The Smile Alchemist, developed by Asobox, is a casual, story-based single-player JPRG and alchemy simulator available in English and Japanese on PS, Xbox, Switch, Steam, and Windows.

It features resource gathering, collection, mini-games, and character development comparable to My Time at Portia. However, the 2D graphics have more in common with Stardew Valley, aside from the fact that there are a few anthropomorphic characters, which are unusual in JPRG gathering games.

What’s it about?

Nayc, a novice alchemist who aspires to the title of world’s best, comes to Polta Colta town in the Norzenorse Kingdom. He becomes an apprentice to Master Cyan and trains alongside Whitia, his daughter. Traveling between 4 locations (tavern, shop, park, and home), he must buy books, coax adventurers into gathering supplies, mix potions, create ointments, and sell the surplus.

How do you play it?

This Japanese-style 2D RPG is split into 4 chapters with side stories and puzzles. As Nayc levels up in disciplines like chemistry and food, he can create increasingly complex objects and potions, unlocking more locations and assistants. Players control actions with point-and-click mechanics on a growing tile grid, boosting Nayc's alchemy level and the adventurers’ gathering speed.

What’s special about it?

This 2D JRPG features static screens with subtitled dialogue. The list of menus includes Cyan’s task list and the 9-point side story list. Players get to cheer on the adventurers in their gathering tasks, mix ingredients in the Alchemy Pot, and trade goods to boost their alchemy level. It’s very light on music and sound effects.

A potion crafting and trading game

Essentially the story of a wizard with an expensive book habit, this is a slow but charming JPRG with a retro feel and endearing characters. Still, it is not without the odd trope or put-down.