Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete

"A game any true RPG fan will love"

In describing the greatness of this game, phrases like outstandingly superior, marvelous, and even "Chronoesque" come to ming. Yes, as matter of fact, I would compare this to the greatest RPG of all time, Chrono Trigger. This is one of the best games I have ever played and I truly enjoyed it more than any other RPG experience I have ever had in the past. As soon as I purchased it and took the time to open the incredible display box I was amazed by the leather bound guide book, as well as the colorfully decorated discs.

Storyline 10/10

Don't let this game fool you right off. At first it seems to be just your ordinary generic little RPG, with a boy who wants to be an adventurer like his hero and his lifelong friend tagging along, who just happens to be a girl (gee, do ya think they'll fall in love?). But the further you get in to the game the more twisted the plot becomes and the more engrossed you'll become in the world of Lunar and the happenings of it's people. The character developement is incredible, largely thanks to the anime sequences. By the end you may even find yourself wanting to cry. It's one of those stories that just makes you feel good.

Graphics 9/10

The overall graphics of the game when you're walking around and in battles may be somewhat 2-dimensional and old style, but it is actually a lot better than many RPG's that try way too hard to get good graphics and end up screwing up the camera angles and the controls (did you ever notice how hard it was to navigate Tifa's house in FFVII? I always had trouble with that sudden control change.) Anything you may think the regular graphics lack will be made up to you in the anime sequences. WOW! These things are so incredible. The anime is great and clear, the digital work is almost undetectable the first time through, and the voices are very good (FYI:the guy who did the main character's voice went to high school with me.) Overall, very good graphics.

Sound/Music 10/10

When I first popped the game in and sat down to watch the opening scene, I must say that I was stunned by the song. Not only was that incredible, but a few hours in to the game the Boat Song absolutely astonished me. The background music is also very good. Music plays an important part in this game and in the storyline. When you first hear that La La La song make sure you get used to it, you're gonna hear it a dozen more times.

Controls 10/10

Menu commanded battles are my fave. Just had to say that to start. The battle has a great command menu. You can Defend and move, Attack an enemy, cast a Spell, use an Item, Run away, or just let the computer decide for you (AI). The best thing about the battle engine is that it is easy to learn, but at the same time leaves room for mastery as you become more experienced at fighting. Moving around on the screen during non-battle times is very easy and while linear, is not necessarily Up, Down, Right, or Left if you use an analog controller.

Replay Value 9/10

Why replay an RPG? It's still the same story right? There are usually only two reasons to replay an RPG: 1)Multiple endings (this game doesn't have 'em.) 2)Hidden items, or things you missed the first time around. This game does have a lot of those. There are 3 special items that I know of that are very hard to get without reading an FAQ, which I suggest not doing the first time around unless you really get stuck. You'll wanna go through again to get these as well as the 13 bromides scattered throughout the game. These are moderately hard to find, but you will spend a lot of time exploring and talking to NPC's. Another reason to play the game again is the wonderful story. There are so many things that they say that will make sense the second time around that you didn't even notice they said the first time. The fourth floor of Damon's Spire is a great example of that.

Overall 10/10

The best game I've played for the Playstation. If you are even moderately intrigued by RPG's play this. Even if you hate 'em you might wanna give this one a chance to change your mind. This game has the best story of all time and comes with the best game package ever created. The Making of CD is very cool to watch (after you've beat the game, it does have spoilers) and the hidden game, Lords of Lunar, can be very addicting. Buy this game. Don't wait for the price to go down or to get it used, buy it now.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 11/01/99, Updated 06/09/03