Treasure of Rudras SNES Review

May 17
05:56

2024

Carl Petrucci

Carl Petrucci

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Treasure of Rudras is a hidden gem among Super Famicom RPGs, developed by the legendary Squaresoft, now known as Square Enix. This review delves into the unique aspects of the game, its innovative mechanics, and why it remains a must-play for RPG enthusiasts.

Rediscovering a Classic RPG

Another year brings another remarkable RPG discovery for the Super Nintendo. The world of fan translations has unearthed many hidden gems,Treasure of Rudras SNES Review Articles and "Treasure of Rudras" is no exception. While the late '90s and early 2000s saw a slow trickle of these translations, the advent of fast internet and a dedicated collecting community has brought many of these games to light. Although some may argue that the golden age of gaming has passed, the continuous translation of non-westernized games keeps the SNES alive for both new and veteran players.

A Unique RPG Experience

"Treasure of Rudras" was released during the later years of the Super Nintendo's lifecycle. Developed by Square, it was one of the last RPGs they created for the aging console. The game follows the traditional RPG formula expected from a Square title but introduces a unique twist: spells are cast using words and letters.

Innovative Spell System

The spell-casting system in "Treasure of Rudras" is unlike any other. Players create spells by combining words and letters, making the game feel fresh even today. This innovative mechanic offers a glimpse of what could have been if Square had continued developing for the SNES instead of moving to Sony.

Engaging Storyline

The game features three protagonists: a soldier, a witch, and an archaeologist. Each character has their own scenario, which interconnects in a fourth story. This interconnected narrative adds depth and complexity, making players feel more involved as each plot unfolds. The story is set against a backdrop of impending doom, with the world set to be recreated by Rudra every 4,000 years. Our heroes must stop this process and save everyone.

Unique Item Collection System

One of the game's standout features is its item collection system. If a character leaves an item in one area, other characters in their own scenarios can collect it. This ensures that no item is ever left behind, adding a layer of strategy to the gameplay.

Challenging Yet Rewarding

At first, the game may seem challenging, especially with its complex magic system. However, as players progress, the system becomes more intuitive. An interesting aspect is the ability to copy spells used against you by merely reciting the words shouted by enemies. This adds a layer of strategy and humor, as players can spell out curse words when disposing of bosses.

A Must-Play for RPG Enthusiasts

"Treasure of Rudras" stands out among the many RPGs that have been westernized since the SNES era. For RPG enthusiasts, the unique spell-casting system offers a fresh take on the genre. Even those less enthusiastic about RPGs will appreciate the beautiful gameplay, text-driven magic, fantastic music score, and the variety in how the game progresses. This game would have been a classic if it had been released in the West, and we owe a debt of gratitude to the fan translation community for bringing this masterpiece to light.

Interesting Stats and Facts

  • Release Date: "Treasure of Rudras" was released on April 5, 1996, in Japan. Despite its late release, it has garnered a cult following over the years.
  • Unique Spell System: The game features over 300 different spells that players can create using the unique word and letter system.
  • Fan Translation: The English fan translation was completed in 2003, allowing non-Japanese speakers to experience this hidden gem.

Sources

By exploring "Treasure of Rudras," players can experience a unique RPG that stands the test of time, thanks to its innovative mechanics and engaging storyline. Whether you're a seasoned RPG fan or new to the genre, this game offers something special for everyone.