Ancient Roman: Power of Dark Side

About

Ancient Roman: Power of Dark Side is a 1998 PlayStation RPG built with 3-D character models and pre-rendered environments. It follows Kai, a rebel leader fighting monster-controlled overlords alongside allies Burke and Mishilia. The game leans into turn-based combat and a loosely connected plot about uncovering ancient secrets tied to the protagonist's origins. Battles and exploration feel stiff, with clunky mechanics that highlight the limitations of early 3D RPG design. The game gained a reputation as a notorious example of late '90s RPG misfires. Japanese retro gaming communities have since elevated it as a cautionary tale, with many calling it one of the worst RPGs made in the era. Its awkward dialogue, unpolished visuals, and meandering story have turned it into a curiosity for collectors and critics alike. Despite its flaws, it remains a relic of a transitional period in RPG development.

Storyline

The game's story, such as it is, follows protagonist Kai, who has grown up under in a village that lives under the subjugation of monsters. After leading a rebellion against these oppressors with the help of fellow slaves Burke and Mishilia, Kai sets off on a journey to discover the mystery behind the rise of the monster menace - a journey that will also bring him into contact with some of the secrets of his own past.