Tales of Berseria (2016)

In Tales of Berseria, players are drawn into a deeply emotional tale that explores the tension between emotion and reason. The story follows Velvet, a young woman who, after experiencing a life-altering tragedy three years before the game’s events, is consumed by anger and hatred. Once a kind and compassionate individual, Velvet's personality has been radically transformed by the traumatic incident, making her a complex protagonist driven by a desire for vengeance.

Set in the sacred kingdom of Midgand, Tales of Berseria takes players on a journey across vast seas and a variety of islands that make up this rich and diverse world. Velvet, burdened by her past, becomes part of a pirate crew, with whom she sets sail in search of answers, justice, and personal redemption. Along the way, she will encounter a range of characters, each with their own motivations and stories, and together, they will navigate the dangers that await on their epic journey.

The game is developed by the renowned team behind the Tales of series, delivering a rich, action-packed RPG experience. Mutsumi Inomata, the veteran character designer for the Tales of franchise, has taken the reins to design Velvet, bringing a unique look and personality to the protagonist that reflects her inner turmoil and fierce determination. In addition, ufotable, the celebrated Japanese animation studio known for their high-quality work on anime adaptations, returns to animate the game’s cutscenes. The result is a visually stunning experience that features breathtaking animation, perfectly complementing the emotional storytelling that unfolds throughout the game.

The core of Tales of Berseria lies in its combat system. Players engage in real-time battles, allowing them to perform a variety of attacks, combos, and special abilities. The system is designed to be fast-paced and dynamic, making each fight feel both exciting and strategic. The game also includes a robust character development system, where Velvet and her companions can level up and unlock new abilities to enhance their combat prowess.

As Velvet’s journey unfolds, players will face moral dilemmas that challenge their understanding of right and wrong. The game does not shy away from exploring complex themes, such as the consequences of vengeance and the emotional toll of pursuing a single-minded goal. This makes Tales of Berseria not just an action-packed RPG, but a thought-provoking story about the nature of human emotions and the choices that define our paths in life.

In addition to the main storyline, Tales of Berseria offers a wealth of side content, including quests, hidden treasures, and powerful enemies to defeat. The game’s open-world elements allow for exploration, providing players with the freedom to chart their own course through the expansive world. There is always something to discover, and the more you explore, the deeper you will dive into the lore of Midgand.

With its compelling protagonist, deep emotional narrative, and exhilarating combat mechanics, Tales of Berseria offers an unforgettable RPG experience. Whether you're drawn to the captivating story, the dynamic battle system, or the beautifully animated cutscenes, the game ensures that players will remain invested in Velvet's journey from start to finish.

Tales of Berseria is a game that grabs you with its story and strong main character. Velvet’s journey is dark and emotional, and the game does a great job showing her struggles and growth. The cutscenes look amazing thanks to ufotable, making the story even more engaging.

The gameplay is solid with a fun battle system and interesting exploration across the islands of Midgand. You can easily get lost in the world and enjoy the mix of action and story. The characters are memorable and each has a role that makes the adventure feel alive.

Overall, we recommend Tales of Berseria. It’s an emotional ride with beautiful visuals and satisfying gameplay. If you like deep stories and strong character development, this game is worth your time.