Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Seal of Evil delivers a robust action role-playing experience rooted in fast-paced combat and strategic party management. You step into the shoes of Lan Wei, commanding not only her martial prowess but also coordinating with a small band of allies—her betrothed and a mysterious Beastman. This trio-based system allows for dynamic combat scenarios where swapping characters on the fly can turn the tide of battle.

The game’s signature five-element system (Metal, Wood, Water, Earth, and Fire) permeates every facet of gameplay. Attributes, equipment bonuses, puzzle solutions, and item crafting are all governed by elemental affinities, encouraging you to experiment with different combinations. Balancing these elements feels rewarding, especially when you discover synergies that amplify damage or provide critical resistances against demonic foes.

Puzzles and exploration break up the hack-and-slash rhythm, injecting moments of thoughtful challenge. Ancient ruins conceal traps that require precise use of elemental powers, and environmental riddles often hinge on switching party roles to exploit each character’s unique strengths. This blend of action and intellect keeps the gameplay loop fresh from the lush valleys of Qin to the crumbling fortresses of rival warlords.

Graphics

Visually, Seal of Evil paints a vivid portrait of the Warring States period. The art direction leans heavily on traditional Chinese motifs, from ornate temple roofs to intricate calligraphy scrolls that unfurl during dialogue. Character models are detailed—Lan Wei’s flowing robes and the Beastman’s fur textures look especially impressive given the game’s release era.

Environmental variety shines through richly rendered landscapes: misty bamboo groves, sun-baked desert outposts, and shadowy mountain passes each carry a distinct atmospheric tone. Dynamic lighting effects, such as torchlight flickers and large-scale fire spells, heighten the sense of immersion during nighttime excursions or dungeon dives.

While some textures show their age by today’s standards, the animations remain fluid and satisfying. Martial arts sequences for Lan Wei are choreographed with apparent care, delivering strikes and parries that feel weighty. Enemy designs—ranging from bandits and rival generals to mythic demons—boast creative flair, reinforcing the game’s blend of history & legend.

Story

Seal of Evil unfolds against the backdrop of late Zhou-era China, where the quest for the Empyrean Stones drives the narrative. As Lan Wei, you navigate a land fractured by war, ancient prophecy, and supernatural malevolence. The death of your chieftain father sets you on a path to gather these mystical remnants of an imprisoned demon’s tablet, weaving personal stakes into a grander mythos.

Alongside your betrothed, a steadfast warrior bound by honor, and a loyal Beastman whose origins remain shrouded in mystery, you uncover fragments of ancient Chinese legends. Historical figures such as strategists and rival clan leaders make cameo appearances, anchoring the story in a recognizable period drama while also challenging your diplomatic choices and battle plans.

Dialogue is rich with period-appropriate language and cultural references, though occasional translation quirks surface in NPC interactions. These minor inconsistencies do little to dampen the overarching plot, which steadily crescendos toward the climactic unsealing of demonic forces. The pacing balances action set pieces with quieter moments of character bonding, ensuring you remain invested in Lan Wei’s personal growth.

Overall Experience

Seal of Evil stands out as a prequel that complements Prince of Qin while forging its own identity. Its fusion of mythic Chinese lore and real-world history creates a tapestry that feels both educational and fantastical. The fast-paced combat, underpinned by the five-element system, offers depth that rewards experimentation without overwhelming newcomers.

At times, the user interface and quest tracking can feel a bit cumbersome, reflecting design conventions of its time. However, community-made patches and guides help streamline navigation and bug fixes, breathing renewed life into the title for modern audiences. Veteran RPG fans will appreciate the strategic demands, while newcomers may find the learning curve a welcome challenge.

Ultimately, Seal of Evil provides an immersive journey through a turbulent era, anchored by a strong female lead and a compelling supernatural threat. If you’re seeking an action RPG that intertwines historical intrigue, elemental strategy, and martial arts flair, Lan Wei’s adventure to seal away an ancient evil is well worth embarking upon.

Retro Replay Score

6.5/10