If you’ve ever wondered what lies beyond the veil of life, Exist Archive: The Other Side of the Sky offers an unforgettable journey into the unknown. Developed by Tri-Ace, the masterminds behind Valkyrie Profile, and published by Aksys Games, this hidden gem blends gripping storytelling, strategic combat, and mesmerizing visuals into a single, cohesive experience.
Whether you’re a fan of complex narratives or tactical JRPG combat, Exist Archive is a title that deserves a place in your gaming library. Let’s dive into the sprawling tale, unique gameplay mechanics, and the reasons why it remains a must-play adventure.
The Enigmatic Tale of Life, Death, and the Divine
The story of Exist Archive begins with an explosion in modern-day Tokyo that claims the lives of 12 individuals, including the protagonist, Kanata Kujou. However, death is not the end for Kanata and his companions. They awaken in the mysterious world of Protolexa, a realm tied to the enigmatic god Yamatoga, who resides in a constant cycle of death and rebirth.
As the group struggles to understand their situation, they discover they’ve become vessels for fragments of Yamatoga’s power. These fragments grant them supernatural abilities but also tie them to a cosmic struggle involving gods, mortals, and the balance between worlds. The protagonists must decide whether to fight for their own survival, align themselves with Yamatoga’s ambitions, or find another way to escape their grim fate.
The narrative is rich with mystery, character development, and philosophical undertones, delving into themes of mortality, identity, and the consequences of divine intervention. With multiple endings shaped by the player’s choices, Exist Archive delivers a highly replayable story where your decisions truly matter.
Strategic Combat with a Twist
At the heart of Exist Archive is its engaging combat system, a spiritual successor to Valkyrie Profile. Battles are turn-based but infused with real-time mechanics that make every encounter dynamic and exciting. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Party Mechanics: Your team consists of up to four characters, each mapped to a specific button on the controller. Coordinating their attacks in sync can lead to devastating combos, keeping battles fast-paced and rewarding.
- Stamina Management: Characters share a stamina gauge that governs their actions. Properly balancing offensive and defensive strategies is essential for survival.
- Skill Customization: As characters level up, they unlock powerful abilities and passive bonuses, allowing you to tailor each party member to your preferred playstyle.
- Boss Battles: Towering bosses demand a mix of strategy, timing, and adaptability. These encounters serve as highlights, testing your mastery of the system.
The combat is easy to learn but offers depth for those willing to experiment, making it a core reason why Exist Archive stands out in the crowded JRPG landscape.
The Diverse Cast of Characters
The 12 protagonists are as varied as they are intriguing, each bringing their own personalities, skills, and struggles to the table.
- Kanata Kujou: The determined and empathetic main protagonist who quickly emerges as the group’s leader. His resolve to protect his friends drives much of the narrative.
- Ranze Miwakawa: A fiery and headstrong companion with a knack for martial combat, Ranze provides emotional moments and a fierce sense of loyalty.
- Mayura Tsukishiro: A gentle and supportive healer whose kindness anchors the team. Her selflessness and protective nature make her a vital part of the group.
- Kumako Shirosawa: The sharp and studious mage with a natural affinity for elemental magic. Kumako’s wisdom and calculated tactics are indispensable in battle.
- Tokihisa Kiriya: A stoic and powerful warrior who wields brute strength with precision. Despite his quiet demeanor, his actions speak volumes about his dedication to the group.
- Mitsuhide Yasakata: A calm and refined blade master with an eye for precision strikes. Mitsuhide’s composed demeanor contrasts with his deadly efficiency in combat.
- Ren Ogami: The reliable sharpshooter who excels at long-range attacks. Ren’s sharp wit and steady aim make him a crucial asset in the most challenging battles.
- Hazuki Mikage: A cynical yet immensely powerful mage with a penchant for sarcasm. Her explosive magic abilities often steal the spotlight in battle.
- Yui Mitosagi: The cheerful and optimistic fighter who combines magical offense with healing support. Yui’s boundless energy and hope inspire the group during dire times.
- Nagi Shiohara: The reserved and enigmatic debuff specialist. Nagi’s subtle yet impactful contributions often turn the tide of battle in the team’s favor.
- Hikasa Inomiko: A strong and protective fighter who balances defensive tactics with reliable offense. Hikasa’s unwavering resolve makes her a dependable ally.
- Amatsume: The mysterious and otherworldly figure whose mystical powers provide unique advantages. Amatsume’s calm wisdom often serves as a guiding force for the group.
Each character has their own backstory and motivations, revealed gradually through the story and side quests. These narratives deepen your emotional connection to the cast, making their struggles and triumphs feel personal.
Multiple Endings and Player Choice
One of Exist Archive’s most intriguing features is its branching storyline and multiple endings. Your choices throughout the game—not only in dialogue but also in how you manage relationships and tackle specific challenges—affect the final outcome. Will you align with Yamatoga’s power, or will you find a way to defy the gods? These varied conclusions encourage multiple playthroughs to uncover every secret Protolexa has to offer.
A Visual and Auditory Feast
- Art Style: The game’s colorful, vibrant environments bring the alien beauty of Protolexa to life. From lush forests to surreal ruins, the world feels both otherworldly and inviting.
- Soundtrack: Composed by Motoi Sakuraba (Tales of series, Dark Souls), the music perfectly complements the game’s tone, blending ethereal melodies with intense battle themes.
- Platforming Elements: Exploring dungeons includes platforming sections reminiscent of Valkyrie Profile, adding variety to the gameplay.
Why Play Exist Archive Today?
- A Hidden Gem: Despite flying under the radar, Exist Archive delivers a compelling story and polished mechanics worthy of any JRPG fan’s attention.
- For Fans of Valkyrie Profile: If you love Tri-Ace’s classic, this spiritual successor carries its legacy while adding modern touches.
- Engaging Combat: The fusion of turn-based strategy with real-time elements ensures that every battle feels dynamic and rewarding.
- High Replayability: With multiple endings and character-specific content, there’s always something new to discover.
- Visually Stunning: Even years after its release, Exist Archive remains a treat for the eyes and ears, thanks to its artistic design and stellar soundtrack.
In the vast cosmos of JRPGs, Exist Archive: The Other Side of the Sky shines as a star worth exploring. Its unique blend of deep storytelling, strategic combat, and beautiful visuals creates a memorable experience that lingers long after the credits roll. Dive into Protolexa and uncover its secrets—you won’t regret the journey.
