Grand Kingdom is an exciting new strategy role-playing game (SRPG) available for PS4 and PSVita, developed by NIS America. I’ve been trying out the Vita version and wanted to share my thoughts. Though I’m still getting the hang of the mechanics and story, I’m having a blast smashing enemies in short and long play sessions.
The game is set on a war-torn continent ruled by four kingdoms. You lead a group of mercenaries seeking fame and fortune. Whether you dive into the story campaign, complete side quests for loot, or join online PvP wars, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
Battle System
The Grand Kingdom offers a refreshing take on battle mechanics. Instead of traditional grid-based combat, battles occur on three lanes in a turn-based setup.
- Movement & Strategy: Units move between the lanes to attack or dodge enemy strikes. Some can attack across lanes, depending on their range and skills.
- Battlefield Obstacles: The battlefield features objects like barrels and traps. You might need to destroy these to reach enemies, but be cautious—barrels can explode!
- Attack Classes: Each class has unique attack styles. Archers attack from afar, melee fighters up close, and mid-range units land somewhere in between. Be mindful of friendly fire—misfired attacks can harm your team, which can be frustrating.
The battle system is creative but has quirks. For example, targeting with ranged units can be tricky, and thrown objects don’t always land where you expect. Despite these issues, the combat feels fresh and fun.
Movement Phase
Outside of battles, you’ll explore maps that feel like grid-based game boards. As you move, you’ll encounter obstacles, treasure chests, enemies, and even siege weapons. Movement points (tracked by a counter) determine how far you can go, and battles reduce your available moves.
You can collect TP (tactical points) by winning battles, which can be spent on skills like revealing hidden items or altering the map. Timing your movements strategically allows you to avoid enemies or engage them where you have an advantage.
Units & Troops
The Grand Kingdom features 15+ classes, from swordsmen to gunners and mages. You can hire mercenaries to form troops (up to six teams, each with four members). Each character has unique stats and skills, which you can upgrade by leveling them up.
Customization is extensive, covering everything from gear and skills to appearance and battle formations. However, the characters you hire are more like assets than story-driven figures, which may feel impersonal to some players.
War & PvP
The game’s PvP aspect involves the four kingdoms constantly warring. As a mercenary, you can align with a kingdom, participate in battles, and earn rewards based on your contribution.
PvP involves completing tasks like gathering resources or defeating monsters. You can also dispatch troops for auto-battles, earning experience without active participation.
Conclusion
Grand Kingdom is a unique SRPG that blends tactical gameplay with innovative mechanics. It’s deep, fun, and perfect for anyone craving something fresh. While completing the game 100% might demand a significant time investment, it’s worth diving into for casual or dedicated play.