Summary
- Release Year: 1992
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: Super Famicom, Super Nintendo Entertainment System
- Developers: HAL Laboratory
- Publishers: HAL America Inc, HAL Laboratory
Arcana: A Hidden Gem of the Super Nintendo
Released in 1992 for the Super Nintendo, Arcana is a role-playing game (RPG) that tells the story of a young boy named Rooks. Rooks is the only one who can save the world from the evil Galneon, and he must use the power of cards to do it.
Gameplay
Arcana is a turn-based RPG with a unique card battle system. Players collect cards that represent different characters, monsters, and spells. These cards can be used to attack enemies, defend against attacks, or cast spells.
One of the unique features of Arcana is its elemental system. Each card has an elemental attribute, such as fire, water, or earth. Players can use this system to their advantage by matching the elements of their cards to the weaknesses of their enemies. For example, a fire card will do more damage to an enemy with a water weakness.
Rooks can also summon elementals to aid him in battle. Elementals are powerful creatures that can attack enemies, cast spells, or heal Rooks and his party members. However, Rooks can only summon one elemental at a time, and he must find them before being able to summon them.
Story
The story of Arcana begins in the peaceful village of Arcana. Rooks is a young boy who lives in the village with his grandfather. One day, the village is attacked by Galneon and his army of monsters. Rooks’ grandfather is killed in the attack, and Rooks is forced to flee the village.
Rooks travels the world, searching for a way to defeat Galneon and avenge his grandfather’s death. Along the way, he meets a variety of people who help him on his journey. He also learns more about the power of the cards and how to use them to defeat his enemies.
Characters
- Rooks: The protagonist of the game. Rooks is a young boy who must save the world from the evil Galneon. He is the only one who can use the power of the cards to defeat Galneon.
- Galneon: The main antagonist of the game. Galneon is a powerful sorcerer who wants to conquer the world. He is the leader of the army of monsters that attacked Arcana.
- Aria: A young woman who joins Rooks on his journey. Aria is a powerful sorceress who can use the power of the cards to heal and protect her allies.
- Golem: A giant stone creature that joins Rooks on his journey. Golem is a powerful warrior who can crush his enemies with his fists.
- Salamander: A fire elemental that joins Rooks on his journey. Salamander can attack enemies with fireballs and cast fire spells.
Reception
Arcana was released to critical acclaim. Critics praised the game’s unique card battle system, its engaging story, and its charming characters. The game was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.
Legacy
Arcana is considered to be one of the best RPGs of the Super Nintendo era. It is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it has inspired a number of other games, including the popular Card Hero series.
Conclusion
Arcana is a hidden gem of the Super Nintendo era. It is a well-crafted RPG with a unique card battle system, an engaging story, and charming characters. If you are a fan of RPGs, then you should definitely check out Arcana.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
