Fantasian Neo Dimension Review – A Handcrafted JRPG That Dares to Be Different

Originally an Apple Arcade exclusive from 2021, Fantasian Neo Dimension brings together handcrafted diorama environments, strategic turn-based combat, and the musical genius of Nobuo Uematsu in a fresh take on the JRPG genre. In this review of Fantasian Neo Dimension, we’ll explore Mistwalker and Square Enix’s enhanced version of Fantasian, now available across multiple platforms including Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. As producer Naoki Yoshida noted, many players missed out on the original Apple Arcade release, making this expanded version an opportunity to experience its unique charm across a broader range of platforms.

Story and World-Building

The narrative follows Leo, an amnesiac adventurer who awakens in a mechanical world with a mysterious device enabling interdimensional travel. Accompanied by companions like the compassionate healer Kina and the spirited princess Cheryl, players embark on a journey of memory recovery and world-spanning mystery. The storytelling adopts a visual novel approach, dedicating substantial segments to world-building and character development through extensive text passages.

While this approach creates a richly detailed universe, the pacing might feel unhurried for players accustomed to more action-driven narratives. The good news is that the game knows not everyone wants to read everything, so you can fast-forward through text or skip parts you’re not interested in, just like in visual novels. This flexibility allows players to engage with the story at their preferred pace while still maintaining the integrity of the narrative experience.

Visual Artistry

Here’s where Fantasian Neo Dimension really shows off something different. Instead of regular computer graphics, they actually built tiny, detailed worlds by hand and then scanned them into the game using 3D technology. The result is pretty amazing – you get these environments that look both real and magical at the same time. Every location, from bustling towns to mysterious dungeons, showcases extraordinary attention to detail, with elements like rusted mechanical components and light-reflecting resin foliage contributing to the game’s distinctive atmosphere.

The development team’s commitment to this artistic vision extends beyond mere aesthetics. The diorama-based environments create a sense of physical presence that distinguishes the game from both traditional 2D and 3D titles. Players can appreciate the texture and depth of these handcrafted worlds as they explore, making even routine navigation feel like an adventure through a meticulously crafted miniature universe. The game further enhances this exploration through quality-of-life features like point-and-click movement and a comprehensive fast-travel system, ensuring that the beauty of these environments remains accessible rather than becoming an obstacle to gameplay.

Combat and Progression System

While the game sticks to turn-based combat, it adds some clever twists to keep things interesting. One of the coolest features is called the Dimengeon Machine, which lets you put off random battles until later. Instead of fighting every enemy you meet, you can save them up for one big fight when you’re ready. This feature transforms what could be routine interruptions into meaningful tactical challenges, though players must carefully manage their stored enemies to avoid overwhelming encounters.

Combat depth extends beyond this system through trajectory-based skills and character-specific mechanics. Each party member fills traditional RPG roles while offering unique tactical options, including specialized abilities for robotic party members that rely on item-based attacks. Boss encounters serve as the combat system’s crown jewel, presenting distinct challenges that demand careful preparation and strategic thinking.

As you play, your characters get stronger through experience points and new abilities, like in most RPGs. However, the game takes its time giving you access to some important features – you won’t be able to upgrade equipment or use skill boards until about 20 hours in. This design choice maintains a tight focus on exploration and basic combat in the early game but may test player patience.

The estimated 50-hour journey features a particularly slow-paced first half, which could prove challenging for players eager to access the full range of gameplay systems. The level 35 experience threshold further shapes progression by encouraging players to seek out appropriate-level challenges rather than relying on grinding weaker enemies. While this creates a more directed progression path, it might feel restrictive to players who enjoy more freedom in their character development approach.

Audio Experience

The music in this game is something special. Nobuo Uematsu, who’s basically royalty when it comes to game music, created tracks that perfectly match what’s happening on screen. Whether you’re exploring a mysterious area or in the middle of an intense battle, the music helps set the mood just right.

The addition of full voice acting represents a significant enhancement to the game’s presentation, bringing characters to life with greater emotional depth than text alone could provide. This feature, highlighted by producer Naoki Yoshida as crucial for character development, adds another layer of immersion to the experience. The game further delights fans with special musical collaborations featuring iconic FINAL FANTASY battle themes, creating a bridge between classic and contemporary JRPG experiences.

Final Thoughts

Fantasian Neo Dimension takes what we love about old-school RPGs and adds its own special touch. The handmade environments, clever battle system, and fantastic music create something that feels fresh while still familiar.  While its pacing and delayed system unlocks might not appeal to all players, the game rewards patience with rich content and engaging strategic challenges.

If you’re a fan of JRPGs and don’t mind taking your time, this version of Fantasian is definitely worth checking out. The addition of voice acting and expanded platform availability makes this the definitive version of Fantasian, offering both newcomers and fans of the original release a compelling reason to explore its intricately crafted world.

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