Eternal Filena, also known as "Eien no Filerna" or "Hot Review about Nintendo SNES Eien no Filerna (Japan) [En by Satsu v0.98]," is a fan-made translation of the Japanese game "Eien no Filena," which was released on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in Japan. The game was originally developed and published by Capcom, but due to its limited success and poor sales, it has become a cult classic among retro gamers.
In this article, we will delve into the world of Eternal Filena, exploring its unique gameplay mechanics, its interesting history, and its current availability for English-speaking audiences.
The Game's Background
Eien no Filena was first released in Japan on March 30, 1995, as a pack-in game with the release of the Super Famicom Mini console. The game was developed by Capcom's legendary director, Shinji Mikami, who is also known for his work on other iconic survival horror games such as Resident Evil and Silent Hill.
The gameplay in Eternal Filena takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where players must survive against hordes of zombies and other enemies in a desperate bid to reach the final destination. The game features a unique blend of exploration, platforming, and combat mechanics that were relatively innovative for its time.
Gameplay Mechanics
One of the most interesting aspects of Eternal Filena is its gameplay mechanics. Players can choose from four different character classes, each with their own set of abilities and strengths. These classes include:
- Soldier: A well-rounded fighter with medium health and damage output.
- Assassin: A stealthy assassin with high damage output but low health.
- Medic: A healer who can restore health to other players in the party.
- Engineer: A support character who can repair equipment and build structures.
Players must navigate through a series of levels, each with its own unique challenges and enemies. The game features a day-night cycle, which affects the behavior of the zombies and other enemies. During the day, these enemies are more aggressive and difficult to defeat, while at night they become slower and easier to kill.
The Fan-Translated Version
Due to the game's limited success in Japan and its poor sales, Eternal Filena was never officially released outside of Japan. However, a fan-made translation by Satsu v0.98 has made the game accessible to English-speaking audiences.
Satsu's translation is considered one of the best fan-translations available for retro games, with high-quality writing and accurate translations that capture the spirit of the original Japanese text. The translation includes all the original dialogue, cutscenes, and even the game's infamous "debug mode" which was not included in the original release.
The Availability of Eternal Filena
Eternal Filena is currently available for download on various platforms, including the Internet Archive and RetroArch. However, due to its age and rarity, the game can be difficult to find, and the fan-translated version by Satsu v0.98 may not be the only one available.
For those interested in playing Eternal Filena, it is essential to note that the game's availability can vary depending on your region and the platform you use. Some versions of the game may require specific emulation settings or software to function correctly.
The Age Rating
Eternal Filena carries a rating of 18+ from the Japanese government due to its graphic violence, gore, and mature themes. However, the fan-translated version by Satsu v0.98 has received universal acclaim for its high-quality translation and faithfulness to the original text.
In terms of content, Eternal Filena features a mix of horror elements, including zombies, monsters, and other enemies that are sure to unsettle even the most seasoned retro gamers. The game's dark atmosphere and jump scares will appeal to fans of survival horror games like Resident Evil and Silent Hill.
Conclusion
Eternal Filena is a cult classic among retro gamers who have managed to track down the fan-translated version by Satsu v0.98. This unique game offers an engaging blend of exploration, platforming, and combat mechanics that are sure to appeal to fans of survival horror games.
While Eternal Filena's availability may be limited due to its age and rarity, it is essential for any retro gamer interested in exploring the depths of classic Nintendo games. The fan-translated version by Satsu v0.98 is an excellent example of the dedication and passion that goes into creating high-quality translations for obscure games.
Overall, Eternal Filena is a must-play experience for fans of survival horror games and retro gaming enthusiasts who are looking to explore new horizons.