First of all let me just state that I am biased as this was... always one of my favorite game series of all time. Nonetheless it is a very fun tactical rpg with charming characters and a lot to offer. That being said about the game, I have to say, this Edition is absolutely lovely! Ok, it might not be the cheapest of all, but hey - you are buying a `Rosen Queen's Finest Limited Edition` ffs! The plushy is super nice, the pins are all high quality, the mousepad is wonderfully flat, and same praise can be said about the rest. If you are a fan of Disgaea, and were considering buying this -- just do it.
A (Now Cult Classic) SRPG, that delivers the goods...
A Cult Classic. It's l...ovely to see a hardcore (& somewhat niche) strategy JRPG getting proper attention. A big thank you goes out to NIS America & Nintendo for making these games available to a wider audience.
The switch quickly became the 'go-to' platform for excellent underground games like these. Also, the Switch has proven to be an excellent home for PS2 HD Remakes. I absolutely loved the HD editions of FF X & XII... (To experience PS2 Final Fantasy on a new Nintendo Console that's also portable...is something like a win, win, win.). Disgaea, like these games, is a PS2 RPG Classic.
This game is Excellent. Undoubtedly, it helped pioneer the slowly evolving tile based SRPG genre of the early 2000's. The Characters I feel are universally likeable. This is coming from a guy who wasn't very quick to embrace Disgaea's Art Style at the time. It won me over immediately & maybe will be s catalyst for you as well. The story is a lighthearted and somewhat humorous mystical affair, revolving around Angels, Demons, and other various Paranormal, & Supernatural beings. I believe they are fighting over who gets to rule Hell or something of this nature. Quite ridiculous and over the top, but genuinely funny in contrast to what are typically serious themes. These devilish/angelic inhabitants of the 'Underworld' are entertaining and should win you over or put a smile on your face. This is a very 'tongue in cheek' depiction of some Dysfunctional Metaverse dealing with multitudes of spiritually good & evil entities carrying out power struggles (As above, So Below).
Essentially, Disgaea is a Modern Classic and achieves this by simply and fundamentally relying on oldschool charm and SRPG gameplay. Disgaea appeals to the '~30 somethings' who grew up during the golden age of SNES or PS RPGs.
This game is menu driven strategy roleplaying, so this will have nothing to do with Kingdom Hearts, Star Ocean, or Even FF15.
Unlike action rpgs, Disgaea relies on it's engrossing turned based strategy gameplay. You can set up all your characters moves and then pull the trigger and watch all '13' of your teammates fire off with their attacks, moves, items, or spells. Disgaea allows you to kick back and strategize, allowing you to get lost for hours in class customization, attribute management, or up-leveling your demented hell-fiend. There is a silly story revolving around your characters trying to take control of the Underworld. Hell is an interesting, charming, and entertaining place that makes for a perfect video game setting).
Some of us playing these games don't honestly expect or need a sophisticated plot. Super Mario had the story mechanics down back in the day. When the game has that oldschool charm, it can get away with notable lot if depth. Not saying there isnt a plot here. You'll have to try out the game because it's got it's own brand certainly.
This game is all about building up your Avatars to insane levels (like 999,999) and dominating your enemies through careful thought, planning, and strategy. For many SRPG enthusiasts, deep customization and satisfying addictive gameplay is what counts at the end of the day.
☆What this game is Not☆
Flashy Graphics, Epic Story, Big Budget Production, Casual, & Mainstream. It's not Fire Emblem, FF Tactics, or XCOM etc. However like those titles, Disgaea puts itself on the map with it's unique brand, feel, style, and identity. It certainly has lasting power, and stood out in a sea of generic imitators, even in the PS2 era.
☆This is a true Classic JSRPG☆
Disgaea is a True Cult Classic. It can be considered a pioneer of the evolving strat-rpg sub genre. It's amazing to see these titles still getting exposure in Western Markets 15 years later...Why? Disgaea is a damn good game. Period. It's an artistic demonic satire from Japan. It's lasting power is cerebral and can be attributed to its engrossing gameplay. I'm so glad to see titles such as 'Disgaea' with a growing following in America. I believe newer generations of RPG enthusiasts will find a lot to embrace and learn from this title. With games such as Dragon Quest XI & Persona 5 becoming majorly recognized this generation, I feel the time is right to dive a little deeper and recommend more underground titles such as Disgaea. Apparently there's enough of an audience out there to warrant the ongoing releases of Niche titles like Disgaea.
Disgaea is a great addition to a well rounded RPG library. When it comes to SRPG's it's a serious contender that can hang with the big boys. Solid gameplay with a non-melodramatic plot, Disgaea never take itself too seriously.
I was skeptical of Disgaea's Art Style in the early days. Some may find the 'Underworld' to be too Bizarre. Others will embrace it and call it the best thing ever. For strategy rpgs-it's worth checking out just to get briefed on the series. When we support these titles, we get more of these titles. I hope this reviews helps answer some questions!
Is good to have the Disgaea 1 now in HD sprites.
...The gameplay is enjoyable as always, and having it for switch is much relaxing to grind some levels without the fear to lose any progress if you need to get up and no anything else.
