Summary

Release Year: 2015
Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4
Developers: Bandai Namco Studios, tri-Crescendo
Publishers: Bandai Namco Entertainment, Bandai Namco Games

Tales of Zestiria: A Journey of Hope and Redemption

Released in 2015, Tales of Zestiria is a Japanese role-playing game developed by Bandai Namco Studios and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment. It is the fifteenth main entry in the Tales series, and the first to be developed using the Unreal Engine 4. The game follows Sorey, a young man who is chosen by the Seraphim, a mystical spirit race, to become the Shepherd, a savior who will protect the land of Glenwood from the Hellion, creatures spawned by negative emotions.

Gameplay

Tales of Zestiria features a variation of the action-based Linear Motion Battle System that has been used in previous Tales games. Players control a party of up to four characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. The battle system is fast-paced and combo-oriented, with players able to string together attacks to deal massive damage.

One of the new features introduced in Tales of Zestiria is the ability for certain characters to fuse into a single entity in battle, known as Armatization. This allows players to combine the strengths of two characters to create a more powerful fighter. Armatization can only be used for a limited time, but it can be a devastating force on the battlefield.

In addition to the main story, Tales of Zestiria also features a number of side quests and optional dungeons. Players can explore the world of Glenwood, interact with its inhabitants, and learn more about the game’s lore. The game also features a crafting system that allows players to create new weapons, armor, and items.

Story

The story of Tales of Zestiria is set in the land of Glenwood, a world where humans and spirits coexist. Sorey is a young human who lives in the village of Elysia. He is chosen by the Seraphim to become the Shepherd, a savior who will protect Glenwood from the Hellion.

Sorey sets out on a journey to find the five Sacred Blades, which are necessary to defeat the Hellion. Along the way, he is joined by a group of companions, including Mikleo, a Seraphim; Lailah, a Malak; Edna, a human mage; and Dezel, a half-elf swordsman.

The group faces many challenges on their journey, but they eventually succeed in defeating the Hellion and saving Glenwood. However, their victory comes at a great cost, as Sorey sacrifices himself to seal away the Hellion’s power.

Characters

Sorey: The protagonist of the game, Sorey is a young man who is chosen by the Seraphim to become the Shepherd. He is a kind and compassionate person, and he is determined to protect the people of Glenwood from the Hellion.
Mikleo: A Seraphim who is Sorey’s best friend. He is a loyal and supportive companion, and he is always there to help Sorey in his quest.
Lailah: A Malak who joins Sorey’s party after he saves her from the Hellion. She is a powerful and wise woman, and she provides Sorey with guidance and support throughout his journey.
Edna: A human mage who joins Sorey’s party after he helps her to defeat a group of Hellion. She is a skilled and intelligent woman, and she is always eager to learn new things.
Dezel: A half-elf swordsman who joins Sorey’s party after he saves him from a group of bandits. He is a skilled fighter and a loyal companion.

Themes

Tales of Zestiria explores a number of themes, including hope, redemption, and the power of friendship. Sorey is a character who is driven by hope, even in the darkest of times. He believes that anything is possible if people work together. The game also explores the theme of redemption, as Sorey and his companions must come to terms with their own past mistakes. Finally, the game celebrates the power of friendship, as Sorey and his companions learn to rely on each other to overcome any challenge.

Reception

Tales of Zestiria received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its engaging combat system, beautiful world, and compelling story. However, the game was also criticized for its repetitive side quests and lack of innovation.

Overall, Tales of Zestiria is a solid JRPG that is sure to please fans of the series and newcomers alike. The game features a fun and engaging combat system, a beautiful world to explore, and a compelling story. While the game does have some flaws, they are outweighed by its many strengths.

Legacy

Tales of Zestiria was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide. The game was also nominated for a number of awards, including the Game of the Year award at the 2015 Golden Joystick Awards.

Tales of Zestiria has been followed by a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Tales of Berseria (2016), Tales of the Rays (2017), and Tales of Crestoria (2020). The game has also been ported to a number of platforms, including the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows.