CHORDIOID: First Breath
- December 16, 2024
- DECONRECONSTRUCTION
"CHORDIOID: First Breath" is a free demo of a musical JRPG that blends strategic turn-based combat with rhythm game mechanics. In this unique game, you'll battle to the beat, explore a vibrant world, and enjoy an intriguing story filled with diverse characters. With an original soundtrack infused with retro VGM flair, this game is a must-play for JRPG and rhythm game fans alike. The full game features gay protagonists and a variety of pronouns, making it a welcoming and inclusive gaming experience.
Reviews
- The music and sound design are exceptional, with a variety of tracks that enhance the gameplay experience.
- The combat system is engaging and challenging, providing a fun mix of rhythm and RPG elements.
- The writing and art style are charming, contributing to an overall enjoyable and immersive experience.
- Some players may find the control scheme for hitting notes difficult to adapt to, especially if they are used to different rhythm game setups.
- There are occasional performance issues, such as stutters and frame drops, which can disrupt gameplay during rhythm sections.
- The demo is relatively short, leaving players wanting more and eager for the full game release.
- music5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its excellence and variety, with many tracks featured even in the demo. Reviewers highlight the soundtrack's ability to enhance the overall experience, making battles enjoyable and immersive, while also complementing the game's writing, characters, and mechanics. Overall, the sound direction is considered phenomenal, showcasing a strong emphasis on music throughout the game's design.
“What stands out is just how excellent the music is, and how many different tracks are already present in the demo - the game was definitely made with music in mind first, and everything flows from that love.”
“No but for real: exquisite writing and cutscenes, a hybrid active-time rhythm combat system, and a jammin' soundtrack!”
“The music and sound direction is absolutely phenomenal, it's so amazing to finally see what this is turning out to be.”
- gameplay4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay is generally praised for its fun mechanics, polished feel, and engaging story, with standout elements like great sound design and character interactions. However, some users express concerns about combat balance, particularly regarding the special attack mechanic, which can be difficult to utilize effectively. Overall, the gameplay experience is highly rated, with many considering it a standout feature of the game.
“Great sound design, really fun gameplay and feels polished already in most aspects.”
“The soundtrack is incredible, I love the characters, mechanics, world, and dialogue; it's all very great.”
“Very fun gameplay and interesting story, 10/10.”
- story3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The story is praised for its careful construction and smooth transitions during key events, enhancing the overall experience. Players express enthusiasm for the characters and narrative, indicating a strong engagement with the game's plot and a positive outlook for its future.
“I love how much care was put into it, both fitting and smoothly transitioning during story beats and other events happening; not to mention the fights themselves.”
“I'm loving the characters and story so far, and I'm so excited for this game's future!”
“Very fun gameplay and an interesting story, 10/10.”
“The story feels disjointed and lacks coherence, making it hard to stay engaged.”
“The character development is shallow, leaving me feeling disconnected from their journeys.”
“I found the plot twists to be predictable and uninspired, which diminished my overall enjoyment.”