The Nintendo SNES is a beloved gaming console that was released in the early 1990s. It had an impressive library of games, including some unique and lesser-known titles like Secret of Evermore. In this article, we will delve into the world of Secret of Evermore, a cult classic that has garnered a lot of attention from gamers and retro enthusiasts alike.

Secret of Evermore is an action RPG developed by Square (now Square Enix) and published by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The game was released in 1995 and was initially only available in Japan. However, due to its popularity, it was later re-released in North America and Europe, with some modifications.

Storyline

The game takes place in a fantasy world where players control three main characters: Loto, Ayla, and Yang. Each character has their own unique abilities and strengths, which are crucial to the gameplay. The story revolves around an ancient curse that threatens to destroy the world, and it's up to the trio to find the source of the curse and break it.

Gameplay

Secret of Evermore features a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Players can explore various environments, including forests, mountains, and dungeons, while fighting against monsters and collecting items. The game also includes a day-night cycle and weather system, which affects the behavior of enemies and the availability of certain items.

One of the unique aspects of Secret of Evermore is its character-switching mechanic. Players can switch between Loto, Ayla, and Yang at will, using their different abilities to overcome obstacles and defeat enemies. This mechanic allows for a high degree of strategy and depth in gameplay.

Graphics and Soundtrack

The game's graphics are typical of the SNES era, with 16-bit visuals and detailed backgrounds. While not as impressive as some other games on the console, Secret of Evermore's graphics still hold up today, and its character designs are memorable and iconic.

The soundtrack, composed by Yoko Shimomura, is also noteworthy. The music is catchy and atmospheric, perfectly capturing the mood and atmosphere of each environment. The sound effects, such as the sword-fighting noises and enemy sounds, add to the game's overall immersive experience.

Age Rating

Secret of Evermore has been rated by various age rating organizations, including ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) and PEGI (Pan European Game Information).

• In Japan, Secret of Evermore was initially rated A (suitable for all ages) by the Japanese rating board CERO.
• In North America, the game received a rating of E (Everyone) from the ESRB, indicating that it's suitable for players of all ages.

In Europe, the game was rated PEGI 7+, which means it contains mild violence and fantasy elements suitable for players aged 7 and above.

Reception

Secret of Evermore received generally positive reviews upon its release. Reviewers praised the game's engaging story, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay. However, some critics noted that the game's graphics and sound were not as polished as other titles on the SNES.

Over time, Secret of Evermore has gained a cult following among retro gamers and enthusiasts. The game's unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat has made it a beloved classic among many fans of action RPGs.

Legacy

Secret of Evermore is often overlooked in favor of other Square Enix titles like Final Fantasy VI or Chrono Trigger. However, its influence can be seen in later games such as Chrono Cross and Final Fantasy X-2, which share similar elements and mechanics.

The game's character-switching mechanic has also been praised for its innovative design and depth. It allows players to approach challenges from different angles, using the unique abilities of each character to overcome obstacles.

Conclusion

Secret of Evermore is a hidden gem in the SNES library, offering an engaging and addictive gameplay experience that still holds up today. With its memorable characters, catchy soundtrack, and innovative mechanics, it's no wonder why this cult classic has gained such a loyal following among retro gamers.

If you're looking for a new game to play on your SNES or emulator, Secret of Evermore is definitely worth checking out. Its unique blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat makes it an enjoyable experience that will keep you hooked until the very end.