9th Dawn III

9th Dawn III is a fantasy action RPG set in a vast open world, offering players a mix of exploration, combat, and life simulation activities like fishing, mining, and blacksmithing. Developed by Valorware Ltd, the game is praised for its accessibility and depth, allowing players to immerse themselves in quests, crypts, and card games for hours on end. With real-time combat and a top-down perspective, it’s designed for both solo and split-screen multiplayer experiences across multiple platforms.

9th Dawn III: Review

Introduction

In the crowded landscape of modern RPGs, 9th Dawn III: Shadow of Erthil stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic, open-world fantasy adventures. Developed and published by Valorware, this 2D action RPG is the third installment in a series that has quietly cultivated a dedicated following. What sets 9th Dawn III apart is its ambitious scope, blending the nostalgic charm of retro pixel art with deep, modern RPG mechanics. This review will dissect the game’s development history, narrative depth, gameplay systems, world-building, and its lasting impact on the genre.

Development History & Context

9th Dawn III was released on October 5, 2020, across multiple platforms, including Windows, iOS, Android, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. Developed by Valorware, a studio led by solo developer Tom Au, the game is a remarkable feat of one-person development. The series began with 9th Dawn in 2012, followed by 9th Dawn II: Remnants of Casparia in 2016. Each iteration has expanded on the formula, refining mechanics and adding layers of complexity.

The game’s development was constrained by the technological limitations of its time, particularly given its mobile roots. However, Valorware’s vision was to create a seamless open-world experience that defied the typical confines of mobile gaming. The result is a game that feels expansive and immersive, despite its pixelated aesthetic. The gaming landscape in 2020 was dominated by high-budget, 3D open-world titles, making 9th Dawn III‘s retro approach a refreshing departure.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot and Characters

9th Dawn III drops players into the world of Cedaltia, tasked with investigating mysterious ghostly sightings around the Lake of Elmson. The narrative unfolds through a series of quests and interactions with NPCs, gradually revealing a foreboding prophecy and a corrupt king. The story is told through environmental storytelling and dialogue, allowing players to piece together the lore at their own pace.

The protagonist is a customizable hero, chosen to confront the untrustworthy King Lorwyck. Along the way, players encounter a cast of quirky characters, from barkeeps to blacksmiths, each contributing to the world’s rich tapestry. The dialogue is infused with humor and charm, adding depth to the otherwise straightforward fantasy setting.

Themes and Dialogue

The game explores themes of heroism, corruption, and the struggle against evil forces. The dialogue is witty and often self-aware, poking fun at classic RPG tropes while maintaining a sense of adventure. The narrative is not overly complex, but it serves as a compelling backdrop for the game’s extensive gameplay mechanics.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Core Gameplay Loops

9th Dawn III is a hybrid of action RPG and roguelike elements, set in a seamless open world. Players explore a vast landscape filled with crypts, fortresses, villages, and dungeons. The game features over 270 unique monsters to fight and capture, 1,400 uniquely drawn items, and a plethora of crafting and skill systems.

Combat and Character Progression

Combat is fast-paced and intuitive, with a twin-stick control scheme that allows for precise movement and attacks. Players can unlock spells and abilities, fine-tune attributes, and level up crafting abilities. The game features a deep character progression system, where players can allocate points to attributes like strength, endurance, wisdom, dexterity, and intelligence.

Crafting and Mini-Games

One of the game’s standout features is its extensive crafting system. Players can engage in activities like blacksmithing, fishing, mining, and alchemy. Each crafting mini-game involves a timing mechanic where players must keep a bar within a certain range to succeed. While this can be tedious, it adds a layer of depth to the gameplay.

The game also includes Fyued, an original card game with 180 collectible cards. Players can challenge NPCs to card battles, adding a strategic element to the experience.

UI and Accessibility

The user interface is functional but can be clunky at times. The map is fully revealed from the start, which can be both a blessing and a curse. While it helps with navigation, it removes some of the exploration excitement. The game’s controls are intuitive, with support for both keyboard/mouse and gamepad.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting and Atmosphere

9th Dawn III is set in the fantasy world of Cedaltia, a land filled with diverse biomes, from snowy regions to dense forests and perilous swamps. The world is seamlessly connected, allowing for uninterrupted exploration. The game’s pixel art style is reminiscent of classic RPGs like Ultima and Zelda, evoking a sense of nostalgia.

Visual Direction

The game’s visuals are a mix of retro and modern aesthetics. The character models and animations are simple but effective, and the environments are detailed and immersive. The game’s use of color and lighting creates a vibrant and engaging world.

Sound Design

The soundtrack is an original orchestral composition that complements the game’s fantasy setting. The music is epic and atmospheric, enhancing the sense of adventure. Sound effects are well-designed, with satisfying combat sounds and environmental cues.

Reception & Legacy

Critical and Commercial Reception

9th Dawn III received generally positive reviews from critics. Touch Arcade praised its accessibility and depth, while Starburst Magazine noted its remarkable achievement despite some shortcomings. The game’s commercial success was modest but steady, with a dedicated fanbase appreciating its ambitious scope.

Influence on the Industry

9th Dawn III has influenced subsequent games by demonstrating that a solo developer can create a rich, open-world RPG. Its blend of classic and modern elements has inspired other indie developers to explore similar themes. The game’s legacy lies in its ability to capture the essence of classic RPGs while innovating within the genre.

Conclusion

9th Dawn III: Shadow of Erthil is a remarkable achievement in indie game development. Its blend of classic and modern RPG elements, extensive crafting systems, and immersive world make it a standout title. While it has its flaws, particularly in its combat and crafting mechanics, the game’s depth and charm make it a must-play for fans of the genre. In the annals of video game history, 9th Dawn III stands as a testament to the power of passion and creativity in game design.