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Fate/Samurai Remnant

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Fate/Samurai Remnant
Item: Fate/Samurai Remnant
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableSep 28, 2023

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC

DeveloperOmega Force

Overview

Throughout the Fate franchise, pairs of masters and heroic spirits —also known as servants— have been fighting across history in a series of Holy Grail Wars, with the winning duo receiving an ancient artifact that grants wishes. Fate/Samurai Remnant continues the series’ epic Holy Grail War in the fourth year of the Keian Era, Edo Period Japan. It has been several decades since the end of a turbulent, blood-soaked era, and while the people are finally enjoying peace and tranquility, a battle between seven pairs of masters and servants is about to begin as the “Waxing Moon Ritual” unfolds in the shadows. This is where the game’s hero, Miyamoto Iori, a young man in Asakusa, finds himself caught in the violence alongside his servant Saber, as they fight to be the last pair remaining in order to receive the granter of wishes, the “Waxing Moon Vessel”.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Fate/Samurai Remnant has garnered mostly positive reviews for its rich narrative and character development, praised for its engaging story set in 17th-century Japan amidst the Holy Grail War. Critics highlight the dynamic relationship between protagonist Miyamoto Iori and Saber, making it accessible for newcomers while still captivating veterans. However, some point out issues with slow pacing and excessive exposition that can hinder engagement. Despite these flaws, the game is celebrated for its compelling storytelling and emotional depth, solidifying its place as a strong entry in the Fate franchise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

93%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Fate/Samurai Remnant is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its depth and character development. Reviewers such as Checkpoint Gaming and Destructoid highlighted the game's ability to weave a rich narrative that spans generations, set against the backdrop of 17th-century Japan and the unique twist of the Holy Grail War. Critics like Digital Chumps and GamingTrend emphasized the dynamic relationship between the protagonist, Miyamoto Iori, and his servant, Saber, as a strong point of the narrative. The game is noted for being accessible to newcomers while still engaging enough for veterans of the Fate series, as pointed out by INVEN and RPGamer. Furthermore, the incorporation of historical elements and well-crafted characters adds to the immersive experience, making it an engaging journey for players. However, there are some criticisms regarding the pacing and complexity of the narrative. Several reviewers, including KeenGamer and Nintendo Life, mentioned that the story suffers from slow pacing and excessive exposition, which can detract from the overall experience. Gamereactor UK noted that while the narrative has potential, it often lacks engagement due to lengthy dialogues. Additionally, some critics like ZTGD felt that the story felt rushed in the final chapters, indicating that there could have been more substantial character interactions to deepen the emotional impact. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Fate/Samurai Remnant delivers a compelling and well-structured narrative that resonates with players. Many reviewers, including those from GameSpew and PlaySense, found the story to be engaging and filled with interesting twists, making it one of the standout aspects of the game. The blend of historical context with character-driven storytelling has been appreciated widely, as noted by IGN Italia and SpazioGames, reinforcing the game's status as a strong entry in the Fate franchise. Overall, the positive reception of the story suggests that it successfully captivates players, encouraging exploration and emotional investment in the characters and their journeys.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Fate/Samurai Remnant offers fast-paced, dynamic combat with engaging RPG elements and tactical gameplay that many critics enjoy. However, it suffers from repetitiveness and pacing issues, with some reviewers finding the combat simplistic and lacking depth. While the game has moments of excitement, its reliance on familiar mechanics can lead to monotony, resulting in a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

40%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Fate/Samurai Remnant has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging and dynamic combat system. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and IGN France praise the fast-paced combat and the variety of abilities available to players, with Checkpoint noting the tactical overlay provided by Leylines. Critics such as Impulsegamer and Noisy Pixel commend the integration of RPG elements, character upgrades, and the unique synergy between the protagonist and their Servants, which adds depth to the gameplay experience. The introduction of various stances and combos, as mentioned by Destructoid and Digital Chumps, allows for a more intricate combat system that keeps players engaged throughout their journey. However, several critics have pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay experience. Many reviewers, including GameSpew and Hardcore Gamer, noted issues with repetitiveness and pacing, suggesting that while the combat can be enjoyable, it often becomes tedious over time. Gamers Heroes and PlayStation Universe echoed these sentiments, describing the combat as simple and sometimes lacking in depth, which can lead to a feeling of monotony. Additionally, some critics like KeenGamer and ZTGD expressed concerns about the overall execution of the combat mechanics, describing the system as messy or serviceable, which detracts from the potential enjoyment of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed but generally favorable view of Fate/Samurai Remnant's gameplay. While many appreciate the engaging combat mechanics and the tactical elements introduced through RPG features, there is a recurring theme of repetitiveness and pacing issues that hinder the overall experience. Critics like The Games Machine and XGN highlight the balance between action and strategy, yet caution that the game may not fully engage players due to its reliance on familiar Musou mechanics. Thus, while Fate/Samurai Remnant offers moments of excitement and depth, it struggles with maintaining that engagement over extended play sessions, leading to a varied reception among players and critics alike.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Fate/Samurai Remnant impresses with its vibrant anime art and authentic Edo-period settings, earning praise for its character designs and immersive visuals. However, critics noted shortcomings in technical execution, with some graphics deemed merely "okay" and textures lacking polish, especially on the Nintendo Switch. The game successfully captures aesthetic charm but may not satisfy those seeking cutting-edge visuals or varied landscapes.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

38%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

60%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Fate/Samurai Remnant have garnered a generally positive reception among critics, particularly for their anime-inspired aesthetic and the immersive recreation of Edo-period Japan. Reviewers from Checkpoint Gaming and Destructoid highlighted the game's vibrant anime art style and authentic period locations, emphasizing how these elements contribute to an enjoyable exploration experience. Critics such as Impulsegamer noted the smooth graphics on the PS5, enhancing the overall atmosphere, while KeenGamer praised the beautiful 3D anime style that captures the essence of the setting. The game's character designs also received commendation, with But Why Tho? remarking on their detail and attractiveness, and RPG Fan emphasizing the striking visuals that evoke the feel of the Fate anime series. Despite the praise for the visual style, several critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the game's graphics. GameSpew described the visuals as merely "okay," criticizing the character models for being decent but the textures for being shoddy. Similarly, PlaySense and PlayStation Universe echoed this sentiment, stating that while the graphics are stable, they do not meet current-generation standards. Critics like INVEN and Games.cz expressed disappointment in the overall visual fidelity, suggesting that the game lacks the detail and polish expected from modern titles. The Nintendo Switch version, in particular, received criticism for its performance issues, with Gamezebo and Nintenderos highlighting poor textures and graphical downgrades compared to the PC and PS5 versions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Fate/Samurai Remnant successfully captures the aesthetic charm of its setting through vibrant art and character designs, but it falls short in technical execution and detail. While many reviewers, such as TheSixthAxis and SpazioGames, appreciated the artistic direction and immersive environments, others pointed out the repetitiveness of locations and the lack of distinctiveness in some areas. This divide suggests that while the game offers a visually appealing experience, it may not fully satisfy players looking for cutting-edge graphics or a more varied visual landscape.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Fate/Samurai Remnant impresses with its immersive sound design and emotionally resonant soundtrack, praised for enhancing the game's atmosphere and storytelling. Japanese voice acting adds depth but may hinder non-Japanese speakers. While some critics found the music unmemorable, the overall consensus highlights a solid audio experience that significantly enriches gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Fate/Samurai Remnant have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, highlighting the game's immersive audio experience. Reviewers such as Destructoid and XGN praised the calm soundtrack infused with traditional Japanese instruments, which enhances the game's setting and atmosphere. Critics like Noisy Pixel and RPGamer noted the emotional resonance of the soundtrack, emphasizing how it complements the narrative and gameplay. The voice acting, exclusively in Japanese, has been highlighted as a standout feature by multiple critics, including Worth Playing and Vandal, who commend the performances for their quality and ability to enrich the storytelling experience. Overall, the sound design is described as clean and effective, with several reviewers, such as Digitally Downloaded and Impulsegamer, noting how it complements the gameplay and enhances key moments. Despite the generally favorable opinions, there are notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music. Some critics, such as PlayStation Universe and KeenGamer, found the soundtrack to be unremarkable and lacking in memorable tunes, suggesting that while the music fits the setting, it does not leave a lasting impression. Additionally, the exclusive use of Japanese voice acting has been pointed out as a potential barrier for non-Japanese speakers, particularly during combat, as noted by Digital Chumps and PlaySense. This limitation could detract from the experience for players who struggle with reading subtitles in fast-paced scenarios. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Fate/Samurai Remnant delivers a solid audio experience, particularly in terms of its soundtrack and voice acting. While there are some criticisms regarding the memorability of the music and the challenges posed by the Japanese-only voice acting, the majority of reviewers appreciate how the sound design enhances the game's atmosphere and storytelling. Critics like The Games Machine and COGconnected encapsulate this sentiment by emphasizing the game's strong aesthetic and the effective use of music to elevate both action and character moments, suggesting that the audio elements play a significant role in the overall enjoyment of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Fate/Samurai Remnant is highly praised for its quality and ability to enhance the game’s narrative, with standout performances like Saber’s highlighted by critics. However, the exclusive use of Japanese voice acting risks alienating English-speaking players, particularly in fast-paced gameplay where comprehension is crucial. While the performances are excellent, the lack of English options raises concerns about accessibility and may limit the game’s broader appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Fate/Samurai Remnant has garnered considerable praise from various critics, highlighting its overall quality and effectiveness in enhancing the gaming experience. Reviewers such as KeenGamer and RPGamer commended the superb execution of the voice performances, noting how they contribute positively to the narrative and character interactions. Critics like Vandal and Worth Playing emphasized that the Japanese voice acting serves as a highlight of the sound design, with particular mention of standout performances, such as that of the character Saber. Additionally, many critics, including Checkpoint Gaming and PlaySense, acknowledged that the voice acting is well done, enhancing immersion and engagement for players, particularly those familiar with the Japanese language. However, a notable drawback mentioned by several reviewers is the exclusivity of the voice acting being in Japanese, which may alienate some English-speaking players. Critics like GameSpew and PlayStation Universe pointed out that the absence of English voice acting could be frustrating for those who do not understand Japanese, especially during fast-paced combat scenarios where quick comprehension is crucial. COGconnected also highlighted this limitation, suggesting that it may detract from the overall experience for some players. This sentiment reflects a common concern among critics regarding accessibility and player comfort. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Fate/Samurai Remnant is of high quality and enhances the game's immersive experience, the lack of English voice options may pose a challenge for non-Japanese speaking players. Most reviewers, including Digital Chumps and RPG Fan, agree that the performances are excellent and well-executed, contributing significantly to the game's narrative depth. However, the divide in language accessibility remains a point of contention, suggesting that while the voice acting is a strong asset, it may limit the game's appeal to a broader audience.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Fate/Samurai Remnant shines on PS5 with 60 FPS, smooth gameplay, and no bugs, earning rave reviews. In stark contrast, the Nintendo Switch suffers from frequent frame drops and long load times, severely hampering the experience. The PC version is hit-or-miss, with some enjoying smooth play while others face technical issues. Choose your platform wisely for the best experience!

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Fate/Samurai Remnant across various platforms has garnered a range of opinions from critics. On the PlayStation 5, the majority of reviewers praised its performance, highlighting its solid frame rate of 60 FPS, smooth gameplay, and quick load times. Critics from Destructoid and KeenGamer noted the absence of bugs or glitches, contributing to a seamless gaming experience. Digital Chumps and Impulsegamer echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the game runs smoothly even during intense encounters. The overall impression from PS5 players is overwhelmingly positive, with many reviewers like Vandal and The Games Machine confirming optimal performance without noticeable issues. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch version has faced significant criticism regarding its technical performance. Multiple critics, including Gamezebo and Nintendo Life, pointed out serious performance issues, such as frequent frame drops and long loading times, particularly in populated areas. These issues can hinder gameplay and lead to discomfort for players sensitive to motion sickness. Pure Nintendo and PLAY! Zine also highlighted stuttering and frame rate problems, indicating that the Switch version struggles to deliver a satisfactory experience compared to its PS5 counterpart. On the PC front, opinions are mixed; while some reviewers like But Why Tho. praised its flawless performance, others, including Gamereactor UK and Tech-Gaming, noted technical issues, particularly with visuals and performance on lower-end rigs. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Fate/Samurai Remnant performs exceptionally well on the PlayStation 5, with a stable frame rate and minimal technical issues, making it the preferred platform for an optimal gaming experience. However, the Nintendo Switch version is marred by significant performance problems, which detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. The PC version presents a mixed bag, with some experiencing smooth gameplay while others encounter frustrating technical difficulties. This divergence in performance across platforms highlights the importance of selecting the right system for the best experience with Fate/Samurai Remnant.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Fate/Samurai Remnant offers impressive replay value, with critics praising its 40+ hours of gameplay, New Game Plus mode, and multiple endings. Many players can expect over 100 hours if aiming for 100% completion, thanks to extensive side quests and varied characters. However, concerns linger about repetitive combat and limited optional content, which may deter some players. While the game has a lot to offer, its execution might not resonate with everyone. Overall, it's a solid experience for fans, though improvements in depth and gameplay variety could enhance replayability.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

57%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Fate/Samurai Remnant is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting the extensive content and features that encourage multiple playthroughs. Checkpoint Gaming notes that players can expect around 40 hours of gameplay in a single playthrough, with additional story elements and quests available in subsequent runs. Critics like Everyeye.it and GamingTrend emphasize the potential for over 100 hours of gameplay, especially for those aiming to 100% the game. The inclusion of a New Game Plus mode, as pointed out by Digital Chumps and PlaySense, adds significant replay value by allowing players to carry over progress and experience new content, such as additional side quests and altered endings. Moreover, the variety of characters and tactical elements, as mentioned by Gamers Heroes and XGN, contribute to a rich gameplay experience that invites exploration and engagement. However, not all reviews are entirely favorable regarding the replay value. Some critics, like RPGamer, express concerns about the repetitiveness of combat, which may deter players from fully engaging in multiple playthroughs. Worth Playing also mentions that there isn't a wealth of optional content beyond the main story and a few side quests, which could limit the incentive for replaying the game. Additionally, Gamereactor UK points out that the game's reliance on action over role-playing elements might restrict its appeal for players seeking a deeper narrative experience. This sentiment suggests that while the game offers substantial content, the execution may not satisfy everyone. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Fate/Samurai Remnant provides a commendable amount of replay value, especially for fans of the franchise. The presence of multiple endings, New Game Plus features, and a variety of side missions are consistently praised across reviews, as noted by critics like Noisy Pixel and Tech-Gaming. The game appears to cater well to both newcomers and long-time fans, with ample opportunities for exploration and engagement. Nevertheless, the concerns about repetitive gameplay and a lack of depth in certain areas indicate that while the game is rich in content, there are aspects that could be improved to enhance the overall replay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

80%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

20%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Fate/Samurai Remnant is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its engaging narrative, character development, and combat mechanics. Reviewers like Checkpoint Gaming and Destructoid highlight the game as a well-rounded experience that appeals to both newcomers and long-time fans of the Fate franchise. The game is noted for its captivating storyline and rich lore, making it a solid entry point for those unfamiliar with the series. Critics such as Digital Chumps and KeenGamer commend the character-driven narrative, while others like The Mako Reactor and TheSixthAxis celebrate it as one of Omega Force's best offerings in recent years. The blend of action RPG elements with a historical backdrop is also frequently lauded, as seen in the reviews from GamingTrend and PlayStation Universe. Despite the positive reception, several critics point out notable drawbacks that affect the overall experience. Common criticisms include pacing issues, excessive dialogue, and repetitiveness in gameplay. Hardcore Gamer and IGN Italia mention that while the story is compelling, long stretches of dialogue can detract from the pacing, making it feel sluggish at times. Reviewers like RPGamer and SpazioGames also note that the gameplay can be slow-paced and may not appeal to those seeking a more action-oriented experience. Additionally, some critics highlight technical flaws, especially in the Nintendo Switch version, where performance issues significantly impact gameplay enjoyment, as noted by Gamezebo and Nintendo Life. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Fate/Samurai Remnant is a commendable addition to the Fate series, offering a rich narrative and enjoyable gameplay that caters to both fans and newcomers. While there are criticisms regarding pacing and gameplay mechanics, the majority of reviewers, including those from Impulsegamer and Vandal, recommend the game for its storytelling and character depth. Overall, the game is seen as a worthwhile experience, particularly for those invested in the Fate universe, with many expressing hope for future titles that build on its strengths.

TL;DR

Fate/Samurai Remnant is receiving strong praise for its engaging narrative, character development, and combat mechanics, making it accessible for both newcomers and series veterans. Critics commend its rich lore and compelling storytelling, branding it as one of Omega Force's best games recently. However, issues like pacing, excessive dialogue, and technical flaws—especially on Nintendo Switch—are notable drawbacks. Overall, it’s a solid addition to the Fate franchise, recommended for its depth, despite some gameplay shortcomings.

MONSTER

Reviews

81 reviews found

100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Sep 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly recommends Fate/Samurai Remnant, stating that it reinvigorated their love for the Fate series.

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100

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Sep 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer praises Fate/Samurai Remnant as a new high point for the entire franchise. They mention that the game offers a consistent, narrative-first experience that constantly keeps things fresh and engaging. The reviewer expresses a strong desire for more games like this.

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But Why Tho?

Sep 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fate/Samurai Remnant is an incredibly impressive game with lots to offer both Fate and Musou fans. It has a compelling narrative, fun gameplay, great lore, and more. Despite its drawbacks, it is highly satisfying.

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Nintenderos

Nintendo Switch

Sep 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fate/Samurai Remnant is a surprising game with an outstanding narrative and frenetic gameplay. It is one of the most interesting role-playing games of the year, designed for fans of the franchise but also accessible to all players.

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XGN

PlayStation 5

Nov 20, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fate/Samurai Remnant appeals to both fans of the Fate franchise and newcomers, offering a well-crafted RPG experience with engaging gameplay and a rich story.

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The Games Machine

PlayStation 5

Sep 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fate/Samurai Remnant is a focused, well-written, and structured video game that offers a lengthy and engaging main campaign, along with a mature storyline and a comprehensive lore. The game design is superb, and the overall experience is highly enjoyable.

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The Mako Reactor

PlayStation 5

Sep 30, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly recommends Fate/Samurai Remnant, considering it one of Omega Force's best games in recent years.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 5

Sep 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fate/Samurai Remnant is a fresh addition to the Fate franchise, offering a unique take on the Holy Grail War formula with a compelling narrative, satisfying combat, and engaging gameplay. It is worth exploring for both newcomers and longtime fans.

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GamingTrend

PlayStation 5

Sep 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fate/Samurai Remnant is a worthwhile addition to the Fate series, with a unique blend of combat and historical backdrop. Fans of the franchise will enjoy the narrative-rich dialogue and colorful cast of characters, while those looking for action might find it slow-paced.

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RPG Fan

Sep 28, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fate/Samurai Remnant is a new and exciting action RPG with a great story, endearing characters, and intriguing mechanics. It has minor issues with pacing and battles with large enemies, but overall, it's a rewarding experience.

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