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Jealousy and envy are two poisonous emotions. Subsequently, if you allow them to, they will consume your life! As such, your personality will become twisted, and you’ll hate everything and everyone around you. Noel the Mortal Fate encompasses these emotions and the fallout in its dark and captivating story.
Developed by KANAWO and published by PLAYISM, this is an action-adventure title. Moreover, it captures elements of JRPGs and visual novels. Accordingly, you’ll invest a lot of time devouring text and exploring unusual environments.
Unbeknownst to me, this title began life as a free-to-play experience and then evolved into an Anime comic book series. However, my lack of knowledge mattered not as it doesn’t influence this game. Instead, you’ll enjoy each episode of this exceptional, but dark-journey of twisted friendship and ill-fated revenge.
Noel the Mortal Fate is charming but ominous.
Whenever a game focuses on demonic beings and hideous emotions, it’s going to go one of two ways. First, it’ll be incredibly deep, captivating, and enriched by lore. Alternatively, it’ll be badly written, clichéd, and will instantly turn you off. Luckily, for me, Noel the Mortal Fate sits firmly in camp number one. Consequently, I instantly fell for its charms and the intriguing characters you meet.
So, what the heck is it about? Well, let’s have a quick overview without ruining the plot or divulging any secrets. You control Noel, a girl from a wealthy background. She lives in the fictional town of Lhaplus, where she is renowned for her piano-playing abilities. However, one day, she is beaten in a competition and this sparks a chain of life-changing events. To get the result she wants, she must strike a deal with a devil. Accordingly, the moment the pact is signed, everything changes.
As the game evolves, it tells the events of the ensuing madness in an episodic manner. You’ll witness a prologue and 7 seasons of dramatic content. Furthermore, as the story unfolds, you experience each protagonist’s point of view. This was wonderful as it adds meat to this incredible unusual tale.
Straightforward action and simple puzzles.
Though the story is amazing and full of twists and turns, the gameplay is relatively basic. Now, this isn’t a complaint, nor does it ruin the final product. Instead, the simplicity allows you to enjoy everything that unfolds. Unlike other adventure titles or JRPGs that focus on all-out combat or complex problems, Noel the Mortal Fate is different. Every element is straightforward, and this lets the story flow nicely.
Every protagonist has an array of stances to use and items to consume. Each of these mechanics adds a twist to your approach and can be altered on the fly. Moreover, some basic combat moments must be tackled to progress. Caron uses his ungodly strength to defeat his opponents. However, poor planning and bad timing will harm this evil being. Noel, on the other hand, relies heavily on her guardian. She must use her wits to overcome each problem she faces. Alongside this, the other characters have unique abilities that must be mastered.
On top of the fighting, there are simple puzzles to solve. These problems usually revolve around shoving boxes, leaping gaps, or operating machines. As a consequence, there is a small element of logic required, but most of the time, the solution stares you in the face. Subsequently, the simplicity may annoy some gamers. But, I loved the lack of complexity and the relevance of each key moment in the plot.
Noel the Mortal Fate is undeniably striking.
I appreciated the core gameplay and the excellent plot. However, the striking graphics amazed me. The combination of retro imagery, comic book stills, and contrasting colours was fascinating. What’s more, the excellent level design, awesome character portraits, and minimalist animation were captivating. Thanks to the isometric viewpoint and the distinctive sprites, it is easy on the eye. Furthermore, the action flows nicely and you never feel overwhelmed.
I could praise the visuals forever more, but I shouldn’t forget the audio. The soundtrack for Noel the Mortal Fate is incredible. Its dramatic tones and emotive pieces enhance the action. This is complemented further by some simple but effective sound effects. The developers have cleverly incorporated some old-school noises alongside its phenomenal music. As such, it improves the gameplay and the already excellent plot.
Easy to play.
Because of its slow approach, simple combat, and straightforward puzzles, it’s an easy game to play. This is helped further by the excellent UI, responsive controls and considered button layout. Accordingly, you’ll master the fundamentals immediately and enjoy the riveting plot as it plays out.
Unfortunately, replay value isn’t its strong point! A linear story and limited collectables reduce the reasons for returning. Fortunately, though, there are plenty of chapters to experience and an amazing story to enjoy throughout. As such, it’s great value for money and worthy of your time.
Noel the Mortal Fate is an incredible experience.
Coming into this without prior knowledge could have been a major error. However, luckily, this wasn’t the case. Instead, every moment is wonderfully played out, and this creates an incredible experience. Noel the Mortal Fate delivers a perfect and emotive performance from the off, and I loved it. Consequently, it is easy for me to recommend that you buy it here! Can you take responsibility for your actions, or will jealousy and envy rule your life? Make a pact with a devil and seek revenge on those that have crossed your path.
