"Strategy Finally takes form on the GBA"

Let's start off with some information: I am a fan of strategy games, turn-based or real-time. If you like mind-numbing hack and slash games or dungeon crawlers, look elsewhere. This game is probably the greatest strategy title I have played on the GBA, and let it be known that this was my first endeavor into the Fire Emblem series. I have played both Advance Wars 1 and 2 and Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, which are other attempts at this genre on the GBA.

Story 7/10
At this point I haven't finished the game, but the story so far has been fairly good. It certainly exceeded my expectations and put my other favorite TBS games (Final Fantasy Tactics Advance and the Advance Wars series) to shame. The story, although well written, is a little bit bland. It has some nice twists and turns, but the plot of setting out on a quest to defeat evil is too usual. You won't find an incredibly immersive story here, but it's good enough to interest you. The game also splits off into two separate stories, which adds to the replayability.

Graphics 7/10
The style of this game is somewhat like Advance Wars. You have a world map that you move in, and it goes into a battle sequence when two units engage. I liked how it color-coded the units for simplicity-blue for your units, red for enemies, green for allied NPCs. The battle sequences were well done, it's just they didn't blow me away.

Sound FX/Music 7/10
The battle sounds are lacking and could be better, but I enjoy the music. All a matter of preference really. The music is typical game boy music, nothing stellar, but not sub-par either.

Gameplay 10/10
This is where the game is stellar, as I would hope from a TBS game. Some people argue that the fact that once characters die, they are lost forever is tedious and frustrating. Maybe for the inexperienced player. Some people think all strategy is is commanding the weapon triangle and putting strong units in front. They have much to learn. Learn to expect flanking moves, learn to check your opponents moverment range and weapon before each attack. Make sure to have healers, and make sure to play each move carefully. I have started missions over many times, but I learn from my mistakes and try to not let them happen. Don't get me wrong, this game is tough. If you're not into strategy games, don't bother. For those of you who do enjoy them, this game will entertain you for hours on end.

Replayability 6/10
With all the different classes and the branched storyline, this has a fairly good replay value. With the lake of customization, however, and limited weapons, some people will find it hard to play through again.

Overall 8/10
This game is fun with a few drawbacks. Again, this is said from someone who enjoys strategy games. If you were looking for an RPG, look elsewhere. This is not Final Fantasy Tactics Advance.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 06/24/05