Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Farland Story: Daichi no Kizuna continues the tactical tradition of its predecessors, delivering a familiar yet refined turn-based combat system. You control a party of characters, each with unique classes and abilities, on grid-based battlefields. Before each turn, you assign commands—move, attack, or use special skills—to every party member, then sit back and watch the action unfold. The automatic counter-attack mechanic adds a strategic layer: positioning your units to exploit weapon ranges can yield devastating combos.

The pacing strikes a satisfying balance between deliberate planning and dynamic skirmishes. Battles generally last long enough to feel meaningful without overstaying their welcome, and random encounters are rare enough that they don’t interrupt the main narrative flow. Experience points award immediately after each attack, giving constant feedback on progression and encouraging varied tactics. You’ll quickly learn to switch between offense and defense as enemies adapt to your favored strategies.

One standout feature is the bond system between Kushna and her companions. As you deploy them together, their trust grows, unlocking powerful duo attacks and defensive bonuses. This mechanic not only deepens combat choices but also ties into the game’s themes of friendship and loyalty. Whether you’re flanking foes with a knight’s shield wall or unleashing a combined martial arts flourish, the synergy effects feel rewarding and impactful.

Graphics

Visually, Daichi no Kizuna opts for a vibrant, anime-inspired aesthetic that breathes life into every character portrait and battlefield. The sprites are crisp and well-animated, capturing each hero’s personality—from Kushna’s determined glare to Shacliff’s gentle smile. Backgrounds, whether lush forests or imposing castles, are richly detailed, enhancing the sense of scale and immersion.

The game’s special attack animations are particularly eye-catching. When characters unleash their ultimate moves, the screen fills with dramatic effects—flashing lights, animated flourishes, and dynamic camera shifts. These cinematic touches elevate routine battles into memorable set pieces, rewarding players for leveling up and maintaining strong party bonds.

Menus and UI elements maintain a clean, intuitive design. Character stats and inventory screens are well-organized, allowing quick access to information without breaking the flow of exploration or combat preparation. While the overall graphical style may feel familiar to long-time fans of the series, the attention to polish and detail ensures it stands out among other tactical RPGs on the market.

Story

Farland Story: Daichi no Kizuna centers around 17-year-old Princess Kushna of Sardis, who chafes under the weight of political expectations. Two suitors vie for her hand—Prince Shacliff of Rulphan and the ambitious Count Geruda. Unwilling to enter an arranged marriage, Kushna flees her castle in search of a place where she can train in martial arts and live on her own terms.

The narrative takes a compelling turn when Kushna’s escape coincides with a monster invasion at home. Rumors of rebellion swirl through the land, complicating her journey. Along the way, she encounters Shacliff himself, discovering his kindness and shared desire for freedom. Their evolving relationship forms the emotional backbone of the tale, making every battlefield victory feel like a step toward restoring peace—and true understanding—between kingdoms.

Side quests and character-driven interludes enrich the main plot, offering glimpses into the backstories of Kushna’s allies. You’ll meet a retired knight grappling with past regrets, a young mage seeking acceptance, and other colorful figures whose personal struggles resonate with the game’s themes of duty versus desire. While the overarching storyline remains self-contained, these subplots lend depth and variety, ensuring you stay invested from start to finish.

Overall Experience

Farland Story: Daichi no Kizuna strikes a fine balance between accessibility and depth, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers to tactical RPGs and a satisfying continuation for series veterans. Battles reward thoughtful positioning and party synergy, while progression feels steady without slipping into grind territory. The bond mechanics and level-up pace keep you engaged throughout the adventure.

The game’s presentation shines thanks to vibrant art direction, expressive animations, and a polished UI. Accompanied by a stirring soundtrack that ranges from heroic fanfares to serene village melodies, the world of Sardis and Rulphan feels both grand and intimate. Voice snippets during key cutscenes add emotional weight, though they remain sparing enough not to inflate the game’s runtime.

Ultimately, Daichi no Kizuna offers a well-rounded package: a heartfelt story of self-discovery, meaningful combat innovations, and a captivating visual style. Whether you’re drawn in by Kushna’s quest for independence or the thrill of tactical warfare, this entry in the Farland Story saga delivers a memorable journey that’s well worth embarking on.

Retro Replay Score

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