Today Aksys is releasing Mimana Iyar Chronicle, yet another PSP RPG to add to the system’s already impressive library. It’s available both in physical stores and the PlayStation Store for $39.99, and is yet another example of how good the classic, 2D sprite-based gaming experience can look.
As you can probably guess from the box art, Mimana Iyar Chroncile is a fantasy RPG about saving the world. A spellsword mercenary named Crais, who isn’t really the nicest guy considering he’s a bit of a depressed drunk, agrees to help a troubadour named Sophie find seven jewels that are hidden throughout Iyar. Later on three other women named Melrose, Tinon and Patty join them on their journey. Battles take place in real time, with the player controlling Crais and guiding the four girls’ actions.
There are also some dating simulation elements. Though Crais doesn’t sound too desirable, players are able to help him hook up with Sophie, Melrose, Tinon or Patty. The product description doesn’t mention if the ending will change based on which girl you decide to have Crais date, but I’m sure it’ll have some influence on the story.
Mimana Iyar Chronicle has quite a pedigree behind it. It was developed by GungHo Works, Kogado Studios and Premium Agency. You may remember GungHo also worked on Ragnarok Online DS (DS), Lunar: Silver Star Harmony (PSP) and Hero’s Saga Laevatein Tactics (DS). The writers from Tales of Destiny 2 and Lunar were also part of the development process too.
Read [Go Fanboy] Site [Mimana Iyar Chronicle]
I haven't heard much about Mimana since its release. Aksys Games' own site doesn't say much about the game and its content. And if I hadn't read some relevant articles on IGN and Siliconera, then I might not know anything about it.
Also, the most recent RPGCast stated that Mimana hasn't been sent to game reviewers. That's a troubling sign.
I know what you mean. I had to go to Amazon to find information on the storyline! The small page on Aksys' site about Mimana was surprisingly short and disappointing. Also, there are only screenshots of battle, if you notice, and no pictures of moving around outside of battle or of the animated cutscene.
As for the review copies, it may be a bit early to judge. Aksys could be deciding to save money and give out downloadable codes for review copies instead of physical copies.
You two might be interested in Record of Agarest War for the Xbox 360 coming out at the end of next month. It had a lot more dating sim elements judging from the fact that you can actually have an offspring in the game and its stats depend on which girl you woo and how you woo her.
So….when are they going to make a dating sim RPG for girls? Actually,you might want to check out Real Rode, Jenni.