Aretha III

About

Aretha III is a top-down RPG for the Game Boy that sends players on a time-bending quest through the Kingdom of Aretha. You follow Materia and Doole as they journey 20 years into the past to recover a lost artifact tied to the kingdom's history. The game blends turn-based battles with exploration of interconnected maps, where choices often shape how past and present collide. Character development hinges on dialogue options and item management, with a focus on figuring out familial ties and political mysteries. The game's time-travel hook stands out for its era, weaving personal stakes into a broader story about legacy and power. While its 16-bit visuals and menu-driven interactions feel dated, the narrative’s focus on correcting past mistakes and the dynamic between Materia and her companions earned it a cult following among retro RPG fans. With limited availability outside Japan and a release date over 30 years ago, it’s a niche title that showcases early 90s JRPG experimentation.

Storyline

Materia, who blocked Howard's ambitions twice, lived a peaceful life again. Doole, who returned to the Kingdom of Aretha after her training journey, was surprised to find that Aretha's ring had been lost, but Materia did not seem to care at all. Ben Marxist, an old friend of mine, appeared in front of them and offered a story. He said, "Are you willing to go to the Kingdom of Aretha 20 years ago?" Materia, who thinks of her parents who were born and never seen, travels with Doole to the past kingdom of Aretha.