Summary
- Release Year: 1989
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: DOS
- Publishers: Kyodai Software Marketing
Cosmic Soldier: Psychic War (1989): A Revolutionary JRPG with Real-Time Combat
Introduction
Released in 1989 for the MSX2 computer in Japan and later ported to MS-DOS in America, Cosmic Soldier: Psychic War is a groundbreaking JRPG that introduced a unique real-time combat system and an engaging story. It is the sequel to Cosmic Soldier, released two years prior, and takes place in the same post-apocalyptic world ravaged by nuclear war.
Story
Cosmic Soldier: Psychic War follows the story of Kayla, a young woman with psychic powers, and her companions as they fight against the evil psychic overlord, Zolgear. Zolgear seeks to conquer the world and enslave humanity using his psychic powers. Kayla and her friends must travel across the devastated world, gathering allies and power-ups to defeat Zolgear and his minions.
Gameplay
One of the most distinctive features of Cosmic Soldier: Psychic War is its real-time combat system. Unlike traditional JRPGs that use turn-based combat, Cosmic Soldier: Psychic War’s battles are a clash of energy between the party and the enemy. Players must push the energy towards the enemy to strike them, while being able to use a shield to block or a suction ability to absorb the opponent’s power.
This real-time combat system adds a new level of strategy and excitement to the game. Players must carefully manage their energy levels and use the right abilities at the right time to defeat their enemies. The game also features a variety of environmental hazards that can affect the battle, such as fire, ice, and electricity.
Characters
Cosmic Soldier: Psychic War features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique abilities and personalities. Kayla is the main protagonist, a young woman with powerful psychic abilities. She is joined by a diverse group of companions, including a cyborg ninja, a psychic samurai, and a telepathic cat.
Each character has their own strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully choose which characters to bring into battle. The game also features a conversation system that allows players to interact with their companions and learn more about their backstories.
Graphics and Sound
For its time, Cosmic Soldier: Psychic War featured impressive graphics and sound. The game’s character sprites are detailed and expressive, and the environments are colorful and varied. The soundtrack is also excellent, with catchy tunes that perfectly complement the game’s atmosphere.
Legacy
Cosmic Soldier: Psychic War was a critical and commercial success, and is considered one of the best JRPGs of its era. It was praised for its innovative combat system, engaging story, and memorable characters. The game has been ported to a number of platforms over the years, and it remains popular with fans of classic JRPGs.
Conclusion
Cosmic Soldier: Psychic War is a groundbreaking JRPG that introduced a unique real-time combat system and an engaging story. With its memorable characters, excellent graphics and sound, and innovative gameplay, it is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8.5/10
