Cris Tales, developed by Colombian indie game studios Dreams Uncorporated and SYCK, is a captivating homage to classic Japanese role-playing games (JRPGs). Released in July 2021, this game combines a nostalgic reverence for past titles with innovative mechanics and a unique visual style. Players are invited to explore a vibrant world that dynamically shifts through time, offering a fresh twist on time-travel elements. Let’s delve into the world of Cris Tales and explore its story, gameplay, graphics, sound, and the legacy it aims to create.

Story

In Cris Tales, you follow the journey of Crisbell, a young orphan girl living in the picturesque city of Narim. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she learns she is a Time Mage, possessing the extraordinary ability to observe and manipulate the past, present, and future. Guided by Matias, a talking frog with a penchant for time travel, Crisbell embarks on a quest to prevent a grim future orchestrated by the malevolent Time Empress.

The narrative unfolds across a beautifully crafted world with richly detailed cities and diverse landscapes. Each location presents unique challenges, characters, and stories that reflect the consequences of choices made in different timelines. The game’s narrative is rich with themes of destiny, choice, and the impact of time, offering players a deeply immersive experience.

Crisbell is joined by a cast of memorable companions, each with their own stories and abilities. The camaraderie among these characters brings depth to the narrative, as their interactions and personal growth are influenced by the player’s decisions. The game’s story is a testament to the power of choice, encouraging players to think critically about the consequences of their actions.

Gameplay

Cris Tales is a turn-based RPG that ingeniously integrates time manipulation into its core gameplay mechanics. The game’s standout feature is the ability to visualize the past, present, and future simultaneously through a unique split-screen mechanic. This allows players to strategize and make decisions that affect the outcome of battles and story events.

Combat in Cris Tales is rich and engaging, with strategic elements that capitalize on time manipulation. Players can send enemies into the past or future to exploit their weaknesses. For instance, rusting a metallic enemy by fast-forwarding time or reverting an enemy to a less powerful state by sending them back. This innovative approach to turn-based combat keeps players engaged and encourages creativity in battle strategies.

Exploration is another key component of Cris Tales. The world is filled with side quests, hidden treasures, and secrets that reward players for their curiosity and attention to detail. The time manipulation mechanic extends beyond combat, allowing players to solve puzzles and alter the environment to progress through the game. This seamless integration of time elements makes exploration both rewarding and essential.

Graphics and Sound

Cris Tales is a visual masterpiece, featuring hand-drawn art that draws inspiration from both classic JRPGs and Colombian culture. The vibrant colors and intricate details bring the game’s world to life, creating a visually stunning experience. Each character and environment is meticulously designed, reflecting the distinct personalities and cultures found within the game’s universe.

The animation in Cris Tales is fluid and expressive, enhancing the storytelling and immersion. The split-screen mechanic is seamlessly integrated into the visual design, allowing players to easily navigate between different timelines and witness the impact of their choices in real-time.

The sound design in Cris Tales complements its visual splendor, with a captivating soundtrack composed by Tyson Wernli. The music is a blend of orchestral and cultural influences, creating an auditory experience that matches the game’s emotional depth. Voice acting is also well-executed, bringing the characters to life with performances that capture their personalities and emotions.

Legacy and Reception

Cris Tales has been well-received by both critics and players for its innovative approach to the JRPG genre. The game’s unique time manipulation mechanics and stunning visual design have been praised as standout features that set it apart from other titles in the genre. Critics have also lauded its engaging narrative and compelling character development, highlighting the depth and emotional resonance of the story.

However, some critiques have been directed at the game’s pacing and difficulty spikes, with certain battles presenting abrupt challenges that can disrupt the flow of the game. Despite these minor criticisms, Cris Tales has established itself as a beloved entry in the indie RPG scene, celebrated for its creativity and homage to classic gaming experiences.

The game’s impact extends beyond its gameplay, as it showcases the talent and creativity of Latin American developers in the global gaming industry. By incorporating cultural elements and storytelling techniques unique to their heritage, the developers have created a game that resonates with a diverse audience and contributes to the growing diversity within gaming narratives.

Conclusion

Cris Tales is more than just a game; it’s a tribute to the rich history of JRPGs while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of what the genre can achieve. Its innovative use of time mechanics offers a fresh perspective on traditional gameplay, creating an experience that is both nostalgic and new. The game’s story, filled with emotional depth and meaningful choices, leaves a lasting impression on players, encouraging them to reflect on the impact of their decisions.

As an indie title, Cris Tales stands as a testament to the potential of smaller studios to create impactful and memorable gaming experiences. Its legacy is one of creativity, diversity, and the celebration of cultural storytelling, leaving an indelible mark on the RPG genre. Whether you’re a fan of classic JRPGs or new to the genre, Cris Tales offers a unique journey through time that is not to be missed.