Publisher: Square

SaGa Frontier (1997)

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

Summary

SaGa Frontier: A Timeless JRPG Gem with Endless Replayability

Released in 1997 for the PlayStation, SaGa Frontier is a captivating Japanese role-playing game (JRPG) that has garnered a cult following over the years. Developed by Square (now Square Enix), the game stands out for its unique gameplay mechanics, multiple protagonists, and branching storylines that offer immense replayability.

Embark on Seven Epic Quests

At the heart of SaGa Frontier lies an intriguing narrative structure that revolves around seven distinct protagonists, each with their own motivations and goals. Players can choose to embark on any of these quests in any order, creating a highly personalized and immersive gaming experience.

  • Fuse: A young man searching for his missing sister while grappling with a mysterious power within him.
  • Asellus: A cold and aloof but skilled bounty hunter seeking revenge for her father’s murder.
  • Emelia: A kind-hearted healer who dreams of a world without war and suffering.
  • Red: A powerful robot searching for his purpose and identity in a world that fears and distrusts him.
  • Blue: A skilled swordsman who seeks to avenge his fallen comrades and restore honor to his family name.
  • Riki: A young martial artist training to become a legendary fighter like his father.
  • T260G: A mysterious android who has lost his memories and seeks to uncover his past.

As players progress through each quest, they will encounter a diverse cast of characters, engage in thrilling battles, and make choices that shape the narrative. The game’s branching storyline system ensures that no two playthroughs are exactly the same, adding to its immense replayability.

Innovative Gameplay Mechanics

SaGa Frontier introduces several innovative gameplay mechanics that set it apart from other JRPGs of its era. The “Glimmer” system allows characters to learn new abilities by witnessing specific actions in battle, adding an element of strategy and observation to character development.

The “Free Scenario” system grants players the freedom to explore the game world and progress through quests at their own pace. Unlike traditional JRPGs with linear storylines, SaGa Frontier encourages players to experiment and discover hidden areas and secrets.

Stunning Visuals and Memorable Soundtrack

SaGa Frontier boasts stunning pixel art visuals that bring the vibrant world and its inhabitants to life. The game’s character designs are particularly impressive, with each protagonist and NPC featuring unique and memorable appearances.

The soundtrack, composed by Masashi Hamauzu and Kenji Ito, is a masterpiece of JRPG music. The haunting melodies and epic battle themes perfectly complement the game’s atmosphere and enhance the overall gaming experience.

A Timeless Classic

Over two decades since its initial release, SaGa Frontier remains a beloved classic among JRPG enthusiasts. Its unique gameplay mechanics, branching storylines, and memorable characters have ensured its enduring legacy. The game’s timeless appeal lies in its ability to offer a fresh and engaging experience with each playthrough, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Conclusion

SaGa Frontier is a true gem in the annals of JRPG history. Its innovative gameplay, captivating narrative, and stunning visuals make it a game that continues to be enjoyed and appreciated by gamers worldwide. Whether you’re a seasoned JRPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, SaGa Frontier is an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Final Fantasy VI (1994)

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

Summary

Final Fantasy VI: A Timeless Masterpiece of Storytelling and Innovation

Released in 1994, Final Fantasy VI stands as a shining beacon in the annals of video game history. Developed and published by Square (now Square Enix), it was the sixth mainline installment in the Final Fantasy series, and the final title to feature two-dimensional graphics. Final Fantasy VI broke away from the series’ traditional focus on crystals, introducing a mature and complex narrative that captivated players worldwide.

A Cast of Unforgettable Characters

One of the defining features of Final Fantasy VI is its sprawling cast of playable characters. With up to fourteen characters joining the party at various points in the story, it boasts the largest roster in the series. Each character possesses a unique backstory, motivations, and abilities, making them all feel distinct and memorable.

The protagonist, Terra Branford, is a young woman with amnesia who discovers she possesses magical powers. Locke Cole is a charismatic thief with a troubled past. Edgar Figaro is the prince of a fallen kingdom, struggling to find his place in a world torn by war. These are just a few of the many unforgettable characters that populate Final Fantasy VI’s rich and diverse world.

An Epic Story of War, Loss, and Redemption

Final Fantasy VI’s story is a complex and emotionally resonant tale that explores themes of war, loss, and redemption. The game begins with the world under the oppressive rule of the Gestahlian Empire, led by the tyrannical Emperor Gestahl. A group of rebels, known as the Returners, emerges to challenge the empire’s reign, and the player’s party becomes embroiled in their struggle.

As the story unfolds, the characters grapple with personal tragedies, moral dilemmas, and the devastating consequences of war. The game’s narrative is both epic in scope and deeply intimate, exploring the human condition in all its complexity. Final Fantasy VI is widely regarded as one of the greatest video game stories ever told, and its impact continues to be felt today.

Innovative Gameplay and Combat System

In addition to its compelling story and characters, Final Fantasy VI also introduced several innovative gameplay mechanics that would go on to become staples of the series. The game’s Active Time Battle (ATB) system replaced the traditional turn-based combat of previous Final Fantasy titles, adding a real-time element to the battles.

Each character in Final Fantasy VI has a unique set of abilities known as “command abilities.” These abilities, such as Terra’s Trance, Locke’s Steal, and Edgar’s Tools, provide a wide range of options in combat, allowing players to customize their strategies and adapt to different situations.

The game also features a deep and rewarding magic system. Characters can learn spells by equipping magicite, which are crystals that contain the essence of powerful creatures. As characters gain experience, they can level up their magicite, making their spells more powerful and unlocking new abilities.

A Timeless Masterpiece

Nearly three decades after its initial release, Final Fantasy VI remains a beloved and influential masterpiece. Its captivating story, unforgettable characters, and innovative gameplay have left an enduring mark on the video game industry. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, Final Fantasy VI is an essential experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Legacy and Impact

Final Fantasy VI’s legacy extends far beyond its initial release. The game’s story, characters, and gameplay have been cited as major influences on countless other JRPGs, including Chrono Trigger, Xenogears, and Bravely Default. Its soundtrack, composed by Nobuo Uematsu, is considered one of the greatest video game soundtracks of all time.

In recent years, Final Fantasy VI has been re-released on multiple platforms, including mobile devices, consoles, and PC. These re-releases have introduced the game to a new generation of players, ensuring that its legacy will continue to endure for years to come.

Conclusion

Final Fantasy VI is a timeless masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of video games. Its epic story, unforgettable characters, and innovative gameplay have captivated players for generations. Whether you’re a seasoned RPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Final Fantasy VI is an essential experience that will leave an enduring mark on your gaming journey.

Review Score

9/10

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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

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The Final Fantasy Legend (1989)

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

Summary

The Final Fantasy Legend (1989): A Timeless Classic RPG

Released in 1989, The Final Fantasy Legend is a groundbreaking role-playing game (RPG) for the original Game Boy. Developed and published by Square (now Square Enix), it is the first installment in the SaGa series, a sub-series of the popular Final Fantasy franchise. Despite its humble 8-bit graphics and limited hardware, The Final Fantasy Legend offers a deep and engaging RPG experience that has captivated gamers for decades.

A Unique and Customizable Party System

One of the defining features of The Final Fantasy Legend is its unique party system. Players begin by creating a party of four warriors, each from a different character class. There are eight character classes to choose from, including humans, mutants, and monsters.

  • Humans are well-rounded fighters who specialize in hand-to-hand combat. They have access to a wide range of weapons and abilities, making them a versatile choice for any party.
  • Mutants are powerful spellcasters who can wield a variety of magic spells. They are weaker in physical combat, but their magical abilities can turn the tide of battle.
  • Monsters are unique creatures who can evolve themselves by feasting on the meat of fallen opponents. They start off weak, but can become powerful monsters with unique abilities as they evolve.

Each character class has its own strengths and weaknesses, so players must carefully consider their party composition when embarking on their adventure.

A Diverse Fantasy World to Explore

The Final Fantasy Legend takes place in a diverse fantasy world divided into four distinct lands: the Land of Fire, the Land of Water, the Land of Wind, and the Land of Shadow. Each land has its own unique environment, enemies, and dungeons to explore.

As players progress through the game, they will encounter a variety of challenges, including treacherous dungeons, powerful monsters, and cunning puzzles. Along the way, they will also meet a cast of memorable characters who will aid them on their quest.

A Classic RPG Experience

At its core, The Final Fantasy Legend is a classic RPG experience. Players will spend their time exploring the world, fighting monsters, and completing quests. The game features a turn-based battle system that is both challenging and rewarding.

In addition to the main storyline, The Final Fantasy Legend also features a number of side quests and optional dungeons. These side quests offer players the opportunity to earn experience, items, and money, and they can also help to flesh out the game’s world and characters.

A Timeless Classic

Over three decades after its initial release, The Final Fantasy Legend remains a beloved classic among RPG fans. Its unique party system, diverse world, and challenging gameplay have stood the test of time. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the SaGa series or a newcomer to the genre, The Final Fantasy Legend is an essential RPG experience that you won’t want to miss.

Tips for Playing The Final Fantasy Legend

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your journey through The Final Fantasy Legend:

  • Experiment with different party compositions. There is no one “best” party composition in The Final Fantasy Legend, so experiment with different combinations of classes to find what works best for you.
  • Don’t be afraid to grind. Grinding is essential in The Final Fantasy Legend, especially if you want to face the game’s toughest challenges. Take some time to grind your characters up to a high level before attempting the more difficult dungeons.
  • Use your magic wisely. Magic is very powerful in The Final Fantasy Legend, but it can also be expensive to use. Make sure to use your magic wisely, and only cast spells when you really need them.
  • Explore every nook and cranny. The Final Fantasy Legend is full of hidden secrets and treasures. Take your time to explore every nook and cranny, and you may be surprised by what you find.
  • Don’t give up! The Final Fantasy Legend can be a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. If you stick with it, you will eventually overcome its challenges and experience one of the best RPGs ever made.

Conclusion

The Final Fantasy Legend is a timeless classic RPG that offers a deep and engaging experience for gamers of all ages. With its unique party system, diverse world, and challenging gameplay, The Final Fantasy Legend is a must-play for any fan of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Unlimited SaGa (2002)

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

Summary

Unlimited SaGa: A Non-Linear RPG with Endless Possibilities

Released in 2002, Unlimited SaGa is a non-linear RPG that gives players the freedom to explore the world and progress the story at their own pace. With eight different characters to choose from, each with their own unique abilities and skills, Unlimited SaGa offers a truly unique and replayable experience.

Story

The story of Unlimited SaGa centers around Laura, a 30-year-old widow and an ex-pirate. Laura is on a quest to find her missing brother, and along the way she meets a variety of other characters who join her cause. Each character has their own unique motivations and backstory, and the player can choose to follow any of their stories.

The story of Unlimited SaGa is non-linear, meaning that the player can choose to explore the world and progress the story in any order they want. There are multiple endings to the game, depending on the choices the player makes.

Gameplay

Unlimited SaGa’s gameplay is a mix of classic board RPG elements and more modern RPG mechanics. The game is played on a grid-based map, and players can move their characters around the map to explore the world and interact with NPCs.

Combat in Unlimited SaGa is turn-based, and players must use a variety of strategies to defeat their enemies. Each character has their own unique abilities and skills, and players must learn how to use them effectively in order to succeed.

One of the unique features of Unlimited SaGa is the REEL system. The REEL system is a slot machine-like minigame that players must use to perform actions in the game. Everything from disarming traps to hitting the enemy successfully in a battle depends on the REEL system.

The REEL system adds an element of chance to the game, but it also gives players a lot of control over their actions. By learning how to time the REEL system correctly, players can increase their chances of success.

Characters

There are eight different characters to choose from in Unlimited SaGa. Each character has their own unique abilities and skills, and players can choose to play as any of them.

The eight characters in Unlimited SaGa are:

  • Laura: A 30-year-old widow and an ex-pirate. Laura is on a quest to find her missing brother.
  • Rufus: A young man who is training to become a knight. Rufus is a skilled swordsman and has a strong sense of justice.
  • Albert: A doctor who is traveling the world in search of a cure for a deadly disease. Albert is a kind and compassionate man who is always willing to help others.
  • Princess Riki: A princess who is on a quest to find a way to save her kingdom. Riki is a skilled archer and has a strong will.
  • Monica: A thief who is looking for a way to make a quick buck. Monica is a cunning and resourceful woman who is always looking for an angle.
  • Aisha: A young woman who is on a quest to find her missing father. Aisha is a skilled mage and has a strong connection to the spirits.
  • Emelia: A nun who is on a quest to find a way to stop a war. Emelia is a devout woman who is always willing to help others.
  • Quark: A young man who is on a quest to find a way to become stronger. Quark is a skilled martial artist and has a strong sense of honor.

Exploration

Unlimited SaGa features a large and expansive world to explore. Players can travel to a variety of different locations, including towns, dungeons, and forests. Each location has its own unique enemies and challenges.

Players can explore the world of Unlimited SaGa in a non-linear fashion. They can choose to follow the main story, or they can explore the world at their own pace. There are many optional areas to discover, and players can find new items and equipment by exploring.

Puzzles

Unlimited SaGa features a variety of puzzles that players must solve in order to progress. Some puzzles are simple, while others are more complex. Players must use their wits and problem-solving skills to solve the puzzles.

Some puzzles in Unlimited SaGa have multiple solutions. Players can often use a character’s special skill to solve a puzzle in a different way. For example, a character with a Swim skill can cross a river and reach the next area of the game, while a character without a Swim skill must find another way to cross the river.

Conclusion

Unlimited SaGa is a classic non-linear RPG that offers players a truly unique and replayable experience. With eight different characters to choose from, each with their own unique abilities and skills, and a large and expansive world to explore, Unlimited SaGa is a game that will keep players entertained for hours on end.

Review Score

8/10

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Parasite Eve (1998)

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

Summary

Parasite Eve (1998): A Classic Survival Horror RPG

Released in 1998 for the Sony PlayStation, Parasite Eve is a groundbreaking survival horror role-playing game (RPG) that captivated gamers with its unique blend of horror, science fiction, and RPG elements. Developed and published by SquareSoft (now Square Enix), the game follows the story of Aya Brea, a rookie NYPD officer who becomes embroiled in a series of bizarre and deadly events related to a genetic mutation known as mitochondria.

Story and Setting

Parasite Eve is set in a near-future New York City, where a mysterious mitochondrial mutation has begun to transform people into grotesque monsters. Aya Brea, a rookie NYPD officer, is one of the few survivors of an initial outbreak at Carnegie Hall. As she investigates the incident, she discovers that the mutation is spreading rapidly and that she may be the key to stopping it.

The game’s story is a complex and engrossing blend of horror, science fiction, and mystery. It explores themes of identity, destiny, and the nature of good and evil. The game’s setting is both familiar and unsettling, with recognizable New York City landmarks juxtaposed against the horrors of the mitochondrial outbreak.

Gameplay

Parasite Eve combines real-time battles, exploration, puzzle-solving, and character development in a seamless and engaging gameplay experience. Players control Aya Brea from a third-person perspective as she explores the game’s environments, interacts with other characters, and fights off hordes of monsters.

The game’s battle system is unique and innovative. Battles take place in real-time, with Aya able to move around the battlefield and target enemies with a variety of weapons and spells. The game also features a “Parasite Energy” (PE) system, which allows Aya to use special abilities and attacks by absorbing the PE of defeated enemies.

In addition to combat, Parasite Eve also features a variety of exploration and puzzle-solving elements. Aya must use her wits and resources to navigate through the game’s environments, solve puzzles, and uncover the secrets of the mitochondrial outbreak.

Characters

Aya Brea is a complex and well-developed protagonist. She is a strong and capable police officer, but she is also vulnerable and haunted by her past. As the game progresses, Aya must confront her own inner demons and come to terms with her destiny.

The supporting cast of characters in Parasite Eve is also well-written and memorable. Melissa Pearce is a brilliant scientist who is determined to find a cure for the mitochondrial outbreak. Daniel Dollis is a mysterious and enigmatic figure who seems to know more about the outbreak than he lets on.

Graphics and Sound

Parasite Eve’s graphics were cutting-edge for its time. The game’s character models and environments are detailed and realistic, and the game’s use of lighting and shadow creates a truly immersive and atmospheric experience.

The game’s sound design is also top-notch. The music is eerie and unsettling, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive. The game’s voice acting is also excellent, with the voice actors delivering nuanced and believable performances.

Critical Reception and Legacy

Parasite Eve was critically acclaimed upon its release in 1998. The game received praise for its innovative gameplay, gripping story, and well-developed characters. Parasite Eve was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

The game has since become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the best survival horror RPGs ever made. Parasite Eve has spawned a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Parasite Eve II (1999), The 3rd Birthday (2010), and Parasite Eve: The Lost Files (2018).

Conclusion

Parasite Eve (1998) is a masterpiece of survival horror that combines thrilling battles, eerie exploration, and a gripping story. The game’s unique blend of horror, science fiction, and RPG elements has made it a classic of the genre. Parasite Eve is a must-play for fans of survival horror and RPGs alike.

Review Score

9/10

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Final Fantasy V (1992)

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

Summary

Final Fantasy V (1992): A Timeless Classic JRPG

Released in 1992 for the Super Famicom (known internationally as the Super Nintendo Entertainment System), Final Fantasy V is a beloved entry in the long-running Final Fantasy series. Developed and published by Square (now Square Enix), the game has been praised for its innovative Job System, memorable characters, and epic story.

Story

Final Fantasy V tells the tale of four young heroes who are chosen by the Wind Crystal to save the world from an evil sorcerer named Exdeath. The heroes must travel across the world, collecting the other Crystals and defeating Exdeath’s minions. Along the way, they will learn about the power of friendship, courage, and sacrifice.

Gameplay

Final Fantasy V is a turn-based JRPG with a unique Job System. This system allows players to customize their characters by choosing from a variety of different jobs, each with its own unique abilities and stats. Players can freely change their characters’ jobs at any time, allowing for a great deal of strategic flexibility.

In addition to the Job System, Final Fantasy V also features a wide variety of other gameplay elements, including:

  • A deep and engaging story with a cast of memorable characters
  • A challenging and rewarding combat system
  • A variety of side quests and minigames
  • A beautiful and detailed world to explore

Characters

The four main characters of Final Fantasy V are:

  • Bartz Klauser: A young adventurer who is chosen by the Wind Crystal to be a Warrior of Light.
  • Lenna Charlotte Tycoon: A princess who is chosen by the Water Crystal to be a White Mage.
  • Galuf Halm Baldesion: A veteran warrior who is chosen by the Fire Crystal to be a Monk.
  • Faris Scherwiz: A pirate captain who is chosen by the Earth Crystal to be a Thief.

Setting

Final Fantasy V is set in the world of Blue Planet, which is home to four different Crystals: Wind, Water, Fire, and Earth. The Crystals are the source of all life on Blue Planet, and they must be protected from the evil sorcerer Exdeath.

Development

Final Fantasy V was developed by a team led by Hironobu Sakaguchi, who had previously directed the first four Final Fantasy games. The game was designed to be a more ambitious and innovative entry in the series, and it introduced a number of new features, including the Job System.

Release and Reception

Final Fantasy V was released in Japan on December 6, 1992. The game was a critical and commercial success, selling over two million copies in Japan alone. It was later ported to the PlayStation and Game Boy Advance, and it was released on the PlayStation Network in 2011. An enhanced port of the game, with new high-resolution graphics and a touch-based interface, was released for iOS and Android in 2013.

Final Fantasy V has been praised for its innovative gameplay, memorable characters, and epic story. It is considered to be one of the best JRPGs of all time, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.

Legacy

Final Fantasy V has had a significant impact on the JRPG genre. Its Job System has been imitated by many other games, and its story and characters have inspired countless others. The game has also been referenced in numerous other works of popular culture, including anime, manga, and video games.

Conclusion

Final Fantasy V is a timeless classic JRPG that still holds up today. With its innovative gameplay, memorable characters, and epic story, it is a must-play for fans of the genre. If you have never played Final Fantasy V, I highly recommend checking it out. You won’t be disappointed.

Review Score

9.5/10

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Rudra no Hihou (1996)

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

Summary

Rudra no Hihou: A Timeless SNES Classic

Released in 1996 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Rudra no Hihou is a captivating role-playing game that transports players to a fantasy world steeped in Indian folklore. With its intricate storyline, innovative magic system, and challenging gameplay, Rudra no Hihou has earned a place among the most beloved JRPGs of all time.

A World on the Brink of Destruction

The game unfolds in an ancient realm known as Gandhara, where humanity teeters on the brink of extinction. A malevolent force known as the Rudra has cast a shadow over the land, threatening to plunge it into eternal darkness. As the chosen hero, players embark on a perilous quest to break the cycle of destruction and save mankind.

Four Interwoven Tales

Rudra no Hihou features four distinct scenarios, each with its own unique protagonist and storyline. Players can choose to follow the path of Rudra, a brave warrior seeking to avenge his fallen comrades; Shakti, a skilled archer on a quest for redemption; Chandra, a wise sage searching for enlightenment; or Agni, a powerful sorcerer seeking to control the forces of chaos.

As the story progresses, the paths of these four heroes intertwine, revealing a complex web of relationships and motivations. Players will encounter a diverse cast of characters, from loyal companions to treacherous villains, as they unravel the secrets of Gandhara and confront the ultimate evil that threatens to consume it.

A Magical Tapestry

One of the defining features of Rudra no Hihou is its innovative magic system, known as the “Mantra System.” Unlike traditional RPGs where players are ограничен a fixed set of spells, the Mantra System grants players the freedom to create their own unique spells by combining different elements and attributes.

This system opens up a world of possibilities, allowing players to tailor their magic to suit their preferred playstyle. Whether they prefer devastating fireballs, healing potions, or protective barriers, the Mantra System empowers players to unleash their creativity and experiment with countless spell combinations.

Challenging and Rewarding Gameplay

Rudra no Hihou offers a challenging but rewarding gameplay experience. Players will traverse treacherous dungeons, engage in turn-based battles against formidable enemies, and solve puzzles to progress through the story. The game’s difficulty is well-balanced, providing a sense of accomplishment for overcoming each obstacle.

In addition to the main storyline, Rudra no Hihou features a variety of side quests and optional challenges. These side activities offer players the opportunity to earn valuable rewards, recruit new party members, and delve deeper into the lore of Gandhara.

A Timeless Masterpiece

Over two decades after its initial release, Rudra no Hihou continues to be celebrated as a timeless masterpiece. Its captivating storyline, innovative magic system, and challenging gameplay have left an enduring legacy in the world of JRPGs.

Whether you’re a seasoned RPG veteran or a newcomer to the genre, Rudra no Hihou is a must-play experience that will transport you to a world of wonder, adventure, and endless possibilities. So gather your party, prepare your mantras, and embark on an unforgettable journey in Rudra no Hihou!

Review Score

8.5/10

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Trials of Mana (1995)

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

Summary

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]

Links

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Parasite Eve II (1999)

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

Summary

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

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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