LISA has always been a very interesting case, alot of people went into the game expecting it to be like Earthbound. Which was praised for its cozy, feel good writing and quirky humor; on retrospect, its the exact opposite.
LISA is filled with Unnerving, Depressing writing and Pitch-Black Humor and numerous of Toxic themes such as Abuse, Rape and Murder. People wasn't expecting a retro styled 2D rpg to have content like this, which in turn drove people away from it, Leaving only those who enjoy a Earthbound-esque, Fist of the North Star-esque, Children of men-esque RPG's with wrestling and dark humor to enjoy it for all of what it had to offer.
The game-play for RPG maker standards is enjoyable and workable. It is however considered to be rather difficult due to its habit to ambush the player with large groups of enemies with healing items being rare. A combo system allowed for your main character (and optional party members) allowed for some input during battles. The 30 party members are all well rounded with unique styles and characteristics; allowing for some customization during multiple playthoughs. The Permadeath aspect of the game does however does mean the player has to be cautious of bosses since you never know which boss will be able to kill off a party member, and during one part of the game, you are forced to participate in a mini game which can unfairly wipe out your whole party if you are unlucky, resorting to save scumming. Aside from that, gameplay is run of the mill.
Both games have an amazing soundtrack, giving a mix between pumping battle tracks, nice calming over-world themes or daunting ambiance.
LISA is not for everyone. Its themes, its game-play difficulty and niche humor will drive some people off, but for those who enjoy that sort of game play and humor, will discover a rather unique heart-wrenching RPG with a story which will make you over look its unpolished and difficult design with awe.
Harsh, Cold and Painful.
LISA has always been a very interesting case, alot of people went into the game expecting it to be like Earthbound. Which was praised for its cozy, feel good writing and quirky humor; on retrospect, its the exact opposite.
LISA is filled with Unnerving, Depressing writing and Pitch-Black Humor and numerous of Toxic themes such as Abuse, Rape and Murder. People wasn't expecting a retro styled 2D rpg to have content like this, which in turn drove people away from it, Leaving only those who enjoy a Earthbound-esque, Fist of the North Star-esque, Children of men-esque RPG's with wrestling and dark humor to enjoy it for all of what it had to offer.
The game-play for RPG maker standards is enjoyable and workable. It is however considered to be rather difficult due to its habit to ambush the player with large groups of enemies with healing items being rare. A combo system allowed for your main character (and optional party members) allowed for some input during battles. The 30 party members are all well rounded with unique styles and characteristics; allowing for some customization during multiple playthoughs. The Permadeath aspect of the game does however does mean the player has to be cautious of bosses since you never know which boss will be able to kill off a party member, and during one part of the game, you are forced to participate in a mini game which can unfairly wipe out your whole party if you are unlucky, resorting to save scumming. Aside from that, gameplay is run of the mill.
The story of LISA is what many people see in this game, A very harsh and home-hittingly deconstruction of the Papa-Wolf cliché, as the player is in control of Brad, who is determined to rescue his daughter by any means. Causing him to do and be subjected to hellish acts. Characters are surprisingly in-depth, allowing you to piece together what exactly happened to this world you are placed inside.
Both games have an amazing soundtrack, giving a mix between pumping battle tracks, nice calming over-world themes or daunting ambiance.
LISA is not for everyone. Its themes, its game-play difficulty and niche humor will drive some people off, but for those who enjoy that sort of game play and humor, will discover a rather unique heart-wrenching RPG with a story which will make you over look its unpolished and difficult design with awe.