Category: mobile game review

Kaiju No. 8 Mobile Review

After Black Beacon announced that it would end service on global servers, I honestly thought it was time for me to take a break from mobile gaming and just go back to retro titles. Funny, but that’s how it felt.

I was genuinely excited for the world Black Beacon promised to build, only for the game to fizzle out before anything meaningful even happened. I had already uninstalled it before the November 4 announcement because something told me it wasn’t going to last.

So I shifted gears, binge-watched anime for a while, and decided that for my next mobile review, I’d explore anime-licensed games instead.

I downloaded several of them—from Tokyo Ghoul to One Punch Man: World to Lord of Nazarick. But out of everything I tried, Kaiju No. 8 stood out immediately.

Kaiju no. 8 anime cover art

Co-produced by Akatsuki Games, TOHO, and Production I.G, the game’s visual identity screams anime from the first loading screen.

What surprised me most was how much I enjoyed it—even if it’s a turn-based gacha. I’ve played my share of gachas, but enjoying a turn-based one this much? Definitely unexpected. Looking back, I kind of wish I had played this in September instead of putting my hopes on Black Beacon.

Kaiju no. 8 the game loading logo

A big part of why Kaiju No. 8 hits differently is because each studio contributes something meaningful. Production I.G injects the anime DNA—the sharp expressions, the cinematic cut-ins, the pacing.

Godzilla

TOHO, being the veteran behind Godzilla and practically every iconic kaiju, gives the monsters and world that familiar, polished feel you don’t see in most mobile games.

Akatsuki games co-produced a number of character driven games like Romancing Saga Re Universe

Meanwhile, Akatsuki Games, known for character-focused mobile titles, brings progression systems that make each character feel more than just a unit to level up. Combined with the turn-based format, the whole thing ends up feeling less like a cash grab and more like a continuation of the anime and manga.

Everything, from the lore to the presentation is steeped in Kaiju No. 8’s world, and it will hook fans of the series as well as anyone who loves the military-vs-monster genre.

Visuals and Presentation

Visually, Kaiju No. 8 captures the anime look effortlessly. The character models are crisp, the animations have personality, and the overall art direction sticks close to the vibe of the show.

The only small nitpick is that character lips don’t move during dialogue, but with how good the voice delivery is, you stop noticing almost instantly. The style and presentation are strong enough to carry the immersion without any problem.

Gacha and Progression

Gacha tab in kaiju no. 8

Kaiju No. 8 is still a gacha game, and yes, pulls can feel unfair. With only a limited number of characters and SSR weapons available at a time, it really can feel like the game throws more junk at you than anything actually useful.

But the story and content pull their own weight, so even when the gacha frustrates you, there’s always something to go back to.

Sometimes it even feels like you’re pulling just to complete achievements instead of genuinely wanting the units, because once you’re done rolling, you’ll probably jump straight back into the content anyway.

The turn-based combat can get repetitive if you blast through it nonstop, but at a steady pace, it stays enjoyable and the grind becomes rewarding rather than tiring.

Gameplay and Content

Kaiju No. 8’s structure is built around multiple modes, each focusing on different aspects of the story and characters.

Main Story

The main story is pretty substantial. It features six episodes, each divided into stages from Episode 0 to Episode 5. As far as I can tell, this storyline is original and made specifically for the game.

What’s impressive is how committed the developers are to giving fans something worth reading. With the anime having just ended Season 2, fans are craving more material while waiting for Season 3, and this game fills that gap nicely.

I haven’t read the manga, so I can’t tell which parts are adapted from it, but the writing fits the Kaiju No. 8 universe well.

Memory Stages

Memory Stages tackle key moments from the anime. These aren’t direct retellings of Season 1 or 2, but condensed highlight episodes that cover Kafka gaining his kaiju abilities all the way to the Season 1 finale where he gets captured. No spoilers, but these scenes are faithful enough that anime fans will recognize everything instantly. It’s a great way to relive the show inside the game.

Character Stories

Every time you get a new character through the gacha, the game unlocks their set of character stories. These are short, text-based segments that explore their personalities more. Each character has three episodes, and reading through them gives small rewards and sometimes wallpapers you can use on your home screen. They don’t affect gameplay, but they add charm and deepen the world-building, which I really enjoyed.

JAKDF Messages and Special Requests

JAKDF Messages act like a group chat where the characters interact with Kafka (you). The responses are linear, but the writing is entertaining and helps flesh out character dynamics.

This mode is also tied to Special Requests, which give you extra battles to raise your team rank and player rank.

As a free-to-play player, my only difficulty spike happened around level 40. I had to grind materials for about two days to push my team up to level 90 and break through the wall. I was tempted to spend money, but the game is generous enough with farming that you can progress without paying.

One thing I forgot to mention is expedition mode. It’s like a idle game where you clear out endless waves that can earn you supplies and energy for when you log out.

Right now, I’ve cleared the main story and memory content and am waiting for the next version update, which should drop soon. If the developers keep this pace, I’ll be playing this game for quite a while.

My only concern is whether future characters will be locked behind season passes or paid-only packs, but that’s something I’ll revisit when more content arrives.

Performance and Sound

With three studios backing this project, the sound design is exactly what you’d expect: sharp, clean, and fitting. The voice lines are delivered with emotion and energy, and one detail I appreciated is how each character says a line when switching in for a follow-up attack.

Sometimes the line changes too, which keeps it from sounding repetitive. It’s a small touch, but a really smart one.

Performance-wise, some mid-range phones reportedly experience overheating during long sessions. I didn’t encounter this personally because I usually stick to low graphic settings.

Even on low, the game looks good and runs smoothly for me. So depending on your device, tweaking the settings a bit might be all you need for a stable experience.

Final Verdict

Should you play Kaiju No. 8 on mobile?

If you’re a fan of Kaiju No. 8 or just looking for a polished anime-based game that doesn’t feel like a lazy tie-in, then yes—absolutely play it. This is one of the few anime mobile games that actually tries. TOHO brings the kaiju legacy, Production I.G brings the anime DNA, and Akatsuki brings the character-driven systems that make the whole thing feel alive. It’s a strong combination that pays off.

The content is substantial, the story is engaging, and even when the gacha pulls annoy you, there’s always something interesting to dive back into. The turn-based gameplay can get dull when rushed, but at a steady pace, it becomes a satisfying grind.

With more updates on the horizon and the next version coming soon, Kaiju No. 8 is shaping up to be one of the better anime mobile games out there. I’ll definitely be sticking with it.

26th Nov 2025
Black Beacon Review — A Story-Driven Gem That’s Hanging by a Thread

When Black Beacon was first announced, I was instantly hyped—especially after finding out that some of the creative team behind Punishing: Gray Raven were involved. That game first launched in China in December 2019 and reached global audiences in July 2021, and I remember enjoying its first few months immensely. PGR nailed the gacha mechanics and combat loop better than most of its peers—it was stylish, rewarding, and far less predatory than Genshin Impact or that horrendous Pokémon Unite mobile system.

So when Black Beacon finally released globally on April 10, 2025, I jumped in right away. At first, though, the experience was rough—plagued with crashes and slowdowns on my phone. I uninstalled it after a day, telling myself I’d return once the devs ironed things out. Fast-forward a few months later, and Black Beacon was suddenly all over YouTube—mostly for the wrong reasons.

Content creators were posting about delays, development troubles, and missed updates, while community rumors spread that the devs had moved offices and that the game had no clear roadmap. Despite the negativity, I noticed that those videos were getting heavy backlash from loyal fans, which made me curious enough to reinstall the game and see for myself.

And honestly? I wish I hadn’t waited so long.

Story-a mix of theology and science

What immediately stood out to me was the story. Black Beacon blends biblical myth, ancient history, and dystopian science fiction into a world that feels mysterious but strangely familiar. You’ll encounter themes pulled from the Tower of Babel, King Herod, and even the Morning Star, alongside nods to ancient rulers like King Darius and Akhenaten, the Egyptian pharaoh who tried to shift polytheism into monotheism.

While some names and details have been changed to fit the game’s narrative, the historical parallels are clear. It’s the kind of writing that makes you pause and go, “Wait, I know that story.” For history buffs, these subtle references feel like Easter eggs woven into a mobile game, and that’s what hooked me the most.

Zero, one of the game’s central figures, really anchors the experience. Her emotionless voice acting adds an air of class and restraint that fits the tone perfectly—it’s haunting but elegant. I’ll admit, I’m sorely tempted to whale just for the voice and the visuals alone.

Visuals — Class in Every Frame

The visuals of Black Beacon scream class. The thin golden hue that overlays much of the UI and backgrounds gives everything a luxurious, polished look. Character designs strike a fine balance between modern sci-fi and mythic elegance, while the environment design creates this sense of divine decay—a civilization that fell from grace but still gleams faintly in the dark.

Every cutscene feels cinematic, with beautifully rendered models and subtle camera movement that make even dialogue scenes captivating. Simply put, this is one of the most visually cohesive mobile titles I’ve seen all year.

Sound & Voice Acting — Emotionless, but with Intent

Audio design is where Black Beacon truly elevates itself. The soundtrack mixes orchestral swells with ambient tones that feel otherworldly. Voice performances are top-tier, especially Zero’s. Her cold, detached delivery contrasts perfectly with the chaos of the world around her. It’s a masterclass in restraint—proof that not all emotional impact needs to be loud or dramatic.

Gameplay — Smooth, Stylish, but Familiar

If you’ve played Punishing: Gray Raven or Zenless Zone Zero, you’ll feel right at home. Black Beacon delivers fast-paced action combat with sleek animations, combo-driven mechanics, and fluid dodge timing. Each character moves with a sense of weight and precision, and switching mid-combo feels seamless.

It’s responsive and cinematic, but not particularly groundbreaking—it follows the tried-and-true rhythm of stylish action titles, just polished to a shine. Still, the mix of flashy ultimates, well-choreographed boss fights, and challenging stages keeps things engaging even during grind-heavy segments.

Gacha System — Surprisingly Fair

Here’s where Black Beacon earns points: the gacha system isn’t predatory. Rates are decent, pity carries over, and premium currency isn’t locked behind extreme paywalls. It’s similar to early Punishing: Gray Raven, where free players could realistically build competitive teams through smart resource use.

Performance — Still Needs Work

Unfortunately, performance remains a sore point. Even months after launch, some mobile players (myself included) still experience crashes or frame drops on certain devices. There’s no official PC client, though some players have managed to run it on third-party emulators. This lack of proper PC support limits the audience and may hurt the game’s longevity.

Community & Concerns — Is Black Beacon Bound for EOS?

Even with its brilliance, Black Beacon is facing an uphill battle. Players on Reddit and Discord are worried that the game might face an early End of Service (EOS) if things don’t stabilize soon.

“They said the new version will be delayed to mid-October. So we either get that or (more likely) an EOS announcement very soon.”
— r/gachagaming

“The story is really good. I’m sticking around until EoS and hopefully they get to finish it.”
— r/gachagaming

“I absolutely love the game! … I can’t ignore the doomposting, but games have been worse and survived.”
— r/Black_Beacon

With Version 1.3 still nowhere to be seen, the concern feels legitimate. Delays, dev silence, and lack of updates have left the community anxious, even though the story and presentation remain strong.

As for me? I think we’ll just have to wait and see. If the developers can steady the ship and communicate clearly, Black Beacon still has a shot. But if things don’t settle soon—if the devs can’t get their act together—I believe this one might flatline eventually, which would be a shame. There’s so much potential here, but the lack of new content and PC support could break the game for sure.

Verdict

Black Beacon is one of those rare mobile games that genuinely feels artful. The story has soul, the visuals have identity, and the sound design ties it all together. It’s a modern myth, a digital scripture painted in gold and shadow.

But brilliance can only carry a game so far. If the developers don’t bring stability and fresh updates soon, even the most loyal players will drift away.

For now, though, Black Beacon stands as a stylish, story-driven masterpiece in danger of fading too soon—a bright flame in the dark, waiting for someone to keep it burning.

7th Oct 2025
A Beginner’s Guide to The Last Remnant’s Union System – Explained the Way I Understand It
Through the years, whenever my buddies ask me what game I’m grinding on my phone that feels long and epic, one of my top answers has been The Last Remnant Remastered on mobile.

Now, don’t get it twisted—I’m no pro at this game. In fact, I’d still call myself a beginner even after all the hours I’ve sunk into it. But maybe that’s exactly why I want to talk about it. Because when I first picked it up, I was just as lost as anyone else, especially with the game’s biggest curveball: the Union System.

This is my take on it—not as an expert, but as someone who slowly figured things out and wants to make it a little less confusing for the next beginner diving in.

So What’s the Deal With the Union System?

Before The Last Remnant, JRPGs mostly stuck to familiar formulas:
- Classic Turn-Based (like Dragon Quest or Final Fantasy I–X) → You control each character one by one, pick from “attack, magic, item, defend,” and watch the turns play out. Simple and reliable.
- ATB – Active Time Battle (popularized by Final Fantasy IV–IX) → Each character has a gauge that fills in real time. When it’s full, you act. It added pressure and speed to the turn-based formula.
- FFXII’s Gambit System (2006) → This one let you pre-program AI behavior, like “if ally HP < 50%, then cast Cure.” It was revolutionary for letting battles play out more automatically but still under your rules.
And then along comes The Last Remnant. It said: “Forget controlling individuals—what if you controlled squads instead?”

That’s the Union System. Instead of giving commands to each party member, you organize them into unions (basically mini-teams). You don’t pick every spell or attack. You issue orders to the entire squad, and they act as one.

This flipped combat into something totally different. Suddenly, you’re less like a hero leading a party and more like a commander directing armies. Positioning, morale, and squad synergy mattered just as much as raw stats.

For some players, that shift felt groundbreaking. For others—me included when I first tried it—it felt confusing as hell.

The Flow of Battle – What You Do Before You Even Swing

The real fight doesn’t start when you press “attack”—it starts in how you set up your unions. As a beginner, this part felt overwhelming to me because you have to think about:
- Who leads each union (leaders bring skills and arts)
- Who fills the squad (soldiers add stats and stability)
- What formation you’re using (offensive, defensive, or balanced setups)
And then, once you’re in a dungeon or field, you also have to pay attention to enemy groups. Do you charge them head-on? Try to flank? Or split your unions to keep them from surrounding you?

This whole “prep before action” makes fights feel more like mini war puzzles. If you mess up the setup, the battle feels 10x harder no matter how strong your characters are.

Commands – The Clear and the Confusing Ones

Once the fighting actually starts, the game gives you commands for your unions. Some are straightforward and easy to understand:
- Attack with combat arts! → your melee moves
- Attack with mystic arts! → your spells
- Heal with remedies! → your items and recovery
But then you get the vague stuff like:
- Play it by ear
- Go all out!
- Wait and see
And here’s where the frustration kicks in. As a beginner, I remember just staring at those and going, “What am I actually telling my squad to do?”

How I Learned to Read the Vague Commands

After a lot of trial and error (and a few rage quits), here’s how I’ve come to understand those vague orders:
- Play it by ear → Think of it as “do what makes sense.” The union might attack, heal, or buff depending on the situation. Good for balanced teams.
- Go all out! → Pure offense. They’ll blow AP, use their strongest moves, and ignore healing. Best for when the enemy’s on the ropes.
- Wait and see → Defensive or conserving mode. They’ll defend, poke with weak moves, or just save AP. Use it when you’re setting up or trying to survive.
- Save them no matter what! → Your emergency revive/heal button. Everyone drops offense to bring allies back.
- Keep your HP up! → Focuses on healing and survival above all else.
Once I started thinking of them like battle moods instead of strict commands, they made a lot more sense.

Strategy – When to Use What

Here’s my beginner advice on using these commands without losing your mind:
- Use “Play it by ear” for balanced unions that can attack and heal. It gives the AI room to adapt.
- Use “Go all out” when you know you’re safe or you just need raw damage to push through.
- Use “Wait and see” to stall or when you’re trying to build AP for big moves later.
- Use “Save them no matter what” sparingly, because sometimes it wastes turns if no one is actually down.
- Use “Keep your HP up” when facing tough bosses or multiple enemy unions that can shred you in a turn.
It’s not perfect—you’ll still sometimes scream at your squad for making dumb choices—but it’s part of the chaos that makes this system fun.

Wrapping It Up – Why I Still Recommend This Game

Here’s the truth: The Last Remnant is still hard to understand, even today. If you’re new, the Union System will feel overwhelming and the vague commands will confuse you. But once you get past that hump? The game transforms. Battles feel bigger, strategies feel deeper, and experimenting with different unions actually becomes addictive.

That’s why I keep it on my phone. I’ve spent hours tweaking squads, retrying fights, and just enjoying the controlled chaos of this system. And yeah, the mobile remaster costs around $19.99, which isn’t exactly cheap. But for me? If I dropped twenty bucks and didn’t play it, that would be the real waste.

So I keep coming back. And maybe that’s the magic of The Last Remnant: it doesn’t hold your hand, but once you start to get it, you’ll want to stick around and keep learning.
23rd Sep 2025
The EZRetro plays Handbook: 10 Games to Get You Hooked on the RG28XX

It’s been barely two weeks since I got my RG28XX, and I’ve been completely glued to it. Like a kid with a new toy, I’ve been switching between games non-stop, quickly learning what plays well and what doesn’t. As a JRPG/RPG fan, I naturally gravitate toward that genre. But let’s be real about the PSP emulation: it’s a bit of a hit-and-miss.

The Allwinner H700 chipset is powerful for a budget device, but most PSP games are a bit laggy, and some are downright unplayable due to the missing analog stick. Plus, the screen’s resolution isn’t a perfect 16:9 match for the original PSP, so you have to scale and fit it to fill the screen, which is a no-no for purists.

But for someone not too picky about screen size and is more focused on playing something on a small retro handheld, it’s perfect.

Even with the quirks, limiting recommendations to just RPGs doesn’t do this little handheld justice. It’s given me the chance to play other games, and after two weeks of non-stop play, here’s my top 10 games to try.

Prinny 2: Dawn of Operation Panties, Dood!

psp box art

I’ll be honest—I’ve never been great at platformers on PSP using my phone. The tiny screen, touch overlays, and lack of a proper controller made even basic levels frustrating. But on the RG28XX, everything changed. While the screen is a bit cramped and the buttons are small, I finally beat the first level and a saw Etna inside the castle. It felt like a real win.

Gameplay-wise, Prinny 2 is a classic side-scrolling platformer, but Nippon Ichi Software adds its signature style. The animations are smooth, and the game’s humor is just absurd enough to keep you laughing even while dying repeatedly. You’ll really end up caring about the side characters and NPCs, dood!

Fun Fact: Nippon Ichi’s dialogue is so ridiculous and over-the-top that even minor characters steal the spotlight. I’m not usually a fan of side-scrolling platformers, but Prinny 2 had me invested in the story and the laughs, and that’s what matters most.

Kisou Ryuhei Gunhound

Kisou Ryuhei Gunhound is a side-scrolling mecha shooter that had me glued from start to finish. You pilot your giant robot through futuristic stages filled with enemies and obstacles. The controls on the RG28XX are precise enough that even intense shooting sequences feel smooth.

The story follows a world under siege, and while it’s not particularly deep, the excitement comes from blasting through waves of enemies and upgrading your mecha. For someone who enjoys mecha and action, this is a perfect handheld experience.

Fun Fact: Despite its small screen, the RG28XX handles the visuals perfectly, making every boss fight feel as epic as it would on a console.

ZHP: Unlosing Ranger vs. Darkdeath Evilman

Unlosing Ranger psp box art

ZHP is one of the quirkiest tactical RPGs I’ve ever played. You lead a colorful, bizarre team through strategic missions filled with absurd story beats and hilarious dialogues. On the RG28XX, it feels surprisingly comfortable, even during long grind sessions.

The game’s humor is its standout feature, but don’t mistake it for a joke game—the strategy is real. Positioning your characters and timing your attacks can mean the difference between victory and defeat.

Fun Fact: Some levels are so absurdly funny that you’ll spend more time laughing than strategizing, which is part of the charm. It’s a tactical RPG that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Ys vs. Sora no Kiseki

This one is a little different from the others on my list. Ys vs. Sora no Kiseki is a fighting game that’s a total love letter to fans of both the Trails and Ys series. You get to play through each character’s unique story arc, and you can upgrade their equipment and customize them, which really makes you want to keep playing long after the main story is over. That ability to customize is what gives it some serious replay value.

Fun Fact: A worldwide release is scheduled for October 10, 2025, on PS4, PS5, Switch, and PC with enhanced features, according to the publisher refint/games.

TwinBee Portable

TwinBee Portable is a vertical shooter with an aesthetic that’s so colorful it’s almost hypnotic. Controlling the ship is straightforward, making it easy to pick up on the RG28XX. The power-ups add a layer of strategy to the simple shooting mechanics, turning it into a deeper experience than it first appears. Since it’s a Japanese-only release, I’m just assuming the story is light and charming, but seriously, who needs a story when what hooked me to this game is the retro vibe and pure nostalgia? It’s the kind of game that’s easy to jump into for a quick session or a longer run.

Fun Fact: TwinBee’s charm comes from its cheerful music and playful visuals—Konami really nailed that arcade vibe.

Mega Man Powered Up

megaman powered up psp cover

Mega Man Powered Up is classic Mega Man with upgraded graphics and remade levels. It’s challenging but fair, and controlling the blue bomber on the RG28XX felt surprisingly natural. The satisfaction of finally defeating a tough boss never gets old.

The story is minimal but fun, staying true to Mega Man’s roots as a robot hero battling evil. The level design is clever, and each stage has its own personality.

Fun Fact: You can create and share your own levels, making it a mini creative outlet on the go.

Yuusha 30 Seconds

Yuusha 30 Seconds is a fast-paced mini-RPG where battles and decisions happen in short, exciting bursts. Perfect for handheld play, it keeps you on edge while still being strategic. The story follows a hero who must make quick choices to save their world, making every second count.

The gameplay of Yuusha 30 Seconds is what truly makes it a standout. Back when it was released, the concept was totally unique, and it still feels incredibly fresh today. The core loop is simple: you have 30 seconds to save the world. This crazy-fast timer forces you to make quick, strategic decisions. Every second counts as you run to level up, buy equipment, and defeat the final boss. It’s a genius concept that turns the traditional RPG grind on its head and keeps every moment filled with high-stakes action.

Fun Fact: Another title, Half-Minute Hero, was also released for western audiences on PSP. Although that’s a great game, I would still recommend hunting down an English translation patch for Yuusha 30 Seconds because the Japanese release is more challenging and has more content.

Dissidia 012 Duodecim (RPG Mode)

This one is a bit different. I play Dissidia 012 Duodecim in RPG Mode. There’s an option in the settings to switch from the usual action style to a more tactical RPG-style battle where you input attacks as the battle takes place.

While I’ll be honest, I usually play this on PPSSPP on my phone since the touch controls and ability to set hotkeys make the game more fluid for me, the RG28XX still offers a great experience in RPG Mode. Even with the controls being a bit cramped and the absence of an analog stick, it’s a perfect fit for this little handheld.

Fun Fact: Each character has a fully voiced story, and the massive cast includes heroes and villains from almost every major title in the series.

Zenonia

Zenonia is a classic hack-and-slash RPG that’s perfect for handheld sessions. You explore dungeons, fight enemies, and uncover a story of revenge and justice. The controls feel great on the RG28XX, making combat smooth and satisfying.

The story is simple but effective, with multiple endings that encourage replayability. I love how easy it is to pick up and play without losing any of the RPG charm.

Fun Fact: Zenonia was so popular that it eventually found its way to mobile devices, becoming one of the early success stories for JRPGs on the app store.

Patapon 3

Patapon 3 perfectly blends rhythm and strategy. You command a tiny Patapon tribe in battles that are essentially musical performances. The gameplay is simple, but timing your beats correctly feels incredibly satisfying.

The story follows your tribe as they journey to conquer enemies and survive in a whimsical world. It’s easy to lose track of time because the rhythm-based gameplay is so addictive.

Fun Fact: The unique rhythm-strategy gameplay of Patapon 3 has a rich history. The first game introduced the unique concept of commanding a tribe with drumbeats. Patapon 2 built on that with the introduction of hero units, new classes, and a multiplayer mode. Patapon 3 then evolved the formula even further with a persistent online focus, a more detailed leveling system, and an even deeper focus on the central hero character.

Final Thoughts

This list proves that the RG28XX can handle far more than just RPGs. From humor and platforming to epic storytelling and rhythm, this little handheld really delivers, and I can’t wait to see what other hidden gems I discover next.

19th Sep 2025
Wizardry Variants Daphne: A Dungeon Crawler Worth Getting Lost In

Look, I know I said I was going to do daily blogs on different games, but sometimes you stumble onto one title that grabs you so hard you can’t let go. That’s exactly what happened with Wizardry Variants Daphne.

A little Wizardry history

Wizardry: proving Grounds of the mad overlord NES box art

The Wizardry series goes way back, starting in 1981 with Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord, created by Andrew C. Greenberg and Robert Woodhead for the Apple II. It’s considered one of the godfathers of the dungeon crawler genre, and over the years it spawned a full line of mainline entries all the way up to Wizardry 8 in 2001.

Wizardry: Tale of the forsaken land running on nethersx2 on mobile

For me, though, my Wizardry era really came alive on the PS2 with Wizardry: Tale of the Forsaken Land (2001). I played that game heavily, sinking countless hours into its cold, oppressive world and brutal dungeon systems. It had everything I loved about classic Wizardry but with the kind of atmosphere only a console RPG could deliver back then. That game kept me hooked for years, and honestly, I still think it’s one of the best dungeon crawlers on the PS2.

So when Wizardry Variants Daphne showed up on mobile, it wasn’t just nostalgia kicking in—it felt like a natural continuation of what hooked me back in the PS2 days, but adapted into a modern format that works perfectly on mobile.

And honestly, I was surprised this game even existed. Since the marketing for it was so low, it barely shows up in the Play Store as a recommendation. I had to manually type Wizardry for it to pop up, and what I found was way better than I expected.

Story and Atmosphere

Wizardry variants title screen

The game opens with you in the middle of a dungeon. As you move through the maze, you start to sense an ominous presence following you. “Following” might be the wrong word—it feels more like stalking. Eventually, you get cornered and are forced into your first monster battle against two imps.

Fight with the greater demon, the monster stalking you in the abyss

Here, the game introduces the battle system, and what really clicked for me is how everything is shown from your personal point of view. Every sword swing, every spell, every strike your party members make—it’s all presented as if you’re right there on the battle line. Simple idea, but it works beautifully in portrait mode for a mobile dungeon crawler.

Eventually, you manage to finish off the imps, but you’re left with nowhere to run. A locked door blocks your path, and behind you, that flying monster stalks closer. With no other choice, you fight back.

Fighting one of the imps blocking your path to escape

Of course, the battle doesn’t go in your favor. You fall, and what follows is one of the coldest, most memorable opening sequences I’ve seen in a mobile RPG. Time speeds up, your body rots away, monsters strip your gear, and all that’s left behind are your skeletal remains.

Then, a hooded figure appears. I won’t spoil the dialogue here—it’s something you should really experience firsthand—but he begins asking you questions. Based on your answers, he recommends stats and an alignment, essentially setting the foundation for your character build. The whole sequence is immersive, eerie, and backed by chilling music that nails the mood perfectly.

Character Creation and Progression

Character creation gives you a set of questions to answer from 3 choices.

When you wake again, you find that you’ve taken the form of a ghul—an undead, zombified humanoid monster. Not long after, you meet an apparition who seems surprised to see a ghul that can still speak. Eventually, she asks if you’re human, and introduces herself as Lulunarde, a legendary adventurer who perished in the abyss and now roams as a spirit.

Introducing the right hand of insight. A player skill that restores save point statues inside the maze

She guides you to a broken teleport statue and teaches you about your main ability: the Right Hand of Insight. This lets you restore these statues, opening blocked paths and giving you a way to navigate further into the abyss.

Your first companion Lulunarde.

Before leaving, she asks your name. If you choose not to name yourself, she even suggests a few quirky options of her own. Afterward, she reveals her name and hints at a deeper backstory—one I’m sure will unfold more as you progress.

From there, you push deeper, clearing monsters, looting broken weapons and armor, and collecting bones from fallen adventurers. These bones (and junk loot) are more important than they first appear—they tie directly into the game’s gacha system.

Finally, you find the exit and step outside into the world.

The Town Hub

The home screen is where you can access different locations on the world

Once outside, you get a short exposition cutscene explaining the origins of the abyss. From there, you’re brought to the home menu, which serves as the central hub where you prepare between dungeon runs.

Here’s a quick breakdown of each location:

The Inn

The inn is where you rest after a dungeon run. This is also where you level up your characters’ skills and prepare your party for the next dive.

Adventurers Guild

The guild is where you accept quests, recruit new members, and form or train your party. It’s the beating heart of your adventuring team.

The Blacksmith

The blacksmith is where you refine and upgrade your weapons and armor. You don’t buy gear here—everything you use comes from dungeon drops or through the gacha system that transforms broken equipment into usable pieces. The blacksmith’s role is to take what you’ve earned and make it stronger.

The Item Shop

The item shop is where you handle your consumables and extra gear. You can buy potions and support items for dungeon runs, but it’s also the place where you sell off weapons and armor you don’t need.

The Ruins

This is where Wizardry Variants Daphne puts its unique spin on the gacha system. Instead of pulling with tickets or premium currency, you use your Right Hand of Resurrection to raise adventurers from the bones you’ve gathered. Bones are tiered—legendary bones can resurrect legendary adventurers.

The same goes for weapons and armor. All that junk loot you grab? It gets transmuted here into usable equipment. It’s a clever mechanic that makes the gacha feel like part of the game’s world, rather than something bolted on.

The Edge of Town

Finally, the edge of town is your gateway back to the abyss. Once your party is set, your gear prepared, and your quests accepted, this is where you head out for another run.

Final Thoughts

I’d love to dive deeper into how the abyss itself plays out, but honestly, my time with it so far has been hampered by some nasty connection issues. The game would run fine for a few minutes, then suddenly freeze. At first, I thought it was my phone, so I tried restarting and logging back in, but the problem kept coming back. Eventually, it reached the point where it would freeze just seconds after I got back in, which was maddening.

I already sent feedback to the devs through the Play Store, and I really hope they address it soon—because this game deserves to run smoothly.

That said, connection hiccups aside, Wizardry Variants Daphne has everything I want in a modern dungeon crawler. The grim atmosphere, the clever twist on gacha, the haunting story setup—it’s all there. For me, it’s an easy 10/10 and a must-play for anyone who’s into dungeon crawlers or wants something darker and more immersive on mobile.

9th Sep 2025
Mecharashi Review: The Best Front Mission Mobile Game Alternative in 2025

Looking for Front Mission mobile games that deliver tactical mech combat? Mecharashi (Metal Storm) stands as your only option for authentic Front Mission-style gameplay on mobile devices today. This tactical RPG mobile game brings the legendary part destruction system to your phone.

Why Square Enix Cancelled Front Mission 2089: Borderscape Mobile Game

Square Enix announced Front Mission 2089: Borderscape in 2022, partnering with BlackJack Studio to bring the beloved mech strategy game franchise to mobile platforms. Front Mission fans celebrated worldwide. Finally, we’d get tactical mech combat with the series’ signature part destruction system on our phones.

Then Square Enix pulled the plug in October 2022. The company terminated the deal without providing detailed public explanations, leaving Front Mission mobile game fans empty-handed once again.

From Cancelled Front Mission to Mecharashi: BlackJack Studio’s Mobile Mech Game

BlackJack Studio didn’t waste their work. The developer transformed their Front Mission mobile project into Mecharashi, launching it in Japan in October 2024 through HK TenTree Games. Square Enix fought back with a copyright lawsuit in March 2025, claiming BlackJack illegally used Front Mission assets in their new mobile strategy game.

The legal drama settled by May 2025, and Mecharashi launched globally on July 31, 2025, after hitting 1 million pre-registrations.

Mecharashi Gameplay: Part Destruction System Like Front Mission Mobile

Mecharashi delivers what mobile strategy games typically ignore: genuine tactical depth. The mobile mech game builds around a part destruction system that made Front Mission legendary – each mech component has separate hit points, and targeting specific parts becomes your key to victory.

This tactical combat system defines the entire experience. Need to stop an enemy’s movement? Target the legs. Want to reduce their firepower? Destroy their weapon arms. Going for a quick kill? Focus fire on the torso for an instant takedown. This isn’t just damage dealing – it’s surgical warfare that rewards smart targeting over brute force.

The mech customization runs deep too. You can build mecha from different body parts, craft backstories for pilots, and paint schemes with over 120 colors. It captures that Front Mission feel of personalizing your war machines.

But here’s where things get complicated. While the gameplay screams Front Mission, the story doesn’t. You’re not fighting in the political wars and corporate conspiracies that defined the series’ narrative identity. Instead, Mecharashi creates its own universe that feels more generic.

However, the mobile game nails the gacha integration better than most mobile adaptations. The concept of supply drops makes perfect sense for acquiring new mech parts and pilots – it feels like military logistics rather than a casino. Characters get proper backstories that explain their roles, and the mech acquisition system fits naturally into the war setting.

Best Mobile Mech Games 2025: Why Most Tactical RPGs Fail

Search for Front Mission-like mobile games, and you’ll find disappointment. Most mobile mech games 2025 fall into these categories:

– Action mobile games that abandon turn-based strategy entirely
– Gacha collection games with simplified combat systems
– Casual strategy games that strip away tactical complexity

Into the Breach offers tactical mech combat, but plays more like a puzzle game than an RPG. BattleTech mobile exists on mobile platforms, but in limited, simplified forms that don’t capture the full mech strategy game experience.

BlackJack Studio: The Developer Behind Mecharashi Mobile Game

BlackJack Studio proved their capability with Langrisser Mobile, which earned $130 million in China alone on iOS over ten months. They understand how to adapt complex strategy games for mobile audiences without destroying their core appeal.

The studio’s termination from the Front Mission project likely stemmed from creative control conflicts rather than technical limitations. BlackJack Studio stated the termination happened “in order to have more continuity and control in content creation” – suggesting Square Enix wanted more oversight than the developer’s structure could accommodate.

Front Mission Mobile Games: Your Only Two Options in 2025

Want Front Mission gameplay on mobile? You have exactly two paths:

Option 1: Play Mecharashi
Get the closest thing to a modern Front Mission mobile experience, built by developers who understand tactical mech combat and mobile platforms.

Option 2: Emulate Classic Front Mission Games
Run original Front Mission games through SNES, PlayStation, or PS2 emulators on mobile. You’ll get authentic experiences without mobile adaptations, though touch controls can feel clunky for menu-heavy tactical games.

Mecharashi Gacha System: Free to Play or Pay to Win?

Look, we’re not drowning in options here. Square Enix had the chance to give us the Front Mission mobile game we’ve been begging for, and they blew it. BlackJack Studio picked up the pieces and built something that actually respects your intelligence as a strategy gamer.

But let’s be real – Mecharashi isn’t perfect. Every new weapon, mech part, or pilot comes down to chance pulls from gacha banners. Even throwing real money at the game won’t guarantee you’ll get that specific mech set or ace pilot you’re eyeing. Everything’s a gamble, which stings when you just want to build your dream squad.

Here’s the thing though – if you’re mainly here for the story mode and tactical combat, you probably won’t need to spend a cent. The game throws plenty of free currency and parts at you through regular play. Learn which banners give you the best odds for what you need, time your pulls right, and optimize your resources. Suddenly that gacha system becomes way more manageable.

Still, it’s what we’ve got. You can either jump in and enjoy some actual tactical depth on your phone, or keep hoping someone else will magically appear with a better Front Mission clone.

Front Mission 4 played via NetherSx2 emulator on mobile

Me? I’m tired of waiting for Square Enix to remember they own one of the best mech franchises ever made. Sometimes you’ve got to take what you can get, and right now, Mecharashi beats scrolling through another page of match-three games pretending to be strategy titles.

28th Aug 2025