Welcome to the world of Disgaea; where demons reign supreme and penguins explode.

Disgaea Series

Disgaea: Hour of Darkness (IGN’s rating: 9.4/10)

Disgaea 4: A Promise Unforgotten (IGN’s rating: 8.5/10)

If you’ve ever planned on picking up any of the four main Disgaea games, let me be the first to prepare you for what you would be in for. Disgaea is a charming little series created by Nippon Ichi with an essence all its own; each game plays out the way your typical Japanese Anime does. There are individual “episodes” to complete, and, before and after each one, many cutscenes ensue in which the characters exchange comedic dialogue (usually breaking the fourth wall in the process). Every Disgaea story is different — the sequels do not continue the storyline of the game preceeding it. This makes it possible for you to pick up any one of them and play it as if it were its own stand-alone.

The battle system is very Final Fantasy Tactics-esque, but there are a few unique qualities Disgaea posesses that make it stand out.

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1. Do not wait until your turn to start planning movements. Most tabletop games can last anywhere from 3 to 6 hours. Spending even an extra 5 mins during your turn can really add up. 
2. Don’t touch another players’ dice. Tabletop gamers have a tendency to be protective and superstitious about their dice. Even if given the OK angry players will claim you cursed their dice by using all the good rolls. Come prepared, if you are playing swarm armies bring adequate amounts of dice. 
3. Don’t be a douche about line of site rules, you know who you are. If you are the type of guy that pulls out his laser pointer every time you try to line up shots, this gives the opposing player good reason to go Half-life on your head with a crowbar. (This goes especially for you Tau Players!)
4. Never pick up another players’ models without permission. Players spend a lot of time on their armies with expansive paint jobs and modifications. Even if it isn’t your fault loss of a body part can quickly devolve a game into petty arguing.
5. Don’t give up even when your defeat is inevitable. Some players quit as soon as they assume they are going to lose, this takes the fun away from the game for both players. Play the game though, the idea is to have fun, winning is cool but not exactly necessary. 

-Shawn

As a gamer who was infuriated by the end of this game I am glad Bioware is attempting to rectify the mess they made and appease fans, I am also glad it will be free, while I will remain cautiously optimistic I hope they can learn from this mistake and move on.

-Ryan