For gamers who thrive on challenge, conquering a difficult game is a badge of honor. But what about those titles that take things a step further, boasting achievement lists so demanding they leave even the most seasoned players feeling defeated? This is especially true in the realm of JRPGs (Japanese Role-Playing Games), known for their intricate stories, complex mechanics, and, sometimes, an almost sadistic obsession with completionism. Here, we delve into three such games where the 100% achievement chase can feel like an endless marathon, pushing players to their limits.
The Ever-Elusive Perfection: Final Fantasy 7 Remake
The highly anticipated arrival of Final Fantasy 7 Remake sent shockwaves through the gaming community. A modern reimagining of the beloved classic, it garnered widespread acclaim for its stunning visuals, revamped combat system, and faithful storytelling. However, beneath the surface lurks a challenge that even die-hard fans of the original might find daunting: the 100% achievement trophy.
This seemingly simple goal becomes a labyrinthine quest when you consider the sheer volume of tasks required. Players must not only conquer the main story and its gauntlet of bosses, but also delve into the depths of side quests and optional content. Amassing every Materia (materia being the game’s unique magic and ability system) becomes a test of dedication, requiring meticulous exploration and resource management.
But Square Enix, the developers, don’t stop there. To truly claim mastery, players must also unlock every character costume in the game. This seemingly innocuous task translates to hours of repetitive grinding, forcing players to replay chapters and endure cutscenes multiple times. The allure of that coveted platinum trophy quickly fades as the joy of gameplay gives way to monotonous repetition.
A Symphony of Secrets: Octopath Traveler
Octopath Traveler captivated players with its breathtaking pixel art aesthetic, a nostalgic throwback to the golden age of JRPGs. However, the game’s charm takes a sharp turn when considering the nightmarish prospect of 100% completion. While the core story offers a satisfying journey, the achievement list throws in a whole new set of hurdles.
Beyond the expected boss battles that test your combat prowess, Octopath Traveler throws a plethora of cryptic secrets your way. These hidden challenges demand creative problem-solving and meticulous exploration. The lack of clear guidance for some achievements adds another layer of frustration, forcing players to scour the internet for obscure clues or resort to blind trial and error.
The game’s intricate job system, where each playable character has a unique set of skills and abilities, further complicates matters. Mastering each character and their specific skillsets becomes a time-consuming endeavor, especially when tackling the game’s most demanding challenges. The initial excitement of uncovering the game’s secrets quickly dissipates as the sheer volume of obscure objectives becomes overwhelming.
Multiple Endings, Multiple Playthroughs: The Nier Replicant Enigma
Riding the wave of critical acclaim from its predecessor, NieR Automata, NieR Replicant received a well-deserved remaster, breathing new life into this cult classic. While the core gameplay remains engaging, with its blend of action RPG elements and captivating story, the allure of 100% completion presents a significant hurdle.
Unlike other entries on this list, NieR Replicant doesn’t bombard players with an excessive amount of collectibles or repetitive tasks. However, the game’s multiple endings become the central obstacle. To unlock every achievement, players must embark on multiple playthroughs, each with minimal variation in the story’s main plot points. While subsequent playthroughs allow players to experience the narrative from different character perspectives, the repetition can feel tedious, especially considering the lack of significant gameplay changes.
Furthermore, the combat system, while enjoyable, pales in comparison to the depth offered by NieR Automata. This lack of combat complexity makes the repeated playthroughs required for 100% completion feel like a slog, diminishing the overall enjoyment of the experience.
The Final Verdict: A Challenge Worth Taking… Maybe
These three games represent a specific breed of JRPG: titles that offer a satisfying core experience but punish players who seek absolute completion. While the sense of accomplishment from achieving 100% is undeniable, the journey to get there can be a grueling exercise in frustration. It’s important to weigh the personal satisfaction against the immense time investment required.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to chase the elusive 100% mark comes down to individual preference. For some players, the challenge itself is the reward, a testament to their dedication and mastery of the game’s mechanics. However, for others, the repetitive nature and lack of meaningful variation can overshadow the initial joy of the game. These titles serve as a reminder that video games are meant to be enjoyed, and sometimes, letting go of that perfect trophy can lead to a more fulfilling gaming experience.
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