Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Herakles no Eikō 4: Kamigami no Okurimono follows the traditional console-style RPG formula that veterans of Dragon Warrior and early Final Fantasy will find immediately familiar. You traverse a richly designed world map, visiting bustling Atlantean towns, serene villages, and perilous dungeons. Random enemy encounters spring from the blue in a first-person, turn-based battle system that emphasizes strategic use of items, magic, and special skills learned through experience.

The progression feels rewarding, as your party grows not only in levels but also in tactical options. Your hero’s faithful friend Platon and devoted Epipha add unique abilities to the roster, while summoning the great hero Hercules unlocks devastating attacks that turn the tide of tougher fights. Character upgrades are straightforward yet deep enough to keep you engaged—new armor and weapons appear in shops only after you reach pivotal story points, ensuring a steady sense of advancement.

Exploration is at the heart of the gameplay loop. Whether deciphering Atlantean lore in hidden chambers or solving light environmental puzzles on the city’s wall towers, there’s always a reason to stray from the beaten path. Side quests peppered throughout the game reward curious players with rare equipment and lore snippets, giving extra incentive to fully explore this ancient civilization on the brink of invasion.

Graphics

Visually, the game presents a charming blend of 16-bit pixel art and colorful backgrounds that captures the grandeur of mythical Atlantis. The cityscapes brim with architectural marvels—towering walls, marble plazas, and intricate mosaics—that evoke a sense of an advanced ancient culture. Sprite work for characters and monsters is crisp, with expressive animations that bring battle sequences to life.

Dungeon environments are distinct and atmospheric, ranging from moss-covered ruins to lava-lit caverns, each rendered with a thoughtful color palette that hints at both beauty and danger. Transition effects between exploration and combat are smooth, and the occasional visual flourish—like Hercules’s summoned attacks—stands out as a highlight against the more subdued enemy sprites.

On the technical side, load times are virtually non-existent, making traversal between areas seamless. While the graphical style may feel dated compared to modern HD titles, it exudes nostalgic charm and remains highly readable. Fans of classic RPGs will appreciate the art direction for its clarity, consistency, and mythological flair.

Story

In this fourth entry of the Glory of Hercules series, you play a young scholar of Atlantis, a civilization renowned for its wisdom and shielded by towering walls. Alongside your best friend Platon and your beloved Epipha, you study the secrets of your homeland—until barbarian soldiers launch a sudden assault on the city. This inciting attack propels the trio into a globe-trotting adventure.

The narrative weaves together themes of friendship, sacrifice, and divine intervention. As the heroes flee their besieged city, they learn that the key to salvation lies in forging an alliance with the legendary Hercules himself. Along the way, you encounter gods, monsters, and moral dilemmas that test your courage and convictions. Character interactions are heartfelt, and moments of humor between the three protagonists lighten the tension of their daunting quest.

Pacing is well-judged, with story beats spaced out by engaging side missions and exploration sequences. While certain plot twists may feel familiar to RPG enthusiasts—betrayals, hidden royal lineages, and prophetic dreams—the writing remains earnest and imbued with a mythic scope. It’s a tale that honors its classical roots while offering fresh stakes for newcomers to the series.

Overall Experience

Herakles no Eikō 4: Kamigami no Okurimono delivers a thoroughly satisfying journey for fans of old-school role-playing games. The blend of turn-based combat, world exploration, and mythological storytelling creates a cohesive package that’s easy to pick up yet deep enough to hold your attention over dozens of hours. Each new dungeon and village reveal layers of Atlantean lore that enrich the overarching narrative.

Despite occasional bouts of random encounters that can feel grindy, the variety of enemies and the strategic utility of special moves keep battles engaging. The ability to call upon Hercules adds a cinematic crescendo to boss fights, and the steady trickle of equipment upgrades ensures you’re always prepared for the next challenge. Optional side content further extends the game’s longevity for completionists.

While the graphics and user interface may show their age compared to contemporary RPGs, the title’s nostalgic aesthetic and rock-steady performance capture the essence of classic console adventuring. For players seeking a myth-based quest filled with exploration, memorable characters, and a well-crafted battle system, Herakles no Eikō 4 stands as a compelling addition to any retro RPG collection. It’s a love letter to the genre that continues to resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers alike.

Retro Replay Score

null/10