RoF is an RPG that went under the Radar thanks to FFXIII and bad marketing. Surprisingly, it is very good!
I have played this game for nearly 40 hours now, I haven't beaten it. I want to say that up front. In fact, there are 15 chapters total and I am only on chapter 7. So this is just a review of the content so far, because I want people to have something to go on when they buy this game (since very few of the 'big dogs' have seen fit to review it yet).
To make it simple, here are the only three reasons you should not buy this game (there are other flaws sure, but these are things that would be unredeemable by some players):
1. The story is not that great.
- However, the voice acting and the humor are actually quite good. The main story however, not so much.
2. The graphics are...different.
- They aren't bad really, but they are not FFXIII, or Mass Effect, or...even Fable 2...they're different and some people just don't like different.
3. This game is challenging.
- If Final Fantasy XIII makes you whimper, RoF will stomp on your genitalia repeatedly while wearing a freaky evil clown costume and holding a picture of the grandmother. In other words, it can be tough in unexpected ways.
OKAY. Now if a lackluster (but well told) story, unusual artistic design, and a good challenge don't scare you....here's a few reasons why you must buy this game.
1. The Battle system is new, and awesome.
- This game has a battle system that, while similar to things like Valkrie profile...is a beast all its own. Taking cues from games like Devil May Cry the game uses a robust action turn based system that focuses on gunplay, and DMC style air juggling antics.
There are bonuses galore for fighting with style and tactics. If you are an RPG player that likes to grind for items and experience...you will need to master the system to milk the most from this game.
2. The Character Building is unique, and surprisingly deep.
- Instead of building up characters levels, this game has you building up your proficiencies with weapons, which in turn levels your character. The only way to level fully is to switch up your loadouts (between 3 types, SMGs, Pistols, and Grenades)
While 3 weapon types seems limiting. Consider this, each gun comes laid out on a grid (think Resident Evil) that you can use to attach parts to your guns. How many parts? Let's just say you can customize a pistol so much, and so strangely, that even Macgyver would blush.
3. Game Love you Long Time
- As I said at the outset. This game has me at 40 hours and only halfway through. It's a looter/level grinder's paradise. And there's also the deep character look customizations. You can purchase TONS of clothing options for your characters that will be displayed both in game and in cinematic. You can go so far as to even have individually colored eye contact lenses in. Seriously.
4. It's Unique
-Show japanese developers we like innovation in RPGs by supporting a truly deserving title like this one. It's got lots of bang (and boom) for your buck.