Tales Across Time
- April 18, 2016
- Critical Games
Get on Steam"Tales Across Time" is a story-driven RPG that follows three characters from different centuries in the same location. Each narrative offers a unique experience, from a haunted ruin to a romantic rescue mission. The game features a turn-based battle system with resource management and one-on-one encounters, and invites players to discover engaging characters in a transformed environment. * coming soon! * Three interconnected tales in one location, spanning centuries * Unique turn-based battles and resource management
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Engaging and well-crafted story that spans multiple timelines with interesting characters.
- Unique combat system focused on resource management, providing depth without the need for grinding or leveling up.
- Charming pixel art and a nostalgic soundtrack that enhances the overall experience.
- The game is quite short, with some players feeling it lacks depth and could be seen as a proof of concept rather than a full game.
- Some storylines feel underdeveloped, leading to a lack of satisfying climaxes and character relationships that seem rushed.
- The final boss battle can be tedious and drawn-out, detracting from the overall enjoyment.
- story86 mentions
- 28 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The game features a story-driven narrative that spans multiple eras, presenting three interconnected tales with engaging characters, though some players found the first two stories lacking in build-up compared to the more developed third story. While the overall plot is intriguing and creatively presented, the gameplay is simplistic and serves primarily as a vehicle for the narrative, leading to mixed feelings about the depth and originality of the stories. Overall, it is a short, enjoyable experience for those seeking a focus on storytelling rather than complex gameplay mechanics.
“The story itself is also very interesting, as it consists of three separate tales that are across different time eras, but they are all intertwined.”
“This game has a very creative and engaging storyline.”
“The game provides a very enjoyable narrative spanning across different eras and interesting, if cliched, protagonists for each story: the actual gameplay is very simple but works well enough to never get dull.”
“Well, the first two stories didn't really have build-ups either... the third story sort of has a payoff, but it mostly feels forced.”
“Honestly, if the third story was the only story told and the first two stories were told as flashbacks or explanations as to why things were happening, I think this would be a lot better.”
“Overall, the story was kind of shallow but still somewhat interesting.”
- gameplay24 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 71 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by its simplicity, featuring a streamlined combat system that lacks deep strategy or inventory management, making it accessible for players. While the mechanics are easy to grasp and the battles are enjoyable, they primarily serve to advance the narrative rather than provide a challenging gameplay experience. However, some players found the final boss fight to be tedious and drawn-out, detracting from the overall enjoyment.
“The gameplay is pretty simple, but it fits well for this game.”
“The combat mechanics have been simplified to make them easy to pick up and there is no stat or inventory management, but that doesn't mean it's always easy.”
“The game provides a very enjoyable narrative spanning across different eras and interesting, if cliched, protagonists for each story: the actual gameplay is very simple but works well enough to never get dull.”
“It is not big on gameplay/strategy, so do not expect too much in this matter.”
“The only thing that made me frown a bit was the last boss of the game: the fight itself isn't hard as the mechanics are quite easy, but it feels a bit of a chore due to its length and the fact you're simply asked to balance AP usage, healing, and skills.”
“Combat is basic and serves mostly as a narrative device linking story segments, rather than a gameplay hook.”
- graphics22 mentions
- 45 % positive mentions
- 41 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The game's graphics are characterized by a charming 16-bit aesthetic, reminiscent of classic titles like Secret of Mana, and while they are not high resolution, they are well-executed for an RPG Maker game. Players appreciate the polished visuals and fitting soundtrack, which enhance the overall presentation, making it a hidden gem despite its simplified mechanics. Overall, the art style and attention to detail contribute positively to the gaming experience.
“I recommend the game to everyone who likes pixel graphics with a really good soundtrack.”
“For an RPG Maker game, the graphics are top-notch and the soundtrack is cool and fitting.”
“The aesthetic is more 16-bit, though the game mechanics are almost the same as the 8-bit adventure games, albeit somewhat simplified since you don't actually level up and the only way to get better stats is by finding crystals that raise your HP and AP pools.”
“I've enjoyed the overall presentation and battle system so far, but it feels sort of less consequential than their previous game, which is weird considering that was so slight graphically and mechanically.”
“Although the graphics are not high resolution (8-bit), the game itself is wonderfully made and I enjoyed it very much.”
- music16 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised, with many reviewers highlighting its quality and variety, often comparing it to the soundtracks of classic SNES and PS1 RPGs. It is described as evocative and fitting, enhancing the overall experience alongside the game's pixel graphics and engaging story. Overall, the soundtrack is considered one of the standout features of the game.
“Music was probably the best part about the game.”
“Evocative music (reminded me of some of the best of the SNES/PS1 era RPGs).”
“It features very nice sprite art and music, and an intriguing fantasy story involving characters in multiple eras facing their own personal challenges as well as a shared supernatural foe.”
- grinding12 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its lack of grinding, experience points, and leveling systems, allowing players to focus on storytelling and achievements instead. While some players found the final battle tedious, the absence of grinding is seen as a positive aspect, making it appealing for those who prefer a more narrative-driven experience.
“There's no grinding, experience, levels, or equipment to manage.”
“Without levels, there is no grinding.”
“+ No grinding necessary (as stated in the description).”
“Worthwhile small game, though I gave up on the last battle as it was tedious and difficult.”
“I'd recommend it if you like stories and achievements over grinding and strategizing.”
“It's got all the great RPG stuff, without the grinding and leveling up.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere is characterized by a pervasive sense of anxiety and mystery, creating an unsettling environment filled with unknown dangers that keeps players on edge.
“The story builds an anxious atmosphere of unknown danger and mystery.”
- optimization2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users consistently highlight the game's excellent price/performance ratio, indicating that it delivers strong value for the investment.
“+ a great price/performance ratio”
- character development2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
Reviews indicate that the character design, particularly the facial features, is perceived as somewhat odd or unappealing, which may detract from the overall character development experience.
“The character design, especially the face, looked a little bit weird to me.”
