Spirit Valor Review: KEMCO's Latest RPG Falls Short on Nintendo Switch

Spirit Valor Review: KEMCO's Latest RPG Falls Short on Nintendo Switch KEMCO, in collaboration with developer Exe Create, has built a reputation for producing accessible retro-inspired RPGs for modern platforms, including the Nintendo Switch.

Known for their prolific output and adherence to classic JRPG formulas, KEMCO games often blend familiar mechanics with new twists to charm long-time fans.

However, their recent release, Spirit Valor, struggles to distinguish itself in an increasingly crowded market. Spirit Valor launches players into a world gripped by uncertainty at the end of a century-long peace.

In a departure from tradition, the story opens at the supposed final battle—a confrontation that doesn’t go as planned.

The hero faints, two companions vanish, and the question of whether evil has actually been defeated remains unanswered.

This intriguing premise initially sets a promising stage, but unfortunately, the narrative quickly loses momentum. Players are soon introduced to two primary pairs: Richard and Alice, with Richard uniquely bonded to a spirit that can command his actions during sleep, and the more conventional duo of Vivian and Finn.

While Richard's spirit connection adds a fresh gameplay twist by allowing him to wield magic from the outset, the other party members must form contracts with spirits or absorb enemy essences to learn abilities.

This system enables players to equip up to four magical skills—chosen from a set of ten—encouraging light customization and experimentation in combat.

Despite this, the battles maintain a familiar turn-based structure governed by a turn timeline, where players can choose from standard attacks, defense stances, item usage, or spirit summoning. Unfortunately, beyond these mechanics, party progression remains linear.

Experience points lead to straightforward level-ups, with incremental acquisition of stronger weapons and armor.

Compared to other recent KEMCO titles, which offered deeper party management or skill development, Spirit Valor feels like a regression.

The overall challenge is muted, with minimal difficulty spikes even at boss encounters.

While optional downloadable content is available via the Nintendo eShop to accelerate progression, it is largely unnecessary. Exploration, a cornerstone of classic RPGs, also feels underdeveloped here.

Towns and dungeons lack depth and creativity, with dungeons unfolding in a remarkably linear fashion.

Although warp points can be unlocked for backtracking, the world design feels restrictive—sometimes even artificially so, with illogical barriers in towns hampering immersion. On the visual front, combat scenes fare better.

Character sprites are detailed, and battle environments are lively, though a discrepancy exists between the cartoonish design of player characters and the appearance of enemies.

This contrast is noticeable but not overly distracting.

Nonetheless, aesthetics alone aren’t enough to disguise the lack of narrative depth.

Dialogue comes across as forced and immature, detracting from character development and the overall engagement with the storyline. KEMCO and Exe Create have produced enjoyable RPGs for Nintendo Switch and mobile devices, often recommended for their simplicity and nostalgic appeal.

However, Spirit Valor fails to build on that foundation.

The solid core battle mechanics are overshadowed by lifeless exploration, routine character arcs, and uninspired writing.

Spirit Valor is available on the Nintendo eShop, but those seeking a compelling retro RPG experience may want to look to KEMCO’s other entries or await a future title that recaptures the genre’s enduring spirit.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch KEMCO Exe Create Spirit Valor Nintendo eShop