Items of Import: Sigma Harmonics preview part 3
Battles
As can be seen in the screen above, battles in Sigma Harmonics are played out using Neon's cards. As the Card Wielder, Neon is tasked to fight against the Ouma, while the player as Sigma directs her.
On the left screen of the battle, a radar is shown which gives a directional idea of where the enemies are placed on the field. This is important since when Neon attacks, the player must select the direction of the Ouma as well. In contrast, on the menu screen of the battle, cards are displayed which can be unleashed to wield various attacks and spells.
Also, one can see two bars above the cards -- the "gauge" and the "equalizer." The green gauge is basically a representation of the game's Active Time Battle system -- now a commonplace mechanic in Square Enix's other franchises. Once this turns pink, the player is free to choose between the different cards. The purple "equalizer" bar moves up and down depending on the background music, which is crucial in turning the tide of the battle.
When a player selects to change the music, it is essentially Sigma playing a different tune during the battle. Yes, while Neon is risking her life battling demons, Sigma is setting the right mood for her. What a guy! Music changes the tempo of the equalizer, and as I've mentioned in the last paragraph, it gives the player an advantage in battle.
Last thing of note is "Job Change." When this is chosen during battle, Neon is "possessed" and transforms into different jobs. This allows her to wield different weapons and also changes her stats. It also makes different cards appear in the heat of battle, which might give the player an edge.
Closing Off
As an original creation from Square Enix, Sigma Harmonics is one to keep an eye on. As readers will probably surmise from reading this edition of Items of Import, this title might be something to hold off on importing unless you are well-versed in the Japanese language. Although it has been unannounced for an international release yet, it's definitely something to watch for. With its stylistic pseudo-19th century alternate Tokyo setting and interesting mix of gameplay mechanics of roleplaying and detective work, Sigma Harmonics is a game that's sure to build somewhat of a fanbase. I hope you've enjoyed this preview-tastic edition of Items of Import!
Items of Import is a weekly column dedicated to titles only out in Japan. With in-depth impressions of games long before localization and knowledgeable language how-tos, it attempts to bridge the gap between the import savvy and import fearing. Come on, now! You, too, can make that giant leap! Yokoso!
