Wild Arms

"Yay for Wild ARMs!"

Wild ARMs - A very good and well done RPG that was lost in the hype of Final Fantasy VII. That is probably the main reason it didn't become much of a popular game. However, most PSX gamers out there have probably played it but were not really impressed, which is really sad because it had possibilities.
The main idea of the story is that the Metal Demons have raged war over a 1000 years ago on the planet of Filgaia. Thanks to The Guardians and an alien race called The Elws, humans won the war, but Filgaia is slowly dying. It seems that history does in fact repeat itself because the Metal Demons have started to attack Filgaia once more. Unknowingly, three humans possess the power to counter the onslaught of bloodshed. They are: Rudy, a 15 year old boy who can syncronize with the legendary ARM (Ancient Relic Machine) and was banished from his hometown. Jack, treasure hunter, who's past is a blur of pain. Along with his wind mouse Hanpan, Jack seeks the ultimate power. And Cecilia, the young magic weilding princess of Adlehyde. Chosen as The Innocent One by the Guardians, sh must fulfill her destiny as the protector of Filgaia.
Now onto the scores, shall we?

Graphics- 7/10

Many people may complain about the graphics of this game because of the blockiness of the battles and the pixelated overworld screens. But, hey, you have to keep in mind that Wild ARMs came out BEFORE Final Fantasy VII. It's also one of the first RPGs that has a 3D Battle system. The overhead graphics are a different thing though. They kinda look like Lufia II sprites, which I think look very cool. The battles are not extemely graphical but they serve their purpose.

Music/sound- 9/10

I love the music in this game!!! It gives you a real sense of where you are. Despite this, some of the songs can get very agitating (Such as the 30 second battle music). But other songs can really sound awesome, like the whistling tune at the animé sequence. All in all, it gives you a western feel to the game which I personally like.

Story- 8/10

The story is really well done but not the most innovative theme in the world. With some interesting twists, it sure won't bore you. You start with the choice of the 3 characters where you must complete a scenario with each and then unite them into one party. It starts out a bit slow but picks up pretty soon.

Play Control- 10/10

Unlike some RPGs, the controls don't seem to get sticky inside of a battle. Outside of battle, the response is very good. Of course, all your doing is walking around and selecting options so it really doesn't matter.

Replay Value- 9/10

You can play this game over and over again and not get bored of it at all. It doesn't have too many repetitive things in it, except for some dungeons. So play on!


Overall, Wild ARMs is a very good game and is sure too satisfy you. So do yourself a favor and spend the measly $15 to buy it, You'll thank me! Also, look for Wild ARMs 2nd Ignition for Playstation

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 08/27/00, Updated 08/27/00