Outside of these minor issues, Valkyria Chronicles 4 is undoubtedly the best game I've played so far in 2018.

Valkyria Chronicles 4 is the sequel I’ve been waiting for, returning to the roots of what made the first game so special.

Combines robust storytelling with consistently inventive, surprising missions. Not just a return to form, but a new series peak.

Valkyria Chronicles 4 went back to the roots of the original. The gameplay has stayed nearly the same after nine years, with the exception of the new Grenadier class, but it still stands as firm as a rock. If you enjoyed the original, you will enjoy VC4.

Valkyria Chronicles 4 is a solid game, but if you are new to the series, I suggest to start with Valkyria Chronicles Remastered. VC4 builds on its ideas and the fans will enjoy it a lot, although I am a bit worried that the developers do not know where to go next — it is painfully apparent in their approach to gameplay mechanics and evolution of their fictional universe.

Harkening back to the first game in the series, Valkyria Chronicles 4 does very little to improve upon its tried and tested formula. A new set of characters and a few welcome additions however are enough to make this one just as enjoyable as the original Valkyria Chronicles ten years ago.

The game puts as much emphasis on narration as it does on turn-based combat, but if you’ve ever played a JRPG or two, Valkyria’s story won’t surprise you – you already know by heart these character types and plot twists. Same goes for combat – it’s so similar to the first game, it’s embarrassing. [Issue #233, p.60]