Time-bending RPG Cris Tales shows off a new region and combat

Cris Tales is an upcoming turn-based RPG from independent publisher Modus Games. A few months ago, we tried out the demo and were blown away by the gorgeous hand-drawn artwork throughout the game. In a new blog post on the publisher’s website, we get to see a new region of the vibrant world of Crystallis, as well as learn a bit more about the abilities of Wilhelm, the young mage from the playable demo.

Cris Tales is a love letter to classic JRPGs with its turn-based combat and timed-actions. But the game also has a unique time-bending mechanic that lets players battle across multiple eras at the same time. And your actions in the past will influence the surroundings in the present, which in turn influences the future. It’s all part of building a rich world and making the player feel responsible for it as they adventure through time to stop an Empress’ appetite for destruction.

Wish you were here

The new region Modus Games introduced is the coastal town of Saint Clarity. The town is divided into two distinct districts. The lower slums are where the workers and common people live and labor, whereas the inner city is where the nobles and elite live a far more luxurious life, safe behind their high walls.

The fashion and architecture of Saint Clarity are inspired by the coastal cities of Colombia. As you explore it, you’ll see the bright vibrant colors and flowing apparel the region is famous for. You’ll also come face-to-face with the inequality found in tourist cities like these all over the world.

Battle through time

Wilhelm is one of the characters you’ll pick up along your journey in Cris Tales. He’s a mage who can throw Yukadragoras at individual enemies to damage them or cause a range of status effects. He can also plant poison and create an area of effect poison attack in the future. Mixing the abilities of different characters and sliding around through time makes the combat of Cris Tales unique and deeply tactical.

Cris Tales is coming out sometime in 2020, but for now, you can try out the free demo through Steam or add it to your wishlist. If you missed the announcement trailer earlier this year, you can check it out below. It gives you a good idea of what to expect from the game.