Dark Cloud 3
In 2003, Sony and Level-5 released a critically acclaimed action-RPG called Dark Cloud 2 (also known as Dark Chronicle). The game follows the exploits of Max, inventor from the present day & Monica, a sword-wielding heroine flung from a dystopian future. Together, they fight against the tyrannical machinations of Emperor Griffin within the past, present, and future while rebuilding the world in the process.
There were many things to love about the game: its beautiful cel-shaded graphics, its dynamic item creation system, complex and rewarding character customization, excellent voice acting & spoken dialogue for each character, and an in-game photography system that would have made Pokemon Snap proud. Even today, the series retains a strong cult following with repeated calls for a new game, but to no avail. In the time elapsed since Level-5 had released Dark Cloud 2, they have stretched their wings and refined their craft for RPG games with additions such as the White Chronicle series & the award winning Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch. In addition, Level-5 has undoubtedly increased their fanbase with popular handheld game franchises including Professor Layton, Inazuma Eleven, and Yokai Watch. Time will only tell whether or not this JRPG will see new life. Keep your fingers crossed if Dark Cloud 3 happens to be the identity of the secret PS4 release Level-5 had teased for a reveal at E3 2015.
