Riviera: The Promised Land

 PSP
  • Publisher: Atlus
  • Release Date: Jul 11, 2007
Metascore
68

Mixed or average reviews - based on 11 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 11
  3. Negative: 1 out of 11
Buy On
  1. Deeko
    90
    We're provided with a greatly enhanced sense of presentation, both from an audio and visual angle, as well as additional content not found in previous version.
  2. GameBrink
    88
    Remains a classic refreshment to the way RPGs are played and anyone who has yet to play this should give it a shot. If you already own a previous version of this game, I don’t think the full voice acting and fifty extra illustrations are really enough to justify another copy unless you’re a hardcore fan of Riviera. No matter which version you have, it’s a great replayable RPG to add to your proud collection of games.
  3. PSM3 Magazine UK
    78
    A perfect example of a generic J-RPG. [July 2008, p.78]
    All this publication's reviews
  5. RPG Fan
    77
    Regardless of version, I think Riviera: The Promised Land is a decent JRPG, and it marked a great comeback for Sting.
  6. 1UP
    70
    Even without any significant upgrades, Riviera would still stand out as one of the worthier RPG entries on the PSP.
  7. GameSpot
    70
    A great story and likable characters make it easier to overlook Riviera's limited combat and exploration.
  8. Eurogamer
    70
    Overall, it's a solid and unique JRPG which, thanks to some brave and interesting design decisions is worthy of attention, even if it will do nothing to convince genre detractors of that fact.
  9. IGN
    62
    In short, while the game looks good and sounds great (err ... the music sounds great anyway), the PSP port doesn't have a lot more to offer than the GBA version.
  10. GamesRadar+
    60
    Riviera feels like an RPG in more than just the sense that numbers appear over the heads of the bad guys you hit, which is becoming harder and harder to find these days.
  11. Thunderbolt
    60
    Riviera distances itself well from the mainstream RPG fare, but this is both a blessing as well as its curse.
  12. Cheat Code Central
    44
    It may be a great GBA game but it should have been completely overhauled for the PSP, to the extent of creating another sequel in the series. What you're getting here is a game where the expiry date was written over with, "Coming Soon to the PSP."

Awards & Rankings

47
#47 Best PSP Game of 2007
68
#68 Most Discussed PSP Game of 2007
69
#69 Most Shared PSP Game of 2007

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 17 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 17
  3. Negative: 2 out of 17
  1. MA
    Sep 1, 2009
    8
    It brings a refreshing approach to the average rpg by way of look points, mini games, dating sim-like characteristics, and an in depth storyIt brings a refreshing approach to the average rpg by way of look points, mini games, dating sim-like characteristics, and an in depth story (though this may seem drawn out to some). The new Japanese voice overs are great. The English... not so much. A good little game with small details that in depth players and story gamers will love (and even play the same chapter over and over to see if a better outcome could have been made with other decisions.)… Full Review »
  2. TheRebel
    Mar 28, 2014
    8
    Gameplay:
    Riviera is a turn-based RPG with dating-sim elements. Unlike most RPG's, exploration is limited. It's a linear RPG, but that    Gameplay:
    Riviera is a turn-based RPG with dating-sim elements. Unlike most RPG's, exploration is limited. It's a linear RPG, but that doesn't necessarily detract from the game. Other unique features help it stand out. Practicing is an important aspect in this game. You will NOT complete this game without practicing. Before battle begins, you are allowed to decide your desired formation, your weapons, and view your enemies' weaknesses, as well as your own. A noteworthy gameplay mechanic that is featured in this game are special moves that can be earned by practicing. Every individual character has a certain level that they can reach with specific items. Special moves can be executed by filling in the Overdrive bar in the top left-hand corner. Knowing when and when not to use special moves is absolutely vital during battle, as your opponent has a bar of their own. Once filled, they can use special moves as well. Items used during battle can be found in chests. Most chests feature traps, such as freeze gas, poison gas, bombs, etc. In order to avoid these traps, you must complete impromptu mini-games. These mini-games aren't introduced very well in the beginning and are confusing. Once you realize how the various sequences work, you'll be able to complete them successfully.

    Backstory:
    1000 years prior to the main plot, a Great War known as Ragnarok occurred. Asgard(Heaven) was overrun by demons from Utgard(Hell). In desperation, the Gods of Asgard sacrificed themselves in order to create Grim Angels. Each Grim Angel was issued a "Diviner," which was used to defeat the demons. After vanquishing the demons, Utgard was renamed to Riviera, which became a beautiful continent. The Gods gave the Seven Magi knowledge and power to keep Riviera safe. Along with the Sprites, inhabitants of Riviera, they would keep peace for 1000 years.

    Story:
    After 1000 years of peace, rumors began to circulate about the return of the demons. Hector, one of the Seven Magi, sends Ein and Ledah on a quest to actuate the Retribution. If actuated, Riviera and all of its inhabitants will be destroyed. Ein and Ledah eventually encounter Ursula, the protector of Riviera. She convinces Ein to save Riviera by eliminating the "Accursed." Along the way, Ein meets four other supporting characters, who aid Ein in his quest.

    Presentation:
    The water-color palette used in this game is gorgeous. The environments are very detailed and creative. Among the many different locations in the game, Tetyth is a definite standout! Although the environments are beautiful, they are repeated too often. It seems as if Sting decided to become lazy and not add additional backgrounds to the PSP version.

    Pros:
    -Solid Gameplay
    -In-depth Story
    -Fully Voice-Acted
    -Beautiful Environments
    -Good Soundtrack

    Cons:
    -Repetive Environments
    -Limited Exploration

    Verdict:
    I definitely recommend this game for casual gamers or gamers who want to get into the RPG genre. Hardcore RPG fans may want to avoid Riviera because of the fact that there is limited exploration. However, I believe that the story and the twist to the genre is enough to make up for the game's shortcomings.    … Full Review »
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