Copy of my 'Child of Light' review on Steam:
At first glance, Child of Light looks like a children's nursery story with 2d platforming elements. However if you dig down a little bit further you find a story with a very dark tone to it, and a very rich battle system that will keep you engaged for hours. In fact, the battle system is the best part of the game.
I recorded on a video reviewing the games battle system in-depth:
Child of Light Battle System Video Review
It is very reminiscent of the battle system from the Grandia games. That battle system was my favorite of all jrpg's from the playstation 2 era. This game takes a unique twist on that system, and adds complexity through Oculi system.
The story itself is interesting, but the constant rhyming can get it a little boring. There isn't much for character customization other than choosing which branch of the different skill trees your characters go down.
Strategy Tip: Pick one branch of the skill tree for each character until you unlock all the major skills on that branch.
Oh and don't think you'll find your normal inns and shops in the locals you encournter along the way. There is none. All the items that you will get will either be from chests or enemy drops.
Nonetheless, it is the battle system that uplifts this game to a much higher rating than there would be without it.
Graphics: Good 7.0
Music: Mediocre 6.0
Story (plot): Good 7.5
Story (writing): Mediocre 6.0
Gameplay (customization) Good 7.0
Gameplay (Battle) Superb 9.0
Overall: Great 8.0
So if you are a fan of Japanese Roleplaying games, and want to try a new game with a interesting story and a wonderful, captivating and engaging battle system, I absolutely recommend that you get this game.