Growlanser: Wayfarer of Time

Did You Know?

• A visual novel fan-disc, Growlanser IV: Wayfarer of Time - Return, containing three short stories, was released on PS2 in 2005.
• The game was directed by Shinjiro Takada, who also worked on Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Survivor.
• The original soundtrack was composed by Tomoyuki Hamada, with new tracks for the PSP version by Ryota Kozuka.

Gameplay

Wayfarer of Time uses an isometric perspective and traditional RPG exploration in towns, dungeons, and the world map, similar to the original Growlanser. Enemies appear on the world map and can be avoided. Each dungeon has a fixed layout except for the bonus dungeon, which is randomly generated. The equipment system centers on Ring Weapons, which are magic rings that transform into weapons based on the user's personality. Players acquire rings from defeated enemies and can equip different rings for stat bonuses and gem slots. Over 100 types of gems provide effects such as extra attacks, elemental defenses, increased range, or added spells. Each gem has an innate level that must match or be lower than the slot level in the ring, and its color must match the slot color. Equipping a gem with a learnable skill into a mismatched slot incurs penalties. There are 11 potential playable characters, but battles are limited to four party members. The fate system lets players save characters from death through decisions, unlocking additional endings. Dating sim elements allow the protagonist to improve or damage relationships via conversation choices and decisions. A character's portrait in the status menu reflects their relationship state. Familiars can reveal party members' opinions of the protagonist. The vacation system lets players spend time with party members to form friendships or romances. Completing a character's backstory quest unlocks ultimate armors, skills, and one of the 40 possible endings.

Synopsis

The game is set on the continent of Noievarl, divided into four countries resembling medieval Europe, which are at war with each other. South of the mainland lies Lamplast Island, where the Arten Schwart mercenaries defend Noievarl from foreign invaders. Two thousand years ago, a highly advanced civilization of magic and science was attacked by powerful Angels, nearly causing human extinction. The protagonist, Crevanille, a young mercenary raised at Arten Schwart, sees a seraph in the sky and recognizes it as a sign that the angels are returning. He sets out to battle the angels and save humanity, aiming to become the new Savior of Light: the Growlanser. The PSP version offers three story branches leading to different outcomes. Players can unlock unique epilogues for each playable character and most NPC allies by romancing or befriending them and completing their sidequests. Multiple endings can be achieved in one playthrough by reloading saves, but at least four playthroughs are needed to see every ending.