Destiny Connect E3 Impression

Amidst so many remasters, sequels, and RPGs catering to specific niches, Destiny Connect: Tick-Tock Travelers almost seemed like a breath of fresh air at this year’s E3. It’s a throwback to a simpler style, with a brand new IP and a warm aesthetic that’s inviting for gamers of all ages. While I can’t comment much on the game’s story after my all-too-brief hands-on time, my overall impression of the game was surprisingly pleasant.

Destiny Connect is the story of a young girl named Sherry, who lives in the tranquil town of Clocknee. 1999 is almost over, and the town’s Millennium Celebration is fast approaching. No one could have guessed what happens next. As the millennium turns, time in Clocknee freezes to a halt. It is up to Sherry, her best friend Pegreo, and a colorful cast of characters to unravel the mystery behind this phenomenon by time traveling both into the past and future.

The E3 demo sadly didn’t give me any opportunity to participate in any time-travel shenanigans, but it did give me an opportunity to play the intro section leading up to the Millennium Celebration. To start with, the game’s art style is really charming. Both the world and characters are vibrant, and the expressive facial animations — each time Sherry pouted or gave another character the side-eye — had me laughing out loud multiple times. There’s also a very upbeat, catchy tune playing in Clocknee that helps energize things.

Prev

1of16

Next

Following the opening quest line, which has Sherry deliver a parcel for her grandmother, results in the player eventually leaving the Clocknee city limits, where the game’s first battle ensues. Combat is turn-based, with the UI design following the clockwork theme; anybody that has participated in turn-based combat will immediately figure out the lay of the land here as well. Like the rest of the experience, the design is quite user friendly.

In the end, I don’t think seeing the game in action is going to necessarily change anyone’s mind about it. For those who were already interested, like I was, this just confirms that Destiny Connect‘s release for PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch on October 25, 2019, is one to look forward to.