On a distant planet, in the mecha-riding future, a princess ascends her country’s throne in a time of crisis, having to take the reins and defend her people against an invading empire while, perhaps, a greater threat to the survival of all looms just out of sight. Along the way, though bitter losses are incurred, we also learn that the Imperial aggressors and the noble defenders may not be so different, ultimately seeing that they’re all just human, flawed and largely trying to do what’s best for them and theirs.
This sounds like it could be really
good. It’s reminiscent of shows, books, and games: to me, most
pointedly Valkyria Chronicles or Fire Emblem. It’s a timeless
framework that can be endlessly revitalized by putting new flesh on
those old bones, and at least has the potential to reach a high level
of quality. Potential, mind you, not guarantee. The Price of Smiles
stands as a testament to the fact that even if you use good
ingredients, you still need skill and effort to get a pleasing
result.
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