Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Valis III retains the core side-scrolling action that fans of the series will recognize, but expands its horizons by offering control over three distinct heroines. Switching between Yuko, Cham, and Valna on the fly allows you to adapt your strategy to each level’s challenges. Yuko remains the balanced all-rounder, Cham channels whip-based combat reminiscent of classic Gothic titles, and Valna brings potent spells to bear, making for dynamic stage progression.

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Each character has her own progression path: you can find or purchase better weapons for Yuko’s sword, unlock new whip techniques for Cham, and collect orbs that boost Valna’s magical potency. This equipment and magic-upgrade system injects a light RPG flavor, granting a sense of growth as you traverse varied environments. Whether you’re traversing dark caverns, cloud-shrouded temples, or mechanical strongholds, the flexibility to select the ideal heroine for each scenario keeps the pacing brisk and the gameplay fresh.

The level designs are well-crafted, featuring hidden rooms, platforming gauntlets, and puzzle elements that reward exploration. Boss encounters strike a satisfying balance between memorization and reflex, often testing your mastery of each character’s arsenal. While the action remains rooted in 16-bit era sensibilities, the responsive controls and tight hitboxes ensure that every jump, slash, or spell feels deliberate and fair.

Graphics

Visually, Valis III showcases some of the most polished sprite work on its platform. Character animations are fluid, with each heroine exhibiting unique idle stances and attack cycles that bring them to life. The color palette shifts dramatically from level to level—lush forests transition into ice-bound fortresses, molten caverns, and ominous dark-world citadels—highlighting the game’s narrative stakes through environmental storytelling.

Background layers employ tasteful parallax scrolling, giving a sense of depth even on hardware not known for multi-plane scrolling. Small details—sparkling spell effects, flickering torchlight, and the metallic sheen on boss armor—demonstrate an attention to polish that elevates each stage. Cutscene illustrations between chapters, though brief, are well-drawn and imbue the story with momentary cinematic flair.

While the screen occasionally feels busy—enemy projectiles, particle effects, and environmental hazards can overlap—the overall presentation remains clear. The UI elements, like health bars and magic meters, are unobtrusive yet informative, ensuring you stay immersed in the action rather than distracted by clutter.

Story

Valis III picks up after Yuko’s triumph over Rogles, painting a world at peace until the Dark World’s champion, Glames, emerges with the cursed sword Leethus. His crusade to conquer both Earth and Vecanti sets the stage for a compelling “dual-world” conflict. This high-concept premise is grounded by the introduction of Cham, a young escapee who pleads with Yuko to thwart Glames before his conquest dooms them all.

The narrative unfolds through in-game dialogue and illustrated interludes, providing enough context to motivate your quest without bogging down the pace. Yuko’s steadfast courage, Cham’s desperation, and Valna’s sense of duty each add emotional weight to the journey. Though archetypal in structure, the characters’ interactions feel genuine, and the threat of a world on the brink lends urgency to every battle.

The inclusion of multiple protagonists also allows for slight variations in perspective. While Yuko’s path feels like a classic hero’s odyssey, Cham’s chapters emphasize stealth and cunning, and Valna’s sections explore the mystical underpinnings of Vecanti’s magic. This multi-angle storytelling keeps the plot engaging and encourages replay to see each heroine’s experience.

Overall Experience

Valis III excels at blending tight platforming with light RPG elements and a memorable story. The ability to swap among three heroines ensures that no two playthroughs feel identical, boosting replay value. Difficulty ramps up steadily, and while some bosses demand pattern mastery, fair checkpoint placement prevents frustration from derailing your momentum.

The soundtrack complements the action with soaring melodies and atmospheric interludes, reinforcing the contrast between Earth’s calm and the Dark World’s menace. Sound effects are punchy and clear, letting you discern enemy attacks even in the most hectic encounters. Combined with the game’s visual flair, the audio-visual package remains impressive by retro standards.

Ultimately, Valis III stands out as a must-play for enthusiasts of side-scrolling action and classic fantasy adventures. Its trio of playable characters, rich stage variety, and engaging narrative make it a strong recommendation for anyone seeking a challenging yet rewarding retro experience.

Retro Replay Score

7.1/10