Live A Live (1994)

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

Summary

Live A Live (1994): A Timeless JRPG Masterpiece

Released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Live A Live is a unique and captivating JRPG that offers a groundbreaking storytelling experience. Unlike traditional RPGs with a single linear narrative, Live A Live’s story is split across seven seemingly unrelated chapters that can be played in any order. Each chapter has its own plot, setting, and characters, and although the basic gameplay is the same throughout the game, each chapter adds a new factor to the basic formula, such as the stealth elements in the ninja chapter.

The seven chapters of Live A Live are:

  • Prehistory: Set in prehistoric times, this chapter follows a caveman named Pogo as he hunts for food and fights off predators.
  • Imperial China: This chapter takes place in ancient China and follows a martial artist named Lei Kugo as he seeks revenge for the death of his master.
  • Twilight of Edo Japan: Set in feudal Japan, this chapter follows a ninja named Oboromaru as he infiltrates a castle to rescue a kidnapped princess.
  • The Wild West: This chapter is set in the American Old West and follows a gunslinger named Mad Dog as he seeks vengeance for the murder of his family.
  • Present Day: This chapter takes place in modern-day Japan and follows a high school student named Akira Tadokoro as he investigates a series of mysterious disappearances.
  • Near Future: Set in a dystopian future, this chapter follows a cyborg named Cube as he fights against an oppressive government.
  • Middle Ages: This chapter takes place in medieval Europe and follows a knight named Rudolph as he sets out to rescue a princess from a dragon.

After the first seven chapters are completed, two final chapters take place to establish the connection between the seven previous chapters and resolve the story. These final chapters reveal that all of the previous chapters are connected by a single event: the fall of a meteor that grants special powers to those who come into contact with it.

Live A Live’s gameplay is a mix of traditional JRPG elements and unique new features. The basic gameplay is similar to other SNES RPGs, with turn-based combat and exploration of towns and dungeons. However, each chapter adds its own unique twist to the gameplay. For example, the stealth elements in the ninja chapter require players to avoid being detected by enemies, while the futuristic chapter features fast-paced mech battles.

Live A Live’s graphics are impressive for a SNES game, with detailed character sprites and backgrounds. The soundtrack is also excellent, with a mix of traditional Japanese and Western-style music.

Overall, Live A Live is a masterpiece of JRPG storytelling and gameplay. Its unique chapter-based structure, diverse cast of characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics make it a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Critical Reception

Live A Live was critically acclaimed upon release, with reviewers praising its innovative storytelling, diverse gameplay, and excellent graphics and music. The game received perfect scores from several major gaming publications, including Famitsu and IGN. Live A Live has also been included on several lists of the best SNES games of all time.

Legacy

Live A Live has had a lasting impact on the JRPG genre. Its unique chapter-based structure has been imitated by several other games, including Chrono Cross and Octopath Traveler. The game’s diverse cast of characters and innovative gameplay mechanics have also been praised by critics and fans alike.

Live A Live was re-released on the Nintendo Switch in 2022, introducing the game to a new generation of gamers. The re-release was met with critical acclaim, with reviewers praising the game’s timeless gameplay and story.

Conclusion

Live A Live is a true classic of the JRPG genre. Its innovative storytelling, diverse gameplay, and excellent graphics and music make it a must-play for any fan of the genre. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the game or a newcomer to the series, Live A Live is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Ji-yeong is a passionate gamer and whose love for video games blossomed during her childhood. Growing up in the midwest, without many friends, she spent countless hours exploring the enchanting worlds of classic JRPGs like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger, which sparked not only an enduring love for gaming but also a keen insight into its evolving landscape. Today, Ji-yeong channels her deep-seated passion and nostalgia into thoughtful, engaging reviews that resonate with both longtime gamers and newcomers alike. Her unique perspective, rooted in a rich history of gaming, offers readers a heartfelt journey through the pixels and stories that have shaped her love for this dynamic medium. Her favorite game series of all time is Harvest Moon.

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