The Tiamat Sacrament

---FEATURED GAME JULY 2010 UPDATE---
Thanks to everyone who enjoyed Tiamat Sacrament and helped make it featured game for July 2010. The game practically hatched from the crucible of RMN, so it means a lot to have it recognized by those who watched it grow in development.
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As Max McGee once advised I point out, "THE MAIN CHARACTER OF THIS GAME IS A DRAGON."

Here is the system2c file that some people have reported is missing from the RTP-free download (just drop image into your RTP/system2 folder): http://rpgmaker.net/users/Drakonais/locker/system2c.png

IMPORTANT NOTE: The version linked to the "Download Now" button is only for people with Rm2k3 and the RTP installed on their computer. If you don't have RM2k3 RTP, there is a version in the downloads section that includes the necessary files.

ALSO IMPORTANT: If you downloaded v 1.0 and have run into a bug (like the notorious movement speed slowdown after certain events in Draslin) chances are it's fixed in the newer version. To get the fix:
1.) Find your save file in the Tiamat Sacrament project folder and move it to your desktop
2.) Download version 1.1 (either with RTP or without, depending on your needs) and install it
3.) Move your save file from your desktop into the new project folder and load up your game

COMPLETE RELEASE

Flash Teaser: http://rpgmaker.net/media/content/users/4181/locker/DragonFlash.swf

The Tiamat Sacrament currently is 100% complete, with about 20 or more hours of gameplay. Some sections, like the stealth missions and Vulcan Cannon dodging, are now skippable for those who are experiencing extreme lag in those parts. I've had several bug testers crunch through the entire game and it should be smooth sailing, but let me know by PM if you run into any trouble and I'll be quick to fix it.

SKILL ACQUISITION

Each character has a unique way of learning and utilizing their skills, from Blue Magic-style skill acquisition to element combo breath attacks that take multiple turns to build up.

1.) Az'uar, the dragon and main character, has 35 different possible class evolutions. Each class brings with it a different and unique skill and its own set of weaknesses and strengths. Additionally, having a Soul Gem equipped in battle adds automatically to unique variables that eventually impart skills of their own. Think Magicite from FFVI. This is on top of the breath techniques he can use by inhaling up to three Runes at a time.

2.) Xandra, the scholar and artist, can learn skills by observing enemies use them in battle. She can acquire over 40 different skills in this fashion, with each serving a special purpose and scaling to her intelligence as she levels up. She comes in handy as support for the two fighting characters, but can deal elemental damage and status effects as well.

3.) Kelburn, the Saphirite lieutenant, can wield two Rune Blades at once. While each Rune Blade comes with its unique skill while equipped, the characteristics of two Rune Blades equipped simultaneously blend together and create a new and even more powerful skill (e.g. a poison blade and a double-attack blade create an even more powerful poison skill). Furthermore, when Az'uar inhales, Kelburn temporarily learns Rune Blade skills that typically focus Az'uar's breath into a targeted attack (e.g. a heal all spell becomes a heal one ally spell that's much more effective).

Every skill employed by enemies in battle is obtainable and can used by one the party's three heroes under the right conditions.

GAMEPLAY

The game is heavily story-driven with plenty of puzzles along the way. I've retooled the battles so that they are challenging but don't drag out or slow down game progress. I've made a point to design the game so no one should have to grind. I'm not saying you can't grind for extra levels, but if you use the right tactic, you won't have to mill around fighting random encounters to succeed. Hopefully, with 35 different dragon evolutions and a bunch of optional quests with extra skills and items to be found, the player will be able to customize their gameplay experience.

Each of the three characters have an ability set that depends heavily on the abilities of teammates. This system makes for strategic use of attacks, items, buffs, and specials. I hope you enjoy the game and leave any feedback you might have.