Sand Land is a premium adventure experience that lets you explore the barren world created by Akira Toriyama, the Japanese manga artist behind massive hits such as Dragon Ball and Dungeon Quest. In this fantasy RPG experience, you play as the protagonist and prince of the monsters, Beelzebub, as he explores the titular world.

With heavy lines and a full anime-inspired art style, Sand Land gives you an immersive experience with the Fiend Prince. Plus, the vehicles here are detailed and highly customizable. It feels like a cross between ARMORED CORE™ VI FIRES OF RUBICON™ and DRAGON BALL XENOVERSE 2.

Explore a massive barren wasteland

Set in an environment desecrated by severe natural calamities, the game's backdrop is a barren wasteland. Survivors in Sand Land are tasked with scavenging for resources and defending themselves against rival factions to ensure their survival. This unique premise creates an immersive and intense gameplay experience. The narrative draws players in, compelling them to adapt, strategize, and conquer adversities in a bid to survive in the harsh environment.

Since it revolves around Akira Toriyama’s work, expect a familiar art style with all new characters. More importantly, it boasts high-resolution textures and full 3D renders that really bring the world to life. Aside from the Mad Max-style set designs, one impressive part of the game is the ability to build and customize vehicles. Swap engines, parts, wheels, and weapons to create a mechanical monster that suits your needs.

In completing the main storyline, plus learning all the side mechanics that make it possible to fully enjoy the game, expect some challenges along the way. Some aspects of the game are very technical, particularly the vehicle-building part. Engines and suspensions, for example, offer minor advantages when used with compatible parts. Also, there are parts of the game that are challenging and don't follow a linear difficulty progression.

One of the best anime RPGs to date

So far, Sand Land promises to deliver on its promise of creating an immersive anime experience. It is not a fighting game nor is it a 2D JRPG. Its use of high-resolution set and character designs, full 3D work, and the extensive customization options for a key story element make this game worth every buck. Also, in curbing the usual expectations, it comes with its own set of challenges for players. Recommended.