Galactic Phantasy Review

By Andrew Nesvadba, on October 26, 2011

Publisher: Moonfish Software Limited
Genre: Adventure
Released: 17 Oct, 2011
Size: 234.0 MB
Price: $2.99

PROS

Unique blend of Western classics like Privateer and JRPG elements.
Huge world to explore; multiple star systems with a total of 40 starports to harbor in.
Strangely compelling combat system; like Rock Paper Scissors played in three-dimensions.
Gorgeous visuals with lots of handy user interface touches to make life easier.

CONS

Limited depth; gameplay consists almost entirely of a string of battles.
No comparison system to make upgrades easier to spot.
Poor English translation.

VERDICT

If you come in to this game expecting an EVE or Privateer, you're going to be disappointed, because while Galaxy Pirate Adventure gives off the guise and visual splendor of these games, it's ultimately a basic RPG.

Full Review
App Store Info

When you first look at a game like Galaxy Pirate Adventure by Sunfish Studio Limited, it's hard not to be misled and think you're in for a Privateer-like experience set in a pirate-infested universe. The first hint is in the game's description as it clearly calls itself a 'full 3D RPG', which is literally exactly what it is.

You play as the Prince of Pirates, however you've been cast out in to the 'waters' by your father (the 'King' of Pirates if you're wondering) to adventure and grow in to your role as a strong an independent Captain of a pirate vessel. After a brief tutorial explaining the basic mechanics you're off and away.

Beating at the game's heart is a JRPG-like core of basic inventory slots with functional upgrades, the occasional random battle and a not insignificant amount of grinding. However the Privateer-like appearance is more than just a visual theme and players do have at least some freedom in customizing and purchasing vehicles for their fleet, with players able to take the usual options of trading (or in this case, smuggling) and bounties (or again in this case, robberies). Quests picked up at each port help to focus the player's efforts and shorten the gap between story points, helping you to complete the game's lengthy main story.

What makes it worthwhile beating your brow against such repetitive tasks is the combat system which is like a strange ballet of Rock, Paper, Scissors with up to four players on each side. Aside from switching targets or moving in or out of range of enemies, players have the option of either attacking, defending or recharging. The first two actions require energy, while the third replenishes depleted energy while leaving you vulnerable. Choosing the correct action is easy thanks to the clear interface that keeps you informed of a targeted enemies intentions, but things can spiral out of control quickly once the number of enemies and allies ramps up.

If anything is holding Galaxy Pirate Adventure back it's the lack of variety and freedom implied in using a space-faring theme. Other issues such as having no item compare system are simple faults that could easily remedy the frustration of maintaining multiple ships.

Galaxy Pirate Adventure is far from perfect, but still a decent RPG offering and a gorgeous one as well (the visual upgrades for the 4S and iPad 2 are stunning). If you can put your preconceptions aside, it's worth spending a bit of time with this unique RPG title.

Screenshots