Utawarerumono: Past and Present Rediscovered

A vastly improved battle system buoys what is otherwise a polarizing conclusion to the Utawarerumono franchise.

Utawarerumono: Past and Present Rediscovered delivers on the potential in Monochrome Mobius and provides a heartfelt curtain call for series fans.

Utawarerumono: Past and Present Rediscovered is a satisfying end to Utawarerumono’s spin-off series. With a battle system that screams old-school JRPG and an exploration segment that lets you journey through the expansive territory of Yamato, it improves upon the Monochrome Mobius experience to better present the series that fans have known and loved in an alternative way. Although I do have some gripes with the pacing due to its departure from the visual novel format and the compromise in quality of its 3D models, it was still a pleasant experience journeying with Oshtor and the cast in this final title. It’s a little bit hard to recommend to people who aren’t already fans of the series due to how dated the system feels and its direct references to the main trilogy, but it’s definitely a must to pick up for people who are already familiar with the previous titles. As a final message, please do play the main trilogy first before picking up the two-game spin-off. Utawarerumono: Past and Present Rediscovered is a title full of love with multiple odes to iconic scenes and memorable characters of the series, and it would be a shame to miss out on all the subtle references they included in the story. As the years continue going by, I hope more people get to experience the games as we finally finish it off after a 22-year long run. Thank you, Utawarerumono!

Utawarerumono is a series that will always hold a special place in my heart. This return to the world through Monochrome Mobius and Past and Present Rediscovered turns out to be a bit odd, but I’m left feeling satisfied. Thank you and farewell, Utawarerumono.