Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack Review

Review of Deluxe Pack Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy

The Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack includes: Atelier Ryza games– three classic titles from Atelier franchise. These games combine the action-RPG gameplay with the slow-burn fantasy that the Atelier games do so well. And that doesn't even get into the extensive crafting system, which gets more complex with each release.

On Kurken Island, a girl named Ryza dreams of adventure. As she and her friends sneak away to the mainland, she encounters the power of alchemy.

Riza wants to become an alchemist so she can do something meaningful and help her friends achieve their dreams. But his power is tied to the mysterious relics of the extinct Klint civilization. And if Riza is not careful, the tragedies that once left this land in ruins could come back to haunt everyone.

Each game follows Riza at a different point in her life. It's really interesting to revisit her after her first journey of growing up and see where she goes next. The character development feels very natural, and it's nice to see Kurken Island slowly develop thanks to Riza's efforts.

Exciting cycle

The Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy games are role-playing games with a real-time combat system that relies on both careful planning and button mashing. The details change with each part, and by the third part the combat becomes almost like a rhythm game. It's important to keep track of what character you're currently playing as, what items they have, and what they can do to make a difference for everyone else.

Gameplay alternates between collecting and crafting. As you explore the world, you look for items that can be used in crafting. And as you create, you imagine how useful your creations will be when explored. There are drugs that are less addictive than this core gameplay loop.

Riza discovers new recipes through shopping, exploration, and story progression. Crafting items from these recipes increases her alchemy level and allows her to create more complex items.

Each game adds new tweaks and variations to the basic crafting mechanics. However, just like combat, each of Riza's adventures complement each other perfectly. Don't worry about having to relearn everything every time you play.

Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack Contains Wonders

The Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack includes new playable characters and scenarios. It also includes previous DLC, UI changes, and many quality of life improvements. The result should be the definitive way to play Atelier Ryza games.

The environment graphics and background character animations can be a little odd, but the main cast looks great. The character designs have held up quite well. Even the deliberately edgy designs of Empel and Leela contrast nicely with the more subdued appearance of Riza and company.

And these games have really great soundtracks. The sound design does a great job of conveying the wonders of Ryza as her world grows larger. The setting of each game seems surprisingly vibrant. Kurken Island isn't as big as the worlds of some Atelier games, but it feels very homely. And when Riza goes to a new place, the whole atmosphere changes and her curiosity is easily captured. Wherever she goes, the music is always beautiful.

As usual, you won't get much money for fighting monsters. To raise funds, you will have to master the crafting system, which becomes more difficult with each game. From traits to recipe morphs, there are almost endless customization options.

The fast travel options aren't as convenient as those found in later Atelier games, but they do make the game feel more dynamic. Ironically, I didn't abuse them much. After all, walking is important for gathering.

Cold world, warm hearts

The Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack games are quite slow. They focus on daily life, getting to know Riza's friends and family, and building community. However, that doesn't mean they don't want to touch on mature topics.

From depression to alcoholism to the horrors that once destroyed a civilization that used alchemy, there's a lot going on in Ryza's world. It is a sign of strength that Riza and her friends try to face each day with a smile despite this. Riza's development from stubborn teenager to burned-out adult and pillar of her town is a joy to watch.

Additional episodes add additional story and character development to each game. Each game also features some cute DLC outfits, although most of them are just palette swaps. And there are some neat new maps, battles, and playable characters.

The first game is dated, but most of its problems are solved by various quality of life improvements. However, the first game has a lot of loading screens. They last long enough to be annoying every time.

Overall, Atelier Ryza Secret Trilogy Deluxe Pack is the best way to enjoy these classic JRPGs and their crafting systems. I recommend these games to anyone who has a JRPG shaped hole in their life.

***Steam code provided by publisher***