Atelier Elie is a turn-based RPG with isometric graphics, and the second entry to the Atelier series by Gust. The player assumes the role of a new alchemist protagonist named Elfir Traum (nicknamed “Elie”), working on the same Salburg Academy of the first game. The main gameplay mechanic remains the same: the player has to research and synthesize items on the academy’s facilities, while going on exploratory trips to gather more ingredients and materials.
The academy has the traditional RPG shops for armor, weapons and items. Other characters can be found milling around the scenery, and some of them can be invited to join the party. The combat interface shows a small portion of the terrain with an overlaid grid, where the combatants take turns attacking and defending each other. Helpful items that act as health and attack spells can be created in the academy and added to the available arsenal. The characters level up automatically after each successful battle. When all the party members are defeated the game returns to Elie’s laboratory at the academy.
