Review: Disgaea PC

Release Date
24/2/2016
Platform
PC
Publisher / Developer
NIS America / Nippon Ichi Software
Genre
Strategy RPG
Player(s)
1
Rating: T
ESRB T

A well-loved franchise, the series has been released on various platforms with a number of remakes and sequels. Now, the original Disgaea game has been ported to the PC. Renamed Disgaea PC, the port features new updates and more content than ever before.

NIS America describes the series:
“In a world where all the rules are reversed and the demons rule, you may find yourself questioning your allegiance to ‘the light’ and rooting for the Netherworld’s most neglected antihero. Two years after the death of his father, Overlord Krichevskoy, the demon prince Laharl awakens to discover that the Netherworld is in turmoil. With unlikely allies, his devious vassal Etna and the angel trainee Flonne, he must battle his way to supremacy to retake the throne and become the next Overlord. Experience the SRPG classic, now on PC!”

The main story campaign is separated episodically with each episode featuring new unique maps and the progression of the storyline. Though dialogue is quite short, we can easily learn and identify each character’s quirks and attitudes toward others. Laharl is arrogant, Etna is condescending, and Fionne is airheaded. Comedy is never lacking, making it enjoyable to read the text. especially with these types of characters.

In terms of gameplay, the maps look quite simplistic, but players shouldn’t assume the difficulty level is as easy as the map is plain. An innovative mind is useful in terms of further progressing in the game. However, no matter how complex a map is, it can always be overcome either by grinding more levels or through trial and error.

Gameplay isn’t just about moving your army and hitting enemies. Terrain and characters’ special abilities also play a major role. For example, using geo panels scattered across the map can change the flow of the game. Characters can also lift and throw others to reach further distances or even damage enemies. Team attacks can be made if allies are nearby and specials can be leveled up with constant use.

The game is a strategy RPG with a level cap of 9999, so exploring various different aspects will not only be fun, but gives players an advantage in progressing through the maps. You can create new followers for your army and try out various strategies with them. Lots of grinding is involved, but experimentation is also included so it won’t be tediously boring.

As for what Disgaea PC has new to offer, the most noticeable feature is the keyboard and mouse controls. Screen size can also be adjusted. Not only that, but a myriad of other features are now available such as character filters, map textures, screen end blur, depth of field, V-sync, SSAO, and many more. The amount of customisability allows players to adjust the game to whatever their preference. Steam perks such as achievements, cloud saves, badges, and trading cards are also included.

The Deluxe Dood Edition includes an artbook and soundtrack of the game which is available digitally through Steam or with physical copies available only for a limited time.

Verdict
Disgaea PC is a great game to be introduced to this beloved franchise because not only does it include all content from the Disgaea: Afternoon of Darkness remake, but also extra features. However, the sheer amount of customisability available can be overwhelming to those unfamiliar with strategic RPGs; with a level cap of 9999, the amount of grinding may sound daunting. However, the aforementioned content is more of a benefit than a setback because it allows players lots of freedom. Nonetheless, be ready to sink countless hours into this game if you want to fully experience what it holds. For a game originally released in 2003, Disgaea: Hour of Darkness underwent a number of makeovers to become the Disgaea PC we know today. Though gameplay cannot truly be modernised, it is still good enough to be still enjoyable to this day.
8.5
VERY GOOD