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Dragon Force is a cross between an
RPG and a turn-based strategy title. While its foremost attention is
towards combat and exploration, there is enough character progression
and similar elements to give it an RPG style as well. From the beginning
you must select one of 8 generals, with each having their own style
(Knights, Monks, Fairies, Ninjas, etc...) and each have their own
starting territories. The territories vary in size and vantage point, as
do relations with your neighbours. Broken down into two segments -
Action and Domestic, gamers will get a chance to plan out their moves
carefully.
In Domestic Mode, your general will be able to promote generals (which
allows them to command more troops), give them special items to either
make them stronger or to allow them to command a different type of
troop, talk to prisoners to sway them to your side, but be weary, some
un-promoted generals and turned-prisoners will flee and become a
terrible enemy. This is also where you can fortify castles, and this
plays a major role. When a castle is fortified it grows larger and can
hold more troops. These troops can later be recruited and having key
routes secured with strong castles can be a major advantage Finally,
this is also where you can search for artifacts in your castles and also
save/load your game.
In Action Mode, your general with fight for power with the other
generals and the roaming enemies of the land. Instead of being a set
background with menus, combat is taken care of on the world map. Their
general represents your troops and they walk on set paths to other
territories and castles. When one general meets another, the combat
screen comes up with various formations and once the battle is underway,
you are left with either advance, stay, or retreat. During this time,
the opposing generals can use their magic to pave a way for their troops
victory, and if time runs out without a victor, the generals slug it out
in an automated fight. As your generals win and are promoted to higher
ranks, they can train larger amounts of troops, different types of
troops, gain strength, and learn new spells. This time is also when much
of the story will begin and finish in Domestic Mode, but it gives just
enough of a peak to let the gamer know that something interesting is
happening.
Over all a wonderful game that's only overshadowed by the release of
Dragon Force II.
Below you can see one side of the map that comes with the game.
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