Developer: Square

Trials of Mana (1995)

by Ji-yeong May 10, 2024

written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1995
Genres: Platform, Role-playing game (RPG), Shooter
Platforms: Satellaview, Super Famicom, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Developers: Square
Publishers: Square, St. GIGA

Trials of Mana: A Timeless Classic

Released in 1995 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Trials of Mana (known as Seiken Densetsu 3 in Japan) is a beloved action RPG that has stood the test of time. With its beautiful graphics, engaging story, and challenging gameplay, it’s a must-play for fans of the genre.

A Timeless Story

Trials of Mana tells the story of six heroes who set out on a journey to save the world from the forces of evil. Each hero has their own unique backstory and motivations, and their paths intertwine as they travel the world and face increasingly difficult challenges.

The story is well-written and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep players entertained. The characters are also well-developed and relatable, and players will find themselves rooting for them as they progress through the game.

Classic Action RPG Gameplay

Trials of Mana is an action RPG in the classic mold. Players control a party of three characters, each with their own unique abilities. The combat is fast-paced and challenging, and players must use strategy and teamwork to defeat their enemies.

The game also features a variety of puzzles and exploration elements. Players will need to use their wits to solve puzzles and find hidden items, and they will also need to explore the world to find new areas and characters.

Beautiful Graphics and Music

Trials of Mana is one of the most visually impressive games on the Super Nintendo. The graphics are colorful and detailed, and the world is full of life and personality. The music is also top-notch, with catchy tunes that will stay with players long after they finish the game.

A Lasting Legacy

Trials of Mana was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it has remained popular in the years since. The game has been ported to multiple platforms, and it has been remade for the PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

The remake features updated graphics and sound, as well as some new gameplay features. However, the core gameplay and story remain the same, and the remake is a faithful recreation of the original game.

Conclusion

Trials of Mana is a timeless classic that deserves to be played by every fan of action RPGs. With its engaging story, challenging gameplay, and beautiful graphics, it’s a game that will stay with players long after they finish it.

Additional Information

Developer: Square (now Square Enix)
Publisher: Square (now Square Enix)
Release Date: June 30, 1995 (Japan), October 22, 1995 (North America)
Platforms: Super Nintendo Entertainment System, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC
Genre: Action RPG

Screenshots

[Image of the game’s title screen]

[Image of the game’s overworld map]

[Image of the game’s battle system]

Review Score

9/10

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Final Fantasy III (2006)

by Ji-yeong May 2, 2024

written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2006
Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: Android, iOS, Nintendo DS, Ouya, PC (Microsoft Windows), Windows Phone
Developers: Square
Publishers: Square Enix

Final Fantasy III (2006): A焕然一新的经典

Introduction Originally released in 1990 for the NES, Final Fantasy III was a groundbreaking JRPG that introduced many of the series’ signature elements, including the job system, the ATB (Active Time Battle) system, and the classic four-character party. However, due to technical limitations, the NES version was never released outside of Japan.

In 2006, Square Enix finally brought Final Fantasy III to Western audiences with a complete remake for the Nintendo DS. This remake featured stunning 3D graphics, a revamped job system, and a host of new features and enhancements.

Story Final Fantasy III tells the story of four orphans: Luneth, Arc, Refia, and Ingus. After their village is destroyed by a mysterious force, they set out on a journey to find the four Crystals of Light, which are the only hope for saving their world from darkness.

Along the way, they meet a cast of colorful characters, including the wise sage Doga, the enigmatic thief Xande, and the beautiful princess Sara. They also face a variety of challenges, from treacherous dungeons to powerful monsters.

Gameplay Final Fantasy III is a classic turn-based JRPG with a focus on exploration and character development. Players control a party of four characters, each of whom can be assigned a different job class. There are a total of 22 job classes to choose from, including Warrior, Thief, Mage, and Dragoon.

The job system allows for a great deal of customization and replayability. Players can experiment with different job combinations to create a party that suits their playstyle. Each job class has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose a party that is well-rounded and can handle a variety of challenges.

The ATB (Active Time Battle) system is another key element of Final Fantasy III’s gameplay. This system allows characters to take turns based on a timer, rather than waiting for each other to finish their actions. This makes battles more dynamic and exciting, and it also gives players more control over the flow of combat.

Graphics The 2006 remake of Final Fantasy III features stunning 3D graphics that bring the world of the game to life. The character models are detailed and expressive, and the environments are lush and vibrant. The game also uses a variety of visual effects, such as lighting and particle effects, to create a truly immersive experience.

Sound The soundtrack of Final Fantasy III is one of the most iconic in the series. The music is composed by Nobuo Uematsu, and it features a mix of orchestral and electronic sounds. The soundtrack is both beautiful and stirring, and it perfectly captures the epic scope of the game.

Reception Final Fantasy III (2006) was a critical and commercial success. The game received普遍好评from critics, who praised its beautiful graphics, revamped job system, and classic gameplay. The game also sold over 1 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling DS games of all time.

Legacy Final Fantasy III (2006) is considered to be one of the best remakes of all time. It successfully brought a classic JRPG to a new generation of gamers, and it also introduced many new features and enhancements that would become staples of the series. The game is still enjoyed by fans today, and it remains one of the most popular entries in the Final Fantasy franchise.

Conclusion Final Fantasy III (2006) is a焕然一新的经典. It is a beautiful, engaging, and nostalgic JRPG that is sure to please fans of the series and newcomers alike. If you’re looking for a classic RPG experience with stunning graphics and a timeless story, then Final Fantasy III (2006) is the perfect game for you.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Parasite Eve II (1999)

by Ji-yeong May 1, 2024

written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1999
Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: PlayStation, PlayStation 3
Developers: Square
Publishers: Square

Parasite Eve II: A Deeper Dive into the PlayStation Classic

Released in 1999 exclusively for the PlayStation, Parasite Eve II is an action role-playing survival horror video game developed by Square and the second installment in the Parasite Eve series. The game takes place several years after the events of the first game and follows the story of Aya Brea, a police officer who becomes embroiled in another outbreak of Mitochondrial creatures.

Gameplay

Parasite Eve II’s gameplay is a departure from the first game, with battles taking place in real time and the area of action being less restrictive. The approach is more typical of traditional survival horror games, although some role-playing elements are retained.

Players control Aya from a third-person perspective and must explore the game’s environments, solve puzzles, and fight off enemies. Aya can use a variety of weapons and abilities to defeat her foes, including guns, melee weapons, and magic spells.

As Aya levels up, she will gain new abilities and stats, allowing her to become more powerful and effective in combat. Players can also customize Aya’s equipment and abilities to suit their own playstyle.

Story

Parasite Eve II’s story is complex and engaging, with multiple twists and turns. The game begins several years after the events of the first game, with Aya Brea working as a police officer in New York City.

When a new outbreak of Mitochondrial creatures occurs, Aya is called in to investigate. She soon discovers that the creatures are more powerful and deadly than ever before, and that they are being led by a mysterious new leader named Eve.

Aya must race against time to stop Eve and her minions from destroying the world. Along the way, she will uncover the secrets of her own past and the true nature of the Mitochondrial creatures.

Characters

Aya Brea is the protagonist of Parasite Eve II. She is a strong and determined woman who is dedicated to protecting the innocent. Aya is also a skilled fighter and magic user, and she will stop at nothing to defeat Eve and her minions.

Other important characters in the game include:

Kyle Madigan: A doctor who is working to develop a cure for the Mitochondrial creatures.
Maria Torres: A police officer who is Aya’s partner.
Eve: The mysterious leader of the Mitochondrial creatures.

Setting

Parasite Eve II is set in a variety of locations, including New York City, Los Angeles, and Antarctica. The game’s environments are dark and atmospheric, and they create a sense of dread and isolation.

Graphics and Sound

Parasite Eve II’s graphics are impressive for a PlayStation game. The character models are well-detailed and the environments are atmospheric and immersive. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, and it helps to create the game’s unique atmosphere.

Reception

Parasite Eve II was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its engaging story, intense gameplay, and impressive graphics. Parasite Eve II is considered to be one of the best survival horror games ever made, and it is still enjoyed by fans today.

Legacy

Parasite Eve II is a classic survival horror game that has had a lasting impact on the genre. The game’s unique blend of action, RPG, and horror elements has inspired many other games, and it is still considered to be one of the best examples of the genre.

Conclusion

Parasite Eve II is a must-play for fans of survival horror games. The game’s engaging story, intense gameplay, and impressive graphics make it a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for a classic survival horror game to play, look no further than Parasite Eve II.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Romancing SaGa (1992)

by Ji-yeong April 28, 2024

written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1992
Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: Legacy Mobile Device, Super Famicom, Wii, WonderSwan, WonderSwan Color
Developers: Square
Publishers: Square Enix

Romancing SaGa: A Timeless JRPG Masterpiece

Released in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Romancing SaGa is a groundbreaking Japanese role-playing game (JRPG) that introduced innovative features and left an indelible mark on the genre. Developed by Square (now Square Enix), the game boasts a vast and engrossing world, a compelling narrative, and a unique free-roaming scenario system that empowers players with unprecedented choice and freedom.

A World on the Brink of Darkness

The story of Romancing SaGa unfolds in the vibrant world of Mardias, a realm once threatened by the malevolent entity Saruin. A thousand years have passed since Saruin’s imprisonment, but the barriers that contain him are weakening, and his ominous shadow looms over Mardias once more.

A Band of Unlikely Heroes

As the forces of darkness gather, a mysterious minstrel emerges, guiding a group of eight extraordinary individuals on a perilous adventure. Each character possesses their own unique backstory, motivations, and skills, offering a diverse range of perspectives and playstyles.

The cast of playable characters includes:

Albert: A skilled swordsman and heir to the throne of Valhalland.
Barbara: A powerful sorceress with a thirst for knowledge.
Gray: A stoic mercenary with a tragic past.
Hawkeye: A skilled archer and master strategist.
Liz: A devout priestess with healing powers.
Sif: A nimble thief with a knack for finding treasure.
T260G: A sentient robot from a distant future.
Ulrica: A mysterious woman with the power to manipulate time.

Free-Roaming Scenario System: A Revolutionary Approach

Romancing SaGa’s defining feature is its free-roaming scenario system, which grants players an unprecedented level of choice and freedom in shaping their adventure. Unlike traditional JRPGs with linear storylines, Romancing SaGa allows players to explore the world at their own pace, choosing which characters to recruit and which quests to pursue.

The game’s world is divided into multiple regions, each with its own unique environments, towns, and dungeons. Players are free to travel between regions as they see fit, uncovering hidden secrets and encountering a wide array of challenges.

Character Development and Customization

Each playable character in Romancing SaGa has their own unique set of abilities and growth paths. As characters gain experience and level up, they can learn new skills and enhance their existing ones. The game also features a robust equipment system, allowing players to customize their characters with a variety of weapons, armor, and accessories.

Epic Battles and Strategic Gameplay

Combat in Romancing SaGa is turn-based and features a unique “glimmer” system. When a character’s turn comes up, they will have a chance to “glimmer,” which increases their stats and allows them to perform special attacks or use powerful magic spells.

The game’s combat system is both challenging and rewarding, requiring players to carefully consider their strategies and adapt to different enemy types. Boss battles are particularly memorable, often requiring players to exploit specific weaknesses and use creative tactics to emerge victorious.

A Timeless Classic with Enduring Appeal

Three decades after its initial release, Romancing SaGa continues to be revered as one of the greatest JRPGs ever made. Its innovative free-roaming scenario system, compelling narrative, and cast of unforgettable characters have captivated generations of gamers.

The game has been re-released on multiple platforms over the years, including the PlayStation 2, Nintendo DS, and mobile devices. A remastered version, Romancing SaGa: Minstrel Song, was released for the PlayStation 2 in 2005 and features updated graphics, sound, and additional content.

Legacy and Influence

Romancing SaGa’s legacy extends far beyond its initial release. The game’s innovative features and unique approach to storytelling have influenced countless other JRPGs, including the SaGa series itself and other Square Enix classics like Final Fantasy VI and Chrono Trigger.

The game’s free-roaming scenario system has become a staple of the JRPG genre, allowing players to explore vast worlds and shape their own adventures. Its emphasis on character development and customization has also set a high standard for subsequent JRPGs.

Conclusion

Romancing SaGa (1992) is a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire gamers today. Its innovative features, compelling narrative, and unforgettable characters have cemented its place as one of the greatest JRPGs ever made. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Romancing SaGa is an essential experience for any fan of the genre.

Review Score

9/10

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Bahamut Lagoon (1996)

by Ji-yeong April 8, 2024

written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1996
Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
Platforms: Super Famicom, Wii, Wii U
Developers: Square, Square Enix
Publishers: Square, Square Enix

Bahamut Lagoon: A Unique and Enthralling Strategy RPG

Released in 1996 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Bahamut Lagoon is a strategy role-playing game (SRPG) that stands out from its peers with its innovative combat system, compelling narrative, and charming cast of characters. Developed by Square (now Square Enix), the game combines elements of traditional RPGs with squad-based combat, resulting in a unique and engaging gaming experience.

Story and Setting

Bahamut Lagoon is set in the vibrant and diverse world of Grand Gaia, a land where humans and dragons coexist. The story follows the journey of Byuu, a young man who aspires to become a Dragon Cavalier, an elite warrior who fights alongside powerful dragons. However, Byuu’s life is turned upside down when his village is attacked by the evil sorcerer Gades, who seeks to conquer Grand Gaia using the power of the legendary Bahamut.

As Byuu embarks on a quest to stop Gades and save his world, he encounters a colorful cast of characters, including Nina, a skilled archer; Shoan, a wise and powerful sage; and Fau, a mysterious and enigmatic dragon. Together, they must overcome numerous challenges and make difficult choices as they fight to protect Grand Gaia from the forces of darkness.

Gameplay

Bahamut Lagoon’s gameplay is a blend of traditional RPG elements and squad-based combat. Players control a party of up to four characters, each with their own unique abilities and stats. The game features a turn-based battle system that takes place on a 2D grid. Characters can move and attack once per turn, and they can use a variety of weapons, spells, and abilities to defeat their enemies.

One of the unique aspects of Bahamut Lagoon’s combat system is the incorporation of dragons. Each party has a dragon assigned to it, and the dragon’s stats and abilities contribute to the party’s overall strength. Dragons can also be used to perform powerful special attacks, which can turn the tide of battle.

In addition to combat, Bahamut Lagoon also features exploration and character development elements. Players can explore the world of Grand Gaia, talk to NPCs, and visit shops to purchase items and equipment. Characters can also level up and learn new abilities as they gain experience in battle.

Characters

Bahamut Lagoon features a cast of memorable and well-developed characters. Byuu, the protagonist, is a brave and determined young man who is willing to sacrifice everything to protect his world. Nina is a skilled archer and a loyal friend, while Shoan is a wise and powerful sage who provides guidance and support to the party. Fau, the mysterious and enigmatic dragon, is a powerful ally who plays a key role in the story.

In addition to the main cast, Bahamut Lagoon also features a number of supporting characters who add depth and richness to the world. These characters include villagers, soldiers, and even rival warriors, each with their own unique motivations and stories.

Art and Music

Bahamut Lagoon’s visuals are charming and colorful, with detailed character sprites and vibrant environments. The game’s art style is reminiscent of other SNES RPGs of the era, such as Final Fantasy VI and Chrono Trigger. The soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of orchestral and synthesized tracks that perfectly capture the game’s atmosphere and tone.

Legacy

Bahamut Lagoon was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains a beloved classic among SRPG fans. The game’s unique combat system, compelling story, and charming characters have made it a timeless classic. Bahamut Lagoon has also been cited as an influence on later SRPGs, such as the Fire Emblem series.

Conclusion

Bahamut Lagoon is a unique and enthralling SRPG that offers a blend of traditional RPG elements and squad-based combat. With its compelling story, charming characters, and innovative gameplay, Bahamut Lagoon is a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned SRPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Bahamut Lagoon is sure to provide an unforgettable gaming experience.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Chrono Cross (1999)

by Ji-yeong April 6, 2024

written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1999
Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: PlayStation, PlayStation 3
Developers: Square
Publishers: Square

Chrono Cross: A Timeless Adventure

Released in 1999, Chrono Cross is the spiritual successor to the beloved Super Nintendo RPG, Chrono Trigger. Developed by Square Enix (then Squaresoft) and directed by Masato Kato, Chrono Cross is an ambitious and sprawling JRPG that features a large cast of characters, a complex story, and beautiful visuals.

The game follows the story of Serge, a young man who lives on the isolated El Nido archipelago. One day, Serge is attacked by a mysterious creature and awakens in a parallel dimension where he is known as Kid. As Serge tries to figure out what happened to him and how to return to his own world, he is joined by a group of allies, including Kid, a thief with a mysterious past; Guile, a swordsman with a dark secret; and Lynx, a enigmatic figure who seems to know more about Serge than he lets on.

As Serge and his companions travel through the parallel dimension, they learn that the two worlds are on the brink of war. The Acacia Dragoons, led by the tyrannical General Viper, are preparing to invade El Nido. Serge and his allies must find a way to stop the war and save both worlds.

Chrono Cross’s story is complex and engrossing, with multiple twists and turns. The game’s large cast of characters are all well-developed and have their own unique motivations and backstories. The game’s world is also rich and detailed, with a variety of locations to explore, from the lush forests of El Nido to the technologically advanced city of Termina.

The gameplay in Chrono Cross is similar to that of Chrono Trigger, but with some key differences. The game’s battle system is turn-based, but players can now control up to three characters at once. Each character has their own unique abilities and spells, and players must use strategy to defeat their enemies.

Chrono Cross also features a unique element system. Each character can equip up to three elements, which can be used to cast spells, enhance attacks, or heal allies. The element system adds an extra layer of depth to the game’s combat, and players must carefully consider which elements to equip to each character.

The graphics in Chrono Cross are some of the best on the PlayStation. The game’s character models are large and detailed, and the pre-rendered backgrounds are immaculately detailed. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of orchestral and electronic music.

Chrono Cross was a critical and commercial success, selling over 1.5 million copies worldwide. The game has been praised for its story, characters, graphics, and gameplay. Chrono Cross is considered one of the best JRPGs of all time, and it is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Chrono Cross’s Legacy

Chrono Cross has had a lasting impact on the JRPG genre. The game’s complex story, large cast of characters, and innovative gameplay have inspired many other JRPGs. Chrono Cross is also notable for its beautiful graphics and soundtrack, which helped to set a new standard for the genre.

Chrono Cross has been re-released several times, including on the PlayStation Network, the Nintendo DS, and the PlayStation 3. The game has also been translated into several languages, including English, Japanese, French, German, and Spanish.

In 2022, Square Enix announced that it was developing a remaster of Chrono Cross. The remaster will be released on the PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC in 2023. The remaster will feature updated graphics and sound, as well as some new features.

Chrono Cross is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. The game’s story, characters, graphics, and gameplay are all top-notch, and it is a must-play for fans of JRPGs.

Review Score

9/10

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Final Fantasy IV Advance (2005)

by Ji-yeong April 5, 2024

written by Ji-yeong 5 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2005
Genres: Adventure, Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: Game Boy Advance, Legacy Mobile Device, Wii U
Developers: Square
Publishers: Square, Square Enix

Final Fantasy IV Advance: A Timeless Classic Reborn

Originally released in 1991 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Final Fantasy IV is widely considered to be one of the greatest JRPGs of all time. In 2005, the game was remade for the Game Boy Advance as Final Fantasy IV Advance, and it remains one of the best versions of the game to this day.

Story

Final Fantasy IV tells the story of Cecil Harvey, a dark knight who is struggling with his faith. After being ordered to commit a heinous act, Cecil begins to question his purpose in life. He soon meets up with a group of rebels who are fighting against the tyrannical Golbez, and together they set out on a journey to save the world.

The story of Final Fantasy IV is full of twists and turns, and it features a cast of memorable characters. The game’s themes of redemption, sacrifice, and the power of friendship are still relevant today.

Gameplay

Final Fantasy IV Advance is a turn-based JRPG. Players control a party of up to five characters, each with their own unique abilities. The game’s combat system is simple to learn but difficult to master, and it offers a great deal of strategic depth.

In addition to the main story, Final Fantasy IV Advance also features a number of side quests and optional dungeons. These side quests can be completed to earn new items and equipment, and they can also help to flesh out the game’s world and characters.

Graphics and Sound

The graphics in Final Fantasy IV Advance are a significant improvement over the original SNES version. The game’s character sprites are larger and more detailed, and the backgrounds are more colorful and vibrant. The game’s music is also excellent, and it features a number of memorable tracks.

Changes from the Original Version

Final Fantasy IV Advance makes a number of changes to the original SNES version. These changes include:

The addition of character portraits in text boxes
The ability to switch party members in and out of battle
Increased difficulty
New dungeons with new items and weapons
A new translation of the script that is more faithful to the original Japanese version
The inclusion of a Quicksave feature

Conclusion

Final Fantasy IV Advance is a fantastic remake of one of the greatest JRPGs of all time. With updated graphics, sound, and gameplay, it’s an essential experience for fans of the series. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Final Fantasy IV or you’re new to the series, Final Fantasy IV Advance is a game that you won’t want to miss.

Score: 9/10

Pros:

Engaging story
Memorable characters
Deep and strategic combat system
Beautiful graphics and music
Plenty of side quests and optional content

Cons:

Some of the difficulty spikes can be frustrating
The new translation is not always as good as the original

Review Score

8.5/10

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Xenogears (1998)

by Ji-yeong March 15, 2024

written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Xenogears is not just a game; it’s an experience that delves into the depths of human consciousness, identity, and the existential ties between mankind and technology. With its captivating story, robust gameplay, and philosophical undertones, it remains a must-play title for fans of the genre.

Release Year: 1998
Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: PlayStation, PlayStation 3
Developers: Square
Publishers: Square, Square Electronic Arts

Introduction

Xenogears stands out as a masterpiece of storytelling and gameplay, offering a unique blend of traditional RPG elements with a profound narrative. Its exploration of heavy philosophical themes alongside the exciting control of giant robots called ‘gears’ has captivated players for decades.

Synopsis

“Xenogears”, a role-playing video game developed and published by Square for the PlayStation console, was released in 1998. It is the debut entry in the larger Xeno franchise. The game revolves around navigating 3D environments both on-foot and using humanoid mecha dubbed “Gears”.

The protagonist of the game is Fei Fong Wong. After his village is destroyed, Fei is exiled and forced to deal with a chaotic world as well as the chaos inside himself. He gains several allies and finds the means to face his destiny, as well as uncover the truths behind mysterious forces operating in his world.

The gameplay of Xenogears combines traditional role-playing video game structures such as Square’s signature Active Time Battle system with new features particular to the game’s martial arts combat style. It features two slightly different battle systems: in the first, the player controls human characters in turn-based combat manipulated through the sequencing of learned combos.

The story follows Fei and several others as they journey across the world to overthrow the all-powerful rule of Solaris and uncover mysteries concerning their world. The story incorporates Jungian psychology, Freudian thought, and religious symbolism. Created by Tetsuya Takahashi and his wife Kaori Tanaka as a proposal for Final Fantasy VII, it was allowed to be developed as its own project.

First, it was a sequel to Chrono Trigger and then an original game with a science fiction premise. It was developed under the working title “Project Noah”. The characters were designed by Kunihiko Tanaka, while the gears were designed by Junya Ishigaki and Yoshinori Ogura. The designs were portrayed during in-game cinematics through the use of anime cutscenes.

Due to time constraints and the team’s general inexperience, the second half of the game’s plot was primarily told through cutscenes. The game was almost not localized due to its religious content. Its localization was handled by Square Electronic Arts staff and translator Richard Honeywood, who described it as one of the most troublesome games of his career.

Xenogears received critical acclaim, with many calling it a work of art due to its heavy religious themes and elements of Jungian psychology. Praises particularly went towards the storyline, gameplay, characters, and psychological and religious themes, but received criticism for the rushed pace of the second disc, due to a lack of gameplay and excessive narration.

By 2003, the game had shipped 1.19 million copies worldwide, gaining a cult following. While a direct sequel has not been developed, Takahashi would later found Monolith Soft and develop the Xenosaga trilogy and Xenoblade Chronicles games as spiritual successors.

Characters

Fei Fong Wong, the reluctant hero with a mysterious past; Elly Van Houten, a complex character tied to Fei’s destiny; and other memorable allies, each with their own backstories and abilities. The cast is set against the backdrop of a world governed by shadowy organizations and divine machinations.

Gameplay

Combining turn-based combat with strategic gear battles, Xenogears offers an engaging gameplay experience. Players navigate 2D sprites through 3D environments, encountering foes in both personal combat and large-scale gear fights. The game’s innovative battle system allows for a variety of tactics and character development paths.

Conclusion

Xenogears is a seminal work in video game history, renowned for its ambitious integration of philosophical and psychological themes into the fabric of its storytelling. Its legacy endures as a testament to the potential of video games as a medium for exploring complex human stories.

Review Score

9/10

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Fan Art

Fan Art Style: Normal

Fan Art Style: Retro

Fan Art Style: Modern

Secret of Evermore (1995)

by Ji-yeong March 14, 2024

written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Secret of Evermore is an action RPG developed by Square in 1995. It follows a boy and his dog as they journey through various time periods to uncover the Secret of Evermore and find their way home. The game features real-time combat, an alchemy system, and a memorable soundtrack by Jeremy Soule.

Release Year: 1995
Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: Super Nintendo Entertainment System
Developers: Square
Publishers: Square

Introduction

Secret of Evermore is a unique and engaging RPG that stands out in the gaming landscape of the 1990s. Developed by Square’s North American team, it combines action, adventure, and storytelling in a memorable journey through time.

Synopsis

“Secret of Evermore” is a unique action role-playing game developed and published by Square for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. Released in North America on October 17, 1995, it stands out as the only game developed by Square designers in North America.

The game begins with a young boy and his pet dog inadvertently transported to the fantasy world of Evermore. This magical realm consists of separate realms, each resembling a different period of real-world history.

The first realm, “Prehistoria”, is a prehistoric jungle teeming with dinosaurs and primitive tribes. The boy’s dog, in this world, transforms into a ferocious prehistoric wolf-like creature. The duo must navigate through dense forests, cross treacherous rivers, and climb towering cliffs to progress.

Next, they find themselves in “Antiqua”, a realm reminiscent of ancient Roman and Egyptian civilizations. Here, the dog takes the form of a sleek, regal greyhound. They traverse through vast deserts, explore grand palaces, and delve into mysterious pyramids.

The third realm, “Gothica”, mirrors the Middle Ages. The dog, in this world, becomes a poodle, fitting perfectly into the aristocratic society. They journey through medieval towns, cross drawbridges of imposing castles, and navigate through dark, labyrinthine dungeons.

Finally, they arrive in “Omnitopia”, an imaginative future world. In this high-tech realm, the dog transforms into a robot. They traverse through futuristic cities, navigate complex laboratories, and even venture into outer space.

Throughout their journey, the boy and his dog face numerous hostile creatures. The player can control either the boy or the dog, with the other being controlled by the game’s artificial intelligence. Combat takes place in real-time, and the characters can increase in level with improved stats such as strength and evasion upon collecting enough experience points in battle.

The game shares many similarities with Secret of Mana, such as real-time battles, a ring-shaped menu system, and the ability to switch control between the two characters. Despite similar game mechanics and a similar title, it is not an entry in the Mana series.

“Secret of Evermore” received positive reviews upon its release for its graphics and gameplay but was criticized for not being up to the expectations many reviewers had based upon the developer’s previous Japanese role-playing games. The game’s North American development, Mana-like game mechanics, and ambient music have since helped it to develop a cult following.

“Secret of Evermore” is a captivating journey through time and space, filled with adventure, danger, and discovery. It’s a testament to the creativity and innovation of its North American developers, offering a unique twist on the action role-playing genre.

Characters

The main characters are the Boy, a resourceful and adventurous youth, and his shape-shifting dog, who can transform into different forms depending on the era they are in. Along the way, they encounter various characters, including the eccentric inventor Professor Ruffleberg, the gladiator-slave leader Horace, and the queen of Nobilia, Pompolonius.

Gameplay

Secret of Evermore features real-time combat, where players control the boy and his dog, each with unique abilities. The game incorporates an alchemy system for creating spells and items, and players must gather ingredients scattered throughout the world. Exploration and puzzle-solving are key components of the gameplay.

Conclusion

Secret of Evermore remains a memorable title in the RPG genre, offering a blend of action, adventure, and storytelling. Its unique setting, engaging gameplay, and captivating soundtrack make it a game worth revisiting for fans of retro gaming.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots