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"Atelier Meruru: The Apprentice of Arland" (or simply "Atelier Meruru") is the third and final installment in the Arland trilogy within Gust's long-running Atelier series. Originally released in 2011 for the PlayStation 3, this JRPG combines the series' signature time management with a turn-based combat system and a charming story, all wrapped up in a vibrant art style and memorable music.
The Premise: Alchemy, Princesses, and Kingdom Development
At the heart of Atelier Meruru lies Princess Merurulille Radotte, affectionately known as Meruru. She is a spirited and somewhat naive young woman, bored with royal life and with an insatiable desire to become an alchemist like her idol, Totori. After much pleading, her father, King Dessier, finally relents, but on one condition: she must prove that alchemy can benefit the small kingdom of Arls within three years, or else she must abandon her ambitions and fulfill her royal duties.
This premise establishes the central pillar of the game: the development of the kingdom. Unlike previous Arland games, where the primary focus was exploration and completing quests, Meruru introduces a system where the alchemist's actions directly impact Arls's growth. By completing specific tasks (such as synthesizing certain items, exploring new areas, or defeating monsters), Meruru earns popularity and contribution points, which, in turn, unlock new facilities, upgrades, and areas in the kingdom. It's an incredibly satisfying gameplay loop that makes you feel like each synthesis and each adventure has a greater purpose.
Alchemy: The Heart of the Atelier Experience
As you'd expect from an Atelier game, alchemy is the fundamental pillar of the gameplay. Meruru's synthesis system is an evolution of that seen in Rorona and Totori, with a clear interface and mechanics that allow for great depth. The quality of the ingredients, their traits, and the order in which they are added drastically impact the properties of the final item. Experimenting with different combinations to create items with specific effects, powerful weapons and armor, or simply the best healing agents is immensely rewarding and addictive. The game strikes a perfect balance between being accessible to newcomers and offering enough complexity for veterans looking to optimize each synthesis.
Combat: Turn-Based Strategy and a Touch of Magic
The combat system is classic turn-based, with a strong emphasis on the use of alchemical items. Meruru and her companions have unique abilities and attacks, but the true advantage in battle often comes from the carefully synthesized items. Bombs with area effects, powerful heals, or even items that alter the enemy's status can turn the tide of a difficult fight. The inclusion of a support system between characters, where they can protect or assist in attacks, adds an extra layer of strategy. While it's not the most innovative combat system in the genre, it's solid, fun, and complements the alchemy mechanics well.
Characters and Plot: Charm, Humor, and Feeling
Atelier Meruru shines thanks to its cast of characters. Meruru is a charismatic and relatable protagonist, and her journey of growth, both as an alchemist and as a princess, is the emotional core of the story. The return of beloved characters from previous games, such as Rorona and Totori (now experienced masters), Mimi, Keina, Lias, and Sterk, brings a great dose of nostalgia and humor. The interactions between them are often funny and endearing, and contribute to building a vibrant and lifelike world.
The plot, while not epic in the traditional sense, is touching and well-told. It focuses on Meruru's personal development and the impact alchemy has on the lives of ordinary people. The game handles the concept of a time limit in a way that encourages efficiency without feeling overly restrictive, allowing you to enjoy the story and its numerous endings.
Visuals and Sound
Graphically, Atelier Meruru maintains the vibrant and colorful style of the Arland trilogy. The character models are expressive, and the environments are full of charming details. The music is, as always in Gust games, outstanding. With a mix of catchy and ambient tunes, the soundtrack enhances the overall experience, from the lively battle tracks to the relaxing melodies of the cities.