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New Tactical RPG ‘The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy’ Blends Danganronpa and Zero Escape Sensibilities
When Danganronpa mastermind Kazutaka Kodaka and Zero Escape director Kotaro Uchikoshi established Too Kyo Games in 2017, anticipation was high to witness the collaborative creations of these luminaries in the “death game” genre. While the studio has released several titles in the intervening years, none have truly embodied the distinct creative synergy of both visionaries—until now. The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy, a new tactical RPG, while not a death game in the vein of their previous works, brims with the characteristic twists, intricate plots, eccentric characters, and daring design choices that define Kodaka and Uchikoshi‘s acclaimed legacies. Fans of Danganronpa and Zero Escape will find familiar and intriguing elements in this latest offering.
After investing approximately 30 hours into The Hundred Line, the core concept felt intrinsically Kodaka-esque, prompting speculation about a potential clandestine Danganronpa installment in disguise. The narrative unfolds with a group of teenagers residing in a Tokyo residential complex, besieged by an inexplicable alien invasion. To confront this menace, Sirei, an enigmatic, spectral mascot, bestows upon each teen a blade, awakening dormant powers within them known as hemoanima. These powers manifest as diverse weapon types, reflecting each character’s unique personality. Subsequently, the group finds themselves confined within the eponymous Last Defense Academy, tasked with defending the institution against the invading forces for 100 days to secure their freedom.
Echoes of Danganronpa
Virtually every facet of Hundred Line resonates with a Danganronpa offshoot, even without official designation. The premise of adolescents confined to a school by a manipulative mascot stands as a prominent parallel. Furthermore, the game shares the same artistic and musical talents as the murder mystery series, fostering a familiar ambiance despite its deviations. Initially, this close resemblance raised questions, given Kodaka’s established pattern of self-reference. Each Danganronpa iteration subtly nodded to its predecessors beyond mere narrative threads. 2023’s Master Detective Archives: Rain Code, while embracing a more noirish supernatural narrative, mirrored the fundamental murder mystery framework of Danganronpa, even replicating the crime-solving mechanics. Such consistent callbacks to a defining work prompt contemplation about a developer’s creative breadth.
Familiar Quirks and Character Dynamics
Despite the occasionally derivative nature of Hundred Line, its engaging qualities are undeniable. Kodaka’s signature blend of intense drama interwoven with quirky dark humor remains compelling. Although the unfolding sci-fi mystery may not possess the immediate allure of his prior endeavors, it ventures into unpredictable territories, maintaining intrigue. However, alongside these strengths are familiar Kodaka-isms that might prove divisive for those acquainted with his oeuvre. While half of the ensemble cast of sequestered students contribute meaningfully to plot progression, the remainder primarily serve to interrupt serious dialogue with flippant remarks. Meaningful character development through social interactions is notably less emphasized in Hundred Line compared to Kodaka’s previous titles, although deeper conversations become accessible later in the game. Regardless, compelling characters such as the benevolent brute Takemaru and the unsettling assassin Yugamu emerge. Even initially stereotypical characters gradually become endearing.
Strategic Tactical Combat
Character personalities translate into distinct combat styles within the game’s tactical battles. Periodic assaults on Last Defense Academy by invading forces necessitate recruiting reluctant classmates to bolster the war effort. As the player’s party expands, so do the challenges encountered. Hundred Line effectively spaces out significant story battles, ensuring each feels consequential. Their limited number prevents even demanding encounters from becoming tedious. For players drawn to Kodaka or Uchikoshi narratives but less versed in tactical RPG conventions, Hundred Line‘s combat emphasizes puzzle-solving over the demanding strategic depth of titles like XCOM or Baldur’s Gate 3.
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Action Point System and Ultimate Abilities
Central to Hundred Line’s tactical engagements is its Action Point (AP) system. AP governs actions such as utilizing abilities, defending objectives, and maneuvering across the battlefield. Initial AP is limited per turn, but defeating mid-tier or higher enemies replenishes it. As battles progress, ultimate abilities become available, inflicting significant damage across large areas and potentially eliminating multiple foes. Chaining these ultimates proved to be a highlight, enabling coordinated assaults and decisive attacks.
Strategic Sacrifices and Rewarding Gameplay
A standout battle midway through Hundred Line involved defending against a formidable Commander unit. With defenses near collapse, victory seemed improbable within a single turn. Fortunately, characters at critical health thresholds can unleash a final sacrifice ultimate, dealing massive damage at the cost of their own removal from combat. With multiple characters near defeat and the katana-wielding samurai Kyoshika possessing a passive ability enhancing damage against isolated enemies, a scorched earth strategy emerged. Sacrificing weakened teammates via self-destructive ultimates generated ample AP for Kyoshika to focus on the solitary Commander, leveraging her amplified damage. This risky gambit secured victory by leveraging available resources and understanding character strengths. Such tactical problem-solving proved consistently rewarding as the game progressed and diverse characters with unique specialties were unlocked. While not as intricate as genre benchmarks, the combat system offers substantial strategic depth and engaging gameplay.
Uchikoshi’s Influence and Final Thoughts
While Hundred Line evokes Kodaka’s established hallmarks, the subtle yet discernible influence of Zero Escape is also present. However, explicating the full extent of Uchikoshi’s contribution would diminish some of the game’s most impactful revelations. Despite reaching the credits, the game’s depth warrants further exploration before definitive judgment. Despite external demands momentarily interrupting engagement with Hundred Line, returning to it remains a priority. Fans of Danganronpa and Zero Escape should recognize that despite the genre shift, this title genuinely merges compelling aspects of both franchises, promising a captivating experience.