Summoner, developed by Volition and published by THQ Nordic, is a classic action role-playing game that first debuted as a PlayStation 2 launch title in 2000 and later made its way to PC and Mac. The game was re-released in 2024 on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, allowing a new generation of players to experience its engaging world and dynamic gameplay. Set in a richly imagined medieval fantasy universe, the story follows Joseph, a humble farmer who discovers he possesses the rare ability to summon powerful creatures. This discovery propels him into a conflict that intertwines his destiny with the fate of an empire on the brink of war, providing a narrative that blends personal growth with epic stakes.
The combat in Summoner is a hybrid of real-time action and tactical strategy, requiring players to balance timing, positioning, and resource management. Joseph can chain attacks into fluid combos, and environmental factors, such as elevated terrain, can be used to gain a strategic edge in battle. The summoning mechanic adds depth and variety, allowing players to call forth different creatures, each with unique abilities, to assist in combat. While the system is intuitive, mastering its nuances can take time, rewarding players who invest effort into learning its mechanics.
Graphically, Summoner reflects the capabilities of the PlayStation 2 era, with detailed character models and expansive environments. Although some aspects of the visuals appear dated by modern standards, the art direction is strong and contributes to the game’s immersive fantasy world. From sprawling villages to lush forests and ominous dungeons, the settings enhance the epic feel of the narrative. The musical score, composed by Scott Lee and Dan Wentz, complements the game beautifully with orchestral themes that elevate dramatic moments and emphasize the scale of Joseph’s journey.
The story of Summoner explores themes of destiny, power, and the consequences of choice, with a central narrative that is both compelling and ambitious. Joseph’s interactions with other characters and the unfolding political intrigue add layers to the plot, though some side quests and character arcs lack depth. Dialogue options are limited, and player choices have only minor effects on the story’s progression, which may reduce replay value for those seeking branching narratives. Nevertheless, the main storyline is strong enough to carry players through an engaging and memorable adventure.
While Summoner offers a rich experience, it does have its imperfections. Certain segments can feel slow due to repetitive combat or long loading times, and navigating the game world can be challenging without detailed maps or quest markers. Technical issues, such as occasional crashes on extended play sessions, have been reported by some players. Despite these drawbacks, the game’s strengths—its innovative combat, expansive world, and compelling story—outweigh its shortcomings.
Overall, Summoner remains a noteworthy RPG that successfully blends action-oriented gameplay with strategic depth and narrative ambition. Its 2024 re-release provides both nostalgic players and newcomers with the opportunity to experience a title that pushed the boundaries of its time. With engaging combat mechanics, a richly crafted fantasy world, and a story filled with intrigue and personal growth, Summoner stands as a memorable entry in the realm of classic action role-playing games.
Rating: 8/10
