Tales of Graces f Remastered: A Classic RPG Revived

Tales of Graces f is a beloved title in the long-running action-RPG series, often praised for its engaging combat system. Originally released in 2012 for the PlayStation 3, it has remained exclusive to that platform in the West for many years. However, the recent announcement of Tales of Graces f Remastered has excited fans, as it will be available on multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, and PC.

In this remastered version, players will once again follow the journey of Asbel Lhant, who forms deep friendships during his childhood. His companions include his brother Hubert, the amnesiac Sophie, village girl Cheria Barnes, and Richard, a prince from a neighboring kingdom. The story is rich with political intrigue, personal growth, and the enduring theme of friendship. Yuki Ishikawa, the game’s producer, emphasized that storytelling is at the heart of the Tales series, particularly focusing on character-driven drama. He stated, "So even though it’s a very straightforward kind of story... it’s something that resonates strongly with me."

The battle system in Tales of Graces f is another highlight, often regarded as one of the best features of the game. While it differs from the combat in the more recent Tales of Arise, it is still celebrated for its fast-paced action and rewarding gameplay. Players can customize their party with extensive skill trees and various equipment, making each battle feel unique. Although the combat is easy to pick up, mastering the real-time action battles can be a challenge, especially when switching between up to four characters.

Exploring the charming overworld is equally enjoyable, with numerous interactions and items to discover. The remaster has introduced quality-of-life improvements that enhance the overall experience. Ishikawa mentioned that the team aimed to make Tales of Graces f accessible to a broader audience while improving the framerate to meet current standards. The game runs smoothly at 60 FPS on the PS5, ensuring a visually appealing experience.

Players can toggle off the quality-of-life features if they prefer the original experience. However, these enhancements, such as destination icons, an overworld dash for quicker navigation, and an enemy encounter toggle, make the game feel more modern. Additional features include the ability to skip cutscenes, auto-save functionality, and the inclusion of subtitles during battles, which is particularly beneficial for those who enjoy Japanese voiceovers.

While the remaster includes a variety of new content, it is important to note that some original DLC will not be available due to legal restrictions. For instance, characters like Hatsune Miku and Lelouch from Code Geass will not be included. However, many costumes and item packs will be accessible from the start, providing players with immediate rewards.

Tales of Graces f Remastered appears to be a thoughtful modernization of a classic RPG, designed with both veteran fans and newcomers in mind. With its engaging story, dynamic combat, and numerous enhancements, it promises to deliver an enjoyable experience for all players. Whether you are revisiting the world of Asbel Lhant or discovering it for the first time, this remaster is sure to captivate and entertain.