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Scarlet Nexus, Bandai Namco’s action RPG, initially gives the impression of a standard anime game, but beneath the surface lies a surprisingly deep and engaging experience. This review delves into the game’s intricate combat, compelling narrative, and unfortunately, its less-polished aspects.

Kasane Randall

This action RPG offers a unique blend of fast-paced combat, psychic abilities, and a narrative woven through the perspectives of two protagonists: Yuito Sumeragi and Kasane Randall. While sharing a common goal of protecting humanity from the monstrous Others, their individual stories and relationships with the supporting cast create a multi-layered narrative experience.

Dynamic Combat System

The combat in Scarlet Nexus goes beyond simple hack-and-slash. The Struggle Arms System (SAS) allows players to borrow powers from their squadmates, offering a wide range of strategic options. Need to slow down a speedy enemy? Arashi Spring’s time manipulation comes in handy. Prefer a stealthier approach? Kagero Donne’s invisibility is your go-to ability.

Combat Example

Psychokinesis, the core of the combat system, enables players to wield environmental objects as weapons, from hurling debris to manipulating specialized elements to exploit enemy weaknesses. Combining psychokinesis with borrowed powers creates a dynamic and visually impressive combat experience. For example, drenching enemies with water before unleashing Hanabi Ichijo’s Pyrokinesis creates a devastating combination.

Combat Mechanics

The game encourages experimentation, allowing players to tailor their combat style to their preferences, creating a “buffet of options” to suit any palate. Different enemy types have unique weaknesses, further encouraging strategic thinking and adaptation during combat.

Engaging Narrative and Characters

Scarlet Nexus allows players to experience the story through the eyes of both Yuito and Kasane. While initially similar, their paths diverge, offering unique perspectives on the overarching narrative and revealing different facets of the supporting characters. Playing through both campaigns is essential to fully grasp the complexities of the storyline.

Yuito, born into privilege, strives to prove himself through his own merit. Kasane, haunted by a tragic past, finds solace in her adopted family and fiercely protects her sister, Naomi. Their intertwined fates, along with the romantic entanglements with Naomi and a mysterious Kasane look-alike from Yuito’s past, add further intrigue to the narrative.

Yuito Sumeragi

Bond Episodes, dedicated character interactions, flesh out the supporting cast, making them more than just vessels for borrowed powers. These episodes deepen the player’s connection with the squad and add significant emotional weight to the overall narrative.

Presentation and Shortcomings

Despite its strengths, Scarlet Nexus suffers from some presentational shortcomings. Yuito’s generic design and traditional katana pale in comparison to Kasane’s striking appearance and unique weaponry. The initial chapters may mislead players into thinking this is a standard anime game, potentially underselling the depth and complexity that unfolds later.

Game Environment

The side quests, unfortunately, are repetitive and lack the engaging narrative of the main storyline and Bond Episodes. Fetch quests and simple monster hunts offer little reward or excitement. Furthermore, the targeting system can be frustrating during combat, occasionally causing attacks to miss due to enemy movement or range limitations.

Side Quest Example

Conclusion

Despite some flaws, Scarlet Nexus offers a captivating blend of dynamic combat and engaging narrative. While the visuals and side content could be more polished, the depth of the combat system and the interwoven storylines of its protagonists create a compelling experience that sets it apart from other anime-inspired action RPGs. It’s a worthwhile experience for those willing to look past its surface imperfections.