Tales of Arise
By David Chapman,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
A fantastic fantasy tale packed with fast-paced action.
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Tales of Arise
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What’s It About?
TALES OF ARISE is the latest entry in the Bandai Namco's fan favorite "Tales" role-playing game series. Since the dawn of time, the two worlds of Rena and Dahna have had to co-exist to survive. But for the past three hundred years, the citizens of Rena have reigned over Dahna, stripping the planet of its resources and forcing its people into a life of subjugation. When chance brings together two people from these two worlds, each cursed with unique inflictions, they find a common destiny together in the liberation of Dahna and in stopping a looming threat to both worlds. Teaming with others that share their cause, these heroes will need to rely on each other and their newfound friends as they make their stand against the Renan oppression. As part of the fan favorite "Tales" series, players can expect action packed encounters, as their party uses Chain Artes, Boost Attacks, and new Boost Strike combos to take down their foes in fast and flowing combat. And when not fighting, players can use enhanced "Skits" to dive deeper into the feelings of fellow party members, forming stronger bonds as a result. With their help, and with your own courage and strength, you'll uncover long hidden secrets and hopefully change the fate of two worlds.
Is It Any Good?
After a nearly five-year hiatus, this fan favorite series has finally returned. With its brand-new look, brand-new characters, and a brand-new story, Tales of Arise serves as a great entry point for newcomers while also keeping the fast-paced action and character bonding that serves as a love letter to longtime fans of the franchise. Visually, the game is like a work of art, with a mature and polished anime style that makes use of a vibrant palette of colors. The detail's phenomenal, especially on the PC and newer generation consoles, and the animations are silky smooth in motion. While there are some moments where the voice acting is a little dry or forced, most of it is superbly done and conveys a real sense of emotion and drama in the characters. Couple this with a deep and engaging story, and the game has all the makings of an epic cinematic fantasy.
Tales of Arise might have the presentation and plot down pat, but how does the gameplay measure up? For those unfamiliar with the series, it's the combat in the Tales games that's always stood out, and Tales of Arise is no different. Instead of the usual turn-based, menu-driven fighting of most RPGs (role-playing games), players here take control of their chosen lead party member and drop into fast-paced, button mashing, arcade style combat. The rest of the party fights of their own accord and can be called on for additional support or to take part in spectacular combo attacks. Years of tweaks and refinement to the Tales system take the spotlight here, creating a seamless blend of action and adventure that can appeal to a wide spectrum of gamers. It's got more than a little something for everyone and is an experience that doesn't disappoint.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about friendship and teamwork. What are some positive ways to work with others to overcome obstacles, and how can coming together in tough times help to build strong bonds of friendship?
What are some of the ways that violence is shown in video games? How can things like flashy animations and fantasy settings be used to show epic fight scenes without the need for graphic or detailed violence?
Game Details
- Platforms: PlayStation 4 , PlayStation 5 , Windows , Xbox One , Xbox Series X/S
- Pricing structure: Paid
- Available online?: Available online
- Publisher: Bandai Namco
- Release date: September 10, 2021
- Genre: Role-Playing
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy , Adventures , Friendship , Monsters, Ghosts, and Vampires
- ESRB rating: T for Alcohol Reference, Blood, Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence
- Last updated: September 8, 2021
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