Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean

"Tales of Sypmhonia is the best RPG on the Cube? Please."

Introduction

Ah, Baten Kaitos, a hidden gem. Released in 2004 (US), it was received poorly by the public. Those lucky enough to buy it, either fell in love with it instantly, or hated it. The game mechanics are not those of the "traditional" RPG, and it is overshadowed by the better selling Tales of Symphonia. This may be because the game is centered around cards, as well as being turn-based. However, just because this is not the most popular genre, it does not mean that the game can't be good. As with everything, it is simply a matter of opinion. You play as the "Guardian Spirit" of Kalas, and once in awhile he asks for your opinion, but it doesn't really count for much throughout the game.

Story

Baten Kaitos's story is somewhat like many other RPG's, but also has twists and turns that make it very different. You start off in a village, just after being attacked by monsters. You are Kalas, a young adventurer, who cares about nothing and no one but himself. At first, the game progresses slowly, and it may be hard to figure out what is going on. Soon, you meet a girl named Xelha, and find out that she has connections to someone in the "evil empire". Kalas doesn't really care, until he finds out that the murderer of his brother and grandfather may also have connections with the empire. Reluctantly, Kalas joins Xelha on her journey.

As said, the game progresses slowly, but once it gets going, you don't want to put this game down. Unable to find the murderer, he continues going with Xelha, and along the way 4 more characters join you. Each one has a well-developed personality, and no two are really alike. As the story goes on, you discover that someone is trying to revive an ancient god of destruction. The empire seems to be the obvious force behind this, but as said, there are many twists and turns, one in particular that will leave you with your jaw hanging.

Graphics

The graphics are absolutely breath-taking; there is no other way to explain it. Throughout the game, you explore many different types of terrain, and in each separate place, you feel as though you are really there. The characters also look fantastic. Each character is well-drawn, and I have yet to see any character or environment on the Cube that looks as amazing as these do. Grass moves, trees sway in the wind, water flows, and clouds float. All of it is amazingly well done. The monsters also look fantastic, and each one will stick in your mind, as will the environments. As well, the game takes place in the sky on floating islands, and you almost wish that this is how life really was.

Characters

Throughout the game, there are 6 characters that will be playable, and each with unique cards they use in battle. Also, each character comes from a different island in the game, and as people in our world have different personalities and beliefs than those from other countries, so do the characters. For example, one character will do anything for his friends first, whereas another will do what is right for his country first. All of the characters have well developed personalities, and almost everyone can relate with one or another.

Gameplay:

THE. BATTLE. SYSTEM. One of the number one reasons people love this game. Although it is turn/card-based, many people will love it even if they are against those systems. Each card has up to four different numbers on each corner, numbered 1-9. These numbers are used to create combos, straights and pairs, to increase damage done to an enemy. The more pairs you get, or the bigger the straight, the more extra damage you cause. It becomes very addicting and is very fun to try and get a high-scoring combo.

Unlike traditional leveling, Baten Kaitos uses a system involving churches. You gain experience in battle, but do not have to apply it if you do not want. Whenever you feel the need, you go to a church, and level up as much as you feel you need too. This allows players to make the game harder by limiting their levels.

Sidequests are few and far between, but the few that there are take a long time. Basically, you search around all the islands for certain items to give to certain people. It is actually a lot more fun than it sounds, as it sometimes takes forever to find that certain item.

Sound

The music is utterly amazing. This, along with the battle system, is the number one reason people love this game. Each track is well used, and you will find yourself turning the game on solely for the music. Fast-paced battle music is present in boss battles, and in sad scenes a softer, melodic music is there. This is why I play this game.

However, many people hate the voice acting. The opening scene when you turn the game on has AMAZING voice acting, but the actors used there were not used for the rest of the game, sadly. Though, you are able to turn voices off in game, so this is all I will say about that.

Final words

10/10. I haven't played an RPG on the Cube as good as Baten Kaitos, and doubt I will. This isn't a game for everyone, but I do believe everyone should at least give it a chance. If you like RPG's that are a bit different than the norm, give Baten Kaitos a try. Thank you. =)

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 04/28/08

Game Release: Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean (US, 11/16/04)