Ogre Tale is more than just your standard everyday beat ’em up as it has some of the best character writing in the genre. It’s a game that you can take at your own pace and will consistently provide you with new items and upgrades after each mission. The game could use some difficulty balancing and additional controller support, but nothing really takes away from the overall fun experience. The saddest part is, when it’s over, your left wishing you can hang out with these characters just a little bit longer.

Ogre Tale is a great side scrolling beat-em-up, especially for those looking to play something with incredible visual charm and style. With a charming story and cute character designs, along with full Japanese voice acting, this will be a must for those who enjoyed titles like Murasama: The Demon Blade. However, the systems in the game may be more limited than most players would like and it is hindered by the lack of proper PC controls.

Unfortunately, despite an interesting story, a good chance to learn some new folklore, and some solid combat, it just doesn’t reach as high or hit as hard as I’d like it to. This is a good game if you’re looking for something short, but it’s not going to change your world.

Ogre tale is one of the most Marmite games I have played in a very long time. If, like me, you’re a Japanophile, you’ll probably be able to look past the flaws. If not, you’re going to hate the jarring dialogue jarring and incessant reference dropping.