Review of “ASTLIBRA Gaiden: The Cave of Phantom Mist”

Initial release date: October 17, 2024

Developer: KEIZO

Platform: Nintendo Switch

Publisher: WhisperGames

Astlibra Revision was an action RPG that caught many players off guard. It was an epic vision by a humble developer with dreams befitting the IMAX format. The plot revolved around an unidentified hero and his talking crow Karon, who embarked on a years-long quest including time travel, demons, and plenty of coarse comedy and obscene jokes.

Astlibra was more than just an unexpected anime fever dream with glimpses of large-breasted angels; it also had fighting and RPG mechanics similar to Vanillaware’s games. For a hobbyist-made game, it felt like something from a game industry veteran. It immediately gained a dedicated cult following, and a DLC side narrative was produced on PC.

Astlibra Gaiden can be enjoyed without having previously played Astlibra Revision. This could explain why the developer released it as a standalone game on Nintendo Switch. What might players expect from this combat-focused action RPG? How is this dog communicating? Why does the music sound so great? Find out more in our Astlibra Gaiden: The Cave of Phantom Mist review!

Astlibra Gaiden: The Cave of Phantom Mist revolves around a humble baker girl. In any other JRPG, this character would have been an NPC you spoke with once and then forgot about as you moved on to fight some dragon in a Goddamned enormous dungeon. In Astlibra Gaiden, the random NPC that lives in the bakery is on a psychedelic voyage, diving deep into a space-bending cave adorned with all the horrors of hell.

The tale is simple and intended to encourage arcade-style action as players progress further into the randomized floors of the Cave of Phantom Mist. The rogue-lite mechanics are extremely forgiving if the baker dies in the cave. She gets to keep practically everything she earns, and there are no penalties for leaving.

The baker’s only loss when she leaves or dies is that her level is reset to one. Not that it will matter much because the growth system in Astlibra Gaiden is extremely deep and inherited from Astlibra Revision. All weapon skills, all money, and the majority of power-up crystals are retained, allowing players to level up base stats and increase stat growth.

It won’t matter whether the protagonist returns to level one because after a few level-ups, she becomes immensely powerful. It’s satisfying to see a lowly baker village woman transform into an all-powerful Valkyrie of doom, throwing gravity spells and executing devastating combinations.

If you’ve already played Astlibra Revision, you’ll be familiar with the game mechanics and leveling systems. Gaiden is unique in that the rogue features allow players to avoid committing to a single play style because the baker maiden is always reset to level one. The randomized gameplay encourages improvisation, keeping players on their toes.

Customization is broad and nearly endless. There are several types to pick from that provide large base stat builds. This is useful for players who have invested extensively in strength but have decided to give magic a try. Polin, the protagonist’s talking dog, also gains passive powers for the hero, similar to the ability system in Final Fantasy IX. Regardless, it always feels like players are striving to progress.

The equipment and battle mechanisms differ from those of Astlibra Revision, and while some talents are shared, new ones are introduced that stress a magical, caster-focused playstyle. This new technique proved to be both pleasant and effective, providing a welcome difference.

The conflicts in the Cave of Phantom Mist are a cacophony of undead and eldritch abominations clashing with the fat end of a blade and searing flames frying their skin. The fighting was one of the highlights of Astlibra Revision, and it still stands out in Gaiden due to the emphasis on magical attacks and cathartic explosive effects.

Customization also includes cosmetics. The baker maiden’s outfit can be changed, so players are not confined to her basic frock and apron. The clothing shop’s options are wide, with sections divided into hairstyles, accessories, tops, and bottoms. There are classics like witch hats and maid dresses, but there are also some incredibly hot options, such as Japanese high school bloomer shorts and fetish gear.

Gamers will not be dissatisfied with the variety of options for customizing the protagonist. It can be a bit of a grind to get some of the more sexy options, but it is well worth it because the artists have improved since Astlibra Revision. The characters’ movements are smooth and captivating, transporting the viewer to a world of infinite imagination.

The backdrops might sometimes resemble a collage of pictures on numerous layers to convey depth. The dungeon floors aren’t often visually appealing, thanks to some harsh sprite tiling. The unique visual style takes some getting accustomed to, but once you do, it becomes an integral part of Astlibra’s character.

The audio design is strong and visceral. Every metallic collision and tremendous roar vibrates physically, adding to the overall experience. The parry sound is especially pleasant, emphasizing the weight and severity of the actions. The music resembles a raucous anime entrance, with wailing electric guitars and frenzied rhythms set against vivid azure skies.

Anyone who likes Astlibra Revision will appreciate this fantastic side tale in ASTLIBRA Gaiden: The Cave of Phantom Mist.

While the tale isn’t particularly memorable, the action is exciting, and the cycle of dashing through the cave is stimulating. Obtaining the sexy clothes is the true quest of the game, and it will take players well over 20 hours to earn, which is a great deal for ten dollars.

Review Overview

Gameplay: 90%

Controls: 87%

Aesthetics: 85%

Content: 88%

Accessibility: 83%

Value: 89%

Overall: 87%

VERY GOOD

Summary:

“ASTLIBRA Gaiden” offers a retro-inspired action-RPG experience that is both nostalgic and new. With its rich pixel-art look and fascinating action, the game transports players to a world full of mystery, obstacles, and rewards. The blend of fast-paced fighting, platforming, and RPG components keeps the action interesting, while the complex narrative deepens the adventure. Some precision platforming and occasional retracing may challenge patience, but the overall experience is very enjoyable. Fans of classic action-RPGs will enjoy its extensive customization and strategic gameplay.