Introduction
“Drakengard 3” is a Japanese action role-playing game that has garnered a cult following since its release in 2013. Developed by Access Games and published by Square Enix, this game is a prequel to the original Drakengard and is set in a dark, dystopian world filled with chaos, violence, and complex characters. The game was directed by Taro Yoko, a creative force known for his unconventional storytelling and unique approach to game design.
In this article, we will explore the various aspects of “Drakengard 3,” including its gameplay, story, characters, and reception. We will also address common questions about the game in an FAQ section. Whether you are a long-time fan of the Drakengard series or a newcomer, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need about this fascinating title.
The Story and Setting of Drakengard 3
The Dystopian World of Drakengard 3
“Drakengard 3” is set in a dark fantasy world where chaos and destruction reign supreme. The story takes place in a world where the balance of power is maintained by five sisters known as the Intoners. These powerful beings possess the ability to control the forces of nature and maintain order in the world. However, the peace is shattered when the eldest sister, Zero, decides to kill her siblings and take control of the world for herself.
The Complex Narrative of Drakengard 3
The story of “Drakengard 3” is a complex and often dark tale of betrayal, ambition, and the pursuit of power. Zero, the protagonist, is a complex character with a mysterious past and a single-minded determination to achieve her goal. The game explores themes of morality, the nature of power, and the consequences of one’s actions. The narrative is filled with twists and turns, keeping players engaged and invested in the story.
Key Characters in Drakengard 3
- Zero: The protagonist of the game, Zero is the eldest of the Intoner sisters. She is a powerful and ruthless warrior with a mysterious past. Her goal is to kill her sisters and take control of the world.
- One: The youngest of the Intoner sisters and the primary antagonist of the game. She seeks to maintain order and prevent Zero from achieving her goal.
- Mikhail: Zero’s dragon companion. Unlike the typical dragon in fantasy stories, Mikhail is depicted as innocent and naive, providing a stark contrast to Zero’s dark and ruthless nature.
- The Intoner Sisters: The other four Intoner sisters, each with their own unique personalities and abilities. They serve as the game’s primary bosses, with Zero confronting each one in turn.
Gameplay Mechanics of Drakengard 3
Combat System: A Blend of Action and Strategy
“Drakengard 3” features a combat system that blends action-oriented gameplay with strategic elements. Players control Zero as she battles through hordes of enemies, using a combination of melee attacks, magic, and her dragon companion. The game allows players to switch between different weapons on the fly, adding a layer of strategy to the combat.
Weapon and Magic System
Zero can equip and upgrade various weapons throughout the game, including swords, spears, and chakrams. Each weapon has its own unique set of moves and abilities, allowing players to tailor their combat style to their preferences. In addition to physical attacks, Zero can also use magic to unleash powerful spells on her enemies.
Dragon Combat: A Unique Feature
One of the standout features of “Drakengard 3” is the ability to summon and ride Zero’s dragon companion, Mikhail, in battle. Dragon combat adds a new dimension to the gameplay, allowing players to engage in aerial battles and unleash devastating attacks from above. Mikhail can also be upgraded, enhancing his abilities and making him an even more formidable ally in battle.
Exploration and Level Design
The game features a linear level design, with players progressing through a series of chapters and missions. While the levels are not open-world, they are designed to encourage exploration, with hidden items and collectibles scattered throughout. The game also features multiple endings, encouraging players to replay the game to uncover the full story.
Visuals and Art Direction in Drakengard 3
The Art Style of Drakengard 3
“Drakengard 3” features a distinctive art style that combines dark, gothic elements with a touch of fantasy. The game’s environments are bleak and desolate, reflecting the dystopian nature of the world. The character designs are detailed and unique, with each Intoner sister having her own distinct look that reflects her personality and role in the story.
Visual Presentation and Technical Performance
While the art direction in “Drakengard 3” is praised for its creativity and uniqueness, the game’s technical performance has been a point of criticism. The game suffers from frame rate issues and technical glitches, which can detract from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the game’s visual presentation is still one of its standout features, with its dark and atmospheric world drawing players in.
Soundtrack and Voice Acting in Drakengard 3
The Music of Drakengard 3
The soundtrack of “Drakengard 3” is one of its most praised aspects. Composed by Keiichi Okabe, the music perfectly complements the game’s dark and twisted narrative. The soundtrack features a mix of orchestral and electronic music, with haunting melodies that enhance the game’s atmosphere.
Voice Acting and Characterization
The voice acting in “Drakengard 3” is another strong point, with the cast delivering memorable performances that bring the characters to life. The voice actors capture the complex emotions and personalities of the characters, adding depth to the narrative. The English voice acting, in particular, has been praised for its quality and attention to detail.
Critical Reception of Drakengard 3
Reviews and Criticisms
“Drakengard 3” received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. The game’s story, characters, and soundtrack were widely praised, with many reviewers highlighting the game’s unique narrative and dark themes. However, the game’s technical performance, particularly its frame rate issues and visual glitches, were a major point of criticism.
Positive Aspects Highlighted by Critics
- Story and Characters: The complex and dark narrative, along with the well-developed characters, were praised by many reviewers. The game’s exploration of mature themes and its unconventional storytelling were seen as standout features.
- Soundtrack: The game’s music was universally praised, with many reviewers noting that the soundtrack added significantly to the game’s atmosphere and emotional impact.
- Voice Acting: The quality of the voice acting was another aspect that received positive feedback, with the performances adding depth to the characters and story.
Negative Aspects Highlighted by Critics
- Technical Performance: The game’s frame rate issues and technical glitches were a major point of criticism. These issues were seen as detracting from the overall experience and were a common complaint among reviewers.
- Repetitive Gameplay: Some reviewers criticized the gameplay for being repetitive, with the combat and level design lacking variety. This was seen as a drawback, particularly in the later stages of the game.
Reception from Fans and the Cult Following
Despite the mixed critical reception, “Drakengard 3” has developed a dedicated cult following over the years. Fans of the game appreciate its unique narrative, complex characters, and dark themes, which set it apart from other action RPGs. The game’s flaws are often overlooked by fans who appreciate its creative vision and the distinctive style of its director, Taro Yoko.
Drakengard 3 Game Official Trailer by the Cult Classic Review
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): About Drakengard 3
Q1: What is Drakengard 3?
A: “Drakengard 3” is a Japanese action role-playing game developed by Access Games and published by Square Enix. It is the third installment in the Drakengard series and serves as a prequel to the original Drakengard.
Q2: Who is the main character in Drakengard 3?
A: The main character in “Drakengard 3” is Zero, the eldest of the Intoner sisters. She is a powerful and ruthless warrior with a mysterious past who seeks to kill her sisters and take control of the world.
Q3: What are the Intoners in Drakengard 3?
A: The Intoners are a group of five sisters who possess the ability to control the forces of nature. They are the primary antagonists in the game, with Zero seeking to kill them to achieve her goals.
Q4: How does the combat system work in Drakengard 3?
A: The combat system in “Drakengard 3” is action-oriented, with players controlling Zero as she battles through hordes of enemies. Players can switch between different weapons and use magic to defeat enemies. The game also features dragon combat, allowing players to summon and ride Zero’s dragon companion, Mikhail, in battle.
Q5: What are the main criticisms of Drakengard 3?
A: The main criticisms of “Drakengard 3” are related to its technical performance, particularly its frame rate issues and visual glitches. Some reviewers also criticized the gameplay for being repetitive and lacking variety.
Q6: What makes Drakengard 3 unique?
A: “Drakengard 3” is unique for its dark and complex narrative, well-developed characters, and unconventional storytelling. The game explores mature themes and features a distinctive art style and soundtrack that set it apart from other action RPGs.
Q7: How does Drakengard 3 connect to the other games in the series?
A: “Drakengard 3” is a prequel to the original Drakengard, set many years before the events of the first game. While it shares some thematic elements and connections with the other games in the series, it can be played as a standalone title.
Q8: Is Drakengard 3 worth playing?
A: Whether “Drakengard 3” is worth playing depends on your preferences as a gamer. If you enjoy dark and complex narratives, well-developed characters, and unique storytelling, you may find “Drakengard 3” to be a rewarding experience. However, if you are sensitive to technical issues and repetitive gameplay, you may find the game’s flaws to be a significant drawback.
Conclusion
“Drakengard 3” is a game that has divided opinions since its release. While it is praised for its dark and complex narrative, well-developed characters, and unique approach to storytelling, it is also criticized for its technical flaws and repetitive gameplay. Despite these criticisms, the game has developed a dedicated cult following, with fans appreciating its creative vision and the distinctive style of its director, Taro Yoko.
If you are a fan of action RPGs and are interested in exploring a game that is different from the norm, “Drakengard 3” is worth checking out. Its unique blend of dark fantasy, complex characters, and mature themes make it a standout title in the genre. However, be prepared to overlook its technical flaws and embrace its unconventional approach to storytelling.
Whether you love it or hate it, there is no denying that “Drakengard 3” is a game that leaves a lasting impression. It is a title that challenges the conventions of the genre and offers a unique experience that is unlike anything else in the world of gaming.
