Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Jeanne d’Arc delivers a deeply engaging turn-based strategy RPG experience that blends grid-based combat with character-driven progression. Battles unfold on isometric maps where positioning, terrain bonuses, and unit classes play crucial roles. From foot soldiers and archers to mounted knights and magic users, each unit type brings its own strengths and weaknesses, encouraging players to experiment with different formations and strategies.

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A standout feature is the mystical armlet system, which allows Jeanne and other armlet bearers to transform into powerful forms mid-battle. Activating an armlet unleashes devastating special attacks, unique abilities, and dramatic visual effects, but must be timed carefully as it consumes a limited resource. This mechanic adds an extra layer of tactical decision-making—do you use your armlet early to turn the tide, or save it for a boss’s final stand?

Between story missions, a navigable world map lets you revisit past locations and tackle optional “free stages.” These side battles often reward rare items, powerful equipment, and extra experience, making them ideal for players who want to build a formidable army. The game also features a light resource-management aspect, where you purchase upgrades, recruit new troops, and equip your companions from a simple yet intuitive menu system.

Overall, Jeanne d’Arc strikes a satisfying balance between accessibility and depth. Newcomers to Japanese strategy RPGs will appreciate its clear tutorial stages and forgiving difficulty curve, while veterans can crank up the challenge and dive into harder modes. The pacing rarely stalls, and each chapter introduces new gameplay elements that keep tactical encounters fresh and rewarding.

Graphics

Visually, Jeanne d’Arc blends charming, chibi-style character models on the battlefield with stunning hand-drawn cutscenes that bring its fantasy-tinged retelling of history to life. In-battle sprites are detailed and expressive, making it easy to distinguish unit types and catch subtle animations—like Jeanne’s determined stance or a cavalry charge in full motion.

The cutscene art truly shines, presenting dramatic story moments with lush backgrounds, dynamic character poses, and a vibrant color palette. Each major plot twist is accompanied by these illustrations, which feel more like pages from a graphic novel than traditional in-engine cinematics. Transitions between gameplay and story are seamless, maintaining immersion.

The game’s UI is clean and functional, with menus that clearly display stats, inventory, and skill trees. Combat effects—magic spells, sword strikes, and armlet transformations—are accentuated by satisfying particle effects and sound cues, making every critical hit and special attack feel impactful. Though originally released on PSP hardware, the graphics hold up remarkably well, retaining crisp outlines and bright colors even on modern displays.

Certain environments, such as medieval villages, towering castles, and haunted forests, showcase detailed tile sets and atmospheric lighting. While some map designs can feel repetitive after dozens of hours, the overall presentation remains polished, and character portraits during dialogue scenes add personality to every conversation.

Story

Set during the Hundred Years’ War, Jeanne d’Arc reimagines the legendary tale of Joan of Arc through a Japanese fantasy lens. The narrative begins in the humble village of Domremy, where young Jeanne discovers a magical armlet that binds to her wrist. When her home is attacked by menacing humanoid beasts, she rises to defend her family and, guided by a mysterious voice, embarks on an epic quest to save France from invading forces.

Along the way, Jeanne gathers a diverse party of fourteen companions, each with distinct personalities, backgrounds, and combat roles. From stalwart knights and skilled archers to enigmatic wizards, these relationships evolve through in-battle support conversations and campfire scenes. Themes of friendship, sacrifice, and unwavering hope infuse the storyline, creating emotional highs and heartbreaking lows as the horrors of war collide with the bonds of loyalty.

While rooted in historical events—such as battles against King Henry VI’s troops—the game freely blends in fantasy elements, allowing for dramatic plot twists and supernatural encounters. This creative license results in memorable boss fights against corrupted generals and demonic creatures that diverge from textbook history, offering an engaging “what-if” scenario for players. Voice acting, though limited, enhances the dialogue’s emotional impact, and the localization captures both the earnestness and occasional lighthearted banter of the cast.

The pacing is generally steady, alternating between strategic missions and story-driven cutscenes. Some players might find the interludes of exposition lengthy, but these moments are often rewarded with character development and plot revelations that justify the slower segments. By the time the final battlefield looms on the horizon, you’ll be invested in Jeanne’s journey and the fate of all who stand beside her.

Overall Experience

Jeanne d’Arc stands out as one of the most polished strategy RPGs of its era, seamlessly fusing historical drama with anime-inspired fantasy. Its accessible mechanics, combined with well-crafted tutorials and a moderate difficulty curve, make it a welcoming entry point for newcomers, while its layered tactical depth and challenge modes appeal to seasoned veterans seeking a rewarding battlefield experience.

The game’s evocative soundtrack—featuring stirring orchestral themes and haunting choral pieces—paired with clear sound effects, greatly enhances the emotional weight of each chapter. Whether you’re charging into the fray alongside Jeanne’s allies or reflecting on a bittersweet victory, the audio-visual presentation consistently reinforces the stakes of this war-torn world.

Though some may note repetitive map layouts and occasional balance quirks in later stages, these minor drawbacks are easily overshadowed by the game’s strong narrative and endearing cast. Free stages extend the playtime beyond the core 25–30 hour campaign, offering additional boss challenges and valuable resources for completionists.

For anyone intrigued by tactical RPGs, medieval lore, or anime-style storytelling, Jeanne d’Arc is a highly recommended journey. Its blend of strategic depth, memorable characters, and dramatic retelling of a timeless legend delivers a satisfying and emotionally resonant adventure that stands the test of time.

Retro Replay Score

8.4/10