Description

"Marie no Atelier ver.1.3: Salburg no Renkinjutsushi" is a charming role-playing game that was developed by Gust Co. Ltd. and released for the Sega Saturn in 1997. Set in the medieval-like world of Salburg, players assume the role of Marie, a young and aspiring alchemist who has been given five years to prove her skills by running an alchemy workshop. This game combines elements of time management, recipe-based crafting, and exploration, as players collect ingredients, create magical items, and interact with townspeople to fulfill quests and orders. The game's story progresses through a mix of scripted events and player-driven choices, which influence the development of Marie's skills and the success of her atelier (workshop).

Notably, "Marie no Atelier ver.1.3" is the first installment in the now long-standing Atelier series, known for its focus on alchemy and character-driven narratives. This version marked an improved release, enhancing graphics and gameplay mechanics based on feedback from earlier versions initially released on other platforms such as the PlayStation. Its blend of traditional RPG elements with a crafting-centric focus was relatively unique at the time, setting a template for future games in the series. The game's approachable art style, detailed sprite work, and a light-hearted story made it a beloved classic amongst RPG fans, contributing significantly to the Atelier series' reputation and its continued success in spawning multiple sequels and related media.