Evolution is a true rollercoaster of a game. However, probably not in the way you are thinking. Evolution both amazed and disappointed us in equal measure. While it never really developed into the top-tier title we were hoping for, it did show flashes of brilliance and sustained an above-average glow throughout its all too short journey.
Initially, I sat simply awestruck as I watched the opening animation flow seamlessly into the in-game graphics. This, I thought, is the future of RPG's with incredible graphics and beautiful backgrounds.
Evolution then quickly introduced us to some of the main characters. Mag Launcher, the young adventurer following closely in his fathers footsteps. Linear Cannon, the lovely, shy blond companion of Mag. Chain Gun, Mag's Jealous rival, and finally, Gre Nade, Mag's Butler, best friend, and protector.
As the story unfolds, you find that Mag and his family have worked themselves into some serious debt during their quest for the mysterious Cyberframe, Evolutia. Throughout your adventures as Mag, you must pay off your debt and continue in the quest for Evolutia. While not the most intriguing story, it is a nice break from the time-to-save-the-world cliché.
The Cyberframes are one of the most intriguing parts of Evolution. Each one is a unique look to it and can be upgraded and modified. By adding slots and then, in turn, attaching parts, you can learn new abilities and powers. With a solid plot, an interesting weapon system and an outstanding look, I could not wait to begin our adventures.
We flew off to the first set of ruins and began our assent to the top of the tower. Each Level was mapped for us by the game, taking away the fear of getting lost or backtracking for hours. Each enemy was fully visible on the screen permitting us to pick and choose our encounters. Combat was also a pleasant surprise. Evolution features a classic turn based battle system with a few interesting alterations. One alteration is a 'turn gauge' with a small icon representing each character and enemy. Using these icons it shows in what order they will take their turn. Until we actually played Evolution and experienced this gauge, we never realized how much it can add to a title. It soon became an irreplaceable part of our attack and defend strategy.
As I progressed from level to level we soon became disheartened by the lack of true save points. While you can save at the end of each floor, this save is temporary and can only be continued from once. Also disconcerting was the bland layout and repetition found on each floor of each dungeon. Each floor was a randomized collection of halls and room with no real rhyme or reason. Since 90% of the less than 30 hours of gameplay is spend in these linear dungeons, it left us wanting more plot, more diversity, and less tedious dungeon crawling.
Evolution is a first generation RPG that only disappoints because it could have been so much more.
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