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Story
Startling Odyssey, developed by RayForce and released in 1993 for the PC Engine CD, is an enchanting role-playing game that immerses players in a rich narrative filled with adventure, magic, and intrigue. The story unfolds in a fantastical world where players take on the role of Leon, a young hero who embarks on a quest to confront an ancient evil threatening the land.
The narrative begins with Leon living a peaceful life in a quaint village. However, tranquility is shattered when monstrous forces, led by the dark sorcerer Zauzer, attack the village. Driven by a thirst for vengeance and justice, Leon sets out on a journey to gather allies, discover the truth about his past, and ultimately save the world from impending doom.
As the story progresses, Leon encounters a diverse cast of characters, each with their own backstories and motivations. From the wise and mysterious mage, Zeek, to the spirited warrior, Mary, these companions add depth to the storyline and provide crucial support in the battles ahead. The game intricately weaves themes of friendship, betrayal, and redemption, keeping players engaged as they navigate through its multifaceted plot.
Gameplay
Startling Odyssey offers a traditional RPG experience, characterized by its turn-based combat system and exploration-based gameplay. Players guide Leon and his party across a sprawling overworld map, delving into dungeons, towns, and various locations teeming with enemies and treasures.
Combat System
The combat system in Startling Odyssey is strategic yet accessible, allowing players to utilize each character’s unique abilities and spells to overcome adversaries. Battles are initiated through random encounters as players traverse different terrains, and victory often requires a thoughtful approach to exploiting enemy weaknesses and managing party resources.
Character Development
Character progression is a central aspect of the gameplay, with experience points earned through combat contributing to level-ups. As characters grow, they gain new skills, spells, and stat enhancements, encouraging players to experiment with different party compositions and strategies.
Exploration and Quests
The game’s world is expansive and filled with hidden secrets waiting to be uncovered. Players are encouraged to explore every nook and cranny, interacting with NPCs to receive side quests and gather valuable information about the world and its history. These quests often reward players with rare items, equipment, and insights into the characters’ backgrounds.
Graphics and Sound
Startling Odyssey, being a product of its time, features charming 16-bit graphics that capture the essence of early 90s RPG aesthetics. The game’s art style, while pixelated, is vibrant and detailed, bringing the fantastical world to life with colorful environments and expressive character sprites.
Visual Design
The visual design of Startling Odyssey is commendable, with each location meticulously crafted to reflect the mood and tone of the narrative. From lush forests to eerie dungeons, the game effectively uses its visual elements to immerse players in its universe.
Soundtrack and Audio
The soundtrack of Startling Odyssey is a standout feature, composed by the talented duo of Yasuhito Saito and Yasuhito Fujita. The music complements the game’s atmosphere perfectly, with tracks ranging from rousing battle themes to serene melodies that enhance the emotional depth of the story. The sound effects, while simple, add an additional layer of immersion, especially during combat sequences.
Legacy and Reception
Startling Odyssey holds a special place in the hearts of RPG enthusiasts, particularly those who experienced the golden age of JRPGs in the early 90s. Despite its limited release in Japan, the game garnered a dedicated following due to its compelling story, engaging gameplay, and memorable soundtrack.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, Startling Odyssey received positive reviews from critics and players alike. It was praised for its narrative depth, character development, and the overall quality of its presentation. The game was often compared to other classics of the era, such as the Ys series and the early Final Fantasy titles, for its ability to deliver a captivating RPG experience on the PC Engine CD platform.
Cultural Impact
The game’s influence extended beyond its initial release, inspiring a sequel, Startling Odyssey II, which continued the story and expanded upon the gameplay mechanics. Although the series did not achieve widespread international fame, it remains a beloved gem within the niche community of retro gaming aficionados.
Conclusion
Startling Odyssey is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic RPGs, offering players a richly woven narrative and a robust gameplay experience that stands the test of time. Its engaging story, strategic combat, and evocative soundtrack have left a lasting impact on the RPG genre, cementing its status as a cult classic among fans of the era.
While the game may not have achieved mainstream recognition outside Japan, its legacy lives on through its dedicated fanbase and its influence on subsequent titles. Startling Odyssey is a must-play for anyone looking to explore the roots of JRPGs and experience the magic of a bygone era in gaming history.
