Game Details

Size 248 MB
Region Japan
Genre RPG
Format 7z / ISO
Release Year March 19, 2009
Console PSP

 

Brandish: The Dark Revenant (2009) is a full 3D remake of the classic 1991 Nihon Falcom action-RPG. It is one of the most unique “hidden gems” on the PSP, known for its unconventional camera system and challenging, trap-filled dungeon crawling.

The Premise: The Escapist’s Tale

You play as Ares Tovern, a silent, dual-sword-wielding warrior who is being relentlessly pursued by the sorceress Dela Delon.

  • The Fall: During their confrontation, the ground collapses, plunging both into a vast, subterranean labyrinth beneath a ruined tower.

  • The Goal: You must navigate your way back to the surface, floor by floor, while dealing with lethal traps, puzzles, and a very persistent Dela who wants your head on a platter.

Key Features: The “Always Over the Shoulder” Camera

The most defining (and polarizing) feature of Brandish is its movement system.

  • The Rotatable World: Unlike most 3D games where the character turns, in Brandish, when you turn left or right, the entire world rotates around you instantly. The camera is always locked directly behind Ares’ back.

  • Grid-Based Action: Movement is tile-based, but the combat is real-time. You must master the “rhythm” of jumping over pits, blocking with your shield, and timing your slashes.

  • Resting System: Pressing the Select button puts Ares into “Resting Mode,” allowing him to recover HP and MP rapidly. However, you are completely defenseless while resting, making it a “risk vs. reward” mechanic in hostile territory.

  • Breakable Weapons: Most swords have a durability meter. If it reaches zero, the weapon breaks. You must manage your inventory carefully and always keep a backup (or be prepared to use your fists).

Secrets & Unlockables

  • Dela Delon Mode: After beating the game once with Ares, you unlock a full secondary campaign where you play as Dela.

    • Gameplay Difference: Dela plays as a “Glass Cannon” sorceress. She has very low physical defense but can unleash devastating long-range magic. Her story offers a different perspective on the events of the game.

  • Expert Mode: Completing the game unlocks “Hard” and “Expert” difficulties, which drastically increase enemy damage and change trap placements.

  • Map Completion Rewards: If you map 100% of a floor (filling in every square on the mini-map), you are often rewarded with permanent stat-boosting items or rare equipment.

  • The “Secret” Shops: Many floors have fake walls that lead to hidden merchants selling “Infinite” versions of basic weapons or rare magic scrolls.

Short Review: A Retro Masterpiece Refined

The Good

  • Atmospheric Design: The sense of isolation and the “upward climb” is perfectly captured. The music, typical of Falcom, is excellent and ranges from moody synth to driving rock.

  • Satisfying Puzzles: The dungeon isn’t just about fighting; it’s a giant rubik’s cube of pressure plates, hidden switches, and teleporters.

  • Fluid Combat: Once you get used to the rotating camera, the combat becomes incredibly fast and tactical, especially during the intense boss fights.

The Bad

  • Steep Learning Curve: The camera system can cause literal motion sickness for some players, and it takes an hour or two for your brain to adjust to the world “spinning” with every turn.

  • Pixel-Perfect Traps: Some traps (like the invisible pits) can feel unfair if you aren’t constantly using “Map” items or checking floors with your sword.

  • Inventory Management: The grid-based bag is small, and you will frequently have to leave items behind or backtrack to shops.

Screenshots

Brandish: The Dark Revenant PSP ISO
Brandish: The Dark Revenant PSP ISO