Man what a game and perhaps one of the best this year or all year to see the current Switch into the end of its life. Can thoroughly recommend anyone to play the free demo!
Man do I feel the “My backlog” note on the final score 😂. But that game has instantly jumped to top spot on that list. Everything else can wait. Great review!
It's insane how good this game is. The only issue is the advertising; I initially assumed this was one of a hundred dime-a-dozen low-budget SRPGs to come out in the past decade; it wasn't until I played the demo that I realized just how amazing thr gameplay is, and the stunning presentation is the icing on the cake.
Vanillaware hasn't put out any low budget games since they started releasing western games on the PS2 way back when. That poor assumption of quality is on you, not them.
@@normanl.6891 I don't follow Vanillaware, I just say 2d visuals in an SRPG and assumed it would be like Fel Seal: Arbiter's Mark and whatnot. I'm glad to have been proven wrong
@@marcusclark1339 I've seen a lot of people complaining about the localization but tbh I don't see the issue. From what I can tell, most of the changes are minor adjustments to the tone of some pieces of dialogue, as opposed fundamentally changing the meaning of anything. Sure the language is flowery, but, I'd hardly call that "butchered." Maybe I'm missing something, though
Holy Unicorny! 10 years, such dedication is admirable. I haven't gone back to the wonderfully feature-full and long demo as I don't want the experience to end. I thought the combat would bore me but found quite the contrary. Thanks Vanillaware and Atlus for your hardwork, I hope to one day add this to my library. Cheers Mark, you gents at SwitchUp have been so busy of late. Take some time to rest when you can, can't have your signature See Yaaa suffer like it did in the 2023 12 days of SwitchUp. Cheers again!
Your conclusion at the end about “if this game had been released years ago” is so true. The gameplay is absolutely timeless and I fully agree this will be regardless as a classic.
Vanillaware is in the business of making classics. The entire studios history is filled with them. Every game they make is filled with such passion and dedication. It’s just good to see this game and by extension vanillaware finally get some love for their amazing work.
I’ve loved all Vanillaware games. There has never been a bad game by them in my opinion. You can feel the hard work they put into every game they’ve made and this one looks no different. I’m so excited for this one, and hopefully I’ll be able to pick it up in the near future.
There's not many games where I'm happy paying full price, but this makes the list. Cheers Mark for the extra detail on the developer, I'm proud to be able to support them making more like this!
Absolutely agree. I think to develop such a game is no easy task at all. All the music, character voices, designs and battle programming must have taken pretty long to implement.
The thing I find most amazing about the combat is you can actually individually program each character with if then prompts like coding if you want to get that deep for control.
That’s an interesting way to put it. I tried the demo a little and wasn’t really feeling it, but maybe if I approach it with that perspective, I’ll vibe with it. I want to like it.
@@Sinistra359I was about to mention that. I prefer actually controlling my party but if the ai has that level of customization, I guess I can't complain.
@@darrenklein6090 I'm at Drakenhold and man does it get interesting to put units together at this point. Shamans are my new nemesis. 😶 Not wanna spoil anything.
Game has been absolutely incredible so far. The battle system, and gameplay in general is amazing. The story is admittedly a little unoriginal, but executed well. I would recommend expert difficulty though, it is not hard at all..
@@mobius4247 I think with these games you have to concede the fact that you can get strong if you just farm/play more. I wouldn't necessarily say its been difficult, but so far I can't get further unless I do pretty much every lower level quest without skipping anything.
I think the translation is fine in that it retains the original meaning of the Japanese. Perhaps only one translation I saw I had a slight issue with (“I was scared” was translated as almost the opposite, or that the event was no big deal, if I’m remembering correctly). But the flowery English language and embellishment actually improves the experience for me even though I understand most of the Japanese. Vagrant Story did much the same with an almost old Medieval English feel, which had none of that in the original Japanese, but it made the game so memorable and added to characterisation and atmosphere.
Translations are never direct, especially when you have very challenging differences between languages. Look at all the different translations of Homer's Odyssey and The Iliad, they vary quite substantially and yet they get to the heart of it and are respected by the scholars. It's always been folly to demand strict accuracy in translation, it kills the story and baffles the reader. So yup, I agree!
As a native English speaker, the English used in the game is…clunky and awkward to say the least. It reads like a high schoolers idea of what Medieval English would sound like…I find it endearing and amusing for the most part, but understand if people are put off by it.
I’ve been watching other reviews and yours is the best I’ve seen. Can’t wait to play this tomorrow. Loved the demo. Setting up squads and unit tactics (closest thing to FF12 gambits I’ve seen, my favorite FF game) and then executing the strategies in combat is so satisfying.
Really hope this does well. Seems like Vanillaware has been financially struggling for a while and this is a game that they hope can turn their fortunes around.
Admittedly I skipped to the end of your review to see what score you gave this… I’ll come back and watch it in its entirety (didn’t want to spoil anything). I played the demo and loved it. Preordered and now I wait (comes today on my Birthday)! Glad you enjoyed it!
Yeah, i am planing on getting this one as soon as i can. Reviews are good so i am hoping the games does well in terms of sales, vanillaware definitively deserve it. Thanks for the video guys!!
The algorithm style demonstrated in the video reminds me a lot of final fantasy 12’s gambit system which i ABSOLUTELY adored. We need more of these to properly streamline and reduce frustration of the bots. This has definitely become an immediate wishlist for me as I am currently undergoing a process to complete my backlog 🤭 cheers SwitchUp! The review has definitely made me so excited for what is to come once i get over the gamer hump that is the backlog! Edit: I wont even dare touch the demo now lest i get swept away 😂
I laughed so hard at the ONE negative aspect being your "backlog"! Cheers, fellas! Thanks for another amazing video review! I didn't even need to watch it to determine if I wanted to buy it, because I pre-ordered the Monarch Edition after completing the 7+ hour demo!
There I was playing FF7 rebirth when I picked up Unicorn Overlord. I cannot put I down! I picked it up on PS5 and loved it so much I grabbed a switch copy
It's so good that I forgot I was playing FF Rebirth (and that game is great). I even made huge Hot Wheels, Lego villages to keep my kids occupied and traded in sleep for game time. All of it is worth it. I couldn't decide on Ps5 or Switch version for the obvious reasons. I ended up getting Ps5 digital as I will buy the Switch physical when I can afford it as I just had to have those images as perfect as possible. It's almost like choosing the right canvas or picture frame to show a moving Picasso /Da Vinci. Great review apart from not giving it an 11/10 😊
The review I’ve been waiting for, I knew the game would be great for me but I just had to know if you enjoyed it. Tomorrow is the day for us all! Let’s enjoy it guys!
Love you guys you are my favorite reviewing channel. Your format to evaluate games is fair, so we can really feel each point given. Thanks for all the great content
I have to say, I haven't played many tactical games like this. But after watching this review and knowing how much love and effort was poured into it, I think I have to pick it up. It looks amazing.
I had to stop the demo just so I have some playtime left just in case I can't get the physical today. Probably going to be my game of the year if no big surprise comes out.
@@kcant65I'm on my 3rd demo play and it's still fun. There's so much in the demo that I haven't covered yet (like some characters) and you can skip the cut scenes to go quicker
I'll be honest, this one was not on my radar when it was announced. But after I started listening to the review and seeing that 20 you gave on gameplay I went 😳 and leaned a bit closer in. I think I'll have to download that demo now.
Usually this kind of game is not my style but been playing the demo and now I can’t stop thinking about it. Couldn’t wait for your review and it’s amazing! 🦄 ❤️
I honestly feel like the translation and localization claims are such a cop out. They capture the meaning and tone of the original while being more inline with the European low fantasy setting. When final fantasy tactics war of the lions did this no one complained
Wow, just woke up, picked up my phone and there is my beloved Switchup notification! You guys are working day and night, thanks for everything you do, best Switch channel ever ❤
i kept hearing about this game over the past week or so, i found out on wednesday that it was being made by vanillaware, and immediately this game had my full attention, i looked for all the information i could about the game, and found out it was releasing today. i was hesitant to preorder, as i had never really gotten into "strategy" rpgs before, but let me tell you, after my first 8-10 hour session with the full game, it is more than likely going to be my game of the year. the only contender is rise of the ronin, if team ninja can rekindle the fire they had in them when they made nioh 2. back to UO tho, this game is incredible, and if you are considering purchasing, seriously, just buy it, and play it, or download the demo and give it a shot. its absolutely fantastic. one thing i dont hear anyone talking about is the soundtrack. man the soundtrack so far has been utterly fantastic, which is par for the course for vanillaware titles. literally my only negative with the game is the fact that there isnt a pc port. it runs and plays beautifully on ps5 though. after hearing all the downright horrible news about dragons dogma, i was a bit down and saddened as my worst fears about that game were confirmed, but as soon as i heard vanillaware was making this new game, dragons dogshit was erased from my brain entirely, and now all i can think about is playing more unicorn overlord LOL. this game could be dangerous, i see myself easily sinking hundreds of hours into this. if there is ANY studio in the gaming world right now that ACTUALLY deserves your money, its vanillaware. do yourself a favor and pick this genre defining masterpiece up. you wont regret it, i promise.
Great job with the review. UO is easy to love but hard to explain for a lot of reviewers. I like the balance between concision and accuracy you settled on. The lion's share of the target demographic has never played an ogre battle (not tactics) game. Anyway, someone's English teacher should be proud of them.
Vanillaware is an amazing studio and have made great games over the years. That team deserves all the credit for this amazing game not just Atlus. I played the demo for 3 hours then pre ordered the collectors edition, when that arrived I downloaded a copy of the game and I’m playing it on Steam Deck. Runs great through emulation and now I can keep my physical copy sealed. I hope this sells well, it deserves to so Vanillaware can stick around making more great games in the future. With all the layoffs going on I have to worry about great developers losing their jobs unfortunately.
One of these days, I'll be able to play gems like this. For now, I will enjoy your review, and be grateful we have opportunities and games like these for the Switch. Honest dedication deserves great folks like in this community. I'll also feel bad waiting for a sale, considering how much money and time they've put into this.
Really like your style guys, have subscribed. It is lovely to see such honest, considered, and quite holistic appraisals of the games you feature. Very impressed.
I love all things Vanillaware and couldn't be happier to see this get such a great review score from you guys. I will be ordering a physical copy on my next paycheck. P.S. - can we start a petition or something to get Muramasa Rebirth, Odin Sphere Leifthrasir, and Dragon's Crown ported over to switch?? We need this to happen so badly 😭 Edit: couldn't wait and found a physical copy at my local game store. 5hrs in and man once it opens up past the first 2hrs/mostly tutorials it gets really fun. This is already going to the top of my best srpg list. If you're either a fan of Vanillaware or srpg's then this is well worth the price tag. Also visuals/music/dialogue/performance are absolutely top-tier
This is the first review that's told me exactly how the strategy works. I was put off by the auto play battles mentioned in every other review. Now I know the strategy is quite deep before a battle takes place I'm in. Buying it now.
After playing the demo version (which can be played for 5 hours), And I started the retail version from the beginning. And as far as I can see while surfing TH-cam to see the reactions on the internet, I think the people who commented "auto battle" in the comment section have not even cleared the first island, which has only 5 types of troops and 2 battles. It's a tutorial stage that is less than 30 minutes playtime and teaches you how to move and how to start a battle, and the game itself hasn't even started yet.
I was on the fence with this one but your review was just what I needed to make a decision. The game looks quite epic and I look forward to adding it to my collection. Thanks!
Amazing review. Amazing game. I've been looking forward to this one so much... and by the reviews I've been able to watch and hear, I'll be TOP. The combat system seems perfect for me, strategic enough and not time draining. The art style...just pure delight. Thanks for the efforts to the developer, thanks for the review Mark.
Didn't expect to find the gambit system from FF12, loved that :D Instant selling point for me, that combined with the vibes of FF Tactics A2, Fire emblem and Tactics Ogre? I'm definitely the audience for this. Thanks for the review SwitchUp!
Played the first hour on demo and was sold , thankfully already preordered the collectors edition as this is going to be an instant classic 😊 thanks guys again seee yaaaaaa
Worth every 116 hours spent! Just finished this game today and its totally an instant favourite. "Flowery?" That is a welcomed changed for me. Feels like this kind of language is extinct. Like a lost art. Nobody talks like this anymore, and this flowery text is more poetic, regal, class. Which is ultra rare nowdays.
I've been playing the demo. When I first started it I thought I was going to be almost like a mobile game. Once the game opens up as it's introducing all of its mechanics to you, you realize how massive and complex it all is. I went from 'I don't think this is for me' to 'oh, I'm buying this!' really quick! Plus... we need more strategy games.
I couldn't get enough of the game play on the Demo and was crushed when I hit the end of it! Signed straight up to the pre-order and looking forward to settling in shortly
This is the first Vanillaware game I've played and I'm HOOKED. Heard it was great, got the demo and haven't looked back. Haven't played much tactical turn-based games and I'm obsessed- this game is amazing and cutting into my Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth playthrough lol
Wow! It's indeed being a fantastic year also for the Switch, despite being in its late years. Instant must have games are this Unicorn Overlord, Prince of Persia: LC and Pentiment (for which we're still waiting for the REVIEW guys, by the way!). And the year just started!
Hahaha love that the negative is “my backlog” . Gosh game looks fantastic definitely getting this full price - also want to support the developers for making such a wonderful game through fire and rain (is that a phrase?)
Vanillaware have done it again. Another gorgeous thrilling fun JRPG gem. They gave us Odin Sphere on PS2. Dragon's Crown on PS3 & PS4. Now Unicorn Overlord is here & looks phenomenal. Definitely on my Must Buy list. March 2024 is looking like a fantastic month for gaming: Tekken 8, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Unicorn Overlord, WWE 2K24, Rise of The Ronin & Dragon's Dogma 2. Keep 'em coming.
I was very hesitant for this one, because strategy games can be a hit or miss for me. But your review has convinced me to give it a go. Might wait to see it in your sales videos though! Looking forward to hearing you say "it's lowest ever price" and then picking it up for €30
Thanks for the detailed review. It saddens me that I won’t be able to pick it at full price right now. The devs deserve all the praise for this gem. Kudos on the coverage mate!
Which country do you live in? I'd be willing to give you the money you lack to buy it. PayPal would be easiest but if you don't have PayPal I could get E-Shop money for you
@@Kejosruler My friend, I live in Brazil, if you really mean it, I don’t know how would I ever repay the favor. Eshop credit would work (US card eshop) How can I reach you? Maybe I can buy you a game in a couple months
I Played the demo and as soon combat started, I stopped playing and deleted it, I didn't give it chance. Watched your video and see I missed all the commands, customisations etc and instantly bought it haha I really wish it came to pc, but I'm happy to have it on switch.
I pre-ordered this because Vanillaware and it's now gradually working it's way to the top of the backlog with every glowing review! And let's be real; if translations were always exact and literal there'd be a lot of JRPGs etc. that would make *significantly* less sense
This is such an amazing game, I've played the demo and not only is the gameplay good, but there is also excellent voice acting & music, I hope to be able to get my hands on this when it comes out in physical
As a huge fan of the ogre battle saga ofc I had to get this! That game was my childhood! So good and so complex for its time! It ran on a 64 lol when I saw ATLUS there I knew this would be epic
I'd already decided to buy this, so I'm going to skip the review to avoid all spoilers. I'm just leaving this comment and a like to help you out with the algorithm.
This is the first game I've played in a long time that i just wanted to play right through to the end, without taking breaks to play other games. Its so good. Now can we PLEASE get dragon's crown on Switch??!?!?
I think this might be my longest ever review... I hope you enjoy it...let me know! Mark
Man what a game and perhaps one of the best this year or all year to see the current Switch into the end of its life. Can thoroughly recommend anyone to play the free demo!
Excellent review
Great stuff!
Did you review the game before day one patch? and How different is it after the patch?
Man do I feel the “My backlog” note on the final score 😂. But that game has instantly jumped to top spot on that list.
Everything else can wait. Great review!
It's insane how good this game is. The only issue is the advertising; I initially assumed this was one of a hundred dime-a-dozen low-budget SRPGs to come out in the past decade; it wasn't until I played the demo that I realized just how amazing thr gameplay is, and the stunning presentation is the icing on the cake.
Them releasing the demo in the way they did was masterful advertising in my book
Vanillaware hasn't put out any low budget games since they started releasing western games on the PS2 way back when. That poor assumption of quality is on you, not them.
@@normanl.6891 I don't follow Vanillaware, I just say 2d visuals in an SRPG and assumed it would be like Fel Seal: Arbiter's Mark and whatnot. I'm glad to have been proven wrong
if only localization wasn't butchered
@@marcusclark1339 I've seen a lot of people complaining about the localization but tbh I don't see the issue. From what I can tell, most of the changes are minor adjustments to the tone of some pieces of dialogue, as opposed fundamentally changing the meaning of anything. Sure the language is flowery, but, I'd hardly call that "butchered." Maybe I'm missing something, though
Holy Unicorny! 10 years, such dedication is admirable. I haven't gone back to the wonderfully feature-full and long demo as I don't want the experience to end. I thought the combat would bore me but found quite the contrary. Thanks Vanillaware and Atlus for your hardwork, I hope to one day add this to my library. Cheers Mark, you gents at SwitchUp have been so busy of late. Take some time to rest when you can, can't have your signature See Yaaa suffer like it did in the 2023 12 days of SwitchUp. Cheers again!
😂 thank you mate! Mark
> I don't want the experience to end
>I hope to one day add this to my library"
Uh.. buy the game then?
@@domranbernum oh I plan to but it will be a while hence why I'm stretching out my time with the timed demo.
if only localization wasn't butchered
Your conclusion at the end about “if this game had been released years ago” is so true. The gameplay is absolutely timeless and I fully agree this will be regardless as a classic.
It absolutely will yeah, great game! Mark
Yeah, everyone won't go buy this game, but everyone who does will be blown away and consider this one of the best games they've ever played!
@@Fencellisk yep…it’s just not a mainstream genre, and that’s okay!
Arguably, it was released about 30 years ago. This game is a natural evolution of Ogre Battle with a ton of upgrades and tweaks.
Vanillaware is in the business of making classics. The entire studios history is filled with them. Every game they make is filled with such passion and dedication.
It’s just good to see this game and by extension vanillaware finally get some love for their amazing work.
I’ve loved all Vanillaware games. There has never been a bad game by them in my opinion. You can feel the hard work they put into every game they’ve made and this one looks no different. I’m so excited for this one, and hopefully I’ll be able to pick it up in the near future.
if only localization was better
I dunno, Grim Grimoire was pretty poor. Their other stuff though, agreed.
@@marcusclark1339Fuck you, the localization is fine, asshole.
@@marcusclark1339localization isnt even bad, ya'll just cry about anything
There's not many games where I'm happy paying full price, but this makes the list. Cheers Mark for the extra detail on the developer, I'm proud to be able to support them making more like this!
Absolutely agree. I think to develop such a game is no easy task at all. All the music, character voices, designs and battle programming must have taken pretty long to implement.
The thing I find most amazing about the combat is you can actually individually program each character with if then prompts like coding if you want to get that deep for control.
That’s an interesting way to put it. I tried the demo a little and wasn’t really feeling it, but maybe if I approach it with that perspective, I’ll vibe with it. I want to like it.
It's basically the gambit system from ff12. I've always loved that system. Makes micro managing so much easier.
@@Sinistra359I was about to mention that. I prefer actually controlling my party but if the ai has that level of customization, I guess I can't complain.
@@darrenklein6090 I'm at Drakenhold and man does it get interesting to put units together at this point. Shamans are my new nemesis. 😶 Not wanna spoil anything.
Holy fuck
Wow. I can’t remember the last time I’ve seen a game get 20/20 in gameplay 😮
I don't think I've ever given it. Mark
Game has been absolutely incredible so far. The battle system, and gameplay in general is amazing. The story is admittedly a little unoriginal, but executed well. I would recommend expert difficulty though, it is not hard at all..
How many hours have you played? This was the problem I had too in the demo and I'm not really interested if this doesn't ramp up.
@mobius4247 it absolutely ramps up.
@@mobius4247 I think with these games you have to concede the fact that you can get strong if you just farm/play more. I wouldn't necessarily say its been difficult, but so far I can't get further unless I do pretty much every lower level quest without skipping anything.
I think the translation is fine in that it retains the original meaning of the Japanese. Perhaps only one translation I saw I had a slight issue with (“I was scared” was translated as almost the opposite, or that the event was no big deal, if I’m remembering correctly).
But the flowery English language and embellishment actually improves the experience for me even though I understand most of the Japanese.
Vagrant Story did much the same with an almost old Medieval English feel, which had none of that in the original Japanese, but it made the game so memorable and added to characterisation and atmosphere.
Translations are never direct, especially when you have very challenging differences between languages. Look at all the different translations of Homer's Odyssey and The Iliad, they vary quite substantially and yet they get to the heart of it and are respected by the scholars. It's always been folly to demand strict accuracy in translation, it kills the story and baffles the reader. So yup, I agree!
No one is complaining about the translation except for annoying, basement dwelling weebs.
As a native English speaker, the English used in the game is…clunky and awkward to say the least. It reads like a high schoolers idea of what Medieval English would sound like…I find it endearing and amusing for the most part, but understand if people are put off by it.
I’ve been watching other reviews and yours is the best I’ve seen.
Can’t wait to play this tomorrow. Loved the demo. Setting up squads and unit tactics (closest thing to FF12 gambits I’ve seen, my favorite FF game) and then executing the strategies in combat is so satisfying.
Dealing with Shamans right now.. they are giving me a real hard time. 😥
Really hope this does well. Seems like Vanillaware has been financially struggling for a while and this is a game that they hope can turn their fortunes around.
If this doesn't then nothing will. Mark
I hope they do a kickstarter. Even if it has no rewards I'd join in
Sounds like someone who hasn't played the game and only assumed based solely on appearances @@tmproductions18
I hope you're right but FFVII Rebirth came out last week. This was bad timing IMO, but I'm getting both and it's going to be an awesome weekend for me
I want this to be like a Larian Studios success story.
Admittedly I skipped to the end of your review to see what score you gave this… I’ll come back and watch it in its entirety (didn’t want to spoil anything). I played the demo and loved it. Preordered and now I wait (comes today on my Birthday)! Glad you enjoyed it!
Thanks mate would appreciate it because the algorithm will think we sucked 😂. No spoilers.
Yeah, i am planing on getting this one as soon as i can. Reviews are good so i am hoping the games does well in terms of sales, vanillaware definitively deserve it. Thanks for the video guys!!
Thanks and yeah I agree! Mark
The algorithm style demonstrated in the video reminds me a lot of final fantasy 12’s gambit system which i ABSOLUTELY adored. We need more of these to properly streamline and reduce frustration of the bots. This has definitely become an immediate wishlist for me as I am currently undergoing a process to complete my backlog 🤭 cheers SwitchUp! The review has definitely made me so excited for what is to come once i get over the gamer hump that is the backlog!
Edit: I wont even dare touch the demo now lest i get swept away 😂
Yes same! FF12 was so ahead of its time, it's great to see games like this realising the full potential of the gambit system!
@@tmproductions18 to each their own my friend.
But this definitely looks like a game i would sink hours on end.
@@thelamenovelistCheers guys appreciate the support. Mark
I laughed so hard at the ONE negative aspect being your "backlog"! Cheers, fellas! Thanks for another amazing video review! I didn't even need to watch it to determine if I wanted to buy it, because I pre-ordered the Monarch Edition after completing the 7+ hour demo!
There I was playing FF7 rebirth when I picked up Unicorn Overlord. I cannot put I down! I picked it up on PS5 and loved it so much I grabbed a switch copy
I have 40 hours in the game and I have not crossed 40% of the map. I am in love with this game
It's so good that I forgot I was playing FF Rebirth (and that game is great). I even made huge Hot Wheels, Lego villages to keep my kids occupied and traded in sleep for game time. All of it is worth it. I couldn't decide on Ps5 or Switch version for the obvious reasons. I ended up getting Ps5 digital as I will buy the Switch physical when I can afford it as I just had to have those images as perfect as possible. It's almost like choosing the right canvas or picture frame to show a moving Picasso /Da Vinci. Great review apart from not giving it an 11/10 😊
Haha love it!
The review I’ve been waiting for, I knew the game would be great for me but I just had to know if you enjoyed it. Tomorrow is the day for us all! Let’s enjoy it guys!
Hope you enjoy it! I'm sure you will! Mark
Love you guys you are my favorite reviewing channel. Your format to evaluate games is fair, so we can really feel each point given.
Thanks for all the great content
Legend thanks!
Collecting my physical copy pre-order tonight. Can't wait!!
Glorious, enjoy it mate! Mark
I agree 💯 on the "instant classic" got myself the collector's edition which have some extra goodies. This is definitely cutting the line of my backlog
This reminds me so much of Ogre Battle 64. Literally my top 3 fave game of all time and this game scratches that itch so well
I have to say, I haven't played many tactical games like this. But after watching this review and knowing how much love and effort was poured into it, I think I have to pick it up. It looks amazing.
The art style is so cool! We’ve been waiting for your review to hear your thoughts 😊
Im playing the demo right now. It's glorious! 😋
I had to stop the demo just so I have some playtime left just in case I can't get the physical today. Probably going to be my game of the year if no big surprise comes out.
@@kcant65you could just restart the demo and speed run through what you've already done. In the event that you don't get a copy and need a fix lol. 😂
@@kcant65I'm on my 3rd demo play and it's still fun. There's so much in the demo that I haven't covered yet (like some characters) and you can skip the cut scenes to go quicker
I'll be honest, this one was not on my radar when it was announced. But after I started listening to the review and seeing that 20 you gave on gameplay I went 😳 and leaned a bit closer in. I think I'll have to download that demo now.
This game is a goddamn masterpiece and the backstory behind it makes Vanilla ware’s victory all the more sweet
Absolute legends
Started yesterday, really like the feel of the game, got me a physical copy because I think this game will be very hard to find in the near future.
Usually this kind of game is not my style but been playing the demo and now I can’t stop thinking about it. Couldn’t wait for your review and it’s amazing! 🦄 ❤️
I honestly feel like the translation and localization claims are such a cop out. They capture the meaning and tone of the original while being more inline with the European low fantasy setting. When final fantasy tactics war of the lions did this no one complained
Completely agree
Man dont let these people read middle earth series 😂😂😂
Wow, just woke up, picked up my phone and there is my beloved Switchup notification! You guys are working day and night, thanks for everything you do, best Switch channel ever ❤
You're welcome mate! Mark
We SHOULD support this kind of dedication. Would be worth the purchase
i kept hearing about this game over the past week or so, i found out on wednesday that it was being made by vanillaware, and immediately this game had my full attention, i looked for all the information i could about the game, and found out it was releasing today. i was hesitant to preorder, as i had never really gotten into "strategy" rpgs before, but let me tell you, after my first 8-10 hour session with the full game, it is more than likely going to be my game of the year. the only contender is rise of the ronin, if team ninja can rekindle the fire they had in them when they made nioh 2. back to UO tho, this game is incredible, and if you are considering purchasing, seriously, just buy it, and play it, or download the demo and give it a shot. its absolutely fantastic. one thing i dont hear anyone talking about is the soundtrack. man the soundtrack so far has been utterly fantastic, which is par for the course for vanillaware titles. literally my only negative with the game is the fact that there isnt a pc port. it runs and plays beautifully on ps5 though. after hearing all the downright horrible news about dragons dogma, i was a bit down and saddened as my worst fears about that game were confirmed, but as soon as i heard vanillaware was making this new game, dragons dogshit was erased from my brain entirely, and now all i can think about is playing more unicorn overlord LOL. this game could be dangerous, i see myself easily sinking hundreds of hours into this. if there is ANY studio in the gaming world right now that ACTUALLY deserves your money, its vanillaware. do yourself a favor and pick this genre defining masterpiece up. you wont regret it, i promise.
Great job with the review. UO is easy to love but hard to explain for a lot of reviewers. I like the balance between concision and accuracy you settled on. The lion's share of the target demographic has never played an ogre battle (not tactics) game.
Anyway, someone's English teacher should be proud of them.
Thank you Robert mate, it was indeed a really tricky articulation but I'm pleased with the way this came out so thank you mate! Mark
Vanillaware is an amazing studio and have made great games over the years. That team deserves all the credit for this amazing game not just Atlus. I played the demo for 3 hours then pre ordered the collectors edition, when that arrived I downloaded a copy of the game and I’m playing it on Steam Deck. Runs great through emulation and now I can keep my physical copy sealed. I hope this sells well, it deserves to so Vanillaware can stick around making more great games in the future. With all the layoffs going on I have to worry about great developers losing their jobs unfortunately.
I just started playing 13 Sentinels, and completely fell in love with it. I am so buying this! Regards from a new Vanillaware superfan 😊
I wish I could erase all memories of 13 Sentinels and play it again for the first time. Enjoy!
That's a great game and this is even better. So pleased with the way it turned out. Mark
@@SwitchUpYt That’s some seriously high praise! UO is definitely on the top of my wishlist 🤩
One of these days, I'll be able to play gems like this. For now, I will enjoy your review, and be grateful we have opportunities and games like these for the Switch. Honest dedication deserves great folks like in this community.
I'll also feel bad waiting for a sale, considering how much money and time they've put into this.
Why don't you get the demo? It gives you 7 hours of the full game and you can continue when you buy it :). Mark
And that I will! :) @@SwitchUpYt
Totally one I might pick up eventually!! Thanks for the review
Excellent review! Minimal spoilers and a fantastic explanation of the broader game systems. Thanks so much, Mark!
Glad it was helpful! Mark
Really like your style guys, have subscribed. It is lovely to see such honest, considered, and quite holistic appraisals of the games you feature. Very impressed.
Calm down simp city.
I love all things Vanillaware and couldn't be happier to see this get such a great review score from you guys. I will be ordering a physical copy on my next paycheck. P.S. - can we start a petition or something to get Muramasa Rebirth, Odin Sphere Leifthrasir, and Dragon's Crown ported over to switch?? We need this to happen so badly 😭
Edit: couldn't wait and found a physical copy at my local game store. 5hrs in and man once it opens up past the first 2hrs/mostly tutorials it gets really fun. This is already going to the top of my best srpg list. If you're either a fan of Vanillaware or srpg's then this is well worth the price tag. Also visuals/music/dialogue/performance are absolutely top-tier
I knew this was going to be special. This is deffo on my wishlist. Amazing detailed review. Thanks Mark 😊
It really is! Thank you mate. Always appreciate you! Mark
This is the first review that's told me exactly how the strategy works. I was put off by the auto play battles mentioned in every other review. Now I know the strategy is quite deep before a battle takes place I'm in. Buying it now.
Thanks I felt it's really important in this one to make it as clear as possible. Mark
After playing the demo version (which can be played for 5 hours), And I started the retail version from the beginning. And as far as I can see while surfing TH-cam to see the reactions on the internet, I think the people who commented "auto battle" in the comment section have not even cleared the first island, which has only 5 types of troops and 2 battles. It's a tutorial stage that is less than 30 minutes playtime and teaches you how to move and how to start a battle, and the game itself hasn't even started yet.
Another one I’ll have to get a physical cartridge for. Thanks again for the best reviews on TH-cam!
I was on the fence with this one but your review was just what I needed to make a decision. The game looks quite epic and I look forward to adding it to my collection. Thanks!
If you are not sure, then just try the demo. It's 8 hours of content and you can transfer your save file. 😁
Good point! @@Terranigma23
Good morning! What a great way to wake up. 10 years and a lot of love from the company. You don’t see that level of dedication anymore.
This is the type of stuff that we appreciate. From their 10 years of dedication to your switch review. Big thanks to all involved
Cheers mate! Mark
The demo has been great so far. Definitely a must buy!
I love you switchup!! I was so mad at your dragon quest monsters review but you made up for it by doing the best unicorn overlord review on youtube!
Ah good stuff, redemption arc! Mark
Soooo I remember they didn't like it that much? But you think it is great? I wanna know 😀
Amazing review. Amazing game. I've been looking forward to this one so much... and by the reviews I've been able to watch and hear, I'll be TOP. The combat system seems perfect for me, strategic enough and not time draining. The art style...just pure delight. Thanks for the efforts to the developer, thanks for the review Mark.
Not sure if its been pointed out yet but you can use left and right on the dpad to select your units on the battlefield and scroll through them
Reviews for the game have been stellar so far.
Can’t wait to pick it up later in the day.
Spent a good 15hrs on the demo alone, that’s just nuts.
I somehow didn't realize this was by Vanillaware 😅 - it already looked sweet but now a definite buy after watching this video!
I'm enjoying the demo right now. It is freaking great!
For sure - and progress carries over. Mark
Can’t wait to play this bad boy!
This game has a chance to take top spot on my all time Switch faves. Just incredible. ❤
If this leads to them releasing Odin Sphere and Dragon’s Crown on Switch I’d buy two copies.
Yes I agree. It’s amazing those games are not on switch yet!
Great review. This is what I wanted to hear
Love the animations, definitely gonna pick this up.
Another bad point of the localization is it makes some of the characters seem a bit...assholish.
Didn't expect to find the gambit system from FF12, loved that :D Instant selling point for me, that combined with the vibes of FF Tactics A2, Fire emblem and Tactics Ogre? I'm definitely the audience for this. Thanks for the review SwitchUp!
Was waiting for your review as I knew if you liked it I would so I am going out to buy it now 😅
Great game!
I always wanted a game like Dragon Force on the Saturn but modernized. This is that and on steroids🤯 Definitely sold on this!!!
Absolutely love Dragon Force and yes I see the comparison!
Played the first hour on demo and was sold , thankfully already preordered the collectors edition as this is going to be an instant classic 😊 thanks guys again seee yaaaaaa
As a sucker for something different, I love the combat system, the art style and the overall world building!!
Worth every 116 hours spent! Just finished this game today and its totally an instant favourite.
"Flowery?" That is a welcomed changed for me. Feels like this kind of language is extinct. Like a lost art. Nobody talks like this anymore, and this flowery text is more poetic, regal, class. Which is ultra rare nowdays.
Oh boy! This looks gorgeous and what a great review, I can imagine myself having many a happy hour playing this one.
I've been playing the demo. When I first started it I thought I was going to be almost like a mobile game. Once the game opens up as it's introducing all of its mechanics to you, you realize how massive and complex it all is. I went from 'I don't think this is for me' to 'oh, I'm buying this!' really quick! Plus... we need more strategy games.
Loved the demo so much I preordered the collectors edition. Arrives tomorrow can’t wait to dig back in.
Definitely picking this game up.
more ppl need to lets break records guys this game is fireeeeeeee
It's an essential one for sure! Mark
I couldn't get enough of the game play on the Demo and was crushed when I hit the end of it! Signed straight up to the pre-order and looking forward to settling in shortly
This was already a definite pick up for me, but this review has made me want to buy it even more. Great work guys.
That's wild, 10 years for a game. That fact alone makes me want to try it out.
Loved the Demo, and allways nice to see my thoughts explained in your videos :) you know me so well Switch Up
This is the first Vanillaware game I've played and I'm HOOKED. Heard it was great, got the demo and haven't looked back. Haven't played much tactical turn-based games and I'm obsessed- this game is amazing and cutting into my Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth playthrough lol
I almost lost the tutorial battle from the demo because I rested and I didn't know why my units couldn't attack.
Hehehe yeah a dangerous move! Mark
This review makes me sooo excited for my pre-order to get here!! This game is gonna be newest obsession I already know 😂
Wow! It's indeed being a fantastic year also for the Switch, despite being in its late years.
Instant must have games are this Unicorn Overlord, Prince of Persia: LC and Pentiment (for which we're still waiting for the REVIEW guys, by the way!). And the year just started!
Lets gooooooo UNICORN 💯
Get the unicorns ready! Mark
Bought this masterpiece today! Got the physical copy for my collection. It is sooo good!
Hahaha love that the negative is “my backlog” . Gosh game looks fantastic definitely getting this full price - also want to support the developers for making such a wonderful game through fire and rain (is that a phrase?)
Looks great in visuals and gameplay but the price thou, nice review overall
I got my physical Switch copy today, so far I like it. The gameplay reminds me a bit of Nippon Ichi's Soul Nomad, that I also have on Switch.
I played the demo on a whim out of boredom. Within the first few fights I was completely hooked and pre-ordering 😂
Oh man Iam so damn excited to pick up my pre order later today. I foresee a bunch of games getting pushed into the backlog for this one
Can't wait for my copy to come in the mail
Glorious! Mark
Vanillaware have done it again. Another gorgeous thrilling fun JRPG gem.
They gave us Odin Sphere on PS2. Dragon's Crown on PS3 & PS4. Now Unicorn Overlord is here & looks phenomenal. Definitely on my Must Buy list.
March 2024 is looking like a fantastic month for gaming: Tekken 8, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Unicorn Overlord, WWE 2K24, Rise of The Ronin & Dragon's Dogma 2.
Keep 'em coming.
I was very hesitant for this one, because strategy games can be a hit or miss for me. But your review has convinced me to give it a go. Might wait to see it in your sales videos though! Looking forward to hearing you say "it's lowest ever price" and then picking it up for €30
Try the demo it carries over
Thanks for the detailed review. It saddens me that I won’t be able to pick it at full price right now. The devs deserve all the praise for this gem. Kudos on the coverage mate!
Which country do you live in? I'd be willing to give you the money you lack to buy it. PayPal would be easiest but if you don't have PayPal I could get E-Shop money for you
@@Kejosruler My friend, I live in Brazil, if you really mean it, I don’t know how would I ever repay the favor. Eshop credit would work (US card eshop) How can I reach you? Maybe I can buy you a game in a couple months
Been waiting for a game like this to come out when I am in a place in my life to enjoy it as it is launched
Wake to not one, but two SwitchUp videos!! Very curious about this game, as usual, your review will determine if I buy it or not.
I Played the demo and as soon combat started, I stopped playing and deleted it, I didn't give it chance. Watched your video and see I missed all the commands, customisations etc and instantly bought it haha I really wish it came to pc, but I'm happy to have it on switch.
This is the Bahamut Lagoon English release I've been dreaming of
Great, now I’m going to have to buy this one! Thanks Mark 😜
I pre-ordered this because Vanillaware and it's now gradually working it's way to the top of the backlog with every glowing review! And let's be real; if translations were always exact and literal there'd be a lot of JRPGs etc. that would make *significantly* less sense
This is such an amazing game, I've played the demo and not only is the gameplay good, but there is also excellent voice acting & music, I hope to be able to get my hands on this when it comes out in physical
As a huge fan of the ogre battle saga ofc I had to get this! That game was my childhood! So good and so complex for its time! It ran on a 64 lol when I saw ATLUS there I knew this would be epic
I'd already decided to buy this, so I'm going to skip the review to avoid all spoilers. I'm just leaving this comment and a like to help you out with the algorithm.
I'm primarily avoiding let's players. I think Mark won't spoil much here in his review.
This is the first game I've played in a long time that i just wanted to play right through to the end, without taking breaks to play other games. Its so good.
Now can we PLEASE get dragon's crown on Switch??!?!?