“13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim” is an adventure game created by Atlus and Vanillaware, blending deep storytelling with strategic battles. When the PlayStation 4 version was released in 2019, its intricately crafted story and unpredictable plot captivated many players, earning praise to the point where people said, “I wish I could erase my memory and play it again from the start.” Later, the Nintendo Switch version arrived in 2022, delighting even more fans thanks to handheld mode play. The greatest appeal of the game lies in its grand ensemble drama that moves between past and future, drawing players into the intertwined destinies of 13 boys and girls.

The story begins in 1985, when kaiju suddenly rain down upon Earth. The protagonists pilot massive robots called “Sentinels” to face the ever-repeating “doom of destruction.” Though each of the 13 boys and girls has a different background, they unite toward a common goal and wage battles where their lives are on the line. As the game progresses, their pasts, futures, and the secrets each one holds gradually come to light, allowing players to unravel mysteries as they advance through the story. At times deeply moving, at times shocking, the narrative grips players without letting them grow bored for even a moment.

The game’s system is divided into two main parts. First, in the adventure section called “Remembrance,” players investigate the truth behind the “doom of destruction” through events unfolding in daily life. Interacting with the 13 characters in this part deepens the story while weaving in their individual narratives. Next, in “Destruction,” players pilot Sentinels and engage in fierce battles against kaiju. In these battles, strategic thinking is required to defeat the monsters and fulfill the mission of protecting the world. There is also a mode called “Analysis,” where players can review the story and consider its meaning through the event archive and mystery files, allowing them to enjoy the plot while developing their own interpretations.

The Switch version adds several new features in addition to the deluxe edition bonuses from the PlayStation 4 release. Most notably, “Destruction” now includes new armaments: two for each protagonist, totaling 26, expanding the range of strategic possibilities in combat. Furthermore, the Switch version allows players to toggle in-game voices between Japanese and English. This not only lets players enjoy the English audio, but also offers greater freedom in language choice, enabling gameplay tailored to individual preferences.

“13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim” is a true gem of a dramatic adventure, combining a meticulously crafted, tension-filled story, deeply compelling characters, and thrilling battles. Immersing yourself in its grand narrative that transcends past and future, and fighting alongside 13 boys and girls as they confront the doom of destruction, offers an emotional experience unlike any other game. The new elements in the Nintendo Switch version, along with the robust voice toggle feature, make it even more appealing to a wider range of players—whether they’re experiencing it for the first time or returning after playing before.