Rhapsody II: Ballad of the Little Princess
- August 29, 2023
- Engine Software BV
Get on SteamIn "Rhapsody II: Ballad of the Little Princess," play as Kururu, the adventurous princess seeking her true love, as she navigates treacherous pathways, battles dangerous creatures, and experiences the challenges of growing up. This musical RPG features new turn-based combat, captivating tunes, and a heartfelt narrative, continuing the legacy of its beloved predecessor. Can you help Kururu find her own fairytale ending and understand the true meaning of love?
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Rhapsody II features charming characters and a delightful story that builds on the foundation of the first game, with more depth and humor.
- The game has improved battle mechanics and a unique resource management system that adds an interesting twist to traditional turn-based combat.
- The visuals and music are well-crafted, with vibrant pixel art and catchy songs that enhance the overall experience.
- The gameplay can feel repetitive due to a high encounter rate and uninspired dungeon design, leading to a grindy experience.
- The resource management system, where spells cost money and special attacks cost HP, can be frustrating and limits strategic options.
- There are several quality of life issues, such as characters losing their equipment upon rejoining the party, which can disrupt the flow of the game.
- music15 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The music in "Rhapsody II: Ballad of the Little Princess" is a standout feature, with catchy songs and charming musical numbers that enhance the game's whimsical narrative. While many players appreciate the enchanting soundtrack and its integration into the story, some have expressed frustration over language options, particularly regarding the presence of Japanese songs despite selecting English voices. Overall, the game's musical elements contribute significantly to its appeal, creating an immersive experience for fans of RPGs and heartwarming tales.
“Music's great, and just like with the first game, the characters will break into musical numbers.”
“It's one of the charms of the series, and the songs themselves are pretty catchy.”
“Rhapsody II: Ballad of the Little Princess gracefully weaves together music, adventure, and a touch of danger, offering players an enchanting journey through a storybook world bursting with romance and charm.”
“And I lost all desire to play any further once I hit the first musical number and it was still in Japanese despite me very clearly choosing the 'English voices' option.”
“I don't like hearing Japanese, and Rhapsody 1 had all the songs in English.”
“- Musical songs that may or may not get stuck in your head.”
- story15 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 47 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The story of "Rhapsody II: Ballad of the Little Princess" follows Kururu, the daughter of Cornet, on her quest to find true love, featuring a charming narrative aimed primarily at a teen girl audience. While the beginning may feel weaker, the plot develops with engaging twists and a rich cast of characters, complemented by enchanting music and vibrant visuals that enhance the overall experience. This sequel successfully combines adventure, romance, and RPG elements, appealing to both genre enthusiasts and fans of heartwarming tales.
“The game's story and music are great.”
“Rhapsody II: Ballad of the Little Princess gracefully weaves together music, adventure, and a touch of danger, offering players an enchanting journey through a storybook world bursting with romance and charm.”
“A sequel to the beloved Rhapsody: A Musical Adventure, this installment places players in the role of Kururu, the spirited tomboy princess, who embarks on a quest to find her true love.”
“The story this time has more characters and a few twists.”
“For the story, it's not as strong in the beginning, but as it progresses, it actually sucks me in.”
“Story is fine, it's aimed toward teen girls, and I'm by no means a teen girl anymore, so I'm way outside the demographics.”
- gameplay13 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The gameplay has received mixed reviews, with some players appreciating the improved battle mechanics and the introduction of turn-based combat, while others criticize the monster-catching mechanic and encounter rates as tedious. Overall, it is seen as a step up from the first game, offering a more fleshed-out experience, though some players still prefer certain mechanics from the original.
“There is a monster capturing mechanic like the first game, but this time you equip them as ‘partners’ and can use their spells in combat.”
“Better battle mechanics than the first one, I think.”
“Alongside the engaging story, the newly introduced turn-based battle mechanics furnish polished and swift-paced gameplay, elevating combat to the same immersive level as the unfolding narrative.”
“Pretty good game, but with some really bad gameplay decisions.”
“The gameplay itself can be good, but is sort of bad really.”
“The gameplay is just brutal.”
- humor6 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a mix of lighthearted and derogatory elements, typical of some Japanese media, with highlights including amusing sections like the cat ice-cream scene. While it features funny moments and catchy ballads, it also balances these with serious themes, ensuring the overall experience remains enjoyable and straightforward.
“It’s still as funny as the first (the cat ice-cream section being a highlight)”
“Very funny but also had its serious and sad moments, but I’m glad those didn’t last long.”
“It’s short, straightforward, funny, and enjoyable.”
- graphics5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game show limited updates for modern systems, with repetitive visuals but an improved art style that eliminates previous single screens. While the overall aesthetic is appealing, it primarily targets a younger demographic, and the enhanced visuals contribute to a more immersive experience alongside the expanded soundtrack.
“The game adopts a turn-based RPG format embellished with an expanded soundtrack, enhanced visuals, and a resonant musical ambience that submerges players in its captivating allure.”
“Art style:”
“There aren't a huge amount of graphical updates for modern systems.”
“The visuals still repeat themselves a lot, but they have gotten rid of those horrible single screens.”
“The game adopts a turn-based RPG format embellished with enhanced visuals, but the overall graphical quality feels lacking.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players note that while the game features a significant amount of grinding, it is generally more enjoyable than its predecessor. The gameplay is considered easy, but the high encounter rate can become tedious over time.
“So what's left: a few funny ballads, grinding (and more grinding).”
“Gameplay-wise, it's pretty easy, and the encounter rate can get a little tedious.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its emotional depth, offering a heartwarming narrative that combines romance and adventure, making it appealing to both RPG enthusiasts and those seeking a cute, wholesome experience. Its unique integration of music and storytelling enhances the overall emotional engagement.
“Suitable for RPG aficionados and those fond of heartwarming narratives alike, the game's unique blend of music, storytelling, and RPG elements beckons players into a world where romance and adventure intertwine seamlessly.”
“I'd recommend it for anyone that wants a somewhat short, cute, and wholesome RPG.”
