Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero Review – Adventure Meets Heartfelt Strategy

(image credit: Nippon Ichi Software)

Redemption and Adventure

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero steps onto the scene as a charming and refreshingly unique strategy RPG. Set in the bright, bustling ocean world of Ivoire, it tells the story of Marona, a brave and gifted girl with the extraordinary ability to connect with Phantoms—the lingering spirits of those who’ve passed on.

When the haunting Shipwreck Fleet returns to terrorize Ivoire, Marona must rise to the occasion. Separated from her Phantom companion Ash, she teams up with her new ally Apricot to recruit the legendary crew that once vanquished these spectral foes. Together, they’ll face thrilling battles, form unlikely friendships, and uncover secrets hidden in the waves.

(image credit: Nippon Ichi Software)

A Masterclass in Strategy and Customization

The gameplay of Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero reimagines strategy RPG mechanics with bold creativity and endless possibilities. At its core lies the "Confine" system, where players summon Phantoms by binding their spirits to objects on the battlefield. Each object—whether a sturdy rock that boosts defense, or a delicate flower that enhances agility—shapes the Phantom’s abilities and movement, transforming the environment into a key part of your strategy.

Phantoms can fuse with gadgets for massive attacks, or merge with Marona through the "Confriend" system, unlocking new forms and powerful abilities that turn her into a one-person army. Battles unfold on gridless maps, giving players total freedom to maneuver, flank enemies, and turn the terrain into an ally. This fluid system invites creative tactics and keeps every skirmish fresh.

This game is all about making it your own. With over 50 characters to choose from—like tough warriors, spell-slinging mages, or even walking bombs and ghostly umbrellas—you can build a squad that’s as unique as you are. Tweak their skills, fuse them with gadgets, and create a team that fits your style perfectly.

Clashing with the ghostly Shipwreck Fleet brings high-stakes drama, as massive ships barrel into battle, pushing you to think fast and adapt. Between fights, you’ll explore Ivoire’s islands, craft powerful gear, and hunt for hidden treasures, adding layers to your adventure.

(image credit: Nippon Ichi Software)

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero is the kind of adventure that feels like it’s made just for you. From mixing and matching Phantoms, outwitting ghostly enemies, to exploring the vibrant world of Ivoire, every moment feels like a chance to try something new and uncover something special.

Visuals and Art Style: A Feast for the Eyes

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero pulls you in with its stunning visuals, mixing rich artistry and thoughtful details that make Ivoire feel alive. The hand-drawn style has the warmth of a classic storybook, full of energy and heart. Whether it’s the glimmering ocean around Ivoire’s islands, or the ghostly mists of the Shipwreck Fleet, every scene feels like a world you want to step into.

Each island in Ivoire feels like its own little world. You’ll trek through lush jungles with crashing waterfalls, stroll through lantern-lit ports buzzing with life, and step onto haunted shores glowing with an otherworldly light. Even the smallest things—a mossy rock, a rusted anchor—seem to hold a story, making the world feel rich and alive.

The characters in this game are full of life and personality. Marona’s bright, hopeful design shows her quiet strength, while Apricot’s bold colors and playful animations bring her energy to life. The Phantoms are a wild mix, from mysterious ghosts and flaming skeleton knights to possessed brooms and lanterns with a cheeky edge. Every design feels like it has a story to tell.

Battles burst with energy as the "Confine" system transforms Phantoms through objects, igniting the field with flashes of light, sparks, and explosions. The gridless movement keeps things dynamic, with units darting across the battlefield and pulling off combos that feel larger than life.

(image credit: Nippon Ichi Software)

The game’s colors feel like they’re telling the story with you—the cozy warmth of Marona’s world and the haunting blues and greens of her ghostly foes create a world that pulls you in, scene by scene, like it’s alive with emotion.

In Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero, the visuals do more than decorate—they bring the story to life. From serene seas and spectral battles to the hidden corners of Ivoire, every scene draws you into a magical world you won’t forget.

Final Verdict

Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero grabs your heart and hurls you into the vibrant world of Ivoire, where strategy meets soul. Marona’s journey, fueled by courage and the ghosts of her past, unfolds in battles that twist your mind and terrain that shapes your destiny.

The Confine system brings objects to life as unexpected allies, while the Confriend mechanic lets Marona bond with Phantom powers in ways that make every battle feel like your own. Whether you’re summoning fiery knights, or swinging a quirky possessed umbrella, every choice feels meaningful and full of personality.

With visuals that weave stories into every wave and jungle and characters that burst with life, Phantom Brave isn’t just played—it’s lived. Unearth secrets, build bonds, and shape an adventure that’s entirely your own.

Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of strategy, adventure, and redemption? Grab a copy of Phantom Brave: The Lost Hero through my Amazon affiliate link!