like ok... little did they know thats basically the entire game. I'm about to get my 6th character but what's the point when the game is so easy I never need to use more than the first 3 anyway. Weapon upgrades seem typical and boring, and the whole put one locked box in every single zone so im forced to rerun the map later thing... they did this with star ocean 5 too, it's a little overdone.

    PLEASE TELL ME THE GAME GETS BETTER?    … Expand
  15. TheOmegaMale
    Jul 24, 2016
    7
    Sometimes nostalgia is not a good thing. It can blind you from remembering some of the more frustrating and annoying things in gaming that you are actually glad have now got better with time. This is something to consider when looking at I am Sestuna.

    The game is a beautiful reincarnation of classic Square RPGs of your youth, most notably, Chrono Trigger. Visually the game hits the    Sometimes nostalgia is not a good thing. It can blind you from remembering some of the more frustrating and annoying things in gaming that you are actually glad have now got better with time. This is something to consider when looking at I am Sestuna.

    The game is a beautiful reincarnation of classic Square RPGs of your youth, most notably, Chrono Trigger. Visually the game hits the right spot and has been very deliberately designed to invoke memories of SNES and PS1 days. The music is outstanding. Who knew that plinky plonky piano could convey so many different moods and emotions? Combat is managed through a Active Time Battle system (think FF7 or earlier) and is satisfying, especially when combining attacks or using the momentum system to add extra effects to standard abilities.

    So.... why is there this sense of annoyance overshadowing the game? Well it goes back to this idea of nostalgia and how it's sometimes deceiving. As I was playing the game new mechanics were being introduced with only a short explanation and no real tutorial to make sure you had a full understanding. This led to situations where I was coming across serious spikes in difficulty (usually with boss battles) that I was woefully unprepared for. This resulted in me having to undo several hours of gameplay so that I could re-train and re-equip characters. Many people would look back on this as "old school gaming" and maybe that was fine when I was a teenager with nothing else to do but sit around for hours in front of the computer, but like so many others I'm just not in that place anymore.

    It irks me that, for the sake of a clearer tutorial, I lost several hours of my time and experienced unnecessary frustration with what is otherwise a great gaming experience. I've never understood the logic of hiding how a game works or making things deliberately more difficult to understand as a choice (I'm looking at you Dark Souls series). Anyway, it made me appreciate how somethings are just better left behind.

    So in the end I can't really punish the game to much for my own sense of nostalgia letting me down. However I can punish it (or rather Square Enix) for being overpriced at launch, and for their refusal to release on the PS Vita in North America and Europe. Also.... no physical copy? Shame on you Square Enix.

    Want a solid "old school" RPG experience? It's right here if you're willing to pay for it.    … Expand
  16. Underpants158
    Jul 25, 2016
    9
    I love this game because it is the first jrpg in ages that I was able to play and really enjoy. It's not that I haven't tried to play other jrpgs recently but I found them to be boring or, worst case, annoying. I assumed that JRPGs were just a genre I couldn't enjoy anymore. So I was elated when this game sank it's hooks into me. I loved the somber story. I loved the active battle system.I love this game because it is the first jrpg in ages that I was able to play and really enjoy. It's not that I haven't tried to play other jrpgs recently but I found them to be boring or, worst case, annoying. I assumed that JRPGs were just a genre I couldn't enjoy anymore. So I was elated when this game sank it's hooks into me. I loved the somber story. I loved the active battle system. I loved the 20 hour game length. I loved the non-existence of random battles. Everything I disliked about jrpgs in general was turned around in this game: the anime/childishness, extensive amount of time required to finish, and most of all the dreaded random battles.

    I acknowledge the flaws this game has: monotonous areas, rip off storyline (FFX), the randomness of the flux system, exclusively piano music, and other more nitpicky critiques people have but none of it bothers me. I am in love with I Am Setsuna.    … Expand
  17. Renzokuken
    Jul 24, 2016
    3
    I am Setsuna attempts to replicate the JRPG's of yore and unfortunately falls flat. Scores on this site are inflated mostly by nostalgia goggles. What I am Setsuna brings to the table falls unfortunately flat when compared to the games it's attempting to imitate. The art style is beautiful but horrendously repetitive, snow caverns, snow forests and snow mountains are pretty much thisI am Setsuna attempts to replicate the JRPG's of yore and unfortunately falls flat. Scores on this site are inflated mostly by nostalgia goggles. What I am Setsuna brings to the table falls unfortunately flat when compared to the games it's attempting to imitate. The art style is beautiful but horrendously repetitive, snow caverns, snow forests and snow mountains are pretty much this entire game. Towns all consist of the same style wooden huts arranged in snowy fields. The art looks great, but there's only so long you can stare at the same Picasso before you long for some variation. The music suffers from this as well, wall to wall piano for the entire soundtrack gets old extremely quickly. Combat is essentially Chrono Trigger with a system for pressing square for bonus damage. The upgrade system is a convoluted and extremely annoying take on FFVII's materia system with awful explanations and grinding for drops. Save points are mostly non-existent with all the towns not having them and most of the dungeons only featuring them at the end. This is extremely frustrating considering the complete rollercoaster in terms of difficulty with some enemies hitting you for 1 damage at one point and half your HP at another. The story is ripped straight from FFX, copied and pasted in a slightly different order.

    I am setsuna hides a Lazy attempt at an old school JRPG beneath it's slick outer veneer.    … Expand
  18. Lbjmvp232
    Aug 9, 2016
    10
    I love this game because it is the first jrpg in ages that I was able to play and really enjoy. It's not that I haven't tried to play other jrpgs recently but I found them to be boring or, worst case, annoying. I assumed that JRPGs were just a genre I couldn't enjoy anymore.
  19. LabHands
    Jul 22, 2016
    10
    I am writing this just to put the game “I Am Setsuna” into perspective.

    It is based around PS1 era role playing games (RPGs). During that period of time (Golden Age of RPGs) the story lines of those games (FF7, FF9, Xenogears) were original and comparable to the best books and movies ever made. The graphics are superior in current popular games but RPGs are not based on looks, they    I am writing this just to put the game “I Am Setsuna” into perspective.

    It is based around PS1 era role playing games (RPGs). During that period of time (Golden Age of RPGs) the story lines of those games (FF7, FF9, Xenogears) were original and comparable to the best books and movies ever made.

    The graphics are superior in current popular games but RPGs are not based on looks, they are based on interactive gameplay, story and strategic battles.

    However the resolution of the animation in this game is excellent.

    As for the actual story, battle system, and gameplay, I cannot really comment on that because I have not played the game.

    It may or may not be suitable for kids being introduced to RPGs. If you are looking for that sort of game you may want to check out World Of Fantasy.

    If you enjoyed games such as FF7, FF9, Xenogears, etc; when you were younger, then you will probably enjoy this game.

    There is also another important consideration when reading any reviews, if reviews are written almost immediately after a game is released, chances are the critics/users likely have not played the game at all and/or rushed through them.    … Expand
  20. carlingtat
    Aug 10, 2016
    8
    I am Setsuna is a classic action turn based JRPG set in a snow covered world where our hero Endir must travel with Setsuna to fulfill her destiny as the sacrifice and save the world. The main marketing of the game is the classic combat system we've seen from classic Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger games and it does this effectively and beautifully while telling a intriguing story.I am Setsuna is a classic action turn based JRPG set in a snow covered world where our hero Endir must travel with Setsuna to fulfill her destiny as the sacrifice and save the world. The main marketing of the game is the classic combat system we've seen from classic Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger games and it does this effectively and beautifully while telling a intriguing story.

    Pros:

    + Combat system is a big plus in this game and the main reason I was interested in it from day one. It uses the combat from games like chrono trigger which is an active turn based battle system. Each character has technical abilities they can use leaving it to the player to choose their best dynamic team and making sure everyone has a role. I believe more RPGs should use this kind of system.

    + The characters in I am Setsuna are well written with character developments integrated into the storyline. Every character gets a side quest as well as a section in the main storyline which further expands on both their origins and personality.

    + A mechanic of a long era is using a world map in which the player can explore. The player can use this area to save, use tents and eventually fly an airship to travel around the world. Its a mechanic that is never used and its nice to see it can still work in modern games.

    +The music and sound effects in the game are fantastic. Tomoki Miyoshi writes a fantastic soundtrack with piano being used as the only instrument. It can sometimes feel out of place and perhaps a couple of other instruments were needed for certain tracks but nevertheless the sound in this game is great.

    +The spritnite system is nicely created combined with the talisman combos and bonuses. Equipping certain talisman can get you bonuses for your spritenite that can be very useful in battles. Having exclusive spritenites for each player allows the player to choose a dynamic team instead of allowing them to equip a spritenite to whoever and effectively making the characters irrelevant.

    + The art style and aesthetics to this game are beautifully created and the detail put into them is fantastic.

    Cons:

    - Momentum mode and Fluxes are badly explained in this game. It was hours into the game before I understood the system and even then I had to go online to research to make sure I was doing it right. The notes in the menu are no real help.

    - While the environment is beautifully created artistically their use of recycling assets can make the player lose interest hours into the game. Many villages look almost the same and I found it difficult to remember which village was which since nothing really stood out. Also the entire world is in snow making some of the environments seem dull after hours of just seeing snow.

    - Fides joins your team far too late in the game. He joins when you're just about to face the final boss which makes him ineffective and just doesn't seem to be much point of him joining at that late stage.

    - The introduction to the story and game was one that confused me. It seems very rushed and gives no real introduction to who Endir is and why hes doing mercenary work. Seeing as this guy is the main protagonist it would make more sense to have a proper introduction to his character rather than the player feeling perplexed as to who this guy is.

    - A bit disappointed at the lack of additional sidequests and locations to explore after you acquire the airship. A few more wouldn't have gone amiss.

    Overall its a good JRPG that's a throwback to the classic style of JRPGs like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger that shows these mechanics can still thrive in modern games. Recommended for anyone who's been looking for this style of game for a while like myself.    … Expand
  21. gmgiacomini
    Sep 9, 2016
    3
    I'm estimating I'm pretty close to the ending of this game and sadly it disappointed me very much. It's so clear to me how Square just grabbed a classic rpg formula and created a completely generic game from it.

    The scenarios are just snow. Snow, snow and snow. The villages all look the same. The characters are the cliches you always see in JRPG's, the silent knight, the loving sweet    I'm estimating I'm pretty close to the ending of this game and sadly it disappointed me very much. It's so clear to me how Square just grabbed a classic rpg formula and created a completely generic game from it.

    The scenarios are just snow. Snow, snow and snow. The villages all look the same. The characters are the cliches you always see in JRPG's, the silent knight, the loving sweet girl, the sassy girl, the bigger guy with a giant sword, etc, they have no depth at all. The story has absolutely nothing new and the game is awfully linear to the point that they don't even pretend to give you proper sidequests. The soundtrack is full of good compositions but there is no instrumentation at all, it's all on piano and you get tired after some time.

    I'm giving it a 3 because of the art and music quality, even though they're repetitive. The rest is disposable.    … Expand
  22. xenofiend95
    Nov 6, 2016
    8
    As a huge fan of traditional turn based rpg's since I've played them most of my life, I am Setsuna truly feels like a love letter to a dying genre. The gameplay itself feels incredibly cliche completely mimicking Chrono Trigger, albeit far more linear on a world and dungeon sense. Story wise it can be very emotional at points, and that is truly what kept me playing. It tells a story of aAs a huge fan of traditional turn based rpg's since I've played them most of my life, I am Setsuna truly feels like a love letter to a dying genre. The gameplay itself feels incredibly cliche completely mimicking Chrono Trigger, albeit far more linear on a world and dungeon sense. Story wise it can be very emotional at points, and that is truly what kept me playing. It tells a story of a mercenary who goes against his original goal to help a young woman to become a sacrifice for the greater good while helping the worlds inhabitants along the way. The games palete is mostly white along with a few other basic light shades, and the graphics mimic the ds remake of ffiv on a more hd scale. Most character and enemy designs won't impress most, but bosses are more interesting and far more fun than the cannon.fodder you'll spend most of your time grinding. The soundtrack is full of beautiful piano ballads and truly fits the snowy landscape well. Speaking of the snowy landscape, it may appear dull to many but adds to the emotions set in the story. As I mentioned, characters designs may not impress, but their stories are all very human. I felt attached to them and felt for their.hardships in a way I haven't for game characters in some time. Buy this game if you enjoy old school rpgs, ignore it if you don't.… Expand
  23. Pasifull
    Apr 12, 2023
    7
    Enjoyable, but frustratingly unambitious genre piece

    Recommend if you have a high tolerance for melancholic piano music
  24. Prrgangsta
    Jul 27, 2016
    5
    My original rating for this was a 7 but after beating it i had to lower it because of how it disappointed me with its ending, don't worry no spoilers, but i will tell you that your choices that you make will not impact this games ending whatsoever.

    I was hoping for multiple endings (like in chrono trigger ) but there is only one ending to this game and no new game+. The game also    My original rating for this was a 7 but after beating it i had to lower it because of how it disappointed me with its ending, don't worry no spoilers, but i will tell you that your choices that you make will not impact this games ending whatsoever.

    I was hoping for multiple endings (like in chrono trigger ) but there is only one ending to this game and no new game+.

    The game also gives you a new character at the final boss of the game that you dont really need to be honest since i was 30 lvls ahead of him already.

    It was fun but poorly paced and disappointing storywise.    … Expand
  25. monkeykid
    Apr 26, 2017
    8
    This game is more of a treat for those that enjoy classic JRPG's. It's not a perfect game, but it's a wonderful that can be enjoyed.

    It's filled with silent emotional moments that draw you in, with the piano style music and interesting characters. This game is meant for people who enjoyed classic JRPG's. I highly recommend anyone who enjoys a properly told story to purchase and    This game is more of a treat for those that enjoy classic JRPG's. It's not a perfect game, but it's a wonderful that can be enjoyed.

    It's filled with silent emotional moments that draw you in, with the piano style music and interesting characters.

    This game is meant for people who enjoyed classic JRPG's. I highly recommend anyone who enjoys a properly told story to purchase and support this game.

    This game IS missing few character development story elements and a more emotional main character. But it does a solid job of telling it's emotional story.    … Expand
  26. Bijan1984
    Jul 2, 2017
    9
    While it's not the most innovative JRPG in the world, you might still love its beautiful atmosphere and touching story.

    There are also so many skill sets in this game. Sometimes it feels frustrating, but when you get the hang of the system, it will be so rewarding.
  27. 17_jrpg
    Aug 3, 2017
    8
    For the first game, Tokyo RPG Factory made a good JRPG. They have returned the traditional JRPG to PS4. Interesting story, beautiful design and a good battle system. The most I like in this game is the battle system because it is the ATB system. Other elements of gameplay are also interesting. This game can gives the feeling of the traditional JRPG to new generations. I hope that Tokyo RPGFor the first game, Tokyo RPG Factory made a good JRPG. They have returned the traditional JRPG to PS4. Interesting story, beautiful design and a good battle system. The most I like in this game is the battle system because it is the ATB system. Other elements of gameplay are also interesting. This game can gives the feeling of the traditional JRPG to new generations. I hope that Tokyo RPG Factory will do a good job with their new game Lost Sphere. I hope that this new game will be even better than I am Setsuna.… Expand
  28. Nbanut23
    Dec 17, 2017
    10
    While not flawless this game hits all of the niches it intends to hit. It feels very traditional and true to it's 90s roots while still being accessible to newer players of the genre. The battling is where the game really shines. It uses the ATB battle system along with a combo system. This combo system is based on the spiritnite (abilities) you have equipped. They'll give you access toWhile not flawless this game hits all of the niches it intends to hit. It feels very traditional and true to it's 90s roots while still being accessible to newer players of the genre. The battling is where the game really shines. It uses the ATB battle system along with a combo system. This combo system is based on the spiritnite (abilities) you have equipped. They'll give you access to different combos if another party member has an equipped spiritnite with the same combo. The story was enjoyable if not a tad generic. Those who have played similar types of games will definitely notice some tropes being repeated. The ending is debated but in my opinion it is a good way to end the game. No spoilers but you'll understand when you play it. The world design is beautiful and it really gives off the feel of traveling through a snowy wasteland with pockets of people spread throughout. Finally the music is absolutely incredible. The all piano soundtrack works wonderfully for this game and I found myself on numerous occasions just sitting there listening to it. Overall the game hits every element one would want in this type of game. It may not be advancing the genre but it is a very welcome entry in it.… Expand
  29. FabioSS
    Jan 31, 2018
    8
    Good RPG old-school. One of the best ps4 rpg and one of the best of all time. Unique and fun battle system. A good RPG!
  30. gqmasters3
    Oct 30, 2019
    6
    This game can be summed up as: Chrono Trigger gameplay with Secret of Mana plot. The graphics in the game are great and I liked the simple, somber music as it compliments the tone of the game (I can see how this may turn many off). Unfortunatelty, the characters, outside of Setsuna, were rather stock and forgettable and the game is extremely linear unlike it's "inspiration".
    Some combo    This game can be summed up as: Chrono Trigger gameplay with Secret of Mana plot. The graphics in the game are great and I liked the simple, somber music as it compliments the tone of the game (I can see how this may turn many off). Unfortunatelty, the characters, outside of Setsuna, were rather stock and forgettable and the game is extremely linear unlike it's "inspiration".
    Some combo attacks are OP and you will find yourself using only 2-3 of them 99% of the time for the entire game. Weapon and armor upgrades are almost entirely simply purchased in town, which is kinda boring and there aren't really any hidden side areas to loot up on either until the game is basically over.
    "I Am Setsuna" is not a bad game but it's not great either. I can't say I would recommend it.    … Expand
  31. DarkwingSchmuck
    Mar 16, 2022
    7
    I am Setsuna is a brief, but fun RPG with clear influences from classics such as Chrono Trigger. It features a rather robust combat system, though its simplistic story and characters keep it from reaching the lofty heights it desires.
  32. pelona39
    Aug 1, 2023
    8
    A classic JRPG with representative in simple 3D, glory Turn Based System, and rich story. I hope Square Enix and Tokyo RPG keep making this kind of game without worry about "must have greatest graphic"... no, players like me only need rich story, not graphic!

    Story It's really memorable for me, because "Protecting someone who will die at the end". There is a Mercenary that get paid by    A classic JRPG with representative in simple 3D, glory Turn Based System, and rich story. I hope Square Enix and Tokyo RPG keep making this kind of game without worry about "must have greatest graphic"... no, players like me only need rich story, not graphic!

    Story
    It's really memorable for me, because "Protecting someone who will die at the end".
    There is a Mercenary that get paid by client to killing someone, the name is Endir. One day he is got a request from someone to kill a woman who just reached 18 her age, Endir agreed to doing it.
    And then, Endir meet that woman in a monument near village. That woman know that Endir want to kill her, but she ask to Endir to not kill her because she is the next Sacrifice, she will die very soon to sacrifice herself in order of culture thing. Curiously, Endir cancelled his mission and want to know what will happen to her, also decided to protect the Sacrifice until the end of journey. The Sacrifice name is Setsuna.

    Sound/music
    Calming, relaxing, and chilling, really fit to snow-theme world.

    Gameplay
    Turn Based System with combination skills and momentum hit, simple mechanic, and challenging bosses

    Graphic
    Simple 3D, nice 2D characters art, Setsuna is really memorable.

    Overall
    Congratulation for made my tears fall at the end of story!    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

97
#97 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2016
71
#71 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
74

Mixed or average reviews - based on 72 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 43 out of 72
  2. Mixed: 29 out of 72
  3. Negative: 0 out of 72
  1. The Sydney Morning Herald
    Dec 29, 2016
    60
    The relaxed, largely goal-free nature of the game has the potential to wear thin, but personally I found the controls fun enough, the environments and music beautiful enough, the various animals smile-inducing enough that even after the three hours it took to reach the end I was happy to dive back in, ready to search for more clues and uncover what it was all about.
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  2. Easy Allies
    Dec 1, 2016
    80
    Tokyo RPG Factory has done a fine job of capturing the spirit of classic JRPGs with I am Setsuna. It feels like returning home after a long journey. Its superb soundtrack and solid gameplay bring nostalgic feelings of joy and comfort. Even though a lack of balance holds back the creativity of its combat, it never extinguishes the emotional tone and engaging story of the game. It may not be the next classic, but it does an excellent job of honoring its heritage.
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  3. RPGamer
    Sep 19, 2016
    60
    In short bursts of play, I Am Setsuna ticks all the boxes one could want from a modern JRPG designed as a callback to the classics: a seemingly emotionally involving story, stirring music, pretty visuals, and a battle system that offers up nuggets of nostalgia like "ATB" and "tech combos".
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