Developer: Namco Tales Studio

Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World (2008)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World: A Triumphant Return to Sylvarant and Tethe’alla

Introduction

Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World is a beloved JRPG that was released for the Wii in 2008. Developed by Namco Tales Studio and published by Namco Bandai Games, it is the second installment in the Tales of Symphonia series and a direct sequel to the critically acclaimed Tales of Symphonia for the Nintendo GameCube. Dawn of the New World follows the journey of two new young heroes, Emil Castagnier and Marta Lualdi, as they seek to uncover the mystery of why their world has fallen into ruin.

Story

Set two years after the events of the original Tales of Symphonia, Dawn of the New World takes place in a world that has been ravaged by war and natural disasters. The once-thriving continent of Sylvarant is now a barren wasteland, and the floating continent of Tethe’alla is slowly crumbling. Emil Castagnier is a young man who lives in the village of Palmacosta on Sylvarant. He is a kind and compassionate boy, but he is also haunted by nightmares of a terrible future. Marta Lualdi is a young woman who lives in the city of Altamira on Tethe’alla. She is a skilled archer and a strong believer in justice.

Emil and Marta’s paths cross when they are both drawn to the ruins of the Tower of Salvation. There, they meet Ratatosk, a summon spirit who claims to be the lord of all monsters. Ratatosk tells them that the world is in danger of being destroyed by a powerful force known as the Desians. Emil and Marta team up to stop the Desians and save the world. Along the way, they are joined by a colorful cast of characters, including Lloyd and Colette from the original Tales of Symphonia.

Gameplay

Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World is a traditional JRPG with a turn-based battle system. Players control a party of up to four characters, each with their own unique abilities and strengths. The battle system is fast-paced and action-packed, and it allows for a great deal of strategic depth.

One of the most unique features of Dawn of the New World is its monster recruitment system. Players can capture over 200 unique monsters and train them to actively participate in battle. Monsters can be fed to make them more effective, and they can even evolve into several new fearsome forms.

Dawn of the New World also features an updated real-time battle system that lets players move freely in all directions around the battlefield. This gives players more freedom and control over their characters, and it allows for even more strategic gameplay.

Characters

  • Emil Castagnier: A kind and compassionate young man who is haunted by nightmares of a terrible future.
  • Marta Lualdi: A skilled archer and a strong believer in justice.
  • Ratatosk: A summon spirit who claims to be the lord of all monsters.
  • Lloyd Irving: The protagonist of the original Tales of Symphonia. He is a skilled swordsman and a powerful leader.
  • Colette Brunel: The deuteragonist of the original Tales of Symphonia. She is a kind and gentle priestess.
  • Tenebrae: A mysterious young woman who joins Emil and Marta on their journey. She is a powerful sorceress and a skilled fighter.
  • Richter Abend: A skilled swordsman and a close friend of Lloyd.
  • Presea Combatir: A powerful warrior and a skilled craftswoman.
  • Zelos Wilder: A skilled swordsman and a charming womanizer.
  • Raine Sage: A skilled healer and a wise advisor.

Reception

Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World was a critical and commercial success. It received mostly positive reviews from critics, who praised its story, characters, gameplay, and graphics. The game was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World is considered to be one of the best JRPGs of its generation. It is a faithful sequel to the original Tales of Symphonia, and it offers a compelling story, memorable characters, and engaging gameplay. Dawn of the New World is a must-play for fans of JRPGs and for anyone who is looking for a great adventure.

Conclusion

Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World is a triumph

Review Score

8.5/10

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Tales of Graces (2009)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 8 minutes read

Summary

Tales of Graces captivates with its deep narrative, innovative combat, and emotional journey, making it a standout title in the action RPG genre and a beloved entry in the Tales series.

Introduction

Explore the world of Ephinea in Tales of Graces, an action RPG that weaves a tale of friendship, mystery, and conflict. Follow Asbel Lhant’s journey from a carefree childhood to a responsible adult, driven by the mysterious reappearance of a childhood friend.

Synopsis

Tales of Graces, released in 2009, takes players on an emotional rollercoaster through the vibrant world of Ephinea.Divided into three warring nations – Windor, Strahta, and Fendel – Ephinea relies on a vital energy source called Eleth to sustain itself.Our story begins in Lhant, a peaceful village nestled within Windor, where three childhood friends – Asbel Lhant, his brother Hubert, and Cheria Barnes – forge an unbreakable bond.

Their idyllic life takes a dramatic turn when they encounter Sophie, a mysterious amnesiac girl who falls from the sky.The group welcomes Sophie with open arms, and on the same day, their world is further shaken by the arrival of Prince Richard of Windor.Richard quickly bonds with the four, inviting them to his castle through a hidden passage.However, this act of camaraderie takes a horrifying turn as the group is ambushed by a monstrous entity.Mortally wounded, their fate seems sealed until Sophie makes a selfless sacrifice, channeling a mysterious power that saves them but seemingly extinguishes her own life.

Seven years later, Asbel, now a young man burdened by the past, embarks on a knightly training regimen.One fateful day, he encounters a familiar face – Sophie, miraculously alive but still with no memory of her past.Driven by a desire to help Sophie regain her memories and a lingering sense of guilt, Asbel sets out on a journey with Sophie, vowing to uncover the truth.

Their quest quickly gains momentum when they reunite with Cheria, now a seasoned knight.As they delve deeper into the mystery, they are joined by Hubert, who harbors resentment towards Asbel for not preventing Sophie’s initial sacrifice.The group encounters various allies, including Malik Caesar, a skilled swordsman with a hidden past, and Pascal, a mischievous young inventor.Together, they navigate the political landscape of Ephinea, witnessing the growing tension between the nations.

As the journey unfolds, the truth behind Sophie’s origins and abilities becomes more apparent.She is revealed to be an amnesiac Lambda, an artificial being created to maintain balance in Ephinea by controlling the flow of Eleth.However, a malevolent force seeks to manipulate the flow of Eleth for its own gain, leading to monstrous outbreaks and political unrest.

The central antagonist is revealed to be Vanessa, a power-hungry noblewoman who seeks to control the flow of Eleth and ultimately rule Ephinea.She orchestrates events that pit Asbel’s group against the opposing nations, fueling the conflict and manipulating public opinion.Asbel and his companions find themselves caught in the crossfire, forced to fight not only monstrous entities but also navigate the political minefield created by Vanessa’s machinations.

Throughout their adventure, Asbel grapples with the weight of Sophie’s sacrifice and the guilt he carries.He strives to protect her while uncovering the truth about her past.Sophie, in turn, develops strong bonds with her companions, her unwavering optimism serving as a constant source of strength for the group.The narrative explores themes of friendship, trust, and overcoming loss.Asbel learns to forgive himself and move forward, cherishing the memories of Sophie’s initial sacrifice while focusing on protecting her present self.

The climax of the story sees Asbel and his companions confronting Vanessa and her monstrous army.A fierce battle ensues, testing their skills and resolve.Through teamwork and unwavering determination, they overcome the odds, exposing Vanessa’s treachery and restoring balance to the flow of Eleth.

However, the victory comes at a cost.As a Lambda, Sophie is destined to merge with the core that controls Eleth, effectively sacrificing herself to maintain Ephinea’s equilibrium.The ending is bittersweet, with Asbel and his companions accepting Sophie’s fate while cherishing the memories they created together.

The game features an additional chapter titled “Lineage and Legacies,” serving as an epilogue to the main story.Several years after the events of the main narrative, Ephinea faces a new threat – a surge in monstrous activity.Asbel reunites with his companions to investigate the cause, leading them to uncover a shocking truth.

The source of the monstrous outbreak is linked to Fodra, another core that once balanced Eleth alongside the one Sophie merged with.Having been neglected and abused by humans, Fodra’s core has become sentient and seeks revenge.Asbel and his companions face a crucial decision – destroy the core and potentially disrupt the flow of Eleth or find another solution.

In a final act of heroism, the group chooses a path of redemption.They defeat Fodra’s guardians and convince the core to relinquish its hatred.

Characters

The game features a rich cast, including Asbel Lhant, the dedicated and compassionate protagonist; Sophie, the mysterious girl with no memories of her past; and a diverse group of allies each with their own motivations and backstories, contributing to the game’s dynamic narrative.

Gameplay

Tales of Graces offers an engaging ‘Style Shift Linear Motion Battle System’, allowing real-time combat with the ability to switch fighting styles. The game also includes a deep crafting system, character customization through the title system, and the exploration of the vast world of Ephinea.

Conclusion

Tales of Graces stands as a testament to the ‘Tales of’ series’ ability to blend compelling storytelling with innovative gameplay. Despite its flaws, it offers a memorable journey through its heartfelt story and engaging combat mechanics.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Tales of Destiny 2 (2002)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

An engaging sequel in the Tales series, Tales of Destiny 2 offers a blend of fast-paced action combat with deep customization, set within a captivating narrative. It remains a highlight of the JRPG genre, demonstrating the series’ enduring appeal.

Introduction

Tales of Destiny 2 is a cornerstone of the JRPG genre, offering an expansive narrative, dynamic combat, and deep customization options. As a direct sequel to Tales of Destiny, it continues the saga with new characters and innovative features, set against the backdrop of a beautifully crafted fantasy world.

Synopsis

“Tales of Destiny 2” is a Japanese action role-playing game, co-developed by Wolfteam and Telenet Japan, and published by Namco. It is the fourth main entry in the Tales series of video games, and a direct sequel to 1997’s Tales of Destiny. The game was released on PlayStation 2 (PS2) in November 2002 in Japan, March 2003 in South Korea and August 2003 in China.

The story of “Tales of Destiny 2” is set eighteen years after the original Tales of Destiny, and follows the journey of Kyle Dunamis, the son of the previous game’s protagonists Stahn Aileron and Rutee Katrea. The narrative begins when Kyle meets a mysterious girl named Reala while trying to save Rutee’s orphanage from bankruptcy.

This encounter draws Kyle into a conflict with Barbatos, a cruel warrior responsible for killing Stahn. As the plot unfolds, Kyle also finds himself entangled in the machinations of Elraine, a religious leader seeking to bring peace to mankind. These events set the stage for a grand adventure that will test Kyle’s courage, resolve, and destiny.

The gameplay of “Tales of Destiny 2” uses two-dimensional character sprites and backgrounds. The battle system is a revamped version of the series’ trademark Linear Motion Battle System. This system allows players to engage in real-time battles with enemies, combining strategic planning with fast-paced action.

In addition to its engaging story and innovative gameplay, “Tales of Destiny 2” also features a rich and immersive world for players to explore. The game’s environments range from bustling towns to sprawling dungeons, all rendered in beautiful two-dimensional graphics. The overworld features environmental effects such as fog, adding to the game’s atmospheric depth.

Throughout their journey, players will meet a variety of non-playable characters who provide both information relevant to the story and world, and provide items and equipment through shops. These interactions add a layer of depth and immersion to the game, making the world of “Tales of Destiny 2” feel alive and dynamic.

Despite its age, “Tales of Destiny 2” remains a beloved entry in the Tales series, thanks to its compelling story, innovative gameplay, and memorable characters. Its legacy continues to influence modern entries in the series, making it a must-play for any fan of the franchise.

“Tales of Destiny 2” is more than just a game – it’s a journey through time and destiny. From its engaging narrative to its innovative gameplay mechanics, the game offers a rich and immersive experience that continues to captivate players even after all these years. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the Tales series or a newcomer to the franchise, “Tales of Destiny 2” is a game that deserves a place in your collection.

Characters

Kyle Dunamis, the energetic protagonist; Reala, a mysterious girl linked to the fate of the world; Loni Dunamis, Kyle’s childhood friend and a powerful warrior; and Judas, a masked swordsman with a hidden past, among others.

Gameplay

Tales of Destiny 2 innovates with a stamina gauge in combat, allowing for more tactical depth. Players engage enemies in real-time battles, executing combo attacks while managing their characters’ stamina. The game also features extensive customization for characters’ skills and equipment, enhancing the strategic aspect of gameplay.

Conclusion

Tales of Destiny 2 stands as a beloved entry in the Tales series, praised for its engaging narrative, innovative combat, and customization options. It builds upon the foundations of its predecessors to deliver a memorable and rewarding JRPG experience.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Tales of Rebirth (2004)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Tales of Rebirth stands as a profound exploration of unity, diversity, and the power of understanding. Through its engaging story, dynamic characters, and innovative gameplay, it offers a unique experience within the JRPG genre, inviting players to ponder deeper themes while enjoying a richly crafted adventure.

Introduction

Released in 2004, Tales of Rebirth takes players on an epic journey through the kingdom of Karegia, a land teetering on the brink of turmoil following the king’s death. The game intricately explores themes of racism, power, and redemption, set against a backdrop of political intrigue and a looming threat that could unravel the fabric of the world itself.

Synopsis

“Tales of Rebirth” is an action role-playing game developed by Namco Tales Studio and published by Namco Games. The game was first released for the PlayStation 2 on December 16, 2004, and later re-released on the PlayStation Portable on March 19, 2008.

The game is set in a world where humans (Huma) and beast people (Gajuma) coexist in relative peace. The world’s magical power is called Force, which manifests in various people as control over an element or aspect of the physical laws.

The story begins with the death of Karegia’s king, Ladras Lindblum, who was poisoned by the royal adviser Zilva Madigan. During his final moments, he releases his power into the world, causing many humans to become possessed by Force, including Veigue, Annie, and Tytree.

The game follows the adventures of Veigue Lungberg, a human whose friend Claire Bennett is kidnapped by agents of Agarte, heir to the throne of the kingdom of Karegia. Setting out to rescue Claire, Veigue and those who join him become entangled in escalating racial conflicts consuming the land.

In ancient times, after a war sparked when Huma attempted to enslave Gajuma, both races joined forces to found the kingdom of Karegia. An unspecified time before the events of the game, Geyorkias, the ruler of a spirit race called the Sacred Beasts, sought to destroy the Huma as their dark emotions were fueling a primordial destructive force known as Yuris. The other Sacred Beasts put a stop to Geyorkias’ plan by sealing him away, then acting to nullify Yuris’ threat.

As the king has failed to name a successor, Karegia enters an interregnum at his death. This sets the stage for the racial tensions and conflicts that Veigue and his companions must navigate and resolve.

The game features an action-based battle system, called the Three-Line Linear Motion Battle System. Unlike previous Tales games, the camera follows the characters from a side-long view, zooming in or out depending on their relative position. Instead of a navigable overworld, players fast-travel to different locations using a standard map of the game world.

The game has received positive reviews and strong sales in Japan, with the PlayStation 2 version eventually selling over 600,000 units and the PSP re-release selling over 83,000. Despite its success, neither version of the game has received English localizations.

“Tales of Rebirth” is a game that explores themes of racial and ethnic coexistence, set against the backdrop of a richly detailed fantasy world. Its engaging gameplay and compelling narrative have made it a beloved entry in the Tales series.

Characters

The game’s cast includes Veigue Lungberg, a Huma with the power of Ice Force; Annie Barrs, a determined young woman with the Force of Fire; Tytree Crowe, a vibrant Gajuma with the Force of Wood; and other memorable characters, each with their own unique abilities and stories that interweave with the game’s central narrative.

Gameplay

Tales of Rebirth innovates with the Linear Motion Battle System, allowing real-time combat with strategic depth. Players must skillfully manage their team’s Force abilities, balancing offensive and defensive maneuvers against a variety of foes. The game also introduces the ‘Three-Line Battle System’, adding a new layer of tactical gameplay.

Conclusion

Tales of Rebirth is a testament to the enduring appeal of the ‘Tales of’ series, offering a thought-provoking story, engaging gameplay, and a memorable cast. While not without its challenges, the game is a rewarding experience for those who delve into its world, making it a must-play for JRPG fans.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Tales of Xillia (2011)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Tales of Xillia distinguishes itself within the JRPG genre with its unique approach to storytelling and gameplay. Following Jude Mathis and Milla Maxwell, players are drawn into a rich narrative about the dangers of technological exploitation and the power of conviction. The game’s emphasis on character interaction and strategic combat ensures a deeply engaging experience.

Introduction

Tales of Xillia, released in 2011 by Bandai Namco, is a standout title in the long-running ‘Tales of’ series. It introduces a world teetering on the brink of ecological disaster, saved by the unlikely alliance of a medical student and a mysterious woman with spiritual companions.

Synopsis

“Tales of Xillia” is an action role-playing game developed by Namco Tales Studio and published by Namco Bandai Games. Released exclusively for the PlayStation 3, it is the thirteenth main installment of the Tales series. The game was first launched in Japan on September 7, 2011, and later localized in North America and the PAL region in August 2013.

The game is set in a fictional world called Rieze Maxia, where humans and ethereal spirits coexist in harmony. The plot’s central theme is “Yuruginaki shinnen no RPG” (揺るぎなき信念のRPG), which translates to “RPG of Unwavering Convictions”.

The story follows two main characters: Jude Mathis, a clever medical student attending school in the capital city, and Milla Maxwell, a mysterious woman accompanied by four unseen beings. Players can choose either Milla or Jude at the outset of their adventure.

Jude Mathis is an aspiring medical student at Rashugal’s capital, Fennmont. His supervisor, Professor Haus, is awarded a prestigious honor at Laforte Research Center and leaves Jude in charge for the day. When his professor does not return, Jude decides to check on him but is denied entrance to Laforte. He then meets Milla Maxwell, a mysterious woman claiming to be the Lord of Spirits, who is investigating the recent deaths of a number of spirits.

Milla claims to be “Maxwell”, the legendary Lord of Spirits, and has come to investigate a recent wave of spirit deaths within Rashugal. Together, she and Jude discover a horrific secret lurking in the heart of Rashugal, and are soon forced to flee from the military.

The game begins with the choice of following either Jude Mathis or Milla Maxwell. The choice affects certain scenes with some characters, as well as the environments the player will encounter. The game takes place in a world where humans and monsters coexist with spirits. The spirits support human civilization by granting wishes, such as the ability to channel mana as spirit power, and in turn are protected by those wishes.

In Rieze Maxia, there are two main countries vying for supremacy. Rashugal is an empire with a long history whose free use of spirit power has granted it incredible majesty and prosperity. Auj Oule is a developing country whose power is derived from the control of monsters and the might of its military.

The game’s reception in Japan was highly positive. At the time of its release in Japan, it was the most preordered Tales game in the series and sold half a million copies in a week. The game also won awards from Sony and Famitsu. The English localization received positive reception for its battle system, neutral to positive reviews for its plot and characters, and criticism for the map designs.

A sequel to the game, titled “Tales of Xillia 2”, was released in November 2012 in Japan and in August 2014 in North America and the PAL region. The sequel is set one year after the original story.

“Tales of Xillia” is a game that explores the themes of conviction, harmony, and the complex relationship between humans, spirits, and the world they inhabit. Its compelling narrative, immersive gameplay, and richly detailed world make it a standout title in the Tales series.

Characters

Jude Mathis, a bright medical student; Milla Maxwell, with the power to command spirits; and an ensemble cast including Alvin, Leia Rolando, Elize Lutus, and Rowen J. Ilbert, each bringing their unique skills and backgrounds to the story.

Gameplay

The game features a real-time battle system that allows for dynamic combat strategies, with the ‘Dual Raid Linear Motion Battle System’ enabling players to link with characters for powerful attacks. Exploration and interaction with the environment and NPCs are key to discovering the rich lore of Rieze Maxia.

Conclusion

Tales of Xillia is a memorable journey through a beautifully realized world, marked by its compelling narrative, innovative gameplay, and profound messages about environmentalism and unity. It’s a must-play for JRPG fans and a shining example of the genre’s potential to tell meaningful stories.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Tales of Symphonia (2003)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Tales of Symphonia invites players on an extraordinary journey of courage and conviction, where the fate of two worlds hangs in the balance. Its compelling story, dynamic gameplay, and profound themes have cemented its legacy as one of the greatest JRPGs of all time.

Introduction

Tales of Symphonia is celebrated for its rich storytelling, engaging real-time battle system, and memorable characters. As players guide the Chosen One on their quest to rejuvenate the land, they encounter diverse companions, formidable foes, and moral dilemmas that test their resolve.

Synopsis

“Tales of Symphonia” is an action role-playing video game developed by Namco Tales Studio and published by Namco for the GameCube. The game takes place in a fictional world called Sylvarant and follows the protagonist, Lloyd Irving. Lloyd accompanies his childhood friend, Colette Brunel, who is destined to go on a journey to save their world.

The game begins with Lloyd Irving and his childhood friend Colette Brunel, who are destined to embark on a journey to save their world, Sylvarant. However, their mission is not as simple as it seems. The prosperity of Sylvarant comes at the cost of another world, Tethe’alla. This parallel world is endangered by the actions taken to save Sylvarant.

The central theme of the game is an “RPG that resonates with you” (君と響きあうRPG, Kimi to Hibikiau RPG). As their journey progresses, Lloyd and Colette learn about the delicate balance between their world and Tethe’alla. They grapple with the moral dilemma of saving their world at the expense of another.

The game’s narrative blurs the line between good and evil, presenting players with an epic adventure where the fate of two interlocked worlds hangs in the balance. The story unfolds as Lloyd and Colette, along with their companions, traverse through Sylvarant, facing numerous challenges and making difficult decisions that will determine the fate of their world.

“Tales of Symphonia” received generally positive reviews upon release. Critics praised the battle system, art direction, voice acting, and character development. Despite some mixed reactions to the music and narrative, and criticism of some graphical shortcomings, the game has sold 2.4 million copies worldwide across all platforms, making it the best-selling title in the franchise.

“Tales of Symphonia” is more than just a game; it’s a tale of friendship, sacrifice, and the moral complexities of saving the world. It’s a journey that resonates with players, leaving a lasting impact long after the game has ended.

Characters

Lloyd Irving, a fearless and loyal swordsman; Colette Brunel, the kind-hearted Chosen One destined to save the world; and a cast of allies with unique abilities and backgrounds, including the sage Raine, the magic user Genis, and the mercenary Kratos. Each character’s story intertwines with the main narrative, adding depth and emotion to the epic tale.

Gameplay

Featuring an innovative real-time battle system, Tales of Symphonia allows players to execute intricate attacks and combos in fast-paced combat. Exploration, puzzle-solving, and character development are central to the gameplay, with decisions impacting the storyline and relationships within the party.

Conclusion

Tales of Symphonia stands as a landmark JRPG, offering an unforgettable adventure that transcends the boundaries of storytelling in video games. Its impact on the genre and the hearts of players worldwide secures its place as a timeless classic.

Review Score

9/10

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Tales of Eternia (2000)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

A beloved classic, Tales of Eternia captures the essence of action JRPGs with its dynamic combat, compelling story, and richly developed world.

Introduction

Embark on an epic adventure with Tales of Eternia, a seminal title in the action JRPG genre, renowned for its dynamic real-time battle system and compelling narrative.

Synopsis

“Tales of Eternia”, known as “Tales of Destiny II” in its original North American release, is an action role-playing game published by Namco as the third main title in their Tales series. The game was initially released for the PlayStation in November 2000 in Japan, and an English version was later released in North America in September 2001.

The game is set in the fantasy world of Inferia and follows the story of a young hunter named Reid Hershel and his friends, Farah and Keele. Their peaceful life takes a turn when they meet a mysterious girl who speaks an unknown language. This girl, Meredy, is dressed in a strange fashion and has a pet named Quickie. Reid and Farah visit their childhood friend, Keele Zeibel, in search of answers regarding Meredy’s identity.

Reid learns that Meredy speaks Melnics, an ancient civilization’s language. After traveling to Morle, the group receives a special translation earring that allows communication with Meredy. This marks the beginning of their adventure as they try to discover Meredy’s origins.

Their quest leads them across a dimensional boundary to an entirely different realm known as Celestia. In Celestia, they become involved in an age-old conflict between the two worlds. The group’s journey is not just about discovering Meredy’s origins, but also about understanding the connection between Inferia and Celestia, and resolving the conflict that threatens both worlds.

The gameplay of “Tales of Eternia” is similar to other Tales games, following the precedent set by previous role-playing video games in general. An overworld map is used to navigate from one location to another in the game’s fictional world. Cities and towns, populated with NPCs, are valuable sources of information, either triggering events that move the plot forward or providing extra information that fleshes out the game’s story and setting.

Battles with enemies are done through the Linear Motion Battle System, a hybrid fighting system that combines fighting game and traditional role-playing game elements. This system is far more advanced than those found in its two predecessors.

“Tales of Eternia” was mostly well-received during its initial release and sold approximately 873,000 copies worldwide. It would later inspire a 13-episode anime produced by Xebec loosely based on the game’s plot.

“Tales of Eternia” is a tale of friendship, discovery, and the resolution of an age-old conflict. It’s a journey that takes players across dimensions, from the familiar world of Inferia to the mysterious realm of Celestia. With its engaging plot, advanced battle system, and rich world-building, “Tales of Eternia” offers an immersive gaming experience that continues to resonate with players even decades after its initial release.

Characters

Reid Hershel, the skilled hunter; Farah, the energetic martial artist; Keele, the intelligent mage; Meredy, the mysterious girl from Celestia with the ability to summon powerful creatures.

Gameplay

Featuring a real-time battle system where players can assign combos and spells to buttons, extensive exploration, and puzzle-solving within a richly crafted fantasy world.

Conclusion

Tales of Eternia stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the JRPG genre, offering a captivating story, innovative gameplay, and a deep, immersive world.

Review Score

8.2/10

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Tales of Vesperia (2008)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Tales of Vesperia (2008) stands out as a celebrated JRPG, acclaimed for its engaging narrative, striking art style, and combat depth, despite some dated gameplay elements.

Introduction

Tales of Vesperia, a cornerstone in the JRPG genre, offers a deep narrative intertwined with vibrant visuals and a combat system that has stood the test of time.

Synopsis

“Tales of Vesperia” is an action role-playing game set in the world of Terca Lumireis, which uses an energy source called “blastia” for all their needs, including creating protective barriers around cities.

The story focuses on Yuri Lowell, a former Imperial Knight who forms a guild called Brave Vesperia to aid Estelle, a noble woman he encounters on a mission. As they explore the world, Brave Vesperia is challenged by factions who have different plans related to the abuse of blastia resources. Yuri is forced to confront his friend and former comrade Flynn.

The game’s story takes place in a world largely sustained by “blastia”, a technology from an ancient civilization which can be used to perform a variety of tasks including powering the barriers which keep cities safe from monsters and helping knights in battle. After a war ten years ago, the world has settled into a more or less peaceful state consisting of the Empire which rules the land and various guilds which formed for those wishing to live outside the Empire’s rule.

The main character in the story is Yuri Lowell, a former Imperial Knight who now helps solve peoples problems in the lower quarter. After a blastia which regulates water flow in the lower quarter is stolen, Yuri attempts to catch the thief however ends up being thrown in jail instead. He then meets a mysterious girl named Estelle while escaping; she is coincidentally searching for Yuri’s childhood friend Flynn, and from here their adventure begins.

The game’s plot is a power struggle in a civilization dependent on an ancient technology, the blastia, and the Empire controls it. The fates of two friends traveling separate paths intertwine in an epic adventure of justice, trust, and friendship.

“Tales of Vesperia” is a game that has left a significant mark on the gaming industry with its engaging plot and unique characters. It continues to be enjoyed by gamers worldwide, and its legacy lives on through its Definitive Edition.

Characters

Yuri, alongside characters like Estelle and Rita, embarks on a quest filled with challenges and discoveries, each adding depth to the story.

Gameplay

Combining strategic combat with exploration, Tales of Vesperia engages players in both its story and action-packed battles.

Conclusion

A timeless entry in the ‘Tales’ series, Vesperia delights fans old and new with its compelling story and gameplay.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Tales of Hearts: Anime Movie Edition (2008)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Embark on a journey of healing and heroism in Tales of Hearts: Anime Movie Edition. Join Shing and his friends as they traverse a world filled with challenges and beauty, brought to life through stunning anime cutscenes and engaging RPG gameplay.

Introduction

In the world of Tales of Hearts, players follow the story of Shing Meteoryte, a young swordsman whose destiny is intertwined with that of Kohaku, a girl with a shattered Spiria Core. The game explores themes of friendship, courage, and the power of the heart through its captivating narrative and dynamic battle system.

Synopsis

Tales of Hearts: Anime Movie Edition (2008) is a captivating role-playing game that takes players on an emotional journey. The game was originally released for the Nintendo DS and later remade for the PlayStation Vita. This article provides a detailed synopsis of the game’s plot.

The game begins when the protagonist, Shing, encounters a pair of traveling siblings, Kohaku and Hisui. In an unexpected turn of events, Shing accidentally shatters Kohaku’s Spiria Core, the source of her emotions. This sets the trio on a journey to restore Kohaku’s heart and emotions.

The game’s plot is set on the planet of Organica, which was attacked by xerom, monsters that consume individuals’ Spiria, the crystalline essence of a person’s heart and emotions. The game’s characteristic genre is “A Meeting Between Hearts RPG” (心と出会うＲＰＧ,Kokoro to deau RPG?).

The game features fully 2D in-game visuals, giving it a classic 2D RPG look. It represents the first entry in the series to use CG models for characters during cutscenes. The theme song, “Eien no Ashita” (永遠の明日?, “Eternal Tomorrow”) is performed by Deen, who previously performed the opening theme of Tales of Destiny.

The game was released in two versions, an “Anime Movie Edition” using the animation produced by Production I.G., and a “CG Movie Edition” using computer-generated 3D model cutscenes produced by Shirogumi. The PlayStation Vita remake acts as a “re-imagination” of several concepts of the original game, eliminating the CG cutscenes but converting the entire game to use 3D-rendered models while introducing other significant gameplay changes.

The overall plot for both versions of the game is nearly identical. The main difference is that in the original Tales of Hearts for Nintendo DS, Gall Gruner is not present, and Chalcedony Akerman is a non-playable character who is incapacitated after the group gains their airship. While Tales of Hearts R for PlayStation Vita heavily rewrites and sometimes even removes many cutscenes, important overarching plot points are seldom changed.

In conclusion, Tales of Hearts: Anime Movie Edition (2008) is a game that explores the depths of human emotions and the power of connections between hearts. Its engaging plot, combined with its unique gameplay mechanics, makes it a memorable entry in the “Tales of…” series. Whether you’re a fan of the series or a newcomer, this game offers a rich and emotional journey that is sure to captivate you.

Characters

The game features Shing Meteoryte, the brave and kind-hearted protagonist; Kohaku Hearts, a girl with a fractured Spiria Core; Hisui Hearts, Kohaku’s protective older brother; and a diverse cast of characters they meet along their journey, each with their unique Soma weapons and Spiria abilities.

Gameplay

Tales of Hearts: Anime Movie Edition offers the classic Tales series’ Linear Motion Battle System, enhanced with new features like Combination Arts and Spiria Drive. Players can explore a rich world, engage in fast-paced battles, and dive into a deep storyline enhanced by the anime cutscenes.

Conclusion

Tales of Hearts: Anime Movie Edition remains a memorable experience for its heartfelt story and integration of high-quality anime cutscenes. It stands as a testament to the potential of combining traditional RPG elements with the expressive power of anime.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern

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