Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Black/Matrix Advanced builds upon the classic isometric, turn‐based combat system of its predecessor while introducing several refinements that deepen the strategic experience. Battles retain the grid‐based movement and elemental affinities that made the original title memorable, but the addition of new scenarios and revised battlegrounds injects fresh tactical considerations. Enemies now appear in more varied formations, requiring players to adapt familiar skills such as “Grail” spells and weapon unlock systems to newly designed arenas.

One of the most notable gameplay enhancements is the freedom to choose your demon master from multiple female characters at the outset. Each master not only offers a distinct narrative path but also unique combat synergies. Their special abilities—ranging from area‐of‐effect magic to defensive buffs—can dramatically alter your approach to both standard skirmishes and boss encounters. This choice encourages multiple playthroughs, as mastering each bond reveals exclusive abilities and hidden spells tied to your relationship with that demon.

Accessibility is also improved through the newly added “Easy” difficulty setting. Beginners can now experience the story without being overwhelmed by the more punishing enemy AI that defined the Saturn release. Meanwhile, veterans can still opt for the Normal or Hard modes, where the Challenge gauge and MP management demand careful resource planning. The overall balance strikes a solid line between preserving hardcore strategy and welcoming newcomers into Black/Matrix’s dark, tactical world.

Graphics

Transitioning to the Dreamcast, Black/Matrix Advanced leverages two GDs to deliver an array of animated cutscenes that were impossible on the single‐CD Saturn version. These sequences showcase fluid, anime‐style artwork with vibrant color palettes and detailed character expressions. When a major story beat unfolds, the game seamlessly cuts to fully drawn, hand‐animated frames that heighten emotional impact and make every dramatic twist feel more cinematic.

Beyond the pre‐rendered animations, the post‐battle storytelling is presented from a first‐person perspective, complete with large character portraits that occupy most of the screen. This artistic choice amplifies narrative immersion, as faces fill the view while dialogue plays out, rather than shrinking characters into miniature sprites overlaid on text boxes. It’s a departure from the isometric battlescape, but one that underscores personal interaction and emotional nuance.

On the battlefield, the map tiles retain their crisp, colorful look while benefiting from the Dreamcast’s superior color depth. New battlegrounds introduce varied terrain—from volcanic fields to moonlit cathedrals—each rendered with distinctive textures and atmospheric lighting. The character sprites themselves have also been updated, sporting sharper outlines and more dynamic idle animations that reflect their demonic or angelic heritage.

Story

Black/Matrix Advanced is set in a post‐apocalyptic realm where demons have triumphed over angels after an age‐long conflict. You step into the boots of Abel, an angelic warrior bound to serve a female demon lord of your choosing. As the war’s dust settles, a forbidden romance blossoms between Abel and his mistress, forging a bond that transcends the cosmic order and places them both in peril.

With the Dreamcast release, two additional scenarios expand the narrative from ten to twelve. These new chapters delve into side stories that flesh out the backgrounds of lesser‐seen demon lords, offering perspective shifts that enrich the main plot. New plot beats also shed light on the cosmic war’s root causes and hint at hidden machinations among angelic high command, making the full storyline feel more cohesive and layered.

When Abel’s beloved mistress suddenly vanishes, the game pivots into a tense rescue mission filled with moral ambiguity. Players will navigate conflicting loyalties—honor among angels, devotion to one’s demon master, and self‐preservation. This emotional core drives the engagement, encouraging players to weigh each dialogue choice and exploration decision against the fate of two celestial races.

Overall Experience

Black/Matrix Advanced stands out as a compelling blend of strategic RPG mechanics and mature storytelling. The Dreamcast enhancements—longer runtime on two GDs, anime‐style cutscenes, and expanded scenarios—make this version a definitive edition. Whether you’re approaching the game for the first time or revisiting it for the richer narrative, the updated presentation and branchable story paths provide ample incentive to dive in.

Still, the game’s roots show through in certain areas: load times between isometric battles can feel dated by modern standards, and some menu interfaces remain clunky compared to contemporary RPGs. The voiceovers, while welcome, are sparse and sometimes uneven in quality. However, these technical quirks are outweighed by the depth of character interactions and the strategic combat refinements.

For fans of dark fantasy RPGs who appreciate a strong romantic subplot and robust tactical gameplay, Black/Matrix Advanced is a must‐play. The choice of demon mistress, the branching scenarios, and the beautifully animated storytelling sequences make it more than a simple remake—it’s a richly woven world where each decision matters. Import collectors and strategy enthusiasts alike will find plenty to admire in this enhanced Dreamcast classic.

Retro Replay Score

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