Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Izumo 3 blends visual novel storytelling with classic turn-based JRPG mechanics, delivering a familiar yet refined experience. Much of Kakeru’s journey unfolds through static backgrounds and character portraits, where you read dialogue, make choices, and learn about the academy’s hidden mysteries. These narrative interludes build atmosphere and deepen your connections with the cast before diving into combat.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

When it’s time to fight, Izumo 3 steps up the action. Enemies are no longer hidden in random encounters—you can see monsters patrolling dungeon corridors and even choose to sneak past weaker foes. This shift from the predecessor’s random battle system adds tension and strategy to exploration. You’ll decide whether to engage powerful enemies head-on or conserve resources by avoiding them until you’re stronger.

Combat itself sticks to the tried-and-true turn-based formula: select attacks, special martial arts techniques, healing items, or magic spells as you and your party take turns against a roster of supernatural foes. Character progression feels rewarding—Kakeru’s training at Izumo Academy and his personal techniques unlock new abilities, encouraging you to experiment with different party setups and tactics. Whether you’re felling a dungeon boss or grinding for levels, the pacing strikes a balance between story beats and strategic battles.

Graphics

Graphically, Izumo 3 embraces a charming, anime-inspired aesthetic. Character sprites and portraits are finely detailed, capturing expressive emotions during dialogue. Backgrounds vary from the austere classrooms of Izumo Academy to moody, torchlit dungeon corridors, each rendered with clear, vibrant colors that heighten the contrast between everyday school life and the lurking horrors beneath.

During battle sequences, enemy and ally sprites are smaller but animated with enough flair to highlight special attacks and supernatural powers. While the animations aren’t as fluid as modern titles, the impact effects and menu designs have a crisp, retro appeal. Slight sprite bobbing and flashing attack animations give combat a punchy feel, especially when unleashing a well-timed ultimate move.

Although the game relies on still imagery for narrative scenes, the quality of the art direction compensates for limited motion. Subtle visual cues—like shifting shadows, flickering lanterns, and dynamic battle backgrounds—immerse you in the dungeon’s oppressive atmosphere. Minor visual hiccups, such as occasional palette clashes, are rare and don’t detract from an otherwise cohesive art style that honors the series’ roots.

Story

Izumo 3 centers on Kakeru, a teenager who lost his parents in childhood and now trains in martial arts at the prestigious Izumo Academy. His days blend disciplined practice with tender visits to his ailing sister in the hospital. Just when his life seems monotonous, a malevolent force transforms the school into a labyrinth teeming with monsters, thrusting Kakeru into a fight for survival and the fate of his friends.

The game’s narrative unfolds mainly through visual novel segments, enriched with multiple character interactions and subtle world-building. Dialogue choices occasionally influence relationships, making side character arcs feel personalized and engaging. Opportunities to learn more about Kakeru’s past, his sister’s condition, and the academy’s mysterious history help sustain interest between dungeon raids.

Mystery drives you forward: snippets of lore hint at an ancient curse tied to Izumo Academy, and each dungeon floor uncovers new clues. While the story follows a relatively linear path, well-placed twists and emotional beats—especially scenes involving Kakeru’s sister—add depth. Fans of character-driven tales will appreciate the balance between heartfelt moments and supernatural thrills.

Overall Experience

Izumo 3 offers a satisfying mix of story and strategy that will appeal to both visual novel enthusiasts and JRPG purists. The seamless integration of visible enemies enhances exploration, while the turn-based battles remain challenging without feeling unfair. Character progression through martial arts training adds a personal touch, making Kakeru’s growth feel tied to your own gameplay efforts.

Some players may find the pacing slow during extended narrative stretches, and purists of high-end graphics might notice the dated animations. However, these trade-offs come with a unique charm—static scenes allow you to focus on dialogue and lore, and the retro-inspired visuals complement the game’s theme of ancient evil lurking beneath modern academia.

In the end, Izumo 3 stands as a worthy successor to its predecessors, delivering memorable characters, strategic combat, and an intriguing plot. If you’re seeking a story-driven RPG with nostalgic flair and enough innovations to keep things fresh—like non-random battles and visible dungeon enemies—this title is a strong contender for your collection.

Retro Replay Score

null/10