Indie retro-inspired RPG Sea of Stars is connected to The Messenger, which could confuse some newcomers about whether they need to play The Messenger before starting their adventure. Both games are developed by Sabotage Studio and set in the same universe, but the gameplay of each title is completely different. The Messenger is an action platformer taking inspiration from games like Ninja Gaiden, meaning it won't necessarily appeal to everyone interested in Sea of Stars. For those interested in a complete narrative experience, however, taking on both titles in the correct order may seem like a must.
Although Sabotage Studio is based out of Quebec City, many of the core inspirations for Sea of Stars come from Japan. Drawing from titles like Chrono Trigger, Illusion of Gaia, and Super Mario RPG, Sea of Stars sticks to classic turn-based combat and top-down pixel art while promising modernized elements as well. Legendary composer Yasunori Mitsuda, known for a variety of Japanese RPG scores, was also recruited to provide music for the game. The critical success of The Messenger offers some basis for Sabotage Studio's lofty promises, although the complete shift in genre does shake things up a bit.
Playing The Messenger First Before Sea of Stars Isn't Necessary
Playing The Messenger before jumping into Sea of Stars isn't necessary since it takes place long before its successor. In much the same way as franchises like Fallout or The Legend of Zelda occupy one world but tell self-contained stories, the connection between these two games isn't one that's going to define the experience. Although there are sure to be some references to The Messenger in Sea of Stars, any missed links should prove inessential.
Does Sea Of Stars Or The Messenger Make The Best First Game?
For most players, choosing between Sea of Stars and The Messenger as a starting point should come down to which game draws their attention more. Fans of JRPGs like Final Fantasy and Star Ocean are likely to find themselves at home with Sea of Stars, while those who enjoyed the white-knuckle gameplay of old-school action titles should be able to quickly get on The Messenger's wavelength. If the decision comes down to a complete toss-up, the lower retail price of The Messenger could provide a basic way to break the tie, although Sea of Stars is likely to provide a lengthier adventure.
No matter which of Sabotage Studio's games newcomers ultimately opt for, there's plenty to love in the gorgeous pixel art and reverent throwback elements that The Messenger and Sea of Stars provide. Whether Sea of Stars will find the resounding reception found by its predecessor remains to be seen, but it's clear that The Messenger doesn't have to be played first.