Create a party, layer on new classes, and uncover the mystery behind the seeming reappearance of a long-gone city in this classicly-styled RPG.
Players can create a party of 4 characters, each with access to 4 tiers of 8 distinct classes. This allows for extensive customization, as players can layer new classes on top of previous ones, retaining all learned skills and stat growths. However, equipment proficiencies change with each new class, encouraging thoughtful class selection to maintain optimal party synergy. The open-ended nature of the class system enables a wide variety of viable party builds and playstyles.
The turn-based battles require players to carefully consider their skills and abilities. Enemies possess strong counters to certain attack types, forcing players to adapt their strategy to each encounter. Status effects, such as debuffs and buffs, play a significant role, with effects stacking to create challenging battles. Random encounters are telegraphed by an on-screen meter, allowing players to plan their approach and manage their resources accordingly.
Navigating the game's dungeons is a highlight for many players. The complex, maze-like layouts often require players to mentally map or physically draw the dungeon floors. The encounter meter further complicates exploration, as players must be mindful of their steps to avoid unwanted battles. Scattered throughout the dungeons are puzzles and secrets, providing a sense of discovery and rewarding players for their attention to detail.
The game's encounter meter allows players to partially control random battles. By backtracking or taking specific paths, players can manipulate when the next encounter will occur. This degree of control over encounters helps mitigate frustration and encourages thoughtful exploration, as players can choose when to engage in combat.
The game's depth and replayability are consistently praised by players. The layered class system, with its diverse options and build possibilities, provides ample room for experimentation and multiple playthroughs. The challenging combat, which requires strategic thinking, further contributes to the game's compelling gameplay loop. With reported playtimes ranging from 30 to 60 hours, False Skies offers a substantial JRPG experience that keeps players engaged.