Aretha II: Ariel no Fushigi na Tabi

About

Aretha II: Ariel no Fushigi na Tabi is a Super Famicom RPG that mixes traditional turn-based combat with a first-person perspective. You navigate a world where enemies appear randomly, and each battle requires careful attention to positioning since opponents can strike from the sides. The core loop focuses on battling these foes, collecting "souls" dropped after victories, and using them to craft custom armor. Progression hinges on balancing combat efficiency with gear upgrades, all while advancing a story about a kingdom under new threat. The game’s standout feature is its soul-forge system, which lets players tailor defenses through post-battle rewards. While the 1994 release date and niche platform keep it under the radar, the blend of strategic combat and character-driven narrative has earned a cult following. Ariel’s continued journey as a ruler facing fresh dangers adds depth, making it a curious pick for RPG fans seeking overlooked classics.

Storyline

The game continues the story of the young princess Ariel. After she rightfully regained her throne, people enjoyed a peaceful life under her benevolent reign. But this peaceful existence did not last long... Two adventurers who were wandering through mountains met a mysterious evil being, who threatened to ruin Ariel's kingdom. After that, the two men disappeared without a trace. Ariel's servants reported to her about the matter. After consulting her wise grandmother, Ariel decided to go out herself, to meet up with her old trusty companions and to find out the origin of the new threat.