LunarLux

LunarLux is an anime-inspired action RPG that takes players on an exciting adventure across a moon colony in the year 30XX. As the warrior Bella, you embark on a quest to destroy an antimatter comet headed straight for the moon before it wipes out all life.

With its hybrid turn and action-based battle system and expansive world to uncover, LunarLux delivers an enjoyable experience reminiscent of classic RPGs like Golden Sun and Mega Man Battle Network.

The game immediately draws you into its sci-fi world with its premise of humanity forced to colonize the moon after an apocalyptic event destroyed the Earth-like planet, Terra. You get a sense of wonder exploring the unique lunar locations and flying around in your customizable spaceship. The real-time combat adds a layer of urgency as you time your attacks against swarms of mysterious enemies called Murks.

Addictive Turn & Action Battle System

The unique battle system in LunarLux sets it apart from other turn-based RPGs. You select from over 40 Active Skills, with their own mechanics to master, and 30 Support Skills to create powerful Lux Combos. Once your Lux Meter fills after turns spent defending and using basic attacks, you can unleash one of 30 Lux Combos by stacking 3 Active Skills. Finding the right skill combinations through collectible recipes creates an addictive system of experimentation similar to Mega Man Battle Network.

The real-time action adds excitement, requiring precision as you try to maximize damage through timed button presses while avoiding enemy attacks. With numerous skills to choose from, no two battles play out the same. I loved discovering new Lux Combos and strategizing the best skills to defeat tough bosses.

Charming Retro Visuals

LunarLux mixes beautiful modern anime visuals with retro pixel art. The mini-games inside computer networks you hack into are rendered in a vibrant, nostalgic 8-bit style. It’s a treat to uncover each unique network with fun challenges like Geometry Dash-esque flying sequences or Breakout-style paddle games. The visual variety keeps these mini-game sections exciting every time.

Appealing Cast of Characters

As Bella, you team up with the witty robot sidekick Tetra who accompanies you on your quest. Your chemistry makes for humorous dialogue as Tetra guides you through missions. You also encounter intriguing rivals, like Murk Slayer, a treasure hunter seeking justice for crimes against him. There’s a sense of mystery around the relationships between characters that leaves you eager to progress the story.

It's been a while since a 2D RPG like this one has captivated me to this degree. Everything from the cast, the plot, and the engaging mechanics comes together to deliver a gaming experience that feels like something out of an early GBA title – and I loved every second of it. LunarLux is an entertaining action RPG that offers an exciting sci-fi adventure. Fans of classic anime-inspired RPGs shouldn’t miss out on this love letter to the genre.

Pros

• Unique real-time action battle system
• Great cast of characters
• Fun mini-game inside Networks

Cons

• Story starts slow
• Occasional difficulty spikes