Secret of Evermore is a unique action RPG from SquareSoft that often gets overshadowed by its contemporaries like Secret of Mana, but it has a lot to offer for SNES enthusiasts looking for an offbeat RPG experience.
The game tells the story of a boy and his dog who are mysteriously transported to the strange world of Evermore. Players explore four distinct regions—each with its own culture, enemies, and puzzles—while leveling up, acquiring new gear, and learning alchemy-based magic. Unlike traditional RPGs that focus on turn-based combat, Secret of Evermore features real-time action combat that keeps the pace brisk and engaging.
One of the game’s most memorable features is its “alchemy system,” which allows the boy to combine ingredients to create spells with varying effects. This adds a creative layer to battles and encourages experimentation. The boy’s dog is more than just a companion—it transforms as the game progresses, providing both comic relief and practical abilities during combat.
The graphics are colorful and charming, though they lean more towards cartoonish rather than the detailed sprite work seen in Secret of Mana. The soundtrack, composed by Jeremy Soule, is surprisingly impressive and atmospheric, perfectly complementing the game’s whimsical yet mysterious tone.
Where Secret of Evermore falters is in its somewhat uneven pacing. The first world can feel repetitive, and some puzzles feel obtuse without much direction. Additionally, while the dog adds charm, its AI can be inconsistent, sometimes making combat more frustrating than challenging.
Overall, Secret of Evermore is an underrated SNES gem. Its unique setting, inventive alchemy system, and real-time combat make it worth revisiting for retro RPG fans, even if it lacks the polish of SquareSoft’s more famous titles. For players willing to embrace its quirks, Evermore is an adventure that leaves a lasting impression.
Score: 8/10
Pros: Creative alchemy system, charming dog companion, engaging combat, atmospheric soundtrack
Cons: Slow start, uneven pacing, occasional frustrating AI
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