Glory of Heraclesfor the Nintendo DS is a turn-based role-playing game rooted in Greek mythology, combining classic JRPG mechanics with a unique philosophical narrative. Originally released in Japan and later localized for Western audiences in 2010, this title is part of a long-standing but relatively obscure series known more widely in Japan. The DS installment reintroduces the franchise with updated visuals, touch screen interaction, and a thoughtful storyline centered around immortality, identity, and the burden of memory. For players seeking a story-rich RPG with a mythological twist,Glory of Heraclesoffers a distinct experience that blends traditional elements with deeper themes.
Story and Setting
The game begins with a mysterious young man who wakes up with no memory of his past. After surviving a catastrophic shipwreck and finding himself washed up on the shores of ancient Greece, he quickly discovers that he cannot die stabbed, drowned, or burned, he regenerates. Believed to be the legendary Heracles due to his immense strength and immortality, he embarks on a journey to uncover the truth of his identity.
Along the way, he is joined by other immortal characters, each with their own tragic backstory and reasons for their undying existence. The game’s narrative spans mythical cities and landscapes inspired by ancient Greece, weaving in gods, monsters, and philosophical questions about the soul and purpose. It’s a story that gradually unfolds through character interactions, flashbacks, and revelations about a war between mortals and divine beings.
Thematic Elements
- Immortality: Central to the plot, every main character is burdened with eternal life and seeks answers or redemption.
- Greek Mythology: The game borrows heavily from classical myths, featuring gods like Hades, Athena, and Poseidon.
- Existentialism: The story explores deep themes such as memory, free will, and the meaning of life without death.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Glory of Heracles DSfollows a traditional JRPG structure with turn-based battles, exploration, and character leveling. However, it introduces some unique mechanics that set it apart from other RPGs of its time.
Battle System
The combat system is turn-based, with characters taking actions in order based on their agility. Standard attacks, magic, and item use are available, but the standout feature is the ‘ether’ system and stylus-based mini-games.
- Ether System: Magic inGlory of Heraclesconsumes ether instead of MP. Each spell draws from five types of elemental ether pools (fire, water, wind, earth, and dark). Excessive use of one element will drain that pool and force characters to use ‘ether rebound,’ which can damage the caster.
- Spell Input Mini-Games: Casting a spell activates a short touch-screen mini-game. Successfully completing the mini-game enhances the spell’s power. These vary by spell and include tracing shapes, tapping, or timing-based challenges.
- Combo Attacks: Later in the game, players can unlock powerful team attacks that require characters to be positioned and timed correctly in battle.
Exploration and Progression
Outside of combat, players travel from town to town, exploring dungeons, gathering clues, and speaking to NPCs. The overworld map is navigated traditionally, while towns and dungeons allow for some puzzle-solving and hidden item discovery.
- Leveling: Characters level up through experience points and gain new skills and spells as they grow.
- Equipment: Weapons, armor, and accessories can be found or purchased to boost stats and resistances.
- Side Quests: Scattered across the game are optional objectives that provide background lore and helpful rewards.
Characters and Party Members
Throughout the journey, players encounter multiple characters who eventually join the party. Each one is an immortal, bearing their own burdens and mysteries. Their individual stories unfold through the main plot and side events, creating an ensemble of memorable personalities.
Main Characters
- Protagonist: The unnamed hero, believed to be Heracles, who seeks the truth of his immortality and past life.
- Leucos: A calm, intelligent swordsman with a mysterious past and deep knowledge of ancient texts.
- Aigis: A fiery warrior woman with a vengeful streak, driven by memories of betrayal.
- Eris: A lighthearted thief with a talent for magic and a carefree attitude that hides her sorrow.
- Axios: A reluctant immortal and powerful mage with ties to the divine realm.
As their stories interweave, players learn how each character connects to the gods and the ancient war that shattered the balance between mortals and immortals.
Visuals and Audio
For a Nintendo DS title,Glory of Heraclespresents detailed character sprites, atmospheric environments, and cinematic cutscenes during key story moments. The visual design reflects the Greek mythological setting with temples, statues, and Mediterranean architecture.
The soundtrack, composed by Yoshitaka Hirota and Yasunori Mitsuda (best known forChrono TriggerandXenogears), elevates the game’s emotional tone. Tracks vary from heroic and upbeat during battles to somber and mysterious in the temples and ruins. Voice acting is minimal, but the writing carries enough depth to build empathy and engagement.
Reception and Legacy
WhileGlory of Heraclesreceived mixed reviews upon release, it has since gained appreciation among RPG enthusiasts for its unique story, ether-based combat, and use of Greek mythology. Some critics pointed out the slow pacing and traditional mechanics as weaknesses, but others praised the philosophical narrative and thoughtful character development.
In Japan, theHeracles no Eikouseries had multiple entries across platforms, but the DS version was the only one officially translated into English. Despite its limited global exposure, it stands as a distinctive title in the DS RPG library and is often recommended for fans of mythologically inspired games likePersonaorFinal Fantasy.
Tips for New Players
- Balance Ether Usage: Don’t over-rely on one magic element mix spell types to avoid ether backlash.
- Practice Mini-Games: Take time to master the spell-casting mini-games for bonus damage and efficiency.
- Explore Thoroughly: Talk to every NPC and check every corner hidden items and lore await in unlikely places.
- Focus on Team Composition: Make use of each character’s strengths and equip them accordingly to survive tougher battles.
Glory of Heraclesfor Nintendo DS is a thoughtful, well-crafted RPG that blends traditional gameplay with a rich mythological world and deeper philosophical questions. Its combat system encourages strategic thinking, and its story rewards players who pay attention to detail and character development. While it may not have the recognition of other titles from the same era, it remains a hidden gem for fans of classic role-playing games and myth-inspired storytelling. For those looking to experience a unique journey into the world of Greek legends,Glory of Heraclesis a title worth revisiting.