The Nintendo SNES is a legendary console that has captured the hearts of many gamers around the world. Released in 1995, it was one of the most powerful consoles of its time and boasted an incredible library of games that still hold up today. One of the most underrated titles on the SNES is Secret of Evermore, a role-playing game (RPG) developed by Square (now Square Enix). This game has gained a cult following over the years, and for good reason – it's a true hidden gem.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of Secret of Evermore, exploring its story, gameplay, and what makes it so special. We'll also take a look at its age rating in Germany and how it compares to other countries.

Story

Secret of Evermore takes place in a fantasy world where magic and technology coexist. The game follows the journey of two main characters: Max and Sylveon. Max is a young man who possesses a magical artifact known as "The Seal," which allows him to wield powerful magic. Sylveon, on the other hand, is a mysterious woman with her own unique abilities.

Together, they embark on a quest to save their world from an ancient evil that threatens to destroy it. Along the way, they encounter various allies and enemies, each with their own motivations and backstories. The story is full of twists and turns, keeping players engaged and invested in the characters' journeys.

Gameplay

Secret of Evermore is a traditional RPG at its core, with turn-based combat and exploration elements. Players control Max and Sylveon as they navigate through dungeons, forests, and cities, interacting with non-playable characters (NPCs) and collecting items and resources.

Combat is turn-based, with players taking turns attacking or casting spells on their enemies. The game features a unique magic system, where players can combine different magical elements to create powerful spells. However, this also comes with risks – using certain spells can lower the player's magical defense, making them more vulnerable to attacks.

Exploration is also a key aspect of Secret of Evermore. Players can explore various environments, from forests and deserts to cities and ruins. Each location has its own unique challenges and secrets, such as hidden items or NPCs with valuable information to share.

Graphics and Soundtrack

The graphics in Secret of Evermore are typical of the SNES era – 16-bit, with a color palette that's both vibrant and muted at times. However, this also means that some characters and environments can appear somewhat pixelated compared to modern games.

Despite this, the game's visuals hold up surprisingly well today, especially considering its age. The character designs are memorable, and the backgrounds are full of interesting details that reward exploration.

The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of orchestral and chiptune tracks that complement the game's atmosphere perfectly. Composed by Yoko Shimomura (known for her work on Disney's Kingdom Hearts series), the music is both catchy and emotive, adding depth to the game's narrative.

Reception

Secret of Evermore received mixed reviews upon its release in Japan and later in Europe and North America. While some critics praised the game's unique magic system and engaging story, others found the combat and exploration to be somewhat shallow compared to other RPGs of the time.

However, over the years, Secret of Evermore has gained a loyal following among fans of traditional RPGs. Its cult status can be attributed to its challenging difficulty, addictive gameplay, and an intricate narrative that rewards close attention and patience.

Age Rating in Germany

As with any game released in Germany, the age rating for Secret of Evermore is determined by the German Federal Ministry of Culture and Media (BKM). In 2014, the BKM issued a ruling regarding video games and their content, which has been updated since then.

According to the current guidelines, Secret of Evermore carries an age rating of "18+" in Germany. This means that players under the age of 18 are not permitted to purchase or play the game without parental consent.

The reasons behind this rating are largely due to the game's depiction of violence, mature themes, and some suggestive content (e.g., certain NPC interactions). However, it's worth noting that these elements are relatively mild compared to many modern games, and players under 18 can still enjoy Secret of Evermore with proper guidance from a parent or guardian.

Conclusion

Secret of Evermore is an underappreciated gem on the Nintendo SNES, offering a unique blend of magic, exploration, and RPG combat. While it may not be as well-known as some other titles in its library, this game has earned a loyal following among fans of traditional RPGs.

If you're looking for a challenging yet rewarding gaming experience that will keep you engaged for hours on end, Secret of Evermore is definitely worth checking out. Its age rating in Germany carries an "18+" warning due to some mature themes and suggestive content, but with proper guidance from a parent or guardian, players under 18 can still enjoy this fantastic RPG.

In summary, Secret of Evermore is a hidden gem that has aged remarkably well. With its intricate narrative, addictive gameplay, and memorable soundtrack, it's an experience you won't soon forget.

Trivia

• Yoko Shimomura was just 20 years old when she composed the music for Secret of Evermore.
• The game's story was heavily influenced by Japanese folklore and mythology.
• The character designs were inspired by traditional Japanese art styles, such as ukiyo-e woodblock prints.
• Secret of Evermore has appeared on numerous "Best RPGs" lists over the years, including those from Electronic Gaming Monthly (EGM) and IGN.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Secret of Evermore is a must-play for fans of traditional RPGs. With its unique magic system, engaging story, and addictive gameplay, this game offers an unforgettable experience that will keep you hooked until the very end.