Summary
- Release Year: 2010
- Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: Nintendo DS
- Developers: LEVEL-5
- Publishers: LEVEL-5
Ni no Kuni: Dominion of the Dark Djinn: A Whimsical JRPG Adventure
Released in 2010, Ni no Kuni: Dominion of the Dark Djinn is a role-playing game developed by Level-5 and published by Namco Bandai Games. The game is the first installment in the Ni no Kuni series, and it follows the story of Oliver, a young boy who travels to a parallel world to save his mother.
Ni no Kuni is known for its charming art style, which was created in collaboration with Studio Ghibli. The game’s world is full of colorful characters and whimsical creatures, and the story is full of heart and humor.
Gameplay
Ni no Kuni is a traditional JRPG, with turn-based combat and a focus on exploration. The game’s world is divided into several different areas, each with its own unique enemies and challenges.
In combat, players control Oliver and up to two other party members. Each character has their own unique abilities and spells, and players must use strategy to defeat their enemies.
Ni no Kuni also features a unique system called “familiars.” Familiars are creatures that can be tamed and used in combat. Each familiar has its own unique abilities, and players can use them to gain an advantage in battle.
Story
Ni no Kuni tells the story of Oliver, a young boy who lives in the town of Motorville. One day, Oliver’s mother is killed by a mysterious force, and Oliver is transported to a parallel world called Ni no Kuni.
In Ni no Kuni, Oliver meets a variety of characters, including Drippy, a water droplet who becomes his companion. Together, Oliver and Drippy set out on a journey to find the Sacred Sword, a weapon that can defeat the evil that is threatening Ni no Kuni.
Along the way, Oliver and Drippy meet a variety of friends and allies, including Esther, a princess who is also searching for the Sacred Sword. Together, they must overcome many challenges and face their own inner demons in order to save Ni no Kuni.
Characters
- Oliver: The protagonist of the game, Oliver is a young boy who is transported to Ni no Kuni after his mother’s death. He is a kind and compassionate boy, and he is determined to save Ni no Kuni from the evil that threatens it.
- Drippy: A water droplet who becomes Oliver’s companion, Drippy is a wise and powerful being. He helps Oliver on his journey to find the Sacred Sword, and he provides him with guidance and support.
- Esther: A princess who is also searching for the Sacred Sword, Esther is a strong and independent woman. She is determined to save her kingdom from the evil that threatens it, and she is willing to fight for what she believes in.
- Swaine: A thief who joins Oliver and Drippy on their journey, Swaine is a skilled fighter and a loyal friend. He is always looking for a good time, but he is also willing to put his life on the line for his friends.
- Marcassin: A pig-like creature who is the mayor of Ding Dong Dell, Marcassin is a kind and generous soul. He is always willing to help those in need, and he is a loyal friend to Oliver and his companions.
Themes
Ni no Kuni explores a variety of themes, including the power of friendship, the importance of family, and the nature of good and evil. The game’s story is full of heart and humor, and it teaches players about the importance of perseverance and hope.
Reception
Ni no Kuni was a critical and commercial success. The game received praise for its charming art style, engaging story, and fun combat system. It was also a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.
Ni no Kuni has been praised by critics for its beautiful visuals, charming characters, and engaging story. It has been called “a masterpiece of JRPG storytelling” and “one of the best JRPGs of all time.”
Legacy
Ni no Kuni has had a lasting impact on the JRPG genre. The game’s unique art style and charming characters have inspired other developers to create games with a similar aesthetic. Ni no Kuni has also helped to popularize the use of familiars in JRPGs.
Ni no Kuni is a beloved JRPG that has captured the hearts of gamers around the world. The game’s charming art style, engaging story, and fun combat system make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
9/10
