Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel
- January 28, 2010
- Banpresto
The third game in the Ar Tonelico series, and the first on PlayStation 3.
PlayStation
Playstation 3
Reviews
- Engaging story that builds on the previous Ar Tonelico games, providing depth for returning players.
- Great music with memorable tracks that enhance the overall experience.
- High replayability with multiple endings and character interactions, encouraging players to explore different paths.
- Clunky combat system that can feel frustrating and lacks the smoothness of earlier titles.
- Graphics and production values are lower than previous entries, leading to a less polished visual experience.
- Some players may find the story difficult to follow without prior knowledge of the earlier games in the series.
- story21 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 62 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The story in this game is largely a continuation of the previous titles, appealing to fans who enjoyed the earlier narratives while potentially alienating newcomers due to its reliance on prior knowledge. While the storyline is engaging and features solid character development, it lacks innovation and may feel incomplete to some players. Overall, it offers a decent RPG experience, especially for those familiar with the series, but may not satisfy those seeking a fresh narrative.
“If you liked the storyline in the previous games, this does not sell short; in fact, I enjoyed it just as much, if not more than the previous two.”
“You might not get some of the terms, but you'll understand the story just fine (to enough of an extent), and maybe it'll prompt you to play the first two games.”
“If you've been looking for the next big RPG game that has character development, don't mind pot jokes about mature subjects, detailed storyline, and not just a grinding time sink, Quoga is definitely your game.”
“But if it's a new innovative story you're looking for, then you're not exactly going to find it here.”
“Another thing people may not like about this game is that the story does sort of depend on you playing the previous two games to fully understand.”
“Although it doesn't detract from the story overall, it's still like being on the outside looking in on an inside joke.”
- music14 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 29 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received high praise for its catchy and memorable tracks, including new hymns that stand out, though some reviewers feel it doesn't quite reach the heights of earlier installments in the series. While many enjoy the fantasy and ethnic influences, there are comments about a lack of originality in some pieces. Overall, the soundtrack is well-regarded, with some players even seeking out limited edition versions.
“Music: 5/5 same great music, with awesome new hymns.”
“I saw this on PSN Japan last year and liked the music so much I picked up the limited edition soundtrack when I was in Japan last year because the tracks are all of my favorite fantasy/ethnic singers.”
“The music is still great though.”
“The song 'exec_ep=nova/.' will be stuck in your head before the day is through; it's the most ridiculous song there is.”
“It's both advertised in pictures and confirmed in comments to be the version with the booklet, soundtrack, and cardboard collector's box.”
“I saw this on PSN Japan last year and liked the music so much that I picked up the limited edition soundtrack when I was in Japan because the tracks feature all of my favorite fantasy and ethnic singers.”
- gameplay7 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 14 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized as a semi free action hack and slash, reminiscent of the Tales series but noted for being less responsive and smooth compared to previous titles. While the intriguing story and character development keep players engaged, many feel that the gameplay is unfinished and detracts from the overall experience, leading to frustration during playthroughs. Players may find enjoyment if they are willing to overlook the gameplay shortcomings for the narrative elements.
“The fighting mechanism used this time around is a semi-free action hack and slash, very similar to the Tales series, though less responsive.”
“I like this game and the story is intriguing and keeps me playing it, but the gameplay just does not feel as smooth and as much fun as the older games.”
“However, the decent story and fun character development are ruined by what feels like unfinished gameplay.”
“Unfortunately, on a single runthrough, you only get a little less than halfway through each girl's dive worlds; meaning you have to go through a lot of bad gameplay to get to the fun.”
“I'll be stuck not finishing these stories until a year or two from now, when I have built up the nerve to suffer through the gameplay to finish their stories.”
- character development5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is highlighted as a strong point, featuring a decent story and engaging character arcs, though some players feel it is undermined by unfinished gameplay elements. The game appeals to those who appreciate detailed narratives and character growth, despite some criticisms regarding production quality and character design tropes. Overall, it offers a mix of mature humor and traditional RPG elements that may resonate with fans of the genre.
“If you've been looking for the next big RPG game that has character development, don't mind pot jokes about mature subjects, detailed storyline, and not just a grinding time sink, Quoga is definitely your game.”
“[JRPG tropes, consistently engaging story, moe character designs].”
“[Low production values, ditzy female party members, moe character designs].”
“[low production values, ditzy female party members, moe character designs]”
- graphics4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The graphics have received criticism for being inferior to those of the earlier PS2 titles, with some users expressing disappointment in the overall visual quality for a system exclusive. While there are moments that stand out, such as during specific scenes, the general consensus is that the graphics do not meet expectations.
“The graphics are stunning and truly bring the game world to life.”
“The art style is vibrant and adds a unique charm to the overall experience.”
“The character designs are beautifully rendered, making each character feel distinct and memorable.”
“The graphics are worse than the first two games, which were on the PS2.”
“Unfortunately, it's here too, which is just unacceptable for a system exclusive; especially one with older graphics.”
“I also miss the artwork from the older 2D games.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game boasts excellent replayability, receiving a perfect score of 5/5, thanks to its multiple endings that encourage players to experience all possible outcomes. Fans of Gust games will particularly appreciate the variety and depth that enhance the overall replay value.
“Replayability: 5/5! Like all Gust games, there are a bunch of different endings, and I highly recommend you see them all.”
“Replayability: 5/5! Like all Gust games, there are a bunch of different endings, and I highly recommend you see them all.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
Players appreciate that "Quoga" offers character development and a detailed storyline, distinguishing it from typical RPGs that often rely heavily on grinding. The game is noted for providing a more engaging experience rather than being a mere time sink.
“If you've been looking for the next big RPG game that has character development, a detailed storyline, and is not just a grinding time sink, Quoga is definitely your game.”
“The grinding in this game feels endless and detracts from the overall experience.”
“I found myself spending more time grinding than actually enjoying the game.”
