Developer: Square Enix

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age (2017)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age: A Triumphant Return to Form

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age is the eleventh mainline entry in the long-running Dragon Quest series, and it is a triumphant return to form for the franchise. The game features everything that fans have come to expect from the series, including a charming world, an engaging story, and challenging turn-based combat. However, Dragon Quest XI also introduces a number of new features and improvements that make it one of the best entries in the series.

A Timeless Tale

Dragon Quest XI tells the story of the Luminary, a young man who is destined to save the world from the forces of darkness. The game’s story is classic Dragon Quest, with a simple but effective narrative that is full of heart and humor. The characters are all well-developed and likeable, and the game’s world is full of interesting places to explore and people to meet.

Beautiful World

One of the most striking things about Dragon Quest XI is its beautiful world. The game’s world is incredibly detailed and varied, with a wide range of environments to explore, from lush forests to snowy mountains. The game’s graphics are also top-notch, with vibrant colors and smooth animations.

Classic Combat

Dragon Quest XI features the series’ traditional turn-based combat system. However, the game also introduces a number of new features and improvements to the combat system, such as the ability to switch between different party members in the middle of battle. The combat is challenging but fair, and it is a lot of fun to experiment with different strategies to defeat your enemies.

New Features

In addition to its classic gameplay, Dragon Quest XI also introduces a number of new features and improvements. These features include:

  • Character Creator: For the first time in the series, players can create their own custom character. This allows players to personalize their experience and create a character that they can truly connect with.
  • Voice Acting: Dragon Quest XI is the first game in the series to feature full voice acting. The voice acting is excellent, and it helps to bring the game’s characters and world to life.
  • Orchestral Soundtrack: The game’s soundtrack is composed by Koichi Sugiyama, and it is one of the best soundtracks in the series. The music is beautiful and sweeping, and it perfectly complements the game’s atmosphere.

Conclusion

Dragon Quest XI: Echoes of an Elusive Age is a triumphant return to form for the Dragon Quest series. The game features everything that fans have come to expect from the series, as well as a number of new features and improvements. The game’s story is charming, its world is beautiful, its combat is challenging, and its characters are unforgettable. Dragon Quest XI is a must-play for fans of the series and JRPGs in general.

10/10

Review Score

9/10

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Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together (1995)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 9 minutes read

Summary

Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together (1995)

Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is a 3D isometric tactical role-playing game developed by Quest Corporation and published by Square (now Square Enix) for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It was first released in Japan in 1995, and in North America and Europe in 1998. The game is a prequel to Quest’s earlier Ogre Battle: The March of the Black Queen (1993), and the second installment in the Ogre Battle series.

Tactics Ogre is set in the fictional world of Valeria, during a time of great political and social upheaval. The Valerian Empire is on the brink of collapse, and various factions are vying for power. The player takes on the role of デニム・パウエル (Denim Powell), a young squire who becomes embroiled in the conflict.

Tactics Ogre is known for its deep and engrossing storyline, which features multiple endings depending on the player’s choices. The game also features a robust class system, with over 20 different character classes to choose from. Each class has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully consider their party composition in order to succeed in battle.

The battles in Tactics Ogre are turn-based and take place on a grid-based map. Players must carefully position their units and use their abilities strategically in order to defeat their opponents. The game also features a unique “Chain Attack” system, which allows players to link together attacks from multiple units to devastating effect.

Tactics Ogre was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the greatest tactical role-playing games of all time. The game has been praised for its deep and engaging story, its innovative gameplay, and its beautiful graphics and music.

Gameplay

Tactics Ogre is a turn-based tactical role-playing game. The player controls a party of up to 12 units on a grid-based map. The player must carefully position their units and use their abilities strategically in order to defeat their opponents.

The game features a unique “Chain Attack” system, which allows players to link together attacks from multiple units to devastating effect. For example, a player could have one unit attack an enemy, and then have another unit follow up with a more powerful attack. The second attack will deal bonus damage, and the enemy will not be able to counterattack.

Tactics Ogre also features a deep and engrossing storyline, with multiple endings depending on the player’s choices. The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The player’s choices will affect the course of the story, and will ultimately determine which of the eight possible endings the player will see.

Classes

Tactics Ogre features a robust class system, with over 20 different character classes to choose from. Each class has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and players must carefully consider their party composition in order to succeed in battle.

The six male character classes are:

  • Squire: A well-rounded class with no major weaknesses.
  • Knight: A powerful melee class with high defense.
  • Lancer: A cavalry class with high mobility and attack power.
  • Wizard: A magic-using class with a wide range of spells.
  • Cleric: A healing and support class.
  • Thief: A stealthy class with high evasion and lockpicking skills.

The six female character classes are:

  • Amazon: A powerful melee class with high attack power.
  • Valkyrie: A cavalry class with high mobility and defense.
  • Sorceress: A magic-using class with a wide range of spells.
  • Priestess: A healing and support class.
  • Dancer: A support class with the ability to buff and debuff units.
  • Ninja: A stealthy class with high evasion and critical hit chance.

In addition to the male and female character classes, there are also three demi-human classes:

  • Ogre: A powerful melee class with high strength and vitality.
  • Lizardman: A balanced class with good attack power, defense, and mobility.
  • Beastman: A fast and agile class with high evasion and critical hit chance.

Story

Tactics Ogre is set in the fictional world of Valeria, during a time of great political and social upheaval. The Valerian Empire is on the brink of collapse, and various factions are vying for power.

The player takes on the role of デニム・パウエル (Denim Powell), a young squire who becomes embroiled in the conflict. Denim must choose which side to fight for, and his choices will ultimately determine the fate of Valeria.

The story of Tactics Ogre is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The player’s choices will affect the course of the story, and will ultimately determine which of the eight possible endings the player will see.

Legacy

Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is considered to be one of the greatest tactical role-playing games of all time. The game has been praised for its deep and engaging story, its innovative gameplay, and its beautiful graphics and music.

Tactics Ogre has had a significant impact on the video game industry. The game’s class system and Chain Attack system have been imitated by many other games, and its story has been praised for its complexity and maturity.

Tactics Ogre has also been ported to a number of other platforms, including the PlayStation Portable, the Nintendo DS, and the PlayStation Vita. The game has also been re-released on the Wii Virtual Console and the PlayStation Network.

In 2011, Square Enix released a remake of Tactics Ogre for the PlayStation Portable. The remake features updated graphics and sound, as well as a number of new features, such as a new job system and a new ending.

Tactics Ogre: Let Us Cling Together is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s deep and engaging story, innovative gameplay, and beautiful graphics and music make it a must-play for fans of tactical role-playing games.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Sword of Mana (2003)

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

Summary

Sword of Mana (2003): A Timeless Action RPG Masterpiece

Released in 2003 for the GameCube, Sword of Mana is an action RPG that combines classic gameplay with stunning visuals and a captivating story. Developed by Square Enix, the game is a remake of the 1993 Super Nintendo game Seiken Densetsu 2, and it faithfully recreates the original’s beloved gameplay while adding new features and enhancements.

Gameplay

Sword of Mana is an action RPG that follows the story of two heroes as they fight to protect the Mana Tree from the forces of darkness. Players can choose to play as either a male gladiator or a female magician, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.

The game’s combat system is fast-paced and action-packed, with players using a variety of sword attacks, magic spells, and special abilities to defeat their enemies. Sword of Mana also features a unique “Ring Command” system, which allows players to quickly select from a variety of commands during battle.

Story

The story of Sword of Mana is set in the Granz Realm, a world where the Mana Tree is the source of all life. However, the Dark Lord of Granz is searching for the secrets of the Mana Tree so that he can control its power.

A young gladiator named Nash and a young magician named Popoi must come together to defeat the Dark Lord and protect the Mana Tree. As they travel through the Granz Realm, they will meet a variety of characters, both friendly and hostile, and learn more about the secrets of the Mana Tree.

Characters

  • Nash: A young gladiator who is on a quest to avenge the deaths of his parents. Nash is a skilled swordsman and a powerful warrior.
  • Popoi: A young magician who is one of the last survivors of the Mana Clan. Popoi is a skilled magic user and a powerful healer.
  • Watts: A thief who joins Nash and Popoi on their quest. Watts is a skilled archer and a master of disguise.
  • Riesz: A princess who joins Nash and Popoi on their quest. Riesz is a skilled swordswoman and a powerful leader.
  • Duran: A knight who joins Nash and Popoi on their quest. Duran is a skilled swordsman and a powerful warrior.

Graphics

Sword of Mana features beautiful and detailed 3D graphics that bring the Granz Realm to life. The game’s characters, enemies, and environments are all rendered in stunning detail, and the game’s use of color and lighting is simply breathtaking.

Music

Sword of Mana’s soundtrack is composed by Hiroki Kikuta, who also composed the soundtrack for the original Seiken Densetsu 2. The soundtrack is a beautiful and memorable blend of orchestral and electronic music, and it perfectly captures the game’s sense of adventure and wonder.

Legacy

Sword of Mana is considered to be one of the best action RPGs ever made. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and captivating story have made it a fan favorite for over two decades. Sword of Mana has also been praised for its beautiful soundtrack and its memorable characters.

Conclusion

Sword of Mana is a timeless action RPG masterpiece that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, captivating story, and beautiful soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for an action RPG that will challenge you, entertain you, and stay with you long after you finish playing it, then Sword of Mana is the game for you.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Deus Ex: Mankind Divided (2016)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided (2016): A Cyberpunk Masterpiece

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is a first-person action role-playing video game developed by Eidos Montreal and published by Square Enix. It is the fourth installment in the Deus Ex series, and a direct sequel to Deus Ex: Human Revolution (2011). The game was released on August 23, 2016, for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.

Setting

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is set in 2029, two years after the Aug Incident, a global event in which mechanically augmented citizens all over the world were stripped of control over their minds and bodies, resulting in the deaths of millions of innocents. In the aftermath of the Incident, augmented humans have been deemed outcasts and segregated from the rest of society. They are forced to live in ghettos and are subjected to discrimination and violence.

The game follows the story of Adam Jensen, a former SWAT officer who was augmented with experimental cybernetics after being severely injured during the Aug Incident. Jensen is now working as a private investigator, and he is tasked with investigating a series of terrorist attacks that are targeting augmented individuals.

Gameplay

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is a first-person action role-playing game. The player controls Adam Jensen, who can use a variety of weapons and abilities to complete missions. The game features a branching dialogue system that allows the player to make choices that will affect the story.

Jensen can use a variety of weapons, including firearms, melee weapons, and grenades. He can also use his cybernetic abilities to hack into computers, control robots, and augment his own body.

The game features a stealth system that allows the player to avoid detection by enemies. Jensen can use cover to hide from enemies, and he can use non-lethal takedowns to incapacitate them.

Themes

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided explores a number of themes, including the consequences of human augmentation, societal prejudice, and the nature of humanity. The game asks the player to question what it means to be human, and what the future holds for humanity in a world where technology is rapidly advancing.

Critical Reception

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided received critical acclaim upon release. The game was praised for its immersive world, engaging story, and complex characters. It was also praised for its innovative gameplay, which allows the player to approach missions in a variety of ways.

The game was nominated for a number of awards, including Game of the Year at the Golden Joystick Awards. It won the award for Best RPG at the The Game Awards.

Legacy

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is considered to be one of the best video games of its generation. It is a thought-provoking and immersive cyberpunk RPG that explores important themes such as the consequences of human augmentation and societal prejudice. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay, which allows the player to approach missions in a variety of ways.

Deus Ex: Mankind Divided is a must-play for fans of cyberpunk, action RPGs, and thought-provoking video games.

Additional Information

  • Developer: Eidos Montreal
  • Publisher: Square Enix
  • Release Date: August 23, 2016
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
  • Genre: Action role-playing game
  • Setting: Cyberpunk
  • Themes: The consequences of human augmentation, societal prejudice, the nature of humanity

Review Score

8.5/10

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Final Fantasy VII Remake (2020)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Final Fantasy VII Remake: A Triumphant Return to Midgar

A Nostalgic Reimagining

Final Fantasy VII Remake is a spectacular re-imagining of one of the most beloved and influential video games of all time. Originally released in 1997, Final Fantasy VII captivated gamers with its groundbreaking graphics, epic story, and memorable characters. The Remake retains the core elements that made the original so beloved while also expanding and enhancing the experience in countless ways.

A Stunning Visual Spectacle

One of the most striking aspects of Final Fantasy VII Remake is its stunning visual presentation. The game’s world is rendered in exquisite detail, from the bustling streets of Midgar to the serene landscapes beyond. The character models are incredibly lifelike, and the animations are fluid and expressive. The game’s soundtrack is also a masterpiece, featuring both reimagined versions of classic tracks and new compositions that perfectly capture the game’s atmosphere.

An Expanded and Enriched Story

While the Remake follows the same basic storyline as the original game, it also expands and enriches the narrative in significant ways. The game delves deeper into the characters’ backgrounds and motivations, and it introduces new side quests and story elements that add depth and complexity to the world of Midgar. The Remake also features a new ending that sets the stage for future installments in the project.

A Reworked Combat System

The Remake also introduces a reworked combat system that combines real-time action with strategic elements. Players can control a single character at a time, switching between them on the fly to execute devastating attacks and abilities. The combat is fast-paced and exciting, and it requires players to think strategically about their positioning and resource management.

A Triumphant Return

Final Fantasy VII Remake is a triumphant return to Midgar and a fitting tribute to one of the most iconic video games of all time. The game’s stunning visuals, expanded story, and reworked combat system make it an essential experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to the series. Whether you’re revisiting the world of Final Fantasy VII for the first time or experiencing it all over again, the Remake is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Features:

  • A stunning visual reimagining of the classic RPG
  • An expanded and enriched story with new characters and side quests
  • A reworked combat system that combines real-time action with strategic elements
  • A captivating soundtrack that features both reimagined classic tracks and new compositions

Critical Reception:

Final Fantasy VII Remake has received widespread critical acclaim, with many reviewers praising its stunning visuals, expanded story, and reworked combat system. The game has been nominated for numerous awards, including Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2020.

Commercial Success:

Final Fantasy VII Remake has also been a commercial success, selling over 5 million copies worldwide. The game’s success is a testament to the enduring popularity of the Final Fantasy series and the high quality of the Remake.

Conclusion:

Final Fantasy VII Remake is a must-play for fans of the original game and newcomers to the series alike. The game’s stunning visuals, expanded story, and reworked combat system make it one of the best RPGs of recent years. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time player, Final Fantasy VII Remake is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Review Score

9/10

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Final Fantasy IV: The After Years (2008)

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

Summary

Final Fantasy IV: The After Years: A Nostalgic Adventure with a Twist

Introduction

Final Fantasy IV: The After Years is a direct sequel to the beloved SNES classic, Final Fantasy IV. Released in episodic format in 2008, The After Years takes place 17 years after the events of the original game and follows the story of Ceodore Harvey, the son of Cecil and Rosa.

Story

The game’s story begins with the sudden reappearance of the Lunarian Kain Highwind, who had seemingly sacrificed himself at the end of Final Fantasy IV. Kain’s return brings with it a new threat: the return of the evil sorcerer Golbez and his army of monsters.

Ceodore and his companions set out on a journey to stop Golbez and save the world. Along the way, they encounter familiar faces from Final Fantasy IV, such as Cecil, Rosa, and Rydia, as well as new allies and enemies.

The After Years expands on the story of Final Fantasy IV in several ways. It reveals more about the backstory of the Lunarians and their connection to the Crystals. It also explores the themes of family, sacrifice, and redemption.

Gameplay

The After Years uses the same basic gameplay mechanics as Final Fantasy IV, including the Active Time Battle (ATB) system and the class system. However, there are several new additions and tweaks that make The After Years feel like a fresh experience.

One of the most significant changes is the addition of the “Augment” system. This system allows players to customize their characters’ abilities by equipping them with Augments, which are special items that can be found throughout the game. Augments can grant characters new abilities, stat boosts, and other bonuses.

The class system has also been expanded in The After Years. Each character now has access to a wider range of classes, and there are several new classes to choose from, such as the Rune Knight and the Summoner.

Characters

The After Years features a cast of both new and returning characters. Ceodore Harvey is the main protagonist of the game, and he is joined by a group of companions, including:

  • Kain Highwind: The returning hero from Final Fantasy IV, Kain is now a powerful Dragoon and a close friend of Ceodore.
  • Rosa Farrell: Ceodore’s mother and the former Queen of Baron, Rosa is a skilled White Mage and a wise and compassionate leader.
  • Cecil Harvey: Ceodore’s father and the former King of Baron, Cecil is a powerful Paladin and a mentor to Ceodore.
  • Rydia: A Summoner who played a major role in Final Fantasy IV, Rydia returns in The After Years as a powerful ally and a close friend of Ceodore.

Graphics and Sound

The After Years uses a 2D pixel art style that is similar to the original Final Fantasy IV. The graphics are charming and nostalgic, and they do a good job of capturing the feel of the SNES era.

The game’s music is composed by Nobuo Uematsu, who also composed the music for Final Fantasy IV. The music is beautiful and memorable, and it perfectly captures the mood and atmosphere of the game.

Reception

Final Fantasy IV: The After Years was released to critical acclaim. Critics praised the game’s story, characters, and gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Conclusion

Final Fantasy IV: The After Years is a worthy sequel to one of the most beloved RPGs of all time. The game features a compelling story, memorable characters, and addictive gameplay. If you’re a fan of Final Fantasy IV, or if you’re just looking for a great RPG to play, then The After Years is definitely worth checking out.

Score: 8.5/10

Review Score

8.5/10

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Championship Manager 2008 (2007)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Championship Manager 2008: The Ultimate Football Management Game

Championship Manager 2008 is the eleventh installment in the popular Championship Manager series of football management games. Developed by Beautiful Game Studios and published by Eidos Interactive, it was released in October 2007 for Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Gameplay

Championship Manager 2008 is a comprehensive football management game that allows players to take control of all aspects of a football club, from player recruitment and training to match tactics and finances. The game features a vast database of over 30,000 players and staff from over 150 countries, as well as realistic team and player attributes.

Players begin by selecting a club to manage from a variety of leagues around the world. Once a club has been selected, players are responsible for all aspects of its operation, including:

  • Player management: Players can buy, sell, and loan players, as well as negotiate contracts and manage their training and development.
  • Team management: Players can select the team’s formation and tactics, as well as give individual instructions to players.
  • Match management: Players can watch matches in real-time or in a highlights package, and make tactical changes during the match.
  • Financial management: Players must manage the club’s finances, including transfer budgets, wages, and stadium upgrades.

New Features

Championship Manager 2008 introduced a number of new features and improvements over previous installments in the series, including:

  • Improved match engine: The match engine was overhauled to provide more realistic and exciting matches.
  • New player development system: The player development system was revamped to make it more realistic and challenging to develop young players.
  • Enhanced scouting system: The scouting system was improved to make it easier to find and recruit talented players.
  • New user interface: The user interface was redesigned to be more user-friendly and intuitive.

Reception

Championship Manager 2008 was a critical and commercial success. It received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its realistic gameplay, in-depth player data, and challenging AI. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Championship Manager 2008 is considered to be one of the best football management games ever made. It is still played by many fans today, and its legacy continues to influence the development of future football management games.

Tips for Playing Championship Manager 2008

Here are a few tips for playing Championship Manager 2008:

  • Start with a small club: It can be easier to learn the game and develop your skills by managing a small club with a limited budget.
  • Focus on scouting: Scouting is essential for finding and recruiting talented players. Make sure to send your scouts to all corners of the globe to find the best players for your team.
  • Develop your players: Young players have the potential to become world-class stars. Make sure to invest in their development and give them plenty of playing time.
  • Be patient: Managing a football club takes time and effort. Don’t expect to win the league in your first season. Be patient and build your team gradually.

Conclusion

Championship Manager 2008 is the ultimate football management game. With its realistic gameplay, in-depth player data, and challenging AI, it is the closest you’ll ever come to managing a real football club. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the series, Championship Manager 2008 is a must-play for any fan of football management games.

Review Score

8.5/10

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World of Final Fantasy (2016)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

World of Final Fantasy: A Nostalgic Adventure for Fans and Newcomers Alike

Released in 2016, World of Final Fantasy is a charming and imaginative JRPG that combines classic gameplay mechanics with fresh and innovative visuals. Developed by Square Enix and published by Bandai Namco Entertainment, the game is a standalone title in the long-running Final Fantasy franchise, and can be enjoyed by both fans and newcomers to the series.

Story

The story of World of Final Fantasy follows the adventures of twins Lann and Reynn, who awaken in the world of Grymoire with no memories of their past. As they explore this strange and wonderful land, they encounter a cast of colorful characters, both new and familiar, and learn about the prophecy that foretells their role in saving the world from an impending darkness.

Along the way, Lann and Reynn will travel through a variety of Final Fantasy worlds, including those from Final Fantasy I, Final Fantasy VII, and Final Fantasy X. They will also encounter many of the series’ most iconic monsters, which they can capture and raise as their own.

Gameplay

World of Final Fantasy’s gameplay is a mix of classic JRPG elements and new and innovative features. The game features a turn-based battle system, in which players control a party of up to three characters. Each character has their own unique abilities and strengths, and players must use strategy and teamwork to defeat their enemies.

One of the most unique features of World of Final Fantasy is the “Stacking” system. This system allows players to stack their characters on top of each other to create powerful new combinations. For example, stacking a mage on top of a warrior will create a character with both magical and physical攻擊力.

The game also features a deep and rewarding monster-raising system. Players can capture and raise over 200 different monsters, each with their own unique abilities and stats. Players can also fuse monsters together to create even more powerful creatures.

Visuals

World of Final Fantasy’s visuals are one of its most striking features. The game’s world and characters are rendered in a cel-shaded, toy-like art style that gives the game a unique and charming look. The game’s environments are full of vibrant colors and whimsical details, and the character designs are both adorable and expressive.

Music

The music of World of Final Fantasy is composed by Masashi Hamauzu, who has also composed music for other Final Fantasy games such as Final Fantasy XIII and Final Fantasy VII Remake. The game’s soundtrack is a mix of orchestral and electronic music, and it perfectly captures the game’s whimsical and adventurous tone.

Reception

World of Final Fantasy received generally positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its charming visuals, innovative gameplay, and nostalgic appeal. However, some critics found the game’s story to be too simplistic and its difficulty level to be too low.

Overall

World of Final Fantasy is a delightful and charming JRPG that will appeal to both fans and newcomers to the series. Its unique toy-like visuals, classic gameplay mechanics, and deep monster-raising system make for a truly memorable experience.

Score: 8.5/10

Review Score

8.5/10

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Final Fantasy XII (2006)

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

Summary

Final Fantasy XII: A Timeless Adventure in the Realm of Ivalice

Released in 2006, Final Fantasy XII is a beloved entry in the long-running Final Fantasy franchise. Set in the fictional land of Ivalice, the game follows the story of Vaan, a young orphan who dreams of becoming a sky pirate, and Ashe, the princess of the fallen kingdom of Dalmasca. Together, they join forces with a band of allies to overthrow the tyrannical Archadian Empire and restore peace to their homeland.

Final Fantasy XII is notable for its innovative battle system, which allows players to control their characters directly rather than relying on turn-based commands. The game also features a vast open world, which players can explore at their leisure. With its engaging story, memorable characters, and stunning visuals, Final Fantasy XII is widely considered to be one of the best games in the series.

Story

The story of Final Fantasy XII begins in the small kingdom of Dalmasca, which is caught between the warring empires of Archadia and Rozarria. When Dalmasca is annexed by Archadia, Princess Ashe creates a resistance movement to fight for her country’s independence. During the struggle, she meets Vaan, a young adventurer who dreams of commanding an airship.

Vaan and Ashe are quickly joined by a band of allies, including Balthier, a sky pirate with a mysterious past; Fran, a viera archer from the forests of Ivalice; and Basch, a disgraced knight who seeks to redeem his honor. Together, they rally against the tyranny of the Archadian Empire and fight for the freedom of their homeland.

Characters

  • Vaan: An orphan who dreams of becoming a sky pirate. Despite his humble beginnings, Vaan is a brave and determined young man who is always willing to fight for what he believes in.
  • Ashe: The princess of Dalmasca. Ashe is a strong and independent woman who is determined to liberate her country from Archadian rule.
  • Balthier: A sky pirate with a mysterious past. Balthier is a charming and charismatic rogue who is always looking for a good time.
  • Fran: A viera archer from the forests of Ivalice. Fran is a skilled hunter and tracker who is always willing to lend a helping hand.
  • Basch: A disgraced knight who seeks to redeem his honor. Basch is a powerful warrior who is fiercely loyal to his friends and allies.

Gameplay

Final Fantasy XII is an action role-playing game in which players control their characters directly in battle. The game features a unique Gambit system, which allows players to automate their characters’ actions based on certain conditions. This allows players to focus on the overall strategy of battle, rather than micromanaging each individual character.

Final Fantasy XII also features a vast open world, which players can explore at their leisure. The world is filled with a variety of towns, dungeons, and other locations to explore. Players can also find a variety of side quests and optional challenges to complete.

Setting

Final Fantasy XII is set in the fictional land of Ivalice. Ivalice is a world of great beauty and diversity, with a rich history and culture. The game’s world is divided into several different regions, each with its own unique landscape and inhabitants.

  • Dalmasca: A small kingdom located in the center of Ivalice. Dalmasca is a peaceful and prosperous country, but it is caught between the warring empires of Archadia and Rozarria.
  • Archadia: A powerful empire that is ruled by Emperor Gramis. Archadia is a technologically advanced nation, but it is also ruthless and ambitious.
  • Rozarria: A rival empire to Archadia. Rozarria is a more traditional nation, but it is also fiercely independent.

Themes

Final Fantasy XII explores a number of complex themes, including war, peace, and identity. The game shows the devastating effects of war on both individuals and nations. It also explores the importance of peace and the need to work together to achieve it.

The game also explores the theme of identity. Vaan, the game’s protagonist, is searching for his place in the world. He dreams of becoming a sky pirate, but he also wants to make a difference in the world. Through his journey, Vaan comes to realize that he can be both a sky pirate and a hero.

Legacy

Final Fantasy XII was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative battle system, vast open world, and engaging story. Final Fantasy XII has been ported to several different platforms, and it remains a popular game today.

The game has also had a significant impact on the Final Fantasy series. The Gambit system introduced in Final Fantasy XII has been used in subsequent Final Fantasy games, and the game’s open world design has influenced the development of other RPGs.

Conclusion

Final Fantasy XII is a timeless adventure that has captivated players for over a decade. With its engaging story, memorable characters, and stunning visuals, the game is a must-play for fans of RPGs.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster (2013)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster: A Timeless Classic Reborn

Introduction

Originally released for the PlayStation 2 in 2001 and 2003 respectively, Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2 are two of the most beloved and critically acclaimed entries in the long-running Final Fantasy series. In 2013, Square Enix released Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster, a high-definition remaster of both games for the PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, and Windows. The remaster features updated graphics, new features, and all-new content, making it the definitive way to experience these classic RPGs.

Story

Final Fantasy X tells the story of Tidus, a young Blitzball star who is transported to the world of Spira after his home city of Zanarkand is destroyed by a monstrous creature known as Sin. Tidus joins forces with a group of guardians known as the Fayth to defeat Sin and save Spira.

Final Fantasy X-2 takes place two years after the events of Final Fantasy X. Yuna, the heroine of Final Fantasy X, has become a Sphere Hunter, a treasure hunter who searches for lost artifacts. Yuna and her companions travel the world of Spira, searching for a way to defeat Sin once and for all.

Gameplay

Final Fantasy X and Final Fantasy X-2 are both turn-based RPGs. In Final Fantasy X, players control a party of three characters in battle. Each character has their own unique abilities and strengths, and players must use strategy to defeat their enemies.

Final Fantasy X-2 introduces a new battle system called the Conditional Turn-Based Battle system. This system allows players to set conditions for their characters’ actions, such as attacking a specific enemy or using a specific ability. This system adds a new layer of strategy to the gameplay and allows players to create more complex and customized battle strategies.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster have been completely overhauled from the original games. The character models, environments, and textures have all been updated to high definition, and the game now runs at a smooth 60 frames per second. The soundtrack has also been remastered, and it sounds better than ever before.

New Features

In addition to the graphical and gameplay improvements, Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster also includes a number of new features. These features include:

  • New Game+: This mode allows players to start a new game with all of the items, abilities, and levels from their previous playthrough.
  • Expert Sphere Grid: This new sphere grid allows players to further customize their characters’ abilities.
  • Dark Aeons: These new bosses are even more powerful than the regular Aeons, and they offer a significant challenge for even the most experienced players.
  • Last Mission: This new dungeon is exclusive to Final Fantasy X-2 HD Remaster, and it features a gauntlet of challenging battles.

Conclusion

Final Fantasy X/X-2 HD Remaster is the definitive way to experience two of the most beloved and critically acclaimed entries in the Final Fantasy series. With updated graphics, new features, and all-new content, it’s a must-have for fans of the original games or newcomers to the series.

Score: 8.5/10

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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