"Maybe THQ should quit making RPGS?"

This is not a bad game once you get past a few points. This can be a very fun game indeed. You just have to stick with it. The reason this game is underated, is because we are spoiled with games like Final Fantasy 9, and Chrono Cross, and Dragon warrior 5 or whatever. This game is just an average RPG, but it can be fun nonetheless.

GRAPHICS---10/10

This games graphics are great, this is what I wanted out of the ''Super Nintendo Ultra 64'' AKA the FUN machine. It's not a 2d side scroller like so many other disapointments. In the graphics department, this game provides the neccesary quality to succeed.

STORY---5/10

This isn't really a bad story, nor is it truly great. The story doesn't go too much into depth. The basic storyline is easy to follow, but don't think that it will keep you on the edge of your toes. It's not Shakespear, it's not Stephen King, heck it's not even a good story to remember. This is the most important part, and this is where it lacks too much.

GAMEPLAY---9/10

I wouldn't say confusing, I would say innovative. It takes basic Turn Based style of gameplay, and turns it into a new action like RPG. There are random battles, and there are turns, but you can move around a little, and this gives you a little bit of freedom. You can attack, or use magic. The only confusing part of the game, is running, and when you do so, you end up facing the direction you were going in during battle. Each time you level you'll have to choose one of the four elements, which is important. It's truly innovative.

SOUND---4/10

Sound isn't too important, if I want music, I'll use a radio, but since it's part of the game, I'll rate it. The music isn't great, and the battle music is extremely repetitive. The special effects are okay, and are what give it 3 of the 4 points.

CHALLANGE---6/10

This game is not too tough, nor is it too easy. It's not exactly the right mixture, but it will do. You can easily get far in this game without too much worry. Early on you may face some difficulties, but later on it gets easier, then harder again. If your a great gamer, you'll go through just fine. If you can't beat level one of Mario 1, don't expect victory too soon.

REPLAY---4/10

This game doesn't really make me want to play it again. I wasn't attached to the characters, I wasn't thrilled by the graphics, and the music didn't dare me to cut it off. It wasn't the masterpiece game the first time through, and it won't be much better the second time through. The only thing that makes this game replayable, is the use of elements, which is a great gameplay idea, that makes you want to use all different kinds of spells.

=OVERALL=
Graphics-10 (10%)
Story-----5 (30%)
Gameplay--9 (20%)
Sound-----4 (05%)
Challange-6 (15%)
Replay----4 (20%)

6.1/10


Buy/Rent?

You should probably stay away from the game if your used to the new school RPGs, unless you really like RPGS. You should try to rent it to see what it's like for yourself though, as no words can describe this game perfectly. You should buy it only if your tired of the RPGs with nothing but pressing a button as some would say. This has the gameplay that is asked for.

Conclusion-
This is THQS work, not the best game ever made, not close. It has a lot of work to be done on it. This game is highly underated though, and should be more considered.

Reviewer's Score: 6/10, Originally Posted: 01/16/03, Updated 01/16/03