Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis

"A small version of Final Fantasy Tactics, but Deep Underneath"

An excellent game for the GBA. I also like the fact that it isn't just another port, but it is a totally new game made just for the GBA.

The game plays out like Final Fantasy Tactics. You assemble a team of up to 8 characters and move them around the battle map using squares. You command your team and then watch as the enemy teams tries to attack you. Everyone has magic that they can use, or you can have them do hand-to-hand fighting. The object is to defeat the enemy team.

There are a couple key features in this game that make it complex and longer. One is the Emblem system. As you battle and do certain things, your characters will receive emblems for their achievements. Some are good and some are bad, but you will want to grab a couple of the good ones at least. A second huge feature is the class system. As your characters progress, they will have chances to change their type of character. There are about 12 human classes in all, and they are different depending on wether the character is a male or female. The third feature is the element/magic system. Depending on what element a character is, he/she can equip that type of magic, which can be found or bought from stores.

The graphics for the game are nicely done. They rank right under Golden Sun for best graphics on the GBA. The sound and music isn't too great. The sound effects that the characters make are usually cramped and weird, and the music to the game gets old quick. I played most of the game without any sound, as I got tired of hearing the same 3 music pieces for the levels. The controls are descent, but some work could have been done to improve the menu system. After owning the game for a month, I am still finding new menus by pressing buttons.

I do recommend this game for RPG fans, or anyone looking for a solid GBA game. The story is excellent, ranking up next to Golden Sun. The characters all have interesting things to say, and there are even multiple story paths that you can take. I have beaten the game at 45 hours, so it is quite a long game. With all the optional quests and secrets, the game is even longer.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 08/12/02, Updated 08/12/02