### The Hidden Treasures of RPGs: A Nostalgic Journey from the 90s to Angeline Era

As a kid playing RPGs in the 90s, exploring expansive backdrops while spamming the pick-up button became second nature. Specifically, in PS1 Final Fantasies, the hand-drawn environments often lured players into a trap with their deceptively inert designs and hidden treasures. Characters like Squall Leonhart could be seen gallivanting against invisible walls, desperately searching for secrets tucked away in pixelated corners. The thrill of discovery was palpable, especially when a random search animation indicated a hidden treasure had been found.

### The Art of Concealment in Game Design

Developers of that era employed ingenious methods to hide treasures in plain sight. A twinkling light might hint at a hidden item, while a cleverly positioned chest lid could peek out from behind a 2D background element, evoking the joy of finding a lost coupon in an old diary. Sometimes, items lacked visible indicators altogether, relying on player intuition—the gap in a patterned carpet or a narrow alleyway hinted at the possibility of an undiscovered gem.

While the industry has evolved significantly since then, the satisfaction of uncovering hidden items remains a cornerstone of the RPG experience. Modern titles continue to build on this heritage, incorporating secrets that reward players for diligent exploration. The recent release, **Angeline Era**, from **Analgesic Productions**—known for titles like Anodyne and Sephonie—captures this nostalgic essence while updating the mechanics for a contemporary audience.

### Exploring the Layers of Angeline Era

In Angeline Era, players can experience a similar sense of exploration and discovery. The game conceals entire landscapes within its world, inviting players to engage with the environment. Activating certain areas grants access to what developer Melos Han-Tani calls “setpoems”—dungeon-like spaces that unfold through engaging action-storytelling puzzles reminiscent of the Dreamcast era.

These dungeons, however, are not marked by traditional indicators; instead, they demand players to read the environment: a cryptic forest nook or an oddly placed pipe becomes a gateway to deeper gameplay. The chance to discover these hidden spaces is rooted in the innate curiosity that developers anticipated from players—a clever homage to the explorative spirit of earlier RPGs.

### An Homage with a Modern Twist

While Angeline Era draws heavily from the nostalgia of older games, it also stands as an original work. The combat system plays with the notion of “bumpslash,” a name derived from the Ys series, where players automatically strike upon contact with enemies. This approach shifts the focus from complex button combinations to positioning and movement, creating a unique combat experience that feels fresh and innovative.

The narrative, featuring protagonist Tets in search of a fallen angelic spacecraft amidst a world filled with Fae wildlife, pulls from a rich tapestry of influences including Irish mythology and early Christian philosophy. Yet, the storytelling remains accessible and playful, eschewing excessive complexity for a straightforward charm reminiscent of classic RPG narratives.

### Innovative Gameplay Mechanics

After several hours of gameplay, the hidden level motif is what initially drew players to Angeline Era, but the engaging setpoems keep their interest alive. Each room presents unique mechanics that challenge players to strategize and adapt, such as navigating puzzles involving rolling logs or utilizing a gun that must be reloaded through bumpslashing. The creativity embedded in these mechanics reflects a team clearly enjoying their craft, crafting experiences that are both imaginative and rewarding.

Challenges abound, with chaotic combat reminiscent of previous titles crammed with projectiles and enemies. However, this difficulty feels organic, motivating players to hone their skills while maintaining the core exhilaration of discovery.

### Conclusion

Angeline Era stands as a testament to the evolution of RPGs, marrying nostalgic elements with modern gameplay innovations. As players explore the vibrant world with its hidden secrets and thoughtful mechanics, the desire for discovery remains a driving force. For those eager to embark on this journey, Angeline Era is available on [Steam](https://store.steampowered.com/app/2393920/Angeline_Era/), where a demo awaits to entice nostalgic hearts and new adventurers alike.