“Tales of Arise” is the latest installment in the long-running “Tales” series developed by Bandai Namco Entertainment. Released in September 2021, this action RPG has been celebrated for its compelling story, stunning graphics, and deeply developed characters. This review will delve into the game’s characters, exploring their backgrounds, development, interactions, and contributions to the overall narrative. By examining each main character in detail, we’ll gain a deeper understanding of how they enhance the “Tales of Arise” experience.
Table of Contents
Main Characters
Alphen
Alphen is the protagonist of “Tales of Arise,” a young man from the planet Dahna who suffers from amnesia and an inability to feel pain. This condition, known as analgesia, plays a critical role in his character development and the game’s combat mechanics.
Background and Personality:
- Alphen is a slave from Dahna, a planet subjugated by the technologically advanced Renans.
- Despite his memory loss, he emerges as a determined and compassionate leader, motivated by a desire to free his people from Renan oppression.
- His inability to feel pain allows him to wield the Blazing Sword, a powerful weapon that burns its wielder but is essential for combat.
Development:
- Throughout the game, Alphen’s journey of self-discovery is central to the narrative. His struggle to reconcile his past and present drives much of the plot.
- His relationship with Shionne, a Renan woman, is pivotal. Their evolving dynamic, from mutual suspicion to deep trust, is a highlight of the story.
Combat Role:
- Alphen’s combat style is aggressive and versatile, making him a formidable frontline fighter. His ability to use the Blazing Sword adds a unique strategic layer to battles.
Shionne Imeris
Shionne is the female protagonist, a Renan woman cursed with “Thorns,” which cause pain to anyone who touches her. This curse is both a blessing and a curse, affecting her interactions and development.
Background and Personality:
- Shionne hails from Rena, the oppressor planet, and initially, her motives seem aligned with Renan interests.
- Her aloof and often cold demeanor is a defense mechanism, stemming from the pain her Thorns cause others.
- Shionne’s goal is to find a way to remove her Thorns, and she allies with Alphen to achieve this end.
Development:
- As the story progresses, Shionne’s layers are peeled back, revealing a compassionate and vulnerable individual beneath her icy exterior.
- Her relationship with Alphen is complex, filled with tension and gradual understanding. Their bond evolves from necessity to genuine affection and trust.
Combat Role:
- Shionne excels in ranged combat, using guns and healing artes. Her ability to heal and provide support makes her an indispensable part of the team.
Rinwell
Rinwell is a Dahnan mage who harbors deep-seated resentment against Renans. Her magic abilities are rare among Dahnans and make her a key player in the fight against oppression.
Background and Personality:
- Rinwell’s family was persecuted for their magical abilities, which fuels her hatred for Renans.
- Despite her anger, she has a kind heart and forms strong bonds with her companions.
Development:
- Rinwell’s journey involves overcoming her prejudice and learning to see individuals beyond their Renan or Dahnan identity.
- Her interactions with Law, a Renan soldier turned ally, play a crucial role in her character development.
Combat Role:
- Rinwell’s magic offers a range of offensive and defensive options. She can cast powerful spells, making her a versatile asset in battles.
Law
Law is a Renan soldier who defects to the Dahnan side. His character arc is defined by his quest for redemption and self-acceptance.
Background and Personality:
- Initially, Law is a loyal soldier to the Renan regime but becomes disillusioned with their methods.
- He is impulsive and struggles with guilt over his past actions.
Development:
- Law’s growth is marked by his efforts to make amends and prove his loyalty to his new friends.
- His friendship with Rinwell helps him confront his past and find a sense of belonging.
Combat Role:
- Law is a close-range fighter with high-speed attacks. His agility and strength make him a formidable opponent in melee combat.
Kisara
Kisara is a Dahnan warrior with a strong sense of justice and duty. Her protective nature and combat prowess make her a valuable ally.
Background and Personality:
- Kisara serves as a guardian for her fellow Dahnans, driven by a desire to protect those who cannot protect themselves.
- She is steadfast and unwavering in her principles, often acting as the moral compass of the group.
Development:
- Kisara’s story involves grappling with the challenges of leadership and the burdens of responsibility.
- Her loyalty and dedication to her comrades are tested throughout the journey, highlighting her inner strength.
Combat Role:
- Kisara excels in defense, wielding a massive shield and hammer. She can absorb damage and protect her teammates, making her a crucial part of the team during tough battles.
Dohalim il Qaras
Dohalim is a Renan noble who joins Alphen’s cause. His refined demeanor and philosophical outlook provide a unique perspective within the group.
Background and Personality:
- Dohalim is a scholar and musician, valuing culture and knowledge.
- He is more open-minded and compassionate than other Renans, questioning the status quo and seeking harmony between Dahnans and Renans.
Development:
- Dohalim’s arc involves reconciling his privileged background with the harsh realities of the world.
- His interactions with the team, especially Kisara, help him understand the true meaning of equality and justice.
Combat Role:
- Dohalim uses a combination of staff combat and magic, making him versatile in both offensive and support roles. His skills complement the team’s abilities, providing balance and versatility.
Character Interactions and Dynamics
The strength of “Tales of Arise” lies not only in its individual characters but also in their interactions and the dynamics within the group. These relationships add depth to the narrative and provide emotional resonance.
Alphen and Shionne
The evolving relationship between Alphen and Shionne is central to the story. Initially, their alliance is born out of necessity, but as they face challenges together, they develop a deep bond. Their contrasting personalities—Alphen’s warmth and Shionne’s coldness—create a compelling dynamic that evolves into mutual respect and affection.
Rinwell and Law
Rinwell’s initial distrust of Law due to his Renan heritage creates tension, but their journey together allows them to understand and support each other. Law’s efforts to prove himself and Rinwell’s gradual acceptance highlight themes of forgiveness and redemption.
Kisara and Dohalim
Kisara and Dohalim’s relationship is rooted in mutual respect and shared ideals. Dohalim’s philosophical approach and Kisara’s practicality balance each other, and their interactions often explore deeper themes of duty, justice, and the potential for unity between Dahnans and Renans.
Group Dynamics
The group’s dynamics are characterized by a blend of camaraderie, conflict, and growth. Each character brings unique strengths and perspectives, contributing to the team’s overall effectiveness. The evolving relationships and personal growth of each member enhance the story, making the group’s journey as compelling as the overarching narrative.
Character Design and Voice Acting
Visual Design
The visual design of “Tales of Arise” characters is stunning, reflecting the game’s high production values. Each character’s design is distinct and detailed, with costumes and appearances that reflect their backgrounds and personalities. The vibrant art style and attention to detail contribute to the game’s immersive world.
Voice Acting
The voice acting in “Tales of Arise” is exceptional, bringing the characters to life with nuanced performances. The voice actors deliver emotional depth and authenticity, enhancing the storytelling and making the characters’ journeys more impactful. Both the English and Japanese voice casts are highly praised, offering players a choice in how they experience the narrative.
Contribution to the Narrative
The characters in “Tales of Arise” are integral to the game’s narrative. Their personal stories and development are woven into the larger plot, creating a rich and engaging story. Each character’s journey of self-discovery and growth parallels the game’s themes of freedom, justice, and the struggle against oppression.
Alphen’s Leadership
Alphen’s role as the leader and his quest for identity drive the main plot. His transformation from a slave with no past to a hero with a purpose is central to the narrative. His relationships with other characters, especially Shionne, shape his development and the course of the story.
Shionne’s Redemption
Shionne’s journey is one of redemption and overcoming personal demons. Her struggle with her Thorns and her evolving relationship with Alphen and the team add emotional depth to the story. Her character arc is a powerful exploration of pain, trust, and the desire for connection.
Rinwell and Law’s Forgiveness
Rinwell and Law’s stories of overcoming prejudice and seeking redemption add layers to the narrative. Their personal growth and the challenges they face together underscore the game’s themes of forgiveness and unity.
Kisara and Dohalim’s Ideals
Kisara and Dohalim’s commitment to justice and their differing perspectives on duty and morality enrich the narrative. Their interactions explore the complexities of leadership and the pursuit of a better future for both Dahnans and Renans.
Conclusion
“Tales of Arise” stands out as a masterful RPG, not only for its engaging gameplay and stunning visuals but also for its deeply developed characters. Each main character—Alphen, Shionne, Rinwell, Law, Kisara, and Dohalim—brings a unique perspective and contributes to the game’s rich narrative tapestry. Their individual stories of growth, redemption, and self-discovery are interwoven with the overarching plot, creating a compelling and emotionally resonant experience for players.
The interactions and dynamics between the characters add depth and complexity to the storytelling. From Alphen and Shionne’s evolving relationship to Rinwell and Law’s journey of forgiveness, each character’s personal journey intertwines with those of their companions, shaping the course of the narrative.
Visually, the characters in “Tales of Arise” are stunningly designed, with intricate costumes and detailed animations that reflect their personalities and backgrounds. The voice acting further enhances their portrayal, with talented actors delivering nuanced performances that breathe life into the characters.
In terms of narrative contribution, each character plays a vital role in advancing the story and exploring its themes. Whether it’s Alphen’s quest for identity, Shionne’s struggle for redemption, or Kisara and Dohalim’s ideals of justice and unity, every character adds depth and resonance to the overarching narrative.
Overall, the characters of “Tales of Arise” are a testament to the game’s strength as a storytelling experience. Through their individual journeys and interactions, they create a rich and immersive world that players will remember long after the credits roll. As one of the standout aspects of the game, the characters elevate “Tales of Arise” to a level of storytelling excellence that sets it apart in the RPG genre.