Fantasian Neo Dimension Review: When Mobile Magic Meets Console Power

A Mobile Gem Finds New Life

Remember when a Hironobu Sakaguchi JRPG was locked behind Apple Arcade? Well, the wait is finally over. Fantasian Neo Dimension brings Mistwalker’s mobile masterpiece to consoles and PC, and it’s much more than a simple port.

From Pocket to Big Screen

Once a lock for Apple Arcade, the improved version ($49.99) finds its home on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Switch, and PC. Is this mobile-bred RPG worthy of a place on your gaming console? Dive in with me.

Poetic visuals in motion

The game’s unique diorama-based environments shine in 4K, showcasing intricate handcrafted worlds that feel more alive than ever. Paired with Nobuo Uematsu’s masterful score (now featuring optional Final Fantasy battle themes!), the presentation creates an atmosphere that rivals premium console JRPGs.

Innovative Combat That Commands Attention

Where Tradition Meets Innovation

The turn-based combat system might seem familiar to Final Fantasy veterans, but Fantasian adds its own twist:

• Trajectory-based attacks for strategic positioning
• The innovative Dimengeon system for handling random encounters
• Several options for targeting enemies
• Character-specific attack patterns

The Dimengeon Revolution

Perhaps the game’s most brilliant feature is the Dimengeon system. Tired of random battles? Store them for later and tackle them all at once with enhanced rewards. It’s a creative solution to a decades-old JRPG problem.

Story Worth Fighting For

Follow Leo’s journey from amnesiac wanderer to hero as he navigates between the Machine and Human Realms. The narrative hits familiar JRPG beats while carving its own path, complete with:

• Fully voiced cutscenes (English/Japanese)
• Character-focused memory sequences
• A unique take on the man-versus-machine narrative

The Mobile Heritage

While the transition to consoles is largely successful, some mobile DNA remains:

• Blocky UI elements
• Simplified menu designs
• Occasional movement limitations

These minor quirks do not detract much from the overall experience, however.

Verdict: 8.5/10

Pros:

• Stunning visuals in diorama format
• Innovative combat mechanics
• Creative random battle solution
• Stellar soundtrack
• Engaging narrative

Cons:

• Some mobile UI elements still remain
• Movement can sometimes be a problem
• Menu system not console-friendly

Final Thoughts

Fantasian Neo Dimension proves that mobile origins don’t determine a game’s destiny. It’s a love letter to classic JRPGs that innovates in all the right places while maintaining what makes the genre special.

Join the Discussion!

Have you played the original Apple Arcade version? How do you think it compares to this enhanced edition? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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