Full disclosure, I had no idea what I was getting myself into with this title, but as I stepped into the world of “Fate/Samurai Remnant,” I was immediately drawn into a captivating tale of samurai, mysticism, and the bonds that tie them together. Developed by Omega Force and published by Koei Tecmo, this action role-playing video game offered me a unique and immersive experience that I won’t soon forget. It’s been a long time since I invested so much time into an action JRPG such as this, but I am very fascinated in the era it took place in and while I’m not too familiar with the Fate franchise, I figured I’d jump in and see how it went.
In the game, you play as Miyamoto Iori, a samurai from the Edo period of Japan, and the setting is the year 1651 during the Keian era. The stage is set in a Japan that has long left behind the chaos of the Sengoku Period, now enjoying an era of peace. Of course, peace is boring in a video game and beneath this tranquil surface lies a covert conflict, where masters and their summoned heroic spirits, known as “servants,” engage in a battle that transcends time and space. These summoned spirits include both historical and legendary figures, such as the legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi and the iconic Joan of Arc. At the heart of this unfolding drama is the enigmatic “Waxing Moon Vessel,” a mystical artifact capable of granting one’s deepest desires. And it is here that Miyamoto Iori, a young man from Asakusa, becomes irrevocably entangled in a quest for this powerful relic.
While “Fate/Samurai Remnant” is part of the broader Fate franchise, it welcomes newcomers with open arms. While I may not have been well-versed in the intricacies of the franchise since most of the previous games are only available to play on mobile devices, I found this game to be a standalone narrative that didn’t require prior knowledge of its lore. It truly felt like its own unique story. The game’s pacing, however, does demand your patience. The narrative unfolds slowly, introducing players to a vast cast of characters and immersing them in the complexities of war. Simultaneously, it also acquaints you with the game’s mechanics. Yet, this measured pace pays off, as it allows for the development of the game’s rich narrative and the relationships that form within it. One of the game’s narrative highlights is the evolving relationship between Iori and the other co-lead, Saber. Initially at odds, their journey together gradually weaves a strong and enduring friendship that I found incredibly engaging.
Beyond its story, the game impresses with its combat system. You have the opportunity to take control of various servants, each with their distinct playstyles, which adds a layer of variety to the gameplay which is very helpful to keep you going to the end. The boss battles are particularly enjoyable, and the skill tree system, while conventional, is enhanced by the fact that each playable character possesses their unique skill tree and skill points. Iori and Saber, as the primary characters, feature extensive branching skill trees. The game world is expansive, with numerous towns to explore, each with its own collectibles and adorable animals to interact with. “Fate/Samurai Remnant” also offers some fun mini-games such as blade sharpening and statue carving, which not only provide a nice diversion but also serve practical purposes within the game. What I found rather surprising, was “Fate/Samurai Remnant” boasts a New Game+ mode that extends the gameplay experience considerably. Digressions, side stories that delve into Iori’s relationships with the rogue servants, offer additional character development and backstory which all cannot be seen in the first play through.
While there is much more to delve into about this game, my personal affinity for storytelling led me to appreciate the emotional journey it took me on. The cast of characters, both familiar and new to the Fate franchise, left a lasting impression on me. Prior to this game, I had little knowledge of the Fate universe, but now, it has unquestionably captured my attention. In “Fate/Samurai Remnant,” I embarked on a remarkable adventure, where history, fantasy, and friendship converged in a beautifully crafted world. This game offers a rich and immersive experience that is sure to leave a lasting mark on anyone who ventures into its captivating realm.
8/10
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Gaming since I was given an original Nintendo as a kid. I love great storytelling and unique ingenuity. When both collide in a single game, I'm a happy gamer. Twitter/IG @NickNavarro87
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