Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch

Mechanics

The game can be divided into two basic elements: fighting and exploration. During the game, we visit cities presented in full 3D. We can find inns or various shops, where we get supplies for the next journey, as well as a number of independent characters who have tasks for us, which we will perform in many different locations. They are usually divided into two parts, between which there is a place where we can rest and regenerate (health and magic points). Besides logic puzzles and hidden treasures, the land is full of creatures that we will have to fight against. If we do not wish to do so at a given moment, we can try to escape them.

The combat system is a combination of turns and real-time fights. Each character on the battlefield moves in real time, but the actions can be taken every few seconds - the time to the next one is counted down by the appropriate indicator. In our own turn, we give orders to our party, such as attacking, defending yourself, using an item or special skills. Olivier can use magic as well as perform standard attacks, which are not very effective. Therefore, most of the weight during the fight falls on the familiars that help us, which are under the control of each member of the team. Besides Oliver, our party consists of Swaine, who steal items from opponents, and Esther, whose harp can calm down the enemies.

Technical aspects

Both the visual and musical setting of Ni no Kuni are at the highest level. Although the graphics engine is not as extensive as in many other console blockbuster productions, the cel-shading technology and the visual design of characters and environments done in the art style of the Ghibli studio make Ni no Kuni a beautifully looking game. The PS3 and 3DS versions of the game have the same storyline, but they present events from a different perspective and have different endings.