A turn-based RPG inspired by Chrono Trigger, following two Children of the Solstice on a quest to defeat an alchemist's monsters.
L1What it is
Valere and Zale, warriors of the sun and moon, train to fight the Dweller monsters created by the evil Fleshmancer. With their friend Garl, a cheerful warrior cook, they travel across islands and seas.
L2How it plays
Turn-based combat with timed button presses to boost attacks and blocks. Enemies cast powerful spells that you can interrupt by breaking 'locks' with the right attack types. No random battles: enemies are visible. Exploration includes climbing, swimming and puzzles.
L3Pixels & sound
The pixel art and dynamic lighting are spectacular: day and night cycles, reflections and detailed environments. Music includes guest compositions by Yasunori Mitsuda, composer of Chrono Trigger.
L4Coming back
A largely linear story with some optional content, plus later free additions. Not a game you replay often.
L5Value & tech
Verified on Steam Deck. Runs well on most PCs. Controller recommended.
Power-ups
- Stunning pixel art and lighting
- Engaging lock-breaking combat
- Charming characters
- Great music
Game overs
- Story is predictable
- Easy for genre veterans
- Limited replay value
Score sheet
- Gameplay 30%
- 8.0
- Feel & controls 20%
- 8.2
- Pixels & sound 20%
- 9.6
- Replay 15%
- 6.8
- Value 15%
- 8.0
Weighted: 8.0 × 30% + 8.2 × 20% + 9.6 × 20% + 6.8 × 15% + 8.0 × 15% = 8.18, shown as 8.2.
The verdict
Verdict
Sea of Stars is a beautiful tribute to classic JRPGs. It is not the deepest, but it is gorgeous, kind and fun to play.
By the Game Pick Review editorial desk · Updated 3 Oct 2026 · How we score · Spotted an error?
