Written by Anthony L. Cuaycong
Developer: Witching Hour Studios
Publisher: Ysbryd Games
Genre: RPG, Strategy
Price: $19.99
Masquerada: Songs and Shadows is an excellent tactical RPG that proves the value of crowdfunding in propelling grand ideas of independent developers to fruition. On the strength of a Kickstarter initiative that attracted more than 2,000 backers and raised 125% of target, Witching Hour Studios has come up with an outstanding storyline that follows the return of investigator Cicero Gavar, exiled for crimes against the state, to chaos-driven Citte della Hombre. As he looks into the abduction of diplomat Razitof Azrus, he enlists the help of guildsmen from the Masquerada, whose control of the seat of power is threatened by Contadani rebels from the lower classes.
At the heart of the conflict are Mascherines, ancient masks that provide users with power to summon magic. Gavar & Company use these to cast spells that can be chain-linked via the Elemental Tag System for enhanced status effects. During battles, skill modifiers and superior positioning are likewise crucial to victory. The action unfolds in real time, but gamers are provided the option to issue instructions to other members of the party. Meanwhile, the narrative progresses through both visual-novel-type interaction between characters and information gathered in exploration.
Notwithstanding the wealth of material presented and a liberal dose of combat en route, Masquerada: Songs and Shadows is relatively short on first pass. That said, it provides bang for the buck via its New Game Plus option, which has Gavar in possession of all the requisite skills and buffs from the outset, and which then offers a clearer understanding of the overarching story. A definite home run for Witching Hour Studios, it stands out from the usual dregs in the Nintendo Switch eShop in both intent and implementation.
THE GOOD
- Superb narrative
- Wealth of material on offer
- Unique combat mechanics
- Outstanding replay value
THE BAD
- Relatively short on first pass
- Uneven pace
- Frequent and long loading times
RATING: 9/10
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