Pale Spectrum - Part Two of the Book of Gray Magic
- September 28, 2017
- Ithaqua Labs
Get on Steam"Pale Spectrum" is the second part of the "Book of Gray Magic," serving as a standalone sequel to "Brilliant Shadows." The game follows the misfit mages of the Ryuusian Royal Cabal as they navigate political intrigue, magical challenges, and personal relationships. With a mad demigod threatening Celeste and an arcane foe from fabled lands, the cabal prepares for a climactic battle. This narrative-driven RPG offers a rich, magical world filled with necromancers, paladins, witches, and changelings.
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Reviews
- The game features great writing, character development, and a complex magic system that enhances the storytelling.
- It includes diverse representation, with multiple queer couples and a trans character, contributing to a rich narrative experience.
- The artwork and voice acting are praised for their quality, making the visual and auditory experience enjoyable.
- The story suffers from pacing issues, with too many characters and plotlines that feel unfocused and underdeveloped.
- Many choices seem to lack significant impact on the story, leading to a feeling of dissatisfaction with the branching paths.
- There are numerous typos and bugs, along with a lack of clarity in the ending tracking system, which detracts from the overall experience.
- story45 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 71 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The story has received mixed reviews, with many players criticizing its lack of focus, convoluted plotlines, and an overwhelming number of characters that detract from the main narrative. While some appreciated the unique elements and character decisions, others found the pacing jumpy and the overall execution unsatisfying, leading to an anticlimactic ending. Despite its flaws, a few players still enjoyed the story's potential and the depth it attempted to explore, suggesting that a more streamlined approach could enhance future installments.
“I had so much fun with the story and making decisions for the different characters.”
“A truly unique visual story that continues on the story elements that were built up from the previous installment.”
“While I do think the first in the series is much stronger in terms of storytelling and overall character development, Pale Spectrum is still a fantastic addition that I had incredible fun with and feelings for.”
“Plotlines go seemingly nowhere, characters are brought back to do essentially nothing, there's an unjustifiable surplus of new characters who do not add anything to the story, and the pacing is jumpier than an anxiety-riddled frog during an earthquake.”
“The story has no focus and no true driving conflict - any antagonist is quickly dealt with and seems to be an afterthought.”
“Too many storylines, far too many characters, some of which even disappear mid-game as they were so useless you later wonder what actually happened to them.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The graphics are generally praised for their lovely artwork and great voice acting, contributing to an enjoyable visual experience. However, some users noted inconsistencies, with a few graphics appearing sketch-like, which may be a deliberate creative choice or an oversight. Overall, the visuals are considered excellent, though there are minor oddities.
“Lovely artwork.”
“Great voice acting, great artwork.”
“Graphics in general are very nice, although there are one or two odd ones.”
“Some graphics look like sketches, and while this makes sense in most cases (quick-paced scenes, inserts, etc.), in some instances it doesn't make any sense to me.”
“I'm not sure if it's a creative direction I don't quite understand or if some prerelease graphics were left in by accident.”
- character development2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The character development in "Pale Spectrum" is praised for its great writing, though some reviewers feel that the first installment in the series offers stronger storytelling and character growth. Despite this, "Pale Spectrum" is still regarded as a fantastic addition that evokes strong emotions and enjoyment.
“Great writing and character development.”
“While I do think the first in the series is much stronger in terms of storytelling and overall character development, Pale Spectrum is still a fantastic addition that I had incredible fun with and feelings for.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is highlighted by the character development, particularly Belinda's growth and comedic moments, as well as amusing interactions, such as Aku's antics during a meeting. Players appreciate the lightheartedness and the evolving relationships among characters, which contribute to the overall comedic tone.
“I love how close Ash and Terra have become, how Belinda has truly grown, and how funny she is.”
“I was surprised at the choices for heads and a teacher for the mountain, but Aku was funny in the meeting, lol.”
- music2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its beauty, complementing the voice acting and writing to create an immersive experience in the visual novel.
“The music, voice acting, and writing are beautiful and come together to make a great visual novel.”
