Most RPGs are typically about creating a certain amount of build-up. You often play as a hero, go on a ques and go on a grand adventure. They typically build up throughout the story and lead to a grand singular finale. Not every RPG is subject to these tropes and clichés, but most have at least one. Half Minute Hero takes the typical RPG formula that can normally take multiple hours and condenses it into about 30 seconds. The end result is something that is unlike anything else that has ever been seen before.
You play as a yet-to-be-named hero who is tasked with saving the world from imminent destruction. You have an array of tools at your disposal to aid in your quest(s). The most notable tool is that you can receive a blessing from the time goddess. With each quest, you only have 30 seconds to save the world. The time goddess can reset time in exchange for a donation. You can also gather items and equipment to make yourself stronger. Some items that you gather are specifically designated for specific quests.
Each stage of Half Minute Hero has a similar setup. You have to make your way to a final boss and defeat it within the 30-second time limit. As you progress through the world you encounter monsters that you can fight for experience and gold. The combat is very rapid and automatic in line with the game’s theme. You can also visit towns to purchase healing items and equipment to make you strong, as well as get information from the townspeople. You can also visit the statue of the time goddess and pay her a tribute to reset the timer to 30 seconds. This can give you more time to gain experience, explore the world or defeat the boss.
While it would seem that a game whose main premise is beat it in 30 seconds would be rather short overall that is not exactly the case. Several of the missions have different methods of completion that allow you to unlock alternate levels in the game. There are also multiple different gameplay modes, such as modes where you can play as different characters and another where you must finish the stage in only 3 seconds. In total, there are about 10 hours of gameplay available.
Half Minute Hero feels almost like a parody or subversion of traditional RPGs. It takes the tropes of slow, methodical gameplay and does the complete opposite with it to create a hyper-fast RPG experience. It is unlike any other game that can be experienced and should absolutely be checked out by any long-time RPG fan.