Summary

Secret of Evermore is an action RPG developed by Square in 1995. It follows a boy and his dog as they journey through various time periods to uncover the Secret of Evermore and find their way home. The game features real-time combat, an alchemy system, and a memorable soundtrack by Jeremy Soule.

Release Year: 1995
Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Developers: Square
Publishers: Square

Introduction

Secret of Evermore is a unique and engaging RPG that stands out in the gaming landscape of the 1990s. Developed by Square’s North American team, it combines action, adventure, and storytelling in a memorable journey through time.

Synopsis

“Secret of Evermore” is a unique action role-playing game developed and published by Square for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. Released in North America on October 17, 1995, it stands out as the only game developed by Square designers in North America.

The game begins with a young boy and his pet dog inadvertently transported to the fantasy world of Evermore. This magical realm consists of separate realms, each resembling a different period of real-world history.

The first realm, “Prehistoria”, is a prehistoric jungle teeming with dinosaurs and primitive tribes. The boy’s dog, in this world, transforms into a ferocious prehistoric wolf-like creature. The duo must navigate through dense forests, cross treacherous rivers, and climb towering cliffs to progress.

Next, they find themselves in “Antiqua”, a realm reminiscent of ancient Roman and Egyptian civilizations. Here, the dog takes the form of a sleek, regal greyhound. They traverse through vast deserts, explore grand palaces, and delve into mysterious pyramids.

The third realm, “Gothica”, mirrors the Middle Ages. The dog, in this world, becomes a poodle, fitting perfectly into the aristocratic society. They journey through medieval towns, cross drawbridges of imposing castles, and navigate through dark, labyrinthine dungeons.

Finally, they arrive in “Omnitopia”, an imaginative future world. In this high-tech realm, the dog transforms into a robot. They traverse through futuristic cities, navigate complex laboratories, and even venture into outer space.

Throughout their journey, the boy and his dog face numerous hostile creatures. The player can control either the boy or the dog, with the other being controlled by the game’s artificial intelligence. Combat takes place in real-time, and the characters can increase in level with improved stats such as strength and evasion upon collecting enough experience points in battle.

The game shares many similarities with Secret of Mana, such as real-time battles, a ring-shaped menu system, and the ability to switch control between the two characters. Despite similar game mechanics and a similar title, it is not an entry in the Mana series.

“Secret of Evermore” received positive reviews upon its release for its graphics and gameplay but was criticized for not being up to the expectations many reviewers had based upon the developer’s previous Japanese role-playing games. The game’s North American development, Mana-like game mechanics, and ambient music have since helped it to develop a cult following.

“Secret of Evermore” is a captivating journey through time and space, filled with adventure, danger, and discovery. It’s a testament to the creativity and innovation of its North American developers, offering a unique twist on the action role-playing genre.

Characters

The main characters are the Boy, a resourceful and adventurous youth, and his shape-shifting dog, who can transform into different forms depending on the era they are in. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including the eccentric inventor Professor Ruffleberg, the gladiator-slave leader Horace, and the queen of Nobilia, Pompolonius.

Gameplay

Secret of Evermore features real-time combat, where players control the boy and his dog, each with unique abilities. The game incorporates an alchemy system for creating spells and items, and players must gather ingredients scattered throughout the world. Exploration and puzzle-solving are key components of the gameplay.

Conclusion

Secret of Evermore remains a memorable title in the RPG genre, offering a blend of action, adventure, and storytelling. Its unique setting, engaging gameplay, and captivating soundtrack make it a game worth revisiting for fans of retro gaming.