12following on IGDB
Media
Synopsis
Discover a unique combination of branching stories, innovative combat, and classic RPG gameplay in Cris Tales’ exciting and unforgettable exploration of how our actions echo through time. Join the newly awakened Time Mage, Crisbell, and her fantastical companions in a fantasy world facing a grim future. The powerful Time Empress and her forces threaten to bring about a cataclysm tearing apart Crystallis and the other four Kingdoms of the region.
What it’s like
Cris Tales is a vibrant, side-scrolling JRPG that functions as a love letter to the classic era of the genre. The experience centers on Crisbell, a young Time Mage who can view and interact with three distinct timelines simultaneously: past, present, and future. This unique mechanic allows players to solve puzzles and engage in combat by observing how current actions ripple through time, creating a dynamic layer of strategy where the future is not set in stone but influenced by your choices. The narrative explores themes of destiny, consequence, and found family within a whimsical yet dark fairytale setting. Visually, the game stands out with its hand-drawn, watercolor aesthetic that shifts styles to reflect different eras, offering a distinct mood that balances earnest charm with serious stakes. While the combat is turn-based and relies on positioning across these timelines, the story delivers an emotional payoff focused on character growth rather than complex lore.
Strong in Atmosphere / MoodVisuals / ArtAudio / MusicCharactersCombatGameplay / MechanicsStory / Narrative
Keep in mind The pacing suffers from significant bloat, particularly in the mid-game where repetitive fetch quests and filler side content slow down momentum. Additionally, while the art style is beautiful, some may find the hand-drawn aesthetic less immersive than fully 3D environments or pixel art.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from metacritic.com, ign.com, rockpapershotgun.com, gamespot.com, gamepressure.com.