XBlaze Code: Embryo

Overview

XBlaze Code: Embryo is a visual novel developed by Arc System Works for the PlayStation 3 and Vita. The game was originally published in Japan July 25, 2013. It was then licensed by Aksys Games and released in the US on June 24, 2014.

It is a spin-off from the BlazBlue franchise, taking place 150 years prior to the main games in the series. The game itself is a visual novel that has a unique take on how the player chooses to advance the story. It takes place in Shin Yokozaki City while focusing on Touya Kagari who seems to just be a normal high school student. This doesn't last for long since he runs into a crazy person in the restricted zone that almost kills him yet thanks to the strange girl Es he survives. After this things just keep spiraling out of control with new characters popping up all the time.

Gameplay

As a "Visual Novel," XBlaze has very little player interaction outside of a game mechanic called the "TOis" system. Most of the game is spent reading the story as written by the creators with static drawings in the background. Every so often, the player must choose between reading one of multiple news stories under the TOis menu. Their choice can move the story in a few different ways and affect how it ends. The TOis system can also help the player remember each character's story arc since it keeps a updated profile throughout the entire game. It is also possible to access a "TIPS" menu to learn more about different locations or phrases.

Characters

Es: At the beginning Es may seem rather cold with her stance of only stating what needs to be said yet in time she starts to warm up to Touya. After all trying to protect him is a full time job even for a great warrior like her. Outside of battle she can be really naive almost like the only thing she knows about is how to fight. Also she really likes pudding.