LandStalker

"What if there was no such thing as Zelda...?"

Let me start this review with a little clarification. Reviewers on GameFaqs seem to love extremes. Games usually seem to consists of 9's or 10's, or alternatively, 2's or 3's. My interpretation of this is that there is little objectivity in the reviewing process. Reviewers must be able to disentangle themselves from their personal preferences and dislikes. I suggest the following outline to help in the reviewing process:

10-absolutely amazing. No, or little flaws. This game will go down in history, not because it sold a lot but because it truly is a great game. This, however is not all that a ''10'' game must have. One of the following two factors must be applicable: a) it sets a new trend in gaming and will forever be used as a standard by which all other games will be judged, or b) the game is a technical masterpiece that will set a trend that other games will try to emulate or follow.

7-very good game. A 7 is a great great grade, but is not the best. These types of games belong to the people who enjoy them the most. Though there may be technical flaws or problems, a 7 game is still fun and may be a worthy choice for your hard earned money.

5-simply average. This game is by not means either good or bad. It simply is a game that you play and may get some marginal enjoyment out of. These types of games are idea for renting.

1-Poor. This type of game is so poorly made that it sets a new standard in terrible. This game should be avoided at all costs. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY should even consider such a game.

With that out of the way, Landstalker is a 9. It follows the classic adventure/RPG formula nicely and takes its own liberties which ultimately add to the experience. Like Zelda, it cuts its own classical rank among Genesis games and, like Zelda, will be looked upon fondly by the fortunate few who are able to find and play this gem of a game.

Graphics--9
For a Genesis game, and even compared to some of the next generation games, Landstalker has some good looking graphics. The isometric view is so amazing, its a wonder that it is not used more frequently in other games. It gives just the right amount of depth. Its not overly cumbersome like the 3-d view of some next generation games because a play never has to fiddle with camera controls. Also, it offers some juicy challenge and allows for hidden goodies to be cleverly placed. Although this view does add to the challenge, especially on platforming areas where jumping and moving is crucial, overall, it work, and works well.

As to the other visual attributes, Landstalker is both highly detailed and fun looking. The cartoony graphics fit the game nicely and the varied textures and level design works nicely to give a great sense of worldliness.

Gameplay--9
Landstalker is fun and exciting. The action gets intense at times and the puzzles really tax the mind. This, along with some pretty challenging platforming areas, results in an amazing, unforgettable adventure. I still remember fondly many of the areas and bosses I fought and the treasure I found. It was quite an experience.

Though the fighting is simplistic, it gets intense. Enemies can swarm around you in some really nasty places and you will find yourself relying on your little fairy friend more than you though you would. I also liked the variety of enemies. Knights, lizards, ghosts, and bubbles, these and more will try to spell out your doom. Actual skill is needed to dispatch all of these bad guys.

The only little gripe I have with the game is that it doesn't last as long as I would have liked. The game can be breezed through in a matter of hours. Though there are a few side quests and little secrets scattered about, they do not offer much more to the overall adventure. The adventure, however, is so good, you definitely will have a great time with the limited time there is.

Sound--7
The sound effects were ok, but a little annoying. The music was upbeat and nice, but I don't remember much variation.

Story--8
The story is very good and very original. There are some funny points and a few plot twists. I'd say that Landstalker's story beats any final fantasy game's story any day.

Value--10
This is such a rare gem, that simply owning it is a challenge in itself. If you can find the original, display it with pride. That, my friends, is the ultimate challenge.

Replay--2
This is probably the biggest problem I had with this game. The only reason to replay it is to experience the world of Landstalker all over again. That's all. You will definitely find nothing new. You won't waste your time, however, because no matter how many time one goes through this game, he or she will certainly love it.

Sorry I couldn't flesh out the details. Finals are coming! Simply put, if there was no Nintendo Zelda, this would be the adventure RPG we would all know and love. Whether its through emulation or the real thing, play this game!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 11/03/02, Updated 11/03/02