Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Shin Momotarō Densetsu retains the turn-based combat and world-map exploration that fans of the series know and love, while introducing a handful of fresh mechanics that give each battle its own spark. You control Momotarō and his party as they traverse a fully 3D overworld, visiting towns, dungeons, and the moon-bound fortress of Basara. Random encounters trigger first-person battles, where you choose attacks, items, and magic spells in a classic menu-driven style.

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Combat remains accessible yet strategic. Party members include the talking dog, monkey, and pheasant you’ve come to expect, each with unique abilities and growth paths. The magic carriage system lets you switch between different formations mid-battle, offering buffs or healing as the situation demands. Boss fights against Basara’s lieutenants—such as the fearsome Karura—often require you to adapt your tactics on the fly, blending offense, defense, and the occasional status effect for a compelling challenge.

Outside of fights, the world map encourages exploration. You’ll barter at village shops for upgraded weapons, gather crafting materials in forested glades, and enlist in mini-quests—from rescuing kidnapped villagers to retrieving legendary artifacts. The pacing strikes an effective balance between story progression and side activities: none of the fetch tasks overstay their welcome, and rewarded secrets are always satisfying to discover.

In terms of quality-of-life, Shin Momotarō Densetsu improves on its predecessors with quicker load times, an auto-battle option for weaker foes, and a handy in-game journal that tracks your main objectives and side-quest clues. These refinements make long journeys across Demon Island and the moon’s craggy surface feel smooth, minimizing downtime and keeping you immersed in Momotarō’s epic mission.

Graphics

The transition to fully 3D environments breathes new life into the Momotarō universe. Overworld vistas are vibrant and filled with detail, from cherry blossoms floating over rivers to the lava-strewn caverns beneath Basara’s domain. Towns and enemy lairs have distinct architectural flavors—traditional Japanese rooftops contrast nicely with the eerie, otherworldly palaces of the underworld.

Character sprites and monster models retain the series’ charming, cartoon-inspired aesthetic. Momotarō’s expressions during dialogue sequences are delightfully animated, while bosses like Karura sport intricate feathered wings and menacing color palettes. Spell effects are equally eye-catching: healing light suffuses the battlefield in warm hues, and Basara’s dark magic crackles with ominous purples and blacks.

Performance is generally stable, even during larger encounters with multiple enemies. Frame rate dips are rare, and loading screens are brief. The user interface is clean, with readable fonts and well-placed icons that keep your focus on the action. Menus flow logically, letting newcomers pick up important stats or equipment options without confusion.

The art direction strikes a fine balance between folklore authenticity and modern RPG flair. Textures on the giant peach that first bore Momotarō in myth feel lush, while the moon’s crystalline caverns glint with otherworldly detail. It’s a visual feast that pays homage to the folk tale roots while demonstrating that a long-running series can still evolve in style.

Story

Shin Momotarō Densetsu picks up three years after our hero’s original triumph over the demons of Demon Island. When Emma, the King of Hell, threatened the land, Momotarō prevailed—only to face a new menace in Basara, the demonic king who covets the legendary Moon Princess, Kaguya-hime. Driven by dark ambition, Basara dispatches his lieutenant Karura to spirit Kaguya away to the moon, forcing Momotarō into his magic carriage once more.

The narrative unfolds across a tapestry of folk-inspired locales, interspersed with colorful NPCs who share local legends, trade gossip, and occasionally join your side. Dialogue is lighthearted but never shallow; comedic banter between Momotarō and his animal companions offsets looming threats, while heartfelt moments—particularly scenes involving Kaguya-hime’s plight—add genuine emotional weight.

Story beats are well-paced, with each chapter culminating in a memorable boss showdown. Side quests often tie back into the main narrative, such as rescuing townsfolk who carry crucial information about Basara’s true motivations. Though some tropes are familiar—rescue the princess, defeat the big bad—the folk tale backdrop and strong character chemistry keep the plot from feeling stale.

Localization is handled with care, preserving Japanese cultural references while ensuring jokes and puns land smoothly for Western audiences. Even if you’re not steeped in folklore, the game’s clear objectives and engaging cast make it easy to get invested. Ultimately, the story feels both epic and personal, guiding you from quaint countryside villages all the way to the throne room of Hell itself.

Overall Experience

Shin Momotarō Densetsu is an enjoyable blend of classic RPG mechanics and folkloric charm. Its combat system offers enough depth to satisfy veterans, while newcomers will appreciate the clear tutorials and gradual difficulty curve. Exploration is rewarded, dialogue is engaging, and the world—both earthly and lunar—feels alive with myth and magic.

Graphically, the game presents a vibrant, well-optimized package that honors its roots without feeling dated. The fully 3D world map is a joy to explore, punctuated by dramatic set-pieces and boss arenas that showcase the developers’ creativity. Sound design and music further enhance the mood, with traditional instruments underscoring tense moments and triumphant fanfares celebrating your victories.

Storytelling is one of the title’s strongest suits, weaving ancient tales with new twists and a likable cast of heroes and villains. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Momotarō Densetsu series or a newcomer drawn in by Japanese folklore, the narrative offers plenty of heart and heroism to keep you engaged throughout the journey.

Overall, Shin Momotarō Densetsu stands out as a must-play for RPG enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of tradition and innovation. Its manageable length, rich world-building, and satisfying combat loop ensure that you won’t just defeat Basara—you’ll remember the adventure long after the credits roll.

Retro Replay Score

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