Terrain of Magical Expertise is a game about a game! Take on the role of a White-Hat Hacker in this non-linear, story-driven, RPG adventure, featuring an original turn-based combat system, hundreds of unique enemies, and a full cast of voice actors. Do all it takes to win the Campaign of Champions!
The game features a distinctive turn-based combat system that requires players to time button inputs for each attack and special ability. This "quick time event" mechanic adds an extra layer of engagement, as players must carefully coordinate their actions to maximize damage output. Reviewers praised this system for its strategic depth, noting that it encourages thoughtful party composition and ability rotations to overcome challenging battles.
Unlike traditional RPGs, this game does not use a leveling system. Instead, players progress by obtaining new equipment, skills, and abilities through exploration and defeating opponents. Many reviewers found this approach refreshing, as it eliminates the need for grindy combat encounters. However, some noted that this design choice can lead to difficulty spikes, as players cannot simply overpower themselves through repetitive combat.
Players can customize their protagonist's elemental affinity, class, and skill set, allowing them to tailor their playstyle. Reviewers highlighted the variety of available abilities and the ability to combine them into "Team Attacks" as particular strengths, as they add depth and strategy to the combat.
While the core gameplay loop was widely enjoyed, some reviewers encountered pacing issues, particularly in the later stages of the game. The lack of an experience system means that players must rely on mastering the combat mechanics, which can prove challenging for those less experienced with the genre. Additionally, the item management and power-up selection process was occasionally described as clunky or unintuitive.