PGC NEWS

Virtual Reality (VR) gaming has seen significant growth, with Western studios leading the charge. Japanese developers, despite their rich gaming heritage, have been relatively slower to embrace this technology. However, with recent investments from companies like Meta, we’re starting to see more exciting VR titles emerge from Japan. One such game is RUINSMAGUS, a VR action RPG developed by Character Bank. Does this crowdfunded title live up to its potential and offer a fresh perspective on the VR landscape? Let’s delve in and find out.

A Feast for the Senses

RUINSMAGUS embraces the charm of anime aesthetics. Characters boast expressive features, complemented by high-quality Japanese voice acting. This distinct style sets it apart from Western VR titles, which often strive for photorealism.

RUINSMAGUS – Anime-style VR Graphics

The cel-shaded 3D graphics are a smart choice for the VR platform, especially considering the hardware limitations of devices like the Meta Quest 2. This art style allows for smooth performance even on mid-range PCs, minimizing motion sickness – a crucial factor for enjoyable VR experiences.

RUINSMAGUS – Smooth VR Gameplay

The combat in RUINSMAGUS shines brightly. Wielding various weapons and spells feels fluid and intuitive. Whether facing hordes of smaller enemies in dungeons or battling colossal bosses, the action remains engaging. The developers have thoughtfully incorporated different movement options to further mitigate motion sickness, allowing players to focus on the exhilarating battles.

RUINSMAGUS – Diverse Enemy Encounters

The game’s world, while relatively simple, is vibrant and reminiscent of fantasy settings found in light novels and anime. Players join guilds, explore dungeons, gather loot, and upgrade their equipment, interacting with NPCs and navigating menus to unravel the unfolding storyline.

RUINSMAGUS – Engaging Combat

The narrative incorporates classic JRPG elements, complete with plot twists and emotional moments. From dramatic rescues by the guild master to unexpected dungeon traps and lighthearted festivals, the story keeps players invested. The VR perspective enhances these moments, particularly the encounters with massive bosses, which feel truly imposing when viewed through the character’s eyes.

RUINSMAGUS – Immersive Boss Battles

RUINSMAGUS successfully blends familiar anime tropes with the immersive nature of VR. The combination of engaging gameplay, a charming art style, and a compelling narrative creates a captivating experience.

RUINSMAGUS – Anime-Inspired World

Where the Magic Fades

While RUINSMAGUS offers a compelling VR experience, it suffers from some noticeable shortcomings. The initial excitement of combat eventually gives way to a sense of repetition. The core gameplay loop revolves around attacking and defending, with little variation between enemy types. The loot system is also underwhelming, lacking the depth and variety found in traditional hack-and-slash titles.

RUINSMAGUS – Repetitive Gameplay

Repetitive missions and environments further contribute to the monotony, particularly in the latter half of the game. The narrative does its best to keep players engaged, but the gameplay struggles to maintain the same level of excitement.

RUINSMAGUS – Uninspired Enemy AI

Other minor issues include a clunky inventory management system and simplistic enemy AI. The lack of challenge in boss battles, despite their impressive scale, diminishes the sense of accomplishment.

Conclusion

RUINSMAGUS presents a unique blend of anime charm and VR action. Its captivating visuals, engaging combat, and compelling narrative create a memorable experience, especially in the early hours. However, repetitive gameplay, a lackluster loot system, and underwhelming enemy AI hold it back from reaching its full potential. Despite these flaws, RUINSMAGUS remains a worthwhile VR adventure for fans of anime and action RPGs, offering a glimpse into the promising future of Japanese VR game development.