Info about Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness & the Secret Hideout:

Official game description:
Content of "Atelier Ryza: Digital Deluxe Edition"
=================================================
\- "Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness & the Secret Hideout"  
\- Costume Set "Another Fashion"  
\- Costume Set "Summer Style"  
\- Hideout Parts "Pixie Forest"  
\- Hideout Parts "Lakeside Hideout"  
\- Initial Dash Item Set  
\- Extra Large! Rebuild Gem Pack
About the Game
==============
**Note: This product will no longer be available for purchase as of November 13th, 2025 at UTC 0:59, but we hope that you will continue to enjoy your purchase.**  
The concept of this title, the latest in the series to depict a new "Atelier" world, is "True-to-life youths that develop together, even if just a little bit".  
It is the story of a girl and her friends who are about to become adults, discovering what is most important to them.  
To depict the story of the main characters discovering things they've never seen before, we've created fields with natural shadows that allow you to feel the breath of the world. Graphics have been further enhanced, allowing for a world of daily-life and adventure to be depicted in a new way.  
Main Points  
■Advanced "Synthesis" system & "Location Points"  
The "Synthesis" system in which players combine materials to create items has been revamped.  
Now, in addition to being able to understand the effects of synthesis visually, the system allows you to enjoy the experience of developing recipes more than ever before.  
Also, we've included "Location Points" that players can create through synthesis!  
■Use different items to gather new materials!  
When "Gathering" the necessary materials for synthesis, the items you receive change depending on the tools you use to gather them, so it will be easier to obtain the items you want.  
■intense Battles  
With a combination of turn-based command battle and real time elements, enjoy intense battles where the choices you make determine the outcome! It is a system that will allow you to sense the feeling of strengthening bonds with your friends more than ever.  
Story  
The Main Character Is Ryza, An Ordinary Girl.  
Tired of boring village life, she escapes the village to gather with her good friends in a secret location to talk of their dreams and plan thrilling adventures.  
One day, the determined Ryza and company decide to head for the forbidden "island across the shore" as their first exploration trip.  
Together with the alchemist and other friends they meet there, they have a "summer adventure" that they will never forget.

Release date: Oct 28, 2019

Categories: JRPG, Crafting, Alchemy System, Turn-based Combat, Relaxing and Cozy Gameplay, Anime Art Style, Exploration, Gathering and Crafting

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Fair - No Evidence of Predatory Monetization; summary: The reviewed feedback centers on base-price complaints, season pass and DLC bundling, trilogy pricing, and the publisher's rerelease practices. No review provides direct evidence that this game sells in-game purchases, real-money gacha, loot boxes, paid power, paid convenience, battle passes, or a post-purchase cash shop. The delisting comment simply notes continued DLC availability. All observed concerns fall under excluded categories (base price, traditional DLC, publisher reputation), so the monetization audit finds no predatory real-money mechanics.
- Wiki: score 100; verdict: Tier 1: The Grinder; summary: The audit finds a clear Tier 1 external-data dependency: users rely on wikis, veteran-made tables, and walkthroughs for material drops, traits, gathering locations, and endgame grind avoidance. In-game codex and guidance are sometimes praised for common gathering, but they are also described as incomplete or inconvenient, especially for late-game materials. Because the strict priority rule triggers on explicit drop/grind and farming-location evidence, the final score is 100 despite other secondary themes.
- Steam Deck: score 75; verdict: Broken / Unstable on Steam Deck; summary: The audit finds mixed Steam Deck feedback: some users report the game runs well or perfectly on Steam Deck and OLED. However, the most impactful reports concern severe stability failures, including a crash that erased six hours of progress, a black screen when returning from DLC to the main menu, and a freeze state described as completely unplayable. Controller input also appears confusing enough that one user thought the controller was broken, though enabling PlayStation controller support in Steam is a reported workaround. No evidence here requires Proton Experimental or a touchscreen launcher, but the crash, freeze, and black-screen evidence places the experience in the Broken tier.

- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $20.00 - $30.00
  - Reasoning: The reviews consistently reject full-price purchases and recommend waiting for a sale. One reviewer still calls 29.99 EUR (roughly 32 USD) overpriced, which places the fair value below that anchor. Other reviews explicitly say half price or less is worthwhile and that a 60%-or-more discount would earn support, pointing to a lower acceptable range. Together, these signals suggest the community fair base-game price is approximately 20-30 USD.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 50.0h
  - Story completion: 35.0h
  - Session length: N/A
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: Story completion is supported by the report that normal story time is about 35-40 hours, with faster main-story clears around 21 hours and other full clears around 43 hours. Full completion is supported by reports of 40 hours for all achievements and almost 70 hours to finish everything, so gameCompletion is estimated around 50 hours. No quote gives a consistent typical single-session duration, and no quote isolates a separate endgame-only duration, so sessionLength and endgame are null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: This is a crafting-driven JRPG that many players find slow and tutorial-heavy at the outset, but which becomes strongly addictive once the early chapters and alchemy loop open up.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: Clearing the slow tutorial-heavy early chapters/prologue, after which the alchemy loop and story open up
  - Time to anchor: 3h 0m
  - Friction: Overwhelming opening with many systems introduced at once; Slow, tutorial-heavy first couple of chapters; Clunky interface and confusing journal/tutorial; Few travelling options in the early hours; Combat feels simple at the start; Item and quality shortfalls gate progress, including difficulty spikes
  - Unlock drivers: Getting past the long tutorial opening, after which the story picks up; Engaging deeply with the addictive alchemy/crafting system; Combat opening up and expanding later; Synthesis feeling rewarding as a process of discovery and progression
  - Conditions: Tolerance for a slow, hand-holding-free but lengthy introduction; Willingness to invest time in the alchemy crafting loop rather than just battles; Patience with the story's uneven pacing (slow early, rushed near the end); Openness to a lower-key 'ordinary' JRPG rather than a grand epic
- Player Archetypes:
  - Cute Casual JRPG Newcomer (buy)
    - Motivation: To enjoy an accessible, cute, and relaxing JRPG with crafting and exploration.
    - Playstyle: Casual, low-pressure exploration and crafting with little focus on story depth or difficulty.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: new player; first Atelier game
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Atelier Series Veteran Systems Critic (buy)
    - Motivation: To follow and evaluate the Atelier series' evolution and changes.
    - Playstyle: Compares alchemy, combat, and trait systems with earlier games while often completing or platinuming the title.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: veteran Atelier player
    - Reference games: Atelier Lulua; Atelier Lydie & Suelle
  - Alchemy Optimization Power Fantasy (buy)
    - Motivation: To master the alchemy system, optimize gear, and break combat difficulty through crafted items.
    - Playstyle: Gathers and synthesizes extensively, stacks traits and effects, and builds overpowered equipment to defeat bosses with little grinding.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Monster Hunter
  - Port and Value-Conscious Shopper (sale)
    - Motivation: To get a technically competent PC version and fair value before committing.
    - Playstyle: Waits for sales and patches, uses a controller, and researches port quality and re-release policies.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Alchemy system is highly enjoyable (weight 0.59): Players consistently praise the alchemy system as fun, deep, and addictive, often calling it the best in the series. It is described as a core, immersive mechanic that can absorb hours of play.
- Gameplay loop is addictive and fun (weight 0.51): The core gameplay of gathering, crafting, and exploring is highly enjoyable and addictive, keeping players engaged for long sessions. It is described as a warm and fun JRPG experience.
- Story and characters are charming (weight 0.42): The story and characters are frequently described as charming, likable, and heartwarming. The narrative is simple but relaxing, with well-developed and expressive characters.
- Combat is innovative and dynamic (weight 0.32): The semi-real-time combat system is praised for being creative, fast-paced, and engaging once mastered. It blends real-time action with strategic elements effectively.
- Graphics and visuals are appealing (weight 0.26): Reviewers note significant improvements in graphics, with appealing character models and a pleasant art style. The PC version is also commended for smooth performance and comfortable visuals.
- Relaxing and cozy atmosphere (weight 0.26): The game offers a laid-back, cozy, and pleasant atmosphere that is easy to play for extended periods. The relaxed pacing and heartwarming tone are key appeals.
- Ryza is a standout protagonist (weight 0.21): Ryza is widely praised for her adorable design, lively personality, and successful character development. Her charm is a major highlight for many players.
- Accessible for newcomers (weight 0.21): The game is considered a great entry point for the Atelier series, with an alchemy system that is easy to learn and suitable for players new to the franchise or RPGs in general.
- Soundtrack enhances the experience (weight 0.19): The music is consistently described as beautiful, gratifying, and perfectly complementing the game's wholesome atmosphere. It adds significantly to the overall feel-good tone.
- Character designs are cute and appealing (weight 0.18): The character designs are frequently praised as cute, appealing, and outstanding, contributing to the game's overall charm.
- Progressive mechanics keep experience fresh (weight 0.07): The gradual unlocking of mechanics adds layers to gameplay and keeps the experience fresh as players progress.
- Feels like an anime story (weight 0.07): Players note that the game feels like playing through an anime, which enhances immersion and enjoyment for fans of the genre.
- Lila is a notable character (weight 0.06): Lila is specifically mentioned as a great and pretty character, adding to the cast's appeal.

Common complaints:
- No upgrade path for original (weight 0.64): Existing owners get no upgrade option whatsoever, with delisting forcing repurchase of the DX version. Even a paid upgrade is unavailable, which many reviewers find unfair.
- Original delisted for DX version (weight 0.38): The original game was removed from sale specifically to push the DX version. This business practice is widely criticized as anti-consumer.
- DX version seen as money grab (weight 0.33): Reviewers perceive the DX version as a degraded, cheaper re-release that makes the original pointless. It is significantly cheaper and includes DLC, leaving early buyers feeling cheated.
- Story is short and boring (weight 0.16): The main story is very short, the shortest in the series, and lacks depth. Reviewers find it thin and comparable to a light novel.
- Stiff character animations (weight 0.12): Character animations are stiff and exaggerated. Many players find them unnatural and distracting.
- Combat system lacks depth (weight 0.12): The battle system is considered mediocre and poorly executed. Combat mechanics feel simple and weak overall.
- Keyboard and mouse controls poor (weight 0.12): Keyboard and mouse support is unfriendly, with awkward default controls. The layout makes no sense and hampers gameplay.
- No autosave feature (weight 0.1): The game lacks autosave, and saving is only possible at fixed points. Crashes or alt+F4 can cause hours of lost progress.
- Price too high for quality (weight 0.09): Many players feel the game is overpriced even at a discount. The cost does not match the quality or content offered.
- Simplified Chinese translation disastrous (weight 0.09): The Simplified Chinese localization is extremely poor, lacking basic language quality. It is described as a disaster by speakers.
- Side quests and dialogue monotonous (weight 0.09): Side quests are dull, pointless, and repetitive. Dialogue scenes are monotonous, adding little to the experience.

Gameplay feedback:
- Core Alchemy Crafting System (weight 0.92): A deep alchemy system forms the center of the game, covering material gathering, recipe discovery, item synthesis, and equipment upgrading. It offers high freedom in combining materials and customizing traits, effects, and quality.
- Hybrid Turn-Based Real-Time Combat (weight 0.55): Combat blends turn-based command selection with real-time elements such as ATB gauges and enemies acting while the player decides. Different clusters describe it as semi-real-time, ATB, or real-time turn-based.
- Alchemy Menu And Flowchart Crafting (weight 0.5): The alchemy menu allows crafting from materials like copper ore, using flowcharts or a circular grid. Placing materials with matching attributes unlocks surrounding nodes and affects results.
- Simplified Alchemy Onboarding (weight 0.45): The alchemy system is simplified for easier onboarding but remains a core system. It can feel cumbersome initially, though simplification is noted by some players.
- Equipment And Item Crafting Variety (weight 0.32): Crafting covers a wide range of items including weapons, armor, bombs, healing items, tools, and quest items. Materials are synthesized into stronger gear with better effects, traits, and quality.
- Gathering And Crafting Focused JRPG (weight 0.29): The game is consistently described as a JRPG centered on gathering materials and crafting items, sometimes with an open world and traditional JRPG pacing.
- Item Synthesis And Quality Progression (weight 0.28): Synthesis is used to incrementally craft higher-tier gear, with quality loops, trait transfers, and rebuilding to improve items. Gems from destroyed items can reinforce equipment.
- Recipe Discovery And Fixed Progression (weight 0.25): Recipes can be hidden within other recipes or require side quests to unlock, adding discovery. Recipe changes are fixed, giving intuitive progression rather than random shifts.
- Gathering Tools And Material Collection (weight 0.21): Players gather berries, ores, flowers, and other materials from sparkling spots, trees, rocks, and lakes using different tools such as hammers, axes, sickles, fishing rods, and explosives.
- Real-Time Combat With Single Character Control (weight 0.2): Combat does not pause, and the player directly controls only one character at a time while other party members act automatically. Chain and follow-up attacks can be triggered under specific conditions.
- Break-Based Turn-Based Combat (weight 0.17): Some descriptions highlight a turn-based combat system with break mechanics and AP resource management, where actions are selected from a list.
- ATB And AP Combat Mechanics (weight 0.16): The battle system is a variant of Active Time Battle (ATB) with AP gained through attacks, kills, joint actions, items, and break status. AP is spent on upgrades, special moves, extra turns, and tactics levels.
- Side Activities And Fast Travel (weight 0.16): The game includes difficulty settings and a fast travel system usable from signposts or the map, and from anywhere. These features support exploration and accessibility.
- JRPG With Well-Paced Structure (weight 0.12): The game is described as a JRPG with a traditional and well-paced structure, sometimes with crafting, battling, and story elements.
- Crafted Items In Battle (weight 0.07): Crafted items and equipment can be used in combat with strong effects, linking the gathering and crafting loop directly to battle performance.
- Alchemy Elemental Attributes And Conditions (weight 0.07): Materials in alchemy have fire, wind, thunder, and ice attributes. Recipes use a network of connected circles with requirements for material attributes and quantities.
- Chain And Team-Up Attacks (weight 0.06): Team-up and chain attacks with party members are triggered by fulfilling specific conditions during combat, adding a tactical layer.
- Auto-Synthesis And Rebuild Features (weight 0.06): The alchemy system includes auto-synthesis and a rebuild function that allows adding gems to items and increasing item level, with gems obtained by destroying items.
- Tactics Level And AP Cap Upgrades (weight 0.06): Tactics levels can be raised by spending AP, affecting attack count, skill upgrades, and unlocking fatal orders at higher levels. This also increases damage and the AP cap.
- Side Quest Recipe Unlocks (weight 0.06): Certain recipes require completing side quests to learn, encouraging players to engage with optional content to expand crafting options.

Performance notes:
- Runs well on Steam Deck (weight 0.28): The game works perfectly on Steam Deck OLED and some users report smooth performance on various hardware configurations without issues.
- Controller needed for stable performance (weight 0.26): Playing with mouse and keyboard causes constant freezes and stuttering due to the game continuously checking for gamepads. Using a controller or having one plugged in resolves these issues.
- Poor PC optimization and stuttering (weight 0.25): Many users report poor optimization, stuttering, and frame drops even on high-end hardware. The DX version performs worse and requires tweaking to run smoothly.
- Game defaults to integrated GPU (weight 0.21): The game often defaults to the integrated GPU, causing performance issues. Manually selecting the high-performance NVIDIA GPU via the Control Panel or Windows settings improves performance.
- Crashes cause lost progress (weight 0.15): Frequent crashes, including during audio output changes, can lead to loss of unsaved progress. Some players experienced crashes even after long play sessions.
- Very limited graphics settings (weight 0.14): PC graphics options are extremely limited, often only offering fullscreen and resolution choices. Many settings are in an external launcher and lack mouse support.
- Disabling HID devices fixes stuttering (weight 0.13): Stuttering issues can be resolved by disabling all HID devices in Device Manager. This may affect keyboard lighting but keys still work.
- Camera flicker on slopes and stairs (weight 0.12): The camera flashes when changing height on stairs or slopes, especially at high frame rates. This jarring effect is less noticeable at low frame rates but less smooth.
- Blurry textures and low resolution (weight 0.11): Some players notice blurry textures and low-resolution text, along with minor aliasing. Character animations are also criticized as poor.
- No widescreen support (weight 0.04): The game lacks support for widescreen resolutions, limiting display options for some users.
- Recent patch broke menu frame rate (weight 0.04): A recent update caused frame rate issues specifically in the in-game menu, affecting usability.
- Cursor not responding to clicks (weight 0.03): Some users experience a cursor that does not respond to clicks, hindering menu navigation.

Recommendations:
- Newcomer-friendly entry point (weight 0.36): Many reviewers highlight this game as an excellent starting point for players new to the Atelier series, with a low barrier to entry. It is frequently recommended for those looking to get into the franchise or the JRPG genre.
- Positive overall recommendation (weight 0.29): The majority of reviewers give a positive recommendation, often describing it as a solid or even favorite JRPG. Many would recommend it to friends and are interested in future titles.
- Avoid original, wait for DX (weight 0.25): A strong consensus advises against buying the original version because a DX version exists or is expected. Reviewers recommend waiting for the DX release to get the complete experience at a better value.
- Buy on sale or discount (weight 0.23): Many reviewers suggest waiting for a sale, with discounts of 50% or more making the game worth it. At full price, some feel it is not entirely justified.
- Avoid Koei re-release practices (weight 0.18): Several reviewers express frustration with Koei's re-release strategy, advising against buying their games until a complete DX version is released and discounted. Some suggest avoiding the publisher entirely.
- Not for action-oriented players (weight 0.16): Players seeking an exciting, action-rich JRPG or punishing difficulty may be disappointed. The game is also not recommended for those who dislike reading or are bad at English.
- Fan of series gets more (weight 0.16): Fans of the Atelier series, especially the Ryza arc, will appreciate the game more. Those who enjoyed it are encouraged to try earlier titles in the series.
- Crafting and alchemy appeal (weight 0.14): Players who enjoy deep alchemy, crafting high-quality items, and planning ingredient combinations will find the game highly rewarding. It is also recommended for those who like theorycrafting and optimal equipment.
- JRPG and anime style fans (weight 0.14): Reviewers recommend it for fans of JRPGs, cute anime art styles, and games like Summon Night or Trails. It appeals to those who enjoy turn-based combat and collection mechanics.
- Platform and performance notes (weight 0.13): Reviewers suggest playing on a different platform if possible, and following guides for low framerate issues. The PC version has some optimization updates but still benefits from tweaks.
- Price sensitivity and refunds (weight 0.13): Some reviewers feel the game is only worth it at a low price, with a few expressing regret and a desire to refund. The value proposition is closely tied to the cost.
- Deluxe edition not essential (weight 0.11): The Deluxe Edition is generally not considered necessary, as the base game feels complete. Some suggest buying it only for specific extras like the bag and gems, but DLC is often not recommended.
- Caution for non-RPG fans (weight 0.1): Those only interested in the character designs or following trends may not enjoy the gameplay. It is not recommended for players who want to be the hero or expect a traditional heroic story.
- Exploration and side content (weight 0.1): The game includes exploration elements like Kuken Island and individual character stories. Playtime for the main story is around 35-40 hours, with platinum achievable in about 55 hours.
- Guide helpful for materials (weight 0.09): Using a guide or wiki for material drops and traits is recommended to avoid excessive grinding. This is especially useful for those who want to optimize their synthesis.
- Grinding not for everyone (weight 0.09): The game involves significant grinding for synthesis recipes, which may not appeal to all players. Those who dislike grinding are advised to move on or watch a walkthrough instead.
- Mixed feelings on story (weight 0.08): Some players find the story weak or not a priority, recommending it mainly for gameplay. Others see potential for future improvements in the series.
- Difficulty and combat preferences (weight 0.08): The game offers a relaxed experience but also has options for those who enjoy strategic thinking. Hard difficulty is recommended for players seeking a challenge.

Other player notes:
- First Atelier game for many (weight 0.2): Many reviewers are playing an Atelier game for the first time. This is their first experience with the Atelier franchise, and for some, it is their first completed Atelier game.
- Game priced on higher side (weight 0.16): The game is considered expensive, even at a 40% discount. Some players may be deterred by the high price.
- Part of Atelier series (weight 0.14): The game is part of the Atelier series, specifically the first entry in the Atelier Ryza summer trilogy. Ryza is the most well-known entry in the niche but popular Atelier series.
- DX re-release sold as complete (weight 0.12): The game received a DX re-release and is sold as a complete edition while the original version is discontinued. This includes all DLCs.
- DLC adds challenges and stories (weight 0.11): The DLC adds additional challenges and includes episodes for various characters. The DLC story is available and enriches the game.
- Completion time around 50 hours (weight 0.09): Players report taking around 50 hours to complete all achievements. One reviewer's full experience took about 46 hours with only 3 achievements left.
- Playtime around 40 hours (weight 0.09): A playthrough takes around 40 hours with some side exploration. The main story is 25-30 hours, but side content can extend playtime.
- Fastest selling Atelier game (weight 0.07): The game is the best-selling entry in the 23-year-old Atelier series with 420k sales in 7 months. It is the fastest selling Atelier game to date.
- Poor Simplified Chinese localization (weight 0.07): The Simplified Chinese localization is machine-translated and of poor quality. This affects players who use that language option.
- Deluxe version offers limited extras (weight 0.07): The Deluxe Edition includes a bag that increases item capacity and gems, but some versions only give costumes and minor items. The value of the Deluxe edition is questionable.
- PC port lacks features (weight 0.07): The PC version lacks mouse support and graphics options. This makes the port less user-friendly for PC players.
- Significant discounts available (weight 0.07): Some players purchased the game at a significant discount, such as 60% off. This suggests that sales are common and waiting for a discount is advisable.
- Publisher focuses on DX version (weight 0.07): The publisher is focusing on the DX version, which exists and is being promoted. This may indicate a shift away from the original release.
- Better than similar series (weight 0.06): Compared to the Neptunia series, this game has better gameplay. It is also considered superior to some Capcom games by reviewers.

Emotions:
- Disappointment (weight 0.17): Players are disappointed by the delisting of the original games and the release of DX versions without upgrade options or discounts for existing owners. The story, characters, and alchemy system are also seen as weaker compared to earlier entries, with shallow writing, simplified mechanics, and poor PC optimization. Additionally, the DX release feels like a betrayal due to the lack of a free upgrade and the removal of DLC from the original.
- Frustration (weight 0.17): Frustration stems from technical issues such as stuttering, poor optimization, controller requirements, and the lack of an upgrade path to the DX version. Gameplay frustrations include tedious alchemy loops, unclear guidance, lost progress due to crashes, and a broken camera system. Many also resent having to repurchase the game at full price for added content.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.1): Players enjoy the fun and addictive alchemy system, the charming characters, and the engaging crafting mechanics. The combat system is also appreciated for its depth and tactical options. Exploration, gathering, and the relaxed atmosphere contribute to a pleasant experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.08): Satisfaction comes from the rewarding alchemy and crafting systems, which provide a sense of progression and accomplishment. The combat system offers strategic depth, and the story, while simple, is well-paced and engaging. Technical improvements and the game's performance on handheld devices also add to the satisfaction.
- Anger (weight 0.06): Anger is directed at the publisher's decision to delist the original games and release DX versions without upgrade options, forcing loyal customers to repurchase. The inclusion of inappropriate internet slang and mistranslations in the Chinese localization further angers players. Lost save files and crashes without autosave also contribute to the frustration.
- Joy (weight 0.03): Joy is derived from the cute and engaging alchemy system, the relaxing story, and the fluid combat. Players find happiness in crafting powerful items and seeing their efforts pay off. The visuals, music, and wholesome gameplay bring a smile to their faces.
- Disgust (weight 0.02): Disgust is felt towards the re-release of Ryza with minimal added content at full price, perceived as a money grab. The use of internet slang like '牛逼' in the translation is seen as inappropriate and breaks immersion. The treatment of original supporters and the 'fast-food' nature of the game are also sources of disgust.
- Appreciation (weight 0.02): Appreciation is expressed for the character relationships, slice-of-life atmosphere, and the creative synthesis system. The beautiful scenery, soundtrack, and overall care put into the game are also valued. The theme of friendship and the charming alchemy gameplay are highlights.
- Addiction (weight 0.02): Addiction is caused by the highly engaging alchemy and crafting systems that keep players coming back. The loop of gathering, synthesizing, and improving gear provides a dopamine rush. Many players spend countless hours immersed in the game.
- Annoyance (weight 0.02): Annoyance arises from technical issues like machine-translated text, lack of mouse support, and poor graphics options. Gameplay annoyances include reskinned monsters, tedious gathering, and frequent self-talk by the protagonist. The delisting of the original version also adds to the irritation.
- Admiration (weight 0.01): Admiration is felt for Ryza's character design and personality, as well as the excellent alchemy system with high freedom and variety. The improved visuals, innovative combat, and beautiful landscapes are also praised. Ryza's growth into a capable alchemist is particularly admired.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Surprise comes from the unexpected depth of the alchemy system and the enjoyable mix of turn-based and real-time combat. Players who expected a different focus were pleasantly surprised by the crafting gameplay. The story also exceeded expectations in its breadth.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Boredom is caused by a slow and plain opening, with the story unfolding too gradually. Gathering materials feels tedious, and the early game is bland. The heroic story lacks interesting events, making it dull until later chapters.
- Regret (weight 0.01): Regret is felt by players who bought the original version early and missed out on the cheaper DX version with all DLC and new content. Some regret not refunding the game when patches failed to fix issues. Others find the game only average after purchase.
- Relaxation (weight 0.01): Relaxation comes from the slow-paced gameplay of gathering, alchemy, and story, which provides a calming experience. The laid-back story and healing atmosphere allow players to unwind. The game captivates without being stressful.
- Amusement (weight 0.01): Amusement is derived from humorous descriptions of the protagonist's actions and the game's fanservice elements. The off-balance gameplay allowing for overpowered alchemy also provides comedic moments. Players find joy in the absurdity.
- Anticipation (weight 0.01): Anticipation is felt for future Ryza titles and the continuation of the series. Some players have been looking forward to the game since their school days. The prospect of playing Ryza 2 also generates excitement.
- Confusion (weight 0.01): Confusion arises from unclear objectives and mechanics that require online hints. Players who start with Ryza 3 may not recognize characters from previous games. The lack of guidance on where to go or what to do adds to the confusion.
- Distrust (weight 0.01): Distrust is directed at the developer's handling of delisting while keeping DLC on sale, and the treatment of old players. Some suspect that a further updated version of the DX version will be released. The company's practices erode trust.
- Contentment (weight 0.01): Contentment comes from the enjoyable experience of playing the game and the wholesome cute adventure. Players are happy with merchandise like Ryza figures. The different story focus also brings satisfaction.}