Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel is the final installment in the Ar Tonelico trilogy, developed by Gust. Unfortunately, this game fails to live up to the potential set by its predecessors.
One of the major drawbacks of Ar Tonelico Qoga is its story. While the previous games in the series presented intricate, well-developed narratives, this installment delivers a convoluted and disjointed plotline. The pacing feels rushed, with important events and character development being glossed over in favor of advancing the story. The lack of a compelling narrative leaves players feeling disconnected and uninvested in the outcome.
The gameplay mechanics also suffer in this entry. The combat system is a step back from the previous games, featuring a clumsy and imprecise battle interface. The shift towards a real-time combat system feels awkward and unpolished, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, the lack of variety in enemy encounters leads to repetitive and monotonous battles.
One aspect that the Ar Tonelico series was known for was its captivating music. However, Ar Tonelico Qoga fails to deliver in this area as well. The soundtrack, while not bad, lacks the memorable and emotional melodies that were a trademark of the earlier games. The disappointment is further compounded by the absence of the unique hymns and song magic that were a highlight of the series.
On a positive note, the visuals in Ar Tonelico Qoga are well done. The character designs are attractive, and the environments are vibrant and detailed. It's a shame that the overall experience is hindered by the game's other shortcomings.
In conclusion, Ar Tonelico Qoga: Knell of Ar Ciel is a disappointing finale to the trilogy. The lackluster story, cumbersome gameplay mechanics, and underwhelming music all contribute to its downfall. While fans of the series may feel the need to complete the trilogy, newcomers may find it difficult to appreciate this installment. With so many superior RPGs available, it's hard to recommend spending time on this mediocre game.
Rating: 5.5/10
