Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero review for Nintendo Switch

System: Switch
Release date: January 30, 2025
Developer: Nippon Ichi Software
Publisher: NIS America

Few games have left a lasting impression quite like Phantom Brave, the tactical JRPG developed by Nippon Ichi Software. Released over twenty years ago, the original title earned a devoted following for its unique blend of free-range combat, touching storytelling, and unforgettable characters. Now, after years of anticipation, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is set to deliver the next chapter in this beloved series. With a modern twist on the classic formula, this sequel aims to honor its predecessor while introducing a new generation of fans to the enchanting world of Ivoire.

In Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero, the story begins with a reunion of familiar faces. Marona, the kind-hearted Chroma who made her mark in the first game, is now older and wiser. Alongside her loyal phantom companion, Ash, she continues to take on challenges that test her resolve. However, this reunion is short-lived – a sudden event causes the duo to be separated, setting the stage for Marona’s newest adventure.

Determined to reunite with Ash, Marona sets out on a journey that quickly leads her to Apricot, a cheerful and spirited pirate. Apricot is the ghost of a young girl whose father once commanded a legendary pirate crew. Together, Marona and Apricot team up to not only find Ash but also restore the glory of Apricot’s former crew. This partnership brings new dimensions to the narrative, blending emotional depth with lighthearted moments as they navigate challenges, meet quirky allies, and battle sinister foes.

The hallmark of Phantom Brave has always been its innovative combat system, and The Lost Hero builds upon this legacy with exciting new mechanics. Battles unfold on dynamic, grid-free battlefields where characters can move freely within a set range. This free-range movement allows for greater tactical flexibility, encouraging players to experiment with positioning and creative strategies.

One of the standout additions is the new confine mechanic. Players can now bind phantoms to specific items to create unique “vehicles” or even weapons that enhance mobility and versatility on the battlefield. Confine into a barrel, and you might gain extra protection; confine into a sword, and you’ll receive offensive boosts. This adds a layer of depth to team composition and resource management.

Another exciting feature is the “Confriend” mechanic, which allows phantoms to fuse with Marona. This fusion not only strengthens her abilities but also opens up new tactical possibilities during combat. The mechanics of fusion and confinement introduce a dynamic interplay between strategy and customization, ensuring every encounter feels fresh and giving the player the creative freedoms to utilize these features at their own discretion. It is worth noting that the Confriend feature can only be used while a phantom is actively on the battlefield, meaning that units who have been dismissed or knocked out won’t be able to be fused.

Returning features include the beloved Phantom Island hub, free-range movement, and the deployment system. A limit on deployed units ensures careful planning, with each character or phantom bringing their unique strengths to the table. Players can also expect a variety of stats to be mindful of, including HP, ATK, DEF, INT, DEX, and RES, each of which plays critical roles in determining the outcomes of battles. Different classes will utilize different stats, putting priority on INT for magical casters, and ATK for melee for example.

The game’s turn-based system allows for tactical depth, as characters can take multiple turns depending on their speed and circumstances. Players can utilize classic elements such as fire, wind, and ice to exploit enemy weaknesses, while the return of unique classes like archers, fighters, valkyries, and the introduction of new ones like Apricot’s pirate class ensure varied combat experiences. The game also teases new humanoid classes, such as  Apricot’s special Pirate abilties and the hilarious looking Goat Shaman, along with returning creatures like golems, lizardmen, and zombies.

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is more than a sequel – it’s a visual and auditory celebration of the series’ legacy. The game’s graphics retain the charming, hand-drawn aesthetic that fans adore while benefiting from modern enhancements. Environments are more detailed, with vibrant colors and dynamic lighting bringing the world of Ivoire to life like never before. Character animations are fluid, adding a new level of expressiveness to the cast. Playing through the original release was a very colorful and almost anime-like experience, this sequel also feels like playing through a storied animated series.

The soundtrack, composed by series veteran Tenpei Sato, strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and innovation. Returning themes have been reimagined with orchestral arrangements, while new tracks capture the emotional highs and lows of Marona’s journey. The music seamlessly blends whimsical melodies with dramatic compositions, ensuring an immersive experience throughout.

In addition to its core content, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero features nods to other NIS titles, making it a true celebration of the studio’s legacy. Fans can expect special crossovers, including unique items, characters, and references to beloved series like Disgaea. These inclusions not only serve as delightful Easter eggs for long-time fans but also highlight the interconnectedness of NIS’ rich library of games. This content can become unlocked once the main story scenario has been completed, making the end game content a celebration of NIS’ many properties. My favorite inclusions were the crossover characters, including: Disgaea’s Laharl, Vavlatorez, and Pirilika; La Pucelle: Tactics’s Prier, Rhapsody’s Cornet Espoir, and recurring bonus character Asagi.

For both veterans of the series and newcomers, Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero represents a rare opportunity to revisit a classic while exploring fresh possibilities. Its combination of heartfelt storytelling, innovative combat, and stunning audiovisual design ensures that it will stand as a worthy successor to the original. With the promise of new mechanics, characters, and content, the game is poised to capture the hearts of fans old and new.

As we count down the days to its release, the excitement for Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero continues to build. Whether you’re eager to reunite with Marona and Ash or discover the enchanting world of Ivoire for the first time, this long-awaited sequel is shaping up to be a must-play experience. Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure when the game finally launches – and make sure to say hello to your favorite NIS characters at the end of the road.

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero copy provided by the publisher for the purposes of this review.