Jade Cocoon: Story of the Tamamayu

"An often overlooked game with loads of potential"

Now, I have heard people refer to this as ''Pokémon on crack,'' or ''One of the black sheep rpgs of PS,'' but I happen to think those people never actually played the game. Now then, on to the review.

Gameplay -

This is the core of the game. Movement may be hard to get used to, but not too bad. Battle are filled with strategy, what with changing the field type, four elements, 5 special attacks, and 4 magic attacks, and limitless numbers of minions.

The great part of this game is the merging system, which allows you to combine any two monsters to create a new one. This minion comes with spells and special moves from the first two, along with looking really, really cool.

Bosses are a tad difficult occasionally, though. Also, the game can grow repetitive near the end, but tolerable

8/10

Plot -

The plot of this game is fantastic. It immerses you in the world of an ancient race, designed flawlessly. Genki created an entire culture, with many secrets and backstories. You won't suspect some of the incredible plot twists at the end, but I can't reveal that to you!

9/10

Audio/Video -

The music fits the game perfectly. From intense battle music to serene forest music, the game surrounds you with great music. I especially like the boss music, but I tend to like all boss musics.

The sound is okay, it could be better. Generally, many of the attacks have the same charging noise, followed by a smacking noise of some sort. Kind of annoying. But even so, it is easy to get used to.

7/10

Graphics -

The graphics of this game are ahead of it's time. Very nice 3-D graphics. While the minions tend to look similar each level, the fact that merging them creates a totally new skin helps ignore that. One problem is the lack of movement in this game, except in levels. No massive towns. You just select from a list of where you want to go. Not too bad, but it doesn't show off the playstation's capabilities fully.

7/10

Replayability -

This RPG must have the greatest replayability for an RPG I have ever seen. I mean, attempting to create the ultimate monster, and a two player battle mode. Amazing.

9/10

To buy or to rent -

I would say buy. Due to the massive replay value, you won't be putting this down unless you get stuck on an impossible boss, which this game contains a few of.

Synopsis

Gameplay 8
Plot 9
A/V 7
Graphics 7
Replay 9
Rent/Buy Buy

The Last Word
An enjoyable game, one that even an owner of a PS2 should check it out.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 03/28/03, Updated 03/28/03