Astlibra Revision

ASTLIBRA: Revision is a 2D RPG side-scrolling video game released on Switch in November 2023, created by a solo Japanese video game developer KEIZO but with an initial release via free demo in February 2021 and via Steam in October 2022. Its creator said that it took 16 years to develop. . KEIZO, a "humble Japanese salaryman, started work on Astlibra because he felt there weren’t enough 2D action RPG games that filled the niche he most enjoyed", according to Gamer Network partner Nintendo Life.

Plot

Siliconera's Daniel Bueno describes the plot thus: Astlibra Revision follows an unnamed protagonist fleeing from a horde of demons attacking his hometown. After running away, he finds himself trapped in one of the vast uninhabited Frontier lands of the world, with the raven Karon as his only companion. The protagonist then embarks in an eight year journey with Karon to find his hometown and his childhood friend Anulis. As part of their journey, the duo finds the Libra scales, an artifact said to be able to change the past, and finally reach civilization.

Reception

The game had mixed, but generally positive reviews. Game Rant called the story "unique and captivating". Superpixel described the beginning of the game as "quite mundane," but "after a few weeks of in-game time, a rich worldview and comprehensive plot full of thoughtful twists slowly unfolds. Through Castlevania-style combat, players can complete the main quest and explore the dungeon."

RPGFan described it as a "mixed bag" but called the gameplay "superb" and said that the game does a "fantastic job of endearing you to the main character’s companions".

Entertainium said that it wasn't much of a looker, and that "most of the playtime will be spent leveling up all weapons and skills, as they require a fair amount of farming and grinding in order to acquire the required materials to use and the skills to level your arsenal up." It added that it was still "incredibly enjoyable".