Combat and Spells

Combat and Spells

Unfortunately the demo we got to see of Septerra Core did not include battle scenes. We do know that the interface will be very intuitive, and the battle engine is "clock-based," which is sort of a cross between turn based and real time. Basically, each character or monster, depending on their abilities, has a set reaction time after which they can execute a command. It is through these differences in reaction time that battle initiative (in other words, who gets to go first) is determined. Those of have played Final Fantasy VII are already familiar with how clock based combat works. In FF7 though, you could not issue an order to attack or cast a spell until your reaction bar reached the top. It remains to be seen whether orders can be given in Septerra Core while you're in between "turns." One nice feature of Septerra Core is that enemies are visible on the screen as you're walking around. It's possible to be able to run from or avoid a fight, so you won't be subjected to the sudden plunges into combat as in FFVII which got annoying after a while.

Detailed interior

The spell casting system of Septerra Core is based on "Fate Cards" which you will find along your journeys. The Fate Cards are reminiscent of the "materia" in Final Fantasy VII because like materia, different Fate Cards can be combined with others to create new and different effects. Paul informed us that using combinations, there will be over one hundred different spells that can be cast in Septerra Core. While the idea of Fate Cards borrows a bit from FFVII, the spell casting system in Septerra Core is unique in one big way. In many games, the number of times you can cast spells or use special abilities is limited by a "mana bar" or the number of "mana points" each character has. Septerra Core contrasts with the norm in that there is a shared pool of mana from which all your party members must draw energy to cast spells or use special abilities. This feature should create some interesting strategic elements to combat situations.

Gorgeous background

From what we've seen and heard about Septerra Core so far, we're quite excited by the prospects of this game. There's a lot to like about Septerra Core, not the least of which are the lush, beautiful graphics. Look for Septerra Core to appear on store shelves this fall. We'll keep you posted here on FiringSquad as to the progress of the game. In closing, treat yourself to some never before seen screenshots of Septerra Core!