Lunar Kreskents
July 27th, 2006, 09:43 AM
Welcome to the RPG Forum's Comprehensive RPG List! Here you will find a comprehensive list of RPGs including but not limited to the title, genre, developer, publisher, platform, ESRB rating, description, unique features, etc.
If you would like to make a submission, post your review in this thread and it will be edited into the list by myself or Dragoon Taryn. There are plenty of examples to assist you. Also include "-Reviewed by (Your Name)-" beneath so proper credit can be given. Please avoid abbreviations of the title or other aspects of the game in your review unless you have noted earlier that something can be abbreviated as [whatever].
Please make sure the game has not already been reviewed before making a review! If you want to add/correct something to someone's review, please post the correction/addition, and we'll edit it into the review with proper credit given to you.
They are in alphabetical order by title, or should be, but you can hit Ctrl+F (Windows) or Apple+F (Macintosh) and type in the title or anything else to quickly locate the game/developer/genre/etc.
Finally, keep in mind we reserve the right to modify your review should it be inaccurate, highly disagreeable, etc. If you have any comments on existing reviews, please post in the "Comprehensive RPG List - Discussion Only (http://forums.gamewinners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=498985)" thread.
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Here is a template you can follow if you wish (copy/paste the bit below with the tags. Don't quote it and c/p though.):
]Title:[/B]
]Genre:[/B]
]Developer/Publisher[/B]:
]Platform[/B]:
]ESRB Rating[/B]:
]Description[/B]
]Battle System: [/B]
]Unique Notes:[/B]
-Reviewed by -
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Title: Actraiser
Genre: Action/God Sim
Developer/Publisher: Quintet/Enix
Platform: Super Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Japanese Release Date: 12/16/1990
Europe Release Date: 3/16/1993
Description: The game set up as you are a God and you want to bring people back to the land, to do that you must clear out enemies. When the first act is done, comes the sim parts you have to defend the people from beast and tell them where to build. As the civilization expands you will gain experience and gain items from the people, then once you have helped them enough you will go to another area to build another society. Numerous detailed monsters and bosses will be your enemies, you must survive pitfalls and other hazards. Excellent graphics and wonderful music score make this one of the best SNES titles out there.
Unique Features: Being a God and expanding your society is cool, as are the awesome action parts.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Easy to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Advance Guardian Heroes
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Treasure/Ubisoft
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 2004
Japanese Release Date: 9/22/2004
Europe Release Date: 2/18/2005
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: A sequel to the classic Guardian Heroes(Saturn) that takes us back to the world of the original, bringing back characters and updating the gameplay. The game features RPG elements yet you play the game as a beat em up(Think Streets of Rage) and for this game there are more techniques. Excellent 2D animation, great music, fun game play, and a two player mode adds more the already solid game. All is not well with the great game, the only negative is that it can suffer from slowdown.
Unique Features: The beat em up style with RPG elements makes this a fun Action RPG with a different style, with multiple characters and a good story makes this a fun portable game.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Should be easy to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Advanced Dungeons and Dragons: Heroes of the Lance
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: U.S. Gold/Pony Canyon
Platform: Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Japanese Release Date: 3/8/1991
Description: Based on the D and D series, this is a horrible game. The game features unresponsive controls, terrible graphics, and some bad music. While the game has a minimal storyline that translated to the game, yet it is so badly applied(The game is actual based on a novel in the DragonLance series).
Unique Features: Numerous monsters types and a muddled storyline.
Rating: 3.5
Rarity: Commonly found.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Age of Empires: The Age of Kings
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Backbone/Majesco
Platform: Nintendo DS
U.S. Release Date: 2/14/2006
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: In taking the PC classic series to the DS, it has been made similar in design as the Advance Wars series. You play through numerous timelines and historic characters are playable, the battles are turn based. Numerous units, long battles, and solid techniques make this a fun Strategy game.
Unique Features: Playing as numerous historic heroes is cool as are the numerous units to use.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Aidyn Chronicles: The First Mage
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: H20 Interactive/THQ
Platform: Nintendo 64
U.S. Release Date: 63/14/2001
Japanese Release Date: 8/3/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game has a decent 3D world, numerous enemies to fight, and 14 characters to play as. The game has numerous problems like bad camera, little to no music, and awkward level up system/difficulty level. Many areas(including starting areas) can get you killed, where you will fight numerous tough monsters. The story line is also could have been better, yet at least makes you want to progress the tale.
Unique Features: Cool world to explore, numerous characters, and a interesting storyline to keep you progressing.
Rating: 6.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Albert Odyssey
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sunsoft/Working Designs
Platform: Saturn
U.S. Release Date: 7/31/1997
Japanese Release Date: 8/9/1996
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game features a solid turn based system with tons of skills and magic, the game has excellent dialog written by Working Designs. The game’s graphics are nicely drawn and feature some solid music, the voice acting is pretty solid as well. Yet all is not well, the game does feature lots of loading in between battles.
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Hard to find outside of EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Alundra
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: SCEI/Working Designs
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 12/31/1997
Japanese Release Date: 4/11/1997
Europe Release Date: 6/1998
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Alundra is a 2D Action/RPG with a lot in common with Landstalker(Genesis), it features tons of platforming, battles, and hard puzzles. The game has a solid storyline and features Alundra who can go into people’s dreams, it is also a fair number of times you do so. The game features great music, excellent animation, and tons of weapons/items.
Unique Features: Tough puzzles, excellent sword play, cool storyline, and a great story make this a solid choice.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: A little tough to find outside of EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Alundra 2
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Matrix/Activision
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 2/29/2000
Japanese Release Date: 11/18/1999
Europe Release Date: 6/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The first Alundra was a amazing 2D action/RPG with tough puzzles, yet Alundra 2 uses terrible 3D graphics and has nothing what made the original so fun. While the 2D is serviceable, the puzzles are easier(Which is kind of nice) and the game play standard Action/RPG fare. While fun for what it is, it still is a far cry from the original.
Unique Features: Tons of weapons, items, minigames, and some cool puzzles.
Rating: 7.25
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad(Part of Arc the Lad Collection)
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: G-Craft/Working Designs
Platform: Playstation/Wonderswan Color
U.S. Release Date: 4/18/2002
Japanese Release Date: 6/30/1995
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: This was one of the first RPGs for the PSOne, yet Sony never wanted to release it in the U.S., so Working Designs finally brought it here. The game has vibrant graphics, excellent music, and a decent storyline. The game has a standard gird movement system, numerous skills, and a cool set of characters. The game’s real weakness is that it is very linear and short(Around 7-10 hours long).
Unique Features: Cool characters, excellent dialog, and some fun battles.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Hard to find complete.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad 2(Part of the Arc the Lad Collection)
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: G-Craft/Working Designs
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 4/18/2002
Japanese Release Date: 11/1/1996
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features a new cast of characters(Although all the characters from Arc 1 appear again) and is less linear than the first title. The game has solid graphics, great music, and a decent storyline. The game also features a solid grid battle system with lots of usage of skills, the game has lots of tough battles to fight(Just look at the last boss). With this release, there is also monster recruiting which adds to the overall gameplay. Plus, you monster data can put with the bonus monster battle disc. The game’s use of guild job system, intriguing and adds missions and money to your pocket.
Unique Features: More options to travel and backtrack, tough battles, new characters, and monster recruiting adds to the game.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Hard to find complete.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad 3(Part of the Arc the Lad Collection)
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: G-Craft/Working Designs
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 4/18/2002
Japanese Release Date: 10/28/1999
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features solid graphics, good music, and has a decent storyline. The game uses the guild job system again and adds to it, bring more replay value to the game. The game has detailed character models that you can tell they are doing certain actions, swing sword or cast spell. The negative of the game is that, the game is very easy and while offer experienced players no challenge.
Unique Features: Solid S/RPG gameplay, cool characters, and a game good for beginners.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Hard to find complete.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad: End of Darkness
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Cattle Call/Namco
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 6/14/2005
Japanese Release Date: 11/3/2004
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Set five years after Twilight of Spirits, you being the game as Edda who is the main character. Many elements of the Arc series are used, such as Edda becomes part of the Hunters Guild(Main source of progress) and you can character cards that let you go into battle as famous Arc characters like Arc and Tosh and more). The games change from strategic to Action/RPG is indeed saddening, for the old style was so much better. It plays well for a online game and can quite fun.
Unique Features: Using most of the famous characters from the Arc series is awesome, so is the idea to make this playable online.
Rating: 7.75
Rarity: It should common.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad: Twilight of Spirits
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Cattle Call/Sony
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 6/25/2003
Japanese Release Date: 3/20/2003
Europe Release Date: 1/30/2004
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features excellent graphics, solid difficult battles, and numerous characters. The game has a new set of characters and the game play is very solid, the game’s length is long( If you want to find all characters, items, and level up your characters can take up to 70-100 hours). Taking elements from the previous titles and enhancing it, then game comes off well.
Unique Features: Lots of characters, tough numerous battles, and a decent storyline.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Astonishia Story
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sonnori/Ubisoft
Platform: PSP
U.S. Release Date: 6/6/2006
Europe Release Date: 6/23/2006
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: Based on a 1994 PC game never released here, a redux(while not much was changed) is here for the PSP. The story is nothing special as it very clichéd, the music is pretty good. The graphics are standard 2D that looks nice and features a excellent anime intro. Negatives are the long load times and the experience is hard to come by.
Unique Features: While at $39.99 the price is steep for a such a weak RPG, at $20 it is a little better. The game features no strategy so it use the strongest character to kill enemies, but it is a fun very old school title.
Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not hard to find at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Atelier Iris: Eternal Mana
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Gust/NIS
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date:6/28/2005
Japanese Release Date: 5/27/2004
Europe Release Date: 3/17/2006
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The graphics use excellent 2D animated sprites and backgrounds, the game features a good number of characters(That can switched out of battle). There are numerous items to create, cool character level up system, and a excellent music score.
Unique Features: Amazing 2D animation, cool characters, and a overall bunch of challenging bosses.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Not hard to find at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Atelier Iris: Eternal Mana 2
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Gust/NIS
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 4/25/2006
Japanese Release Date: 5/26/2005
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: The game uses high detailed 2D sprites and the game looks amazing, the soundtrack is pretty good as well. This time you play as two characters, as the hero type there is Felt and the alchemist is Viese, both elements work very well together. Basically you have a share ring, that enables you to share items back and forth. The game has excellent pacing so if you don’t have a lot of time to play you could play through numerous areas and events in just a hour.
Unique Features: Beautiful animation, solid game play, and a overall excellent pacing of story.
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Azure Dreams
Genre: Random Generated Dungeon RPG/Monster Sim
Developer/Publisher: Konami
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 6/30/1998
Europe Release Date: 112/1998
Japanese Release Date: 11/13/1997
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: As Azure Dreams beings you enter a tower and must fight thorough 99 floors without running back to town, yet if you do leave it starts over a level 1 all over again. The graphics are nicely animated, solid music, and the difficulty is tough. As you progress through the floors of the dungeon, you can find numerous eggs that you must breed and raise to fight along side you. Like most Random generation dungeon RPGs, you start out at level 1 yet your monster retains all it’s experience.
Unique Features: A always changing dungeon means more game time, solid battle system, usage of monsters(Familars), and a tough difficulty level.
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: It can be a little tough to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: The Bard’s Tale
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Inxine Entertainment/Ubsoft
Platform: Playstation 2/XBOX
U.S. Release Date: 10/26/2004
Europe Release Date: 3/24/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The update of the Bard’s Tale is a action/RPG that focuses heavily on hack and slash, yet adds a lot to the mix like solid voice acting(Cary Elwes is a excellent choice for a voice of a character) and numerous items to find. While the graphics and cutscenes are nice, the music is quite good.
Unique Features: Cool hack and slash game play, pretty good music, and some excellent voice overs make this a fun Action/RPG to check out.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean
Genre: Turn based/Card battle
Developer/Publisher: tri-Crescendo/Monolith/Namco
Platform: Game Cube
U.S. Release Date: 11/16/2004
Japanese Release Date: 12/5/2003
Europe Release Date: 4/1/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game’s battle system uses cards(Magnus) that have certain skill numbers(The higher the effectiveness and attack/defensive) and for those who have played Chrono Cross(PSOne),this should be familiar(It was made by some of the same team). The games graphics are beautiful, music is excellent, voice acting(Kind of bad), and the overall storyline is immersive. Numerous characters join your party and the magnus card system is cool, you can capture essences of things(Like water or fire) to use.
Unique Features: Cool battle system, solid graphics, excellent music, and overall great usage of strategy for the battle system.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Battle Hunter
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Success/A1
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 6/1/2001
Japanese Release Date: 12/22/1999
Europe Release Date: 4/12/2001
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: A strange mixture of turn based RPG and board game, the combo of the tow is interesting. The games has some decent 2D graphics, music is pretty bad, and there is very little story. The game has limits that are saddening, you can only level up your character to 15 and the game has only 15 missions. A plus is that it features four player multiplayer, yet finding a multi-tap can be hard to do.
Unique Features: Mix of RPG and board game, four player, and some nice graphics.
Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not hard to find and cheap.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Beyond Oasis
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Ancient/Sega
Platform: Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 12/8/1994
Japanese Release Date: 12/9/1994
Europe Release Date: 1994
Description: Vibrant graphics, amazing music score, and great game play. Numerous monsters, puzzles, and items to find make this a solid Action/RPG. The game is so well designed with it’s enemy layouts to the level designs, the music score is just as amazing.
Unique Features: Solid action, tons of monsters, and great level designs
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Beyond Shadowgate
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: ICOM/TTI
Platform: Turboduo
U.S. Release Date: 1993
Europe Release Date: 1993
Description: Taking the original puzzles of Shadowgate and updating it, with the update comes new 3D environments. Numerous hazards are fatal for the main character and the game play is quite challenging, tons of detailed backgrounds.
Unique Feature: A fully solid puzzle deep RPG with challenging game play and beautiful music.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: It is very hard to find and expensive.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Beyond the Beyond
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Camelot/Sony
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 8/31/1996
Japanese Release Date: 11/3/1995
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: While a decent length RPG with a cool battle system, suffers from a boring storyline and characters. While the animation is nice, music pretty good, the boring storyline brings it down.
Unique Features: Cool battle system, decent length of game play, and some nice animation.
Rating: 7.25
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchanel
Platform: Saturn(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 8/27/1998
Description: One of the best series of Strategy/RPGs that has never been released in the U.S., well worth the time and effort of playing it. The game uses the standard grid movement system, usual stats and skills, and a insanely interesting storyline. The game lets you choose a master character that effects, in some ways the ending you will receive, there are few endings and options to play. The story is about a war between heaven and hell, yet the demons win (They have black wings) and make the white winged angels their slaves. This is where the main character comes in, he was in a coma and now based on choices he can effect the world. The graphics are good, music is pretty good, and the voices are solid. Plus, to use special attacks and skills you need blood points you get these from killing enemies. Also when a character dies they stay dead, no coming back.
Unique Features: Excellent storyline, different masters to choose from, and solid battle system.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: It can be tough to find the first print version of the game, yet the second edition is easier to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix 00
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchannel
Platform: Playstation(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 5/13/2004
Description: This is a remake of the GBA BM Zero, it has updated graphics, excellent storyline, and solid music. The storyline is that a land that is free from the battles between the angels and demons, lives Cain with his friend Mattia. Yet a demon comes for Mattia, a angel takes out the demon and then takes Mattia. Cain then seeks out to find Mattia, yet he is killed by a angel and before he dies he grows a set of white wings. He then seeks out Mattia, of course it doesn’t make many people happy. The game has a excellent S/RPG battle system, cool characters, and excellent skills.
Unique Features: Excellent storyline, cool characters, and solid graphics make this a title worth importing.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix A/D
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchannel
Platform: Dreamcast(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 9/30/1999
Description: While this is a remake of the original Black/Matrix, it does add some nice features like new anime cutscenes and some new storylines. Yet it is basically the same game with solid gameplay, excellent storyline, and numerous characters.
Unique Features: Excellent storyline, cool characters, and solid battle system.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Can be easier found than the Saturn versions.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix Cross
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchannel
Platform: Playstation(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 12/14/2000
Description: Acting as a remake of the Saturn version with added content, like new master characters to unlock. The same great S/RPG game play, cool storyline, and excellent characters.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, cool characters, and excellent storyline.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix Zero
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchannel
Platform: Game Boy Advance
Japanese Release Date: 8/30/2002
Description: Another solid Strategy/RPG featuring angels and demons, the game has excellent 2D animation, solid music, and a decent storyline. While sadly another title left in Japan, it can be played without knowledge of Japanese yet you will miss out on a lot.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, cool characters, and excellent storyline.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Blade Dancer: Lineage of Light
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Hit Maker/NIS
Platform: PSP
U.S. Release Date: 7/18/2006
Japanese Release Date: 3/12/2006
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: Featuring solid 3D graphics, good music, and anime intro starts with promise. The game play is turn based(It reminds me of the battle system of Phantasy Star 1-4) and features weapons that break(You can repair them). The game features a pretty clichéd storyline, yet the characters are interesting and there are lots of stuff to find.
Unique Features: A solid battle system, pretty good graphics, and a cool set of characters.
Rating: 7.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Brandish
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Falcom/Koei
Platform: Super Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 2/1995
Japanese Release Date: 6/25/1994
Description: A solid Action/RPG with a high challenge level of enemies/bosses, a under-appreciated classic. While graphics are the best, the game play and music make up for it.
Unique Features: A tough adventure where to complete it, you have to make it through a huge labyrinth.
Rating: 8.25
Rarity: Can hard to find except on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Brave Fencer Mushashi
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square/Square/EA
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 10/31/1998
Japanese Release Date: 7/16/1998
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: BFM is a Action/RPG that stars Mushashi, he is transports to the kingdom of Allucaneet to save the princess and bring peace. The game’ progression is steady and never daunting, the characters are all humorous and memorable. As you progress in the game, you must find five scrolls to give you new powers to help fight bosses and puzzles. Mushashi can assimilate and take enemies skills by using on of his two swords, the game also focus on a 24 hour cycle which effects when stores are open, puzzles, and when to talk to people.
Unique Features: The game’s assimilation skill adds to the game and so does the 24 hour cycle system. Overall a in-depth fun and challenging Action/RPG.
Ratings: 9.5, 7.2
Average Rating: 8.35
Rarity: Shouldn’t be too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom/Square(GBA version) by Capcom)
Platform: Super Nintendo/Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 8/1994(SNES), 12/13/2001
Japanese Release Date: 4/3/1993(SNES), 7/16/2001
Europe Release Date: 12/1/2001
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The storyline follows Ryu(A member of the Light Dragons) who must confront the Dark Dragons, of course with help from numerous characters. The game play is turn based and there are numerous weapons, items, and Ryu has the ability to change into dragons. The game features tons of enemies and bosses, it’s random encounters are plentiful yet fun.
Unique Feature: Tons of items and skill for the character make this a engrossing RPG experience.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Both games can be pretty scarce.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire 2
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom
Platform: Super Nintendo/Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 12/1995-4/16/2002
Japanese Release Date: 12/2/1994-12/21/2001
Europe Release Date: 4/25/1996-6/28/2002
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: Ryu and Nina are back, yet there numerous new characters with excellent skills. The battle system is standard turn based system with tons of items, weapons, skills, and of course Ryu’s usage of Dragon form. A solid engrossing storyline, cool characters, excellent puzzles, and fun game play.
Unique Features: Solid RPG with tons of challenging quest, lots of bosses and enemies to meet.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: A little hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire 3
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom
Platform: Playstation/PSP
U.S. Release Date: 4/3/1998
Japanese Release Date: 9/11/1997-8/25/2005
Europe Release Date: 10/1998-2/10/2006
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: This BOF title yet again brings back Ryu and Nina, but adds more characters and skills sets to use. Solid animation, excellent music, and a decent storyline. The game features tons of secrets to find and items to find, which adds to the overall game play. The game has a solid battle system and excellent use of Ryu’s dragon skills.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, decent storyline, and lots of secrets to find.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire 4
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 11/28/2000
Japanese Release Date: 4/27/2000
Europe Release Date: 8/3/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Yet again you assume the role of Ryu and many of the same characters appear(Nina), the battle system is the same standard turn based system. In battle, there are tons weapons, skills, and Ryu’s ability to turn into a dragon. Yet the battle system is usual, you can take advantage of the Tactical Battle system so you can send wounded units to the back row. Beautiful animation and almost hand painted backgrounds bring the game to life, and even many of the backgrounds look pre-rendered they are in fact done on the fly. The usual action object based puzzles are included(As well in most BOF games).
Unique Features: Beautiful graphics, solid gameplay, and a excellent storyline make this a great game.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Rare in some areas.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 2/16/2003
Japanese Release Date: 11/14/2002
Europe Release Date: 11/28/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: A vastly different entry in the BOF series, set within a future where people live under ground. The game still features Ryu, yet in the game you can only use dragon booster a set number of times or you die. The game has a SOL system, where you can restart were you died or restart the game with items, skills, and zeeny you have found yet you may see cutscenes that you didn’t the first time. This brings a lot of replay value, yet also makes it feel disjointed in storyline.
Unique Features: Different style of entry in the series, SOL system, and some tough bosses.
Rating: 7.5
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Brigandine
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Hearty Robin/Atlus
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 10/31/1998
Japanese Release Date: 4/12/1998
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: As the game starts you have a choice of five generals to play as and each have a land, each general has their share of strengths and weaknesses. The bulk of the game is organizing troops, summoning monsters, choosing armies, and fortifying castles. Numerous side quest, soldiers, and options make this a long S/RPG, plus playing through with all generals is a lot of fun. Yet not all is well, graphics wise are pretty standard and the game can be challenging.
Unique Features: Playing through as numerous generals adds to the overall game, as does the side quests and depth of the game.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Can quite hard to find and can be a little expensive.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Konami
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 5/5/2003
Japanese Release Date: 5/8/2003
Europe Release Date: 5/9/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Featuring solid 2D animation, excellent music, solid level designs, and the ability to take the skills of monsters make this one of the best Castlevania games. The game has a solid number of enemies and bosses, tons of skills and weapons to collect, and numerous twists in the story.
Unique Features: Solid level design, ability to take enemies skills, and tons of monsters/bosses to fight.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too hard now that it is part of a Castlevania GBA double pack.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Konami
Platform: Nintendo DS
U.S. Release Date: 10/4/2005
Europe Release Date: 9/30/2005
Japanese Release Date: 9/25/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Dawn of Sorrow is a sequel to Aria of Sorrow(GBA), it features Soma as the main character again. The game features excellent 2D graphics, a excellent storyline, cool bosses, and a in-depth monster soul(Skills you receive from monsters). There are multiple characters to play as(After beating the game) and a two player mode. The games usage of the DS capabilities are to seal bosses you must draw with the stylus and on the top screen is the map of the game.
Unique Features: Awesome game play, cool bosses, more cool monster souls, and multiple characters.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Konami
Platform: Playstation/Saturn(Import)
U.S. Release Date: 10/27/1997
Japanese Release Date: 3/20/1997
Europe Release Date: 11/19/1997
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Castlevania usually has more to do with the action genre(Castlevania 2 with standing), with this entry it features RPG elements. The game features awesome 2D animation, solid game design, numerous enemies to fight, and a few twists in story. The game stars Alucard and this is second time he has played a major part in the story of Castlevania(Last time, he was a playable character in Castlevania 3), the story is well thought out and features a some cool twists. There are a few familiars(Demons who help and fight by your side) and tons of skills to find. The Saturn version is actually a little different than the PSOne version, it has a few extra familiars and extra areas to explore.
Unique Features: Amazing detail to animation of characters and monsters, well thought out level designs, tons of monsters and bosses to fight, and lots of skills to help through out the quest.
Rating: 10
Rarity: The non greatest hits versions can be tough and expensive to find, yet the Greatest hits version is a little easier to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Chocobo’s Dungeon 2
Genre: Random Dungeon RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 11/30/1999
Japanese Release Date: 12/23/1998
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game features Chocobo as the main characters and many supporting characters are Square FF creatures like Mog. The game progresses like most Random Dungeon RPGs, you try to survive numerous floors while fighting monsters and finding items. The game has decent graphics, solid music, and tons of dungeons to explore. While the game comes off like a kid’s game, it does have a decent challenge level.
Unique Features: Playing as Chocobo, multiple dungeons, and excellent amount of items.
Rating: 8.25
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Chrono Cross
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 8/15/2000
Japanese Release Date: 11/18/1999
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Featuring amazing character designs, solid battle system, and some excellent graphics. The game is a sequel to Chrono Trigger and while featuring new characters, there are little connections that link the two (Those who played CTrigger with FF Chronicles, would have seen a bonus animated film after completing the game which adds a twist to it). The game has a large roster of characters to recruit and only some can be recruit in one game(If you play through again with a plus game, you have the opportunity to get those you missed), yet if you have a item and have completed the game you can bring all the characters together. The game’s battle system is quite fun and full of strategy, numerous skills and magics are available to use. The game does away with typical RPG leveling up, yet after battles and bosses you receive upgrades to your characters(You don’t receive experience points). The game has a deep storyline(Yet it can be confusing, if don’t pay attention) and numerous twists that add to the overall story. The music is excellent and demand that you should pick up the soundtrack,.
Unique Features: Tons of characters to recruit, excellent storyline, and awesome soundtrack add up to make one of the best RPGs.
Rating: 10, 9.25
Average Rating: 9.625
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Chrono Trigger
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square/ Square Soft
Platform: Super Nintendo/Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 9/21/1995/7/21/2001
Japanese Release Date: 3/11/1995/11/2/1999
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Featuring art by Akira Toriyama and awesome game design by Square, CT is one of the best RPGs ever made. Featuring numerous characters, skills, place to time travel to, and a overall great storyline. It features tons of endings some of which require one or two character to go up against the last boss, add with it combined attacks between characters up to all three fighting.
Unique Features: Tons of endings, great side quests, awesome music and story, and sweet set of bosses make this a RPG to remember.
Rating: 10, 9.0
Average Rating: 9.5
Rarity: SNES version can be expensive and the PSOne versions(part of the FF Chronicles set with FF4) can be a little cheaper(Yet it features loading).
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Cima: The Enemy
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Neverland/Natsume
Platform: Game Boy Advance
ESRB Rating: Everyone
U.S. Release Date: 11/17/2003
Description: As Ark J. you must help numerous lost NPCs and protect them from the numerous Cima monsters. The game features a excellent overworld that you must travel through with the NPCs in tow. Keeping them alive becomes much like a puzzle and can be quite tough since the monsters and bosses get in the way. Sadly, a widely ignored title that features solid gameplay,music, and overall a excellent challenge.
Unique Features: Overall, the unique feature of Cima is that it features more brain and might usage than most Action/RPGs(Instead of hack and slash).
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Overall it shouldn’t be hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Colosseum: Road to Freedom
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Ertain/Koei
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 7/20/2005
Japanese Release Date: 2/17/2005
Europe Release Date: 9/9/2005
ESRB Rating: Mature
Description: Koei’s attempt at a gladiatorial style game like Shadow of Rome(Action game and is way better than this game), yet comes off lacking. The game gives you numerous options to create a character to play as, you are brought as a slave to a gladiator school and must earn your freedom. You make money based on how well you do at the games and if you don’t die. The game has solid graphics, some good music, and some gore battle touches (Not as good as Shadow of Rome though). Yet the game is flawed in one of the most important features of any action/RPG game(Even action games), it features no lock-on button so you end up hitting nothing and flailing about. You need to be able to strafe, yet you can’t and it is a sad that such a features was left out(Especially, in this day and age).
Unique Features: Being able to build up your characters stats, numerous battle types, and the ability to buy your own slaves to fight by your side is nice.
Rating: 6.5
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Cosmic Fantasy 2
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nippon/Working Designs
Platform: TurboGrafx CD(Turbo Duo)
U.S. Release Date: 1992
Japanese Release Date: 4/15/1991
Description: A solid RPG with excellent cutscenes, cool characters, tons of tough bosses, and a overall solid storyline. Amazing graphics for the time and excellent music, lets not forget the sweet cutscenes.
Unique Features: Cool storyline, cutscenes that are amazing, and tons of dungeons to explore.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Hard to find except EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Crusader of Centy
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nextech/ Atlus
Platform: Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 6/16/1994
Europe Release Date: 1994 under name Soleil
Japanese Release Date: 6/17/1994 under Ragnacenty
Description: The game features beautiful detailed graphics and wonderfully designed, examples of touches are when walking a beach you see foot prints and even ground erosion(Unheard of at the time). A perfect mix of puzzle, swordplay, spirit animals, and a lock on strafe make this a shining gem. The music is quite good as well, overall this is one of the best Action/RPGs ever made.
Unique Features: Excellent use of puzzles, challenges, solid music, and the graphics make this a game worth checking out.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Hard to find and can be expensive.\
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Crystalis
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: SNK
Platform: Nintendo/Game Boy Color
U.S. Release Date: 1990
Japanese Release Date: 4/13/1990
Description: One of the best Action/RPGs created, it featured solid character development, lots of monster types, and numerous items to find. The game has a long length with a massive world to explore, tough bosses to fight, and a interesting storyline. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, you are a person who was frozen and must go on a epic quest. The game has vibrant graphics, solid music, and numerous lands to explore. The Game Boy Color game added some voice, yet it is the same great game.
Unique Features: Tons of items to find, lots of enemies/bosses to fight, excellent level up system, and a massive land to explore.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare either copy.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Culdcept
Genre: Card battles
Developer/Publisher: Omiya Soft/NEC
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 12/4/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: As the first Culdcept game released in the U.S. it went virtually ignored, sadly it is true yet a XBOX360 version may come hear. Culdcept is a card game where you have creatures in cards and you can set them on the map, if a opponent lands on that spot(Like monopoly) – both monsters will fight. The game features tons of battles and excellent sprites for characters and wonderful backgrounds, the battles can be rewarding if you keep with them.
Unique Features: The card battle system is fun and challenging.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity: Can be tough to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dai Senryaku 7: Modern Military Tactics
Genre: Strategy
Developer/Publisher: SystemSoft/Kemco
Platform: XBOX
U.S. Release Date: 2/15/2005
Japanese Release Date: 5/25/2003
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: There are over 400 units of military weapons to use and the battles take place on grids, you can build units as well which adds to the game. The game’s graphics are basic, the music is good, and there is some solid A.I.
Unique Features: Over 400 units and building of them is cool.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity:Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dai-2-Ji Super Robot Taisen Alpha
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Banpresto
Platform: Playstation 2(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 3/27/2003
Description: As a Strategy/RPG, the SRT series are some of the best and they all can be incredibly challenging. The game has numerous mobile suits, tough battles, and tons of strategic options. The game has excellent graphics, solid music, and a good storyline. Sadly, this will never make it to the U.S.
Unique Features: Numerous mobile suits/pilots, tons of strategic options, and challenging battles.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dark Cloud
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Level 5/Sony
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 5/8/2001
Japanese Release Date: 12/14/2000
Europe Release Date: 9/21/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game set you forth to recreate the world that was destroyed, you will have to survive the numerous floors of dungeons to find the parts to fix the world. The game has you put things together like buildings and putting the right parts to people’s house. Multiple characters are playable and there is a bonus dungeon with one hundred floors.
Unique Features: Tons of dungeons, multiple characters, and numerous enemies.
Rating: 9.0, 4.0
Average Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dark Cloud 2
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Level 5/Sony
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 2/17/2003
Japanese Release Date: 11/28/2002
Europe Release Date: 9/12/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features stellar graphics, tons of replay value, and solid game play. The game gives you the option of doing numerous things like practice a form of golf(Spheda), make lots of inventions, go fishing, and enter tournaments. As you progress in the game, you go through numerous dungeons and have the option of playing as different characters.
Unique Features: Numerous options of game play, multiple characters, and beautiful graphics.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not rare at all
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dark Savior
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Climax/Sega
Platform: Saturn
U.S. Release Date: 11/30/1996
Japanese Release Date: 8/30/1996
Europe Release Date: 1997
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Created by the team behind Landstalker, this is another solid Action/RPG that features their trademark isometric jumping. The game has tough boss battles, cool puzzles, and some cool platforming. The game features some nice graphics, solid music, and a interesting story. The only real negative us that Sega felt the need to change the currency from beer/cigarettes to chocolate.
Unique Features: Some cool battles, lots of areas to explore, and some tough puzzles.
Rating: 8.5
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dark Wizard
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sega
Platform: Sega CD
U.S. Release Date: 194
Japanese Release Date: 11/12/1993
Description: The graphics of DW is of beautiful animation and solid backgrounds, the music is quite good. The game play is based on the basic grid battle system, the battle are quite challenging and fun. Numerous characters and classes are available making the game more fun to summon them and customize them.
Unique Features: Tons of battles, cool classes, and overall high challenging gameplay.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Tough to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Deadly Towers
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Irem/Broderbund
Platform: Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 9/1987
Japanese Release Date: 1/12/1986
Description: As a prince you must travel through the deadly towers and thats all you really need to know. The game has ugly backrounds, terrible hit detection(You try to hit enemies, yet just don’t), and some good music. The game has little direction so you just go through numerous doors and hope you get some where.
Unique Features: Numerous monster types, many rooms to explore, and some good music.
Rating: 2.0
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Disgaea: Hour of Darkness
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nippon Ichi/Atlus
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 8/27/2003
Japanese Release Date: 1/30/2003
Europe Release Date: 5/28/2004
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Basically one of the most humorous storylines in all of games and featuring tons of lovable characters. The storyline is about Laharl who is son of the overlord of the underworld, his father pasted away and when he wakes from his coma. Numerous demons are trying to overtake his rightful place, so he must create numerous characters to fight along side him. The story while humorous it still features a lot of heart, the characters come to life with awesome voice work. Graphics, wise it features beautiful 2D art and the soundtrack is very good. Part of the fun is boosting your characters to insane levels and making numerous character classes. One of the best S/RPG ever made(IMO The best).
Unique Features: The numerous levels and options to level up your characters to 9,999, bring a lot to the game. Tons of challenging battles, funny characters, and numerous endings make this a excellent title.
Rating: 10
Rarity: While not rare can be found a lot on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Quest 8
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Level 5/Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 11/15/2005
Japanese Release Date: 11/24/2004
Europe Release Date: 4/13/2006
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: DQ8 is one of those types of games that you either love or hate, it is very old school and features minimal story. Yet Level 5 has created a living world to truly explore and that is one it’s very strengths, there is so much land to explore. The characters are wonderfully voiced and their mannerisms perfectly fit in their character, each character is voiced by British actors(Dragon Quest series has always been set in England). The game features it’s tried and true battle system, numerous monsters that will confront you are brought to life from Akira Toriyama’s art. So much of DQ8 is so well designed, yet some will be put off by the minimal story parts(There is much in tale, yet there are parts when you may not know where to go). This is still a shining example of a classic RPG brought to life.
Unique Features: Beautiful cell-shaded world and characters, excellent music, solid translation and voicing of characters, and fun battle system(Where you can master numerous weapons).
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Easily found.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Force
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sega/Working Designs
Platform: Saturn/Playstation 2(Import)
U.S. Release Date: 11/30/1996
Japanese Release Date: 3/29/1996
Europe Release Date: 4/25/1997
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game starts with you choosing a general(Later more are unlocked) and you have a region of land, you must set out and conquer the other nations. The battles are handled with a 100 soldiers versus a 100 and each has a general, the battles are nicely staged. The game features numerous classes of soldier and each general can command any unit(Once you find a badge to use these troops, all generals can fight and use a specific attacks or support skills. There are numerous strategic movements you can command your troops to use(Like pincer attack or defend general) and some battles require tons of strategy. The game features tons of characters and each enemy general can be captured, if you capture them you can sometime bring them to your side. The game has a solid storyline and each general adds more to the overall storyline, the game features solid graphics and music.
Unique Features: The epic battles and numerous battle option make this a Strategy game worth playing.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Finding it for less than $50-100 is hard to do.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Force 2(Import)
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sega
Platform: Saturn
Japanese Release Date: 1998
Description: Sadly never released outside of Japan, DF2 is another awesome S/RPG. While the game is Japanese, you can play the game without a FAQ(but it helps) it is set up almost the same as the original. Yet there are numerous new generals and this time you can have more than one type soldier. What you can do is have 50 soldiers and then 50 mages in back, there are numerous strategic options to choose from. The same great battle system is back with some more options to use and tons of characters to fight with you. The graphics are updated a little bit and the music is solid as usual, the game is awesome.
Unique Features: Numerous options in different soldier types and new strategies help make this a solid title.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Slayer: Legend of Heroes
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Falcom/Hudson
Platform: TurboGrafx CD(Turbo Duo)
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Japanese Release Date: 10/25/1991
Description: The game features solid RPG elements like storyline, cool characters, amazing music, some excellent graphics, and a great challenge. The game is one of the best early RPGs and features standard turn based battle system, yet for all the genre standards it breaks out on it’s own.
Unique Features: Solid storyline, excellent music, and tons of areas to explore make this a solid RPG to track down.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Hard to find except on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Valor
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Namco
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 10/16/2000
Japanese Release Date: 12/2/1999
Europe Release Date: 6/30/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Actually a remake of a 8 bit arcade game “Dragon Buster”, Dragon Valor uses a solid 3D engine. The game play is of a standard Action/RPG with numerous and varied dungeons, the towns are large and features lots of NPCs. The draw of the game is fighting the huge bosses and interacting with numerous characters through out the game. The game also features a generations system, based on who you marry it opens up playable characters that are their children.
Unique Features: Tons of huge bosses and the generations system make this a solid title to play.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity: A little hard to find outside of EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Warrior
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Enix
Platform: Nintendo/Game Boy Color(In a two pack with DW2)
U.S. Release Date: 8/1989
Japanese Release Date: 5/27/1986
Description: This game featured the option to play one of the first RPGs in the U.S., Nintendo Power even gave copies of the game with a subscription. The game has numerous areas to explore, lots of monster types, and deep character stat development. The game had some tough enemies/bosses, exploring was fun, and the story while basic was interesting. The graphics were solid, excellent music, and awesome monster designs.
Unique Features: Deep character stat development, long quest, numerous tough enemies/bosses, and lots of exploration.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Totally not rare at all, except DW1 and 2 game boy color can be tough to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Warrior 3
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Enix
Platform: Nintendo/Game Boy Color
U.S. Release Date: 4/1992-7/16/2001
Japanese Release Date: 2/10/1988-12/8/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: DW3 starts in the land of Aliahan and features numerous towns, enemies, and challenging bosses. Solid graphics bring the games world to life (Even on the Nes) and you an have a couple classes to help you in your party.
Unique Features: Tons of enemy classes, bosses, character classes, and solid music help make this a excellent title in the Dragon Warrior(Quest) series.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Warrior Monsters 2: Cobi’s Journey/Tara’s Adventure
Genre: RPG/Monster Sim
Developer/Publisher: Enix/Enix
Platform: Game Boy Color
U.S. Release Date: 9/15/2001
Japanese Release Date: 3/9/2001
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: Set in the Dragon Quest/Warrior world were trainers breed and train monsters(Like Pokemon) and there are numerous types. Both games are fun are for trading monsters between the two, while similar to Pokemon it makes it’s own way. The many bosses are challenging and the game is fun, there tons of monsters to find.
Unique Features: Well, having a slime as a pet is pretty cool and having many monsters from the series is cool too.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity: Shouldn’t be hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Drakengard
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Cavia/Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 3/2/2004
Japanese Release Date: 9/11/2003
Europe Release Date: 5/2/12004
ESRB Rating: Mature
Description: The game is a mix of Action(Think Dynasty Warriors) and shooter elements riding a dragon(Think Panzer Dragoon), it is a solid mix of genre. There is numerous endings and 65 weapons to find and level up. The graphics are solid, yet there is pop up and fogging of the backgrounds. The game also features a good storyline, yet a hint of incest brings the story down.
Unique Features: Tons of enemies to fight, 65 weapons to find( to get many of them you must replay missions), and numerous endings make this a fun experience.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Not hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Drakengard 2
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Cavia/Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 2/14/2006
Japanese Release Date: 6/16/2005
Europe Release Date: 3/3/2006
ESRB Rating: Mature
Description: This sequel features all new playable characters, yet does have connections to the original by the way of characters showing up(Including one of the main characters being playable from the original). The game play is divided between on foot battles and dragon shooter elements, you can use the dragon on the fly as long as there is room. The battles are handled similar in style to Dynasty Warriors, yet includes a level up system and weapon level up.
Unique Features: Usage of the dragon, leveling up weapons, on the fly switching of playable characters, and excellent cutscenes.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Shouldn’t be at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dual Hearts
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Matrix/Atlus
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 9/23/2002
Japanese Release Date: 2/14/2002
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The features solid graphics, good music, and some cool game mechanics. The game features tons of items, weapons, and puzzles which adds to the overall style of the game. The negative is that the camera can get caught in certain areas, a common problem in many 3D action games.
Unique Features: The game’s use of puzzles, platforming, and sword play make this a solid Action/RPG to play.
Rating: 8.25
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dynasty Tactics
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Koei
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 9/17/2002
Japanese Release Date: 2/14/2002
Europe Release Date: 9/17/2002
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Featuring solid strategic planning, numerous characters, lots of items, and pretty good visuals. The game features more in common with Final Fantasy Tactics(Grid usage) then say Romance of Three Kingdoms series. Solid music and lots of game play, that may bring casual gamers to the ROTK series.
Unique Features: The game features solid strategy battles, numerous characters, and a lengthy quest.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dynasty Tactics 2
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Koei
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 9/23/2003
Japanese Release Date: 6/26/2003
Europe Release Date: 11/17/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game’s visuals have been updated and a lot of the darker hued areas are brightened, yet the game looks good. The game has adds some more character storylines, yet there are less endings which kills some of the replay value. The game is still a solid mix of strategy, numerous characters, and some really cool stages.
Unique Features: The storyline is nice for fans of the Romance of Three Kingdom series and the games numerous generals are nice.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Shouldn’t be rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Earthbound
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Ape Studios/Nintendo
Platform: Super Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 6/1/1995
Japanese Release Date: 8/27/1994(Mother 2)
Description: Earthbound is set within modern times with usage of ATM cards and items from this time, Aliens come to your section of town and you must explore. The game features numerous and funny characters, making the quest so much fun. Ness and his numerous friends must use their skills and items to make it through the game.
Unique Features: Setting in the modern world with modern items(Such as using a phone to call mom or dad in order to save) and humorous storyline.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: It can be hard to find and a little expensive.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Eternal Eyes
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sunsoft/Crave
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 10/2/2000
Japanese Release Date: 12/2/1999
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game has solid 2D graphics, good music, and has some cool 3D battle fields. The game uses grid based combat and use of puppets that become your party, if you use crystals puppets have other skills/attributes. The game has a decent storyline and features some cool art, yet for some this game may be too juvenile(Despite some mature elements).
Unique Features: Strategy/RPG battles, use of numerous types of puppets, and some cool characters.
Rating: 8.25
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Eternal Ring
Genre: First Person RPG
Developer/Publisher: From Software
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 10/24/2000
Japanese Release Date: 3/4/2000
Europe Release Date: 10/22/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: With numerous areas to explore and lots of monsters to battles the game has some involving moments, yet what kills the title is the plodding pace(As in movement and progression are slow). The game had excellent graphics(For 2000), okay music, and minimal story.
Unique Features: Explore a huge world, lots of enemies, and first person view.
Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Exile
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Telenet/Working Design
Platform: TurboGrafx CD/Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 1992
Japanese Release Date: 3/29/1991
Description: The game has a solid storyline, excellent voice acting/cutscenes, and solid battles. The game is set up like a side scroller, featuring tons of tough enemies/bosses.
Unique Feature: Awesome cutscenes/voice acting, cool battles, and tough bosses.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Pretty rare in complete condition.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Exile: Wicked Phenomenon
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Telenet/Working Designs
Platform: TurboGrafx CD
U.S. Release Date: 1993
Japanese Release Date: 9/22/1992
Description: As a sequel, it continues with the storyline and characters from the original and brings with it solid cutscenes/voice actors. The game has tough battles, cool storyline, and the return of characters.
Unique Features: Tons of battles, cool characters, and solid voice acting/cutscenes.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Pretty hard to find complete.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: The Faery Tale Adventure
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: New World Computing/Electronic Arts
Platform: Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Description: Featuring a PC game style interface, with very badly rendered graphics tries to tell a decent story. The game has awful sound and the game play is pretty boring. To be honest, the only reason to own the game is if you are a collector of bad games or Genesis games.
Unique Features: Lengthy quest, some interesting monster designs, and a awful game.
Rating: 5.25
Rarity: Can be rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Faria
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: GameArts/Nexsoft
Platform: Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 6/1991
Japanese Release Date: 7/21/1989
Description: Featuring a mix of Dragon Warrior and Legend of Zelda, in that there is leveling up, exploration that you will need to use certain items to make it through, and when in towers the game scrolls like Zelda 1. The graphics are detailed, featuring a female main character(Which is uncommon), and a decent storyline.
Unique Features: Numerous weapons/armor/items, tons of areas to explore, and a deep level up system.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Can be rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Fatal Labyrinth
Genre: Random Dungeon RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sega
Platform: Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Description: The game has numerous random dungeons and many different monsters types, yet the game is very flawed. The game plays terribly and without a instructions/guide, it is unplayable. The game has some nice graphics, story is minimal, and the sound is okay.
Unique Features: Tons of rooms to explore, lots of monsters, and little story.
Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Faxanadu
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Falcom/ Nintendo
Platform: NES
U.S. Release Date: 8/1989
Japanese Release Date: 11/16/1987
Europe Release Date: 12/28/1990
Description: Faxanadu’s battle system is of a typical Action/RPG, movement is done in the style of a sidescroller. There are numerous enemies and platforming elements, you can get numerous weapons, armor, and magic items. There are excellently designed bosses and enemies, with subtle animation. The only real negative is that in movement mainly in jumping, it is stiff jump mechanics.
Unique Features: The basic game design, excellent number of weapons, items,and numerous classes, solid boss design, and password system make this a enjoyable adventure.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: While it may not be numerously seen, it can quite common and cheap.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Nintendo, Game Boy Advance(Part of Dawn of Souls), Playstation(Origins)
U.S. Release Date: 7/12/1990
Japanese Release Date: 12/8/1987
Description: The first game in the Final Fantasy series, featured a solid quest, numerous character classes to choose from(Up to four in your party), and lots of enemies to fight. The only negative is that the game had very little storyline other than your basic quest and the numerous town NPCs that you can speak to. The game had numerous monsters, tough bosses, and some areas that had environmental damage. On both the GBA and PSOne, both featured a easy mode
Unique Features: Long quest, a few classes to choose from, tough bosses, and lots of items, weapons, and magic to buy and find.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare to find since it’s numerous releases.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 2 (JAP)
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Famicom(Import), Game Boy Advance(Part of Dawn of Souls), Playstation(Part of Origins)
Japanese Release Date: 12/17/1988
U.S. Release Date: 2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The first Final Fantasy game that features well designed characters and in depth storyline. The game has well developed characters, cool storyline, and lots of monsters to fight. Yet the game features a new type of battle system, if you use a weapon or magic a hundred times it will get stronger. This also introduced phoenix downs and chocobos. Now the challenge on this title is tough, difficulty level is astounding yet beating the game is rewarding.
Unique Features: Lots of new additions, tough game play, and a interesting storyline make this a solid RPG adventure.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 3 (JAP)
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Famicom(Import)/DS remake
Japanese Release Date: 4/27/1990
Description: The only Final Fantasy title never to be released in the U.S. at least until the DS remake. This is the first Final Fantasy to feature a true character class system(To be later used in Final Fantasy 5, FFTactics, and FFTAdvance). The game has excellent graphics, solid music, and interesting characters.
Unique Features: Excellent use of character class system, solid storyline/characters, and numerous monsters/bosses to fight.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 2 (US)(SNES) / Final Fantasy 4 (JAP)
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Super Nintendo/Playstation/ Wonderswan Color
U.S. Release Date: 1991-6/2001-12/12/2005
Japanese Release Date: 10/21/1991-3/21/1997-12/15/2005
Europe Release Date: 6/2/2006
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: This GBA port adds slightly updated visuals, having the ability to use certain characters at the end of the game, and a bonus dungeon to get all the characters their ultimate weapon. Anyone who has played the original version on the SNES or PSOne, this is the best version. Yet for as good the game is, the GBA version is stopped by some slowdown. Yet this features some of the most defined characters, solid storyline, numerous enemy types, and a lengthy quest. The PSOne version’s weakness is that it features frequent loading.
Unique Features: Lots of dungeons, excellent characters, solid storyline, and bonus dungeons add to a already amazing game.
Rating: 10, 8.75
Average Rating: 9.375
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 5
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Super Famicom(Import), Playstation(Part of FF Anthology)
U.S. Release Date: 10/2/1999
Japanese Release Date: 12/6/1992-3/19/1998
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: This game was never released for the U.S. Super Nintendo because it was deemed to tough for U.S. public, it wasn’t released until 1999 on PSOne(Part of FF Anthology). The game features solid graphics, excellent music, and while the story isn’t as good as FF 3/4/6 it is still pretty good. The major hook of the game is use of the character class system(First truly used in FF3) and the solid use of the skills of the classes help through the game. While the number of characters is lower than FF4, the characters are still interesting and bring a lot to the story. The game has lots of tough bosses, numerous areas to explore, and a decent challenge. A re-release with add features is one the way to the Game Boy Advance.
Unique Features: Solid use of the character class system, lots of challenging bosses/enemies, and interesting characters.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 3 (US)(SNES) / Final Fantasy 6 (JAP -or- Part of Final Fantasy Anthology)
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Super Nintendo/Playstation/ Wonderswan Color
U.S. Release Date:10/20/1994-10/1999
Japanese Release Date: 4/12/1994-3/11/1999
Europe Release Date: 3/1/2002
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: A amazing storyline, side quest, cool characters, numerous bosses, and a game broke so much ground. A well written storyline and developed characters, awesome battle system and lots of dungeons. Tons of espers(Summons), magic, weapons, and numerous items that add to the overall game play. The only negative of the PSOne version is that it features frequent loading.
Unique Features: A lengthy quest, solid characters, tons of weapons, items, spells, and a excellent battle system.
Rating: 10, 10
Average Rating: 10
Rarity: Can be hard to find for either system without paying quite a bit for them.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 7
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation, PC
U.S. Release Date: 9/1997
Japanese Release Date: 1/31/1997
Europe Release Date: 11/14/1997
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The best selling Final Fantasy title and even though many are diluted that it is the best FF/RPG title, it is indeed a solid RPG. As the first FF(True FF) to appear on another system than Nintendo/Super Nintendo, it uses the extra power to do some excellent things. The graphics are excellent, the music is awesome, and features some of the best CG cutscenes(From that time). While graphics/cutscenes don’t make a great game, actual game play does and the FF7 does offer solid game play. From the cool materia system(Each piece of armor/weapon has a number of slots and putting materia in them, makes you learn their skills/magic) to the solid battle system all make this a solid title. The story is good and while many question Sephiroth’s role as a villain(I actually think he is a pretty good one) or as a weak momma’s boy, the game has some interesting twists. The game also uses numerous minigames to play and some you play more than the regular game.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, use of the materia, and a pretty deep storyline make this a solid title in the FF series (Yet not the best, IMO).
Rating: 10, 10
Average Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare in both forms, regular release or greatest hits.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 8
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation/PC
U.S. Release Date: 9/7/1999
Japanese Release Date: 2/11/1999
Europe Release Date: 10/27/1999
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: As most FF titles do, this one does change some conventional elements of the FF series. The game has excellent graphics, breathtaking CG cutscenes, and some of the best music. Some of the different conventions that are changed are monsters don’t drop items(You receive money from your occupation), you make weapons from items dropped by monsters, and guardian forces(Summons) play a important part of the game play(You junction them to characters that can enhance stats). The game uses a solid battle engine, lots of monsters/characters to fight, and a interesting storyline. The game’s strengths are solid character designs, excellent music, and some amazing cutscenes. Yet the game, happens to be a little more complicated than other titles. Many gamers hated the fact that to understand the junction system, you need to read a long faq for answers.
Unique Features: Great character designs, tons of battles, great use of guardian forces, and some amazing cutscenes.
Rating: 9.25, 6.5
Average Rating: 7.875
Rarity: Not to hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 9
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 11/13/2000
Japanese Release Date: 7/7/2000
Europe Release Date: 2/16/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: While the last two games in the series(FF7 and FF8) focused more on futuristic designs, this is a return to the fantasy setting. The game featured solid graphics, excellent music, and a great storyline. Almost all the characters are interesting and become loveable, yet they all grow as the game progresses. The game has a solid battle engine, some fun(Yet some are annoying) minigames, and lots of items to find. The game also has tons of humorous mentions of previous titles in the series, like when Zidane looks at a huge sword he says “I know a guy that uses a sword like that” or even getting Kain’s lance. The game also boast some cool bosses, a tough bonus boss, and some of the cool characters in a FF game. While all the great things, the last boss is kind of lame in both design and factoring into the overall storyline.
Unique Features: Setting in a fantasy world, numerous likable characters(Vivi), and a interesting storyline.
Rating: 10, 9
Average Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy X
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 12/7/2001
Japanese Release Date: 7/19/2001
Europe Release Date: 5/24/2002
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features memorable characters(Yes, even Tidus), epic storyline, amazing music, and some beautiful cutscenes. The way the game handles leveling up, is usage of Sphere Grid System where you can raise numerous stats(First you need the spheres) and there are numerous side quests to venture on. The game features solid visuals, excellent music, and much of the level designs are solid. One negative is the fact that the game is very linear, you don’t get to explore the world like the other titles in the series.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, tons of side quests, some awesome characters, and lengthy quest.
Rating: 10, 7
Average Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy X-2
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 11/18/2003
Japanese Release Date: 3/13/2003
Europe Release Date: 2/20/2004
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: As the first sequel to a Final Fantasy game, it uses the same monsters and some of the same environments. The game features a all girl cast(Yuna,Rikku, and Paine) yet it comes off as a forced experience, such as the overall lame music, horrible platforming(Why in a FF game?), and a cheesy Charlie’s Angel’s vibe. The game does have some nice elements, the solid graphics, excellent cutscenes, cool battle system(Dress system is kind of cool), and seeing much of the world from FFX is nice.
Unique Features: The first sequel to a FF title and the battle system is nice, yet the overall game is flawed.
Rating: 8.0, 8.0
Average Rating: 8.0
Rarity: Not hard to find at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy Tactics
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Quest/Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 1/28/1998
Japanese Release Date: 6/20/1997
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The development team of Quest was acquired by Square and they made this excellent S/RPG, it is excellent combination of Tactics Ogre/Final Fantasy character classes. The game has solid graphics, excellent music, and a decent storyline (Yet it does have some bad translation). The game uses the standard grid movement system and many of the stages that you fight on, have multiple dips and high areas making terrain effect important. The game has a excellent class system that features numerous classes and bonus effects based on the class chosen, of course the class also effects what weapons and skills you have. Lots of different monsters types, numerous battles, and a bonus dungeon add to the over all game play. Plus, add in the fact that you can recruit through a series of events Cloud Strife from FF7 (Although you must train him from level 1) makes this game and his quest a little more interesting.
Unique Features: The game boasts long quest length, open character class system, tons of challenging battles, and a bonus dungeon/bonus character.
Rating: 10
Rarity: The original version can be a little rare, yet the Greatest Hits version is a little more common.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 9/8/2003
Japanese Release Date: 2/14/2003
Europe Release Date: 10/24/2003
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game’s main characters are kids that find a book that brings them to the world of Ivalice, each character is at different places. The main character joins a clan and must complete numerous jobs, that bring in money and items. The game uses the job system from the previous FFT, yet only certain species and genders can have a specific class. The game’s storyline is actually kind of cool and while being childish, as some maturity. The game features solid graphics, excellent music, and a lengthy quest if you want to level up your troops. Yet there is a flaw, basically judges police the world of Ivalice and certain battle have ever changing laws. Some of the laws are no swords and I a character breaks the law, then they are either fined money, skills, or sent to prison. Yet there are cards that you can get that negate the effects of the law, so you can use a items that is outlawed.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, some excellent battles, cool classes(Yet it would be nice, if all races could use them), and a decent storyline.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Fire Emblem
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 11/3/2003
Japanese Release Date: 4/25/2003
Europe Release Date: 7/16/2004
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The first Fire Emblem(Actually the seventh game in the series) to be released in the U.S. and S/RPG similar to Shining Force, there are numerous characters and classes. The challenging of the Fire Emblem games is that if a character dies, they are dead forever(Or you have to restart). Each weapon in the game focus into a weapons triangle, certain weapons are stronger than others. There is a indepth storyline and each character can grow to like certain characters, at the end of the game if certain characters speak together you may trigger a marriage or friendship. The graphics feature detailed characters and backgrounds, the music is excellent.
Unique Features: The game can be tough and the fact that characters can die forever, it is a fun and challenging storyline.
Rating: 9.75, 9.75
Average Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Easy to find, yet complete hard to do.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Intelligent System/Nintendo
Platform: Game Cube
U.S. Release Date: 10/17/2005
Japanese Release Date: 4/20/2005
Europe Release Date: 11/4/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features numerous characters, a solid storyline, excellent music, and you can equip individual skills. The game features solid graphics, excellent use of tactics, and challenging battles.
Unique Features: Features fun game play, cool characters, solid tough battles, and overall great storyline.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Intelligent System/Nintendo
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 5/23/2005
Japanese Release Date: 10/7/2004
Europe Release Date: 11/4/2005
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The Sacred Stones for the first time in the series features a open level up and class upgrade system, you can power up your character to withstand most attacks. We are introduced to the new land of Magvel and the hard times of the numerous characters in the game, many of the character are quite defined. There is also the solid storyline and character conversations, many are very humorous or cool. There are numerous characters, classes, and weapons. Once the game is completed, there are numerous unlockable characters that add to the overall game.
Unique Features: Open class system, excellent characters, and solid quest.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not hard to find at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Forever Kingdom
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: From Software
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 1/21/2002
Japanese Release Date: 6/21/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: As a sequel to the launch title Evergrace, the game features much of the same that made the title sell. Yet the game has terrible graphics(While a improvement on the original title), so-so music, and some stifling game play. Basically, part of the story three characters all share a life bar(Yes, no individual life bars) which makes the game frustrating. The game has numerous enemies, traps that can damage you, and so cheap bosses that can kill you in one hit.
Unique Features: Numerous enemies and three characters all share one life bar.
Rating: 5.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Front Mission 3
Genre: Strategy
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 2/29/2000
Japanese Release Date: 9/12/1999
Europe Release Date: 8/11/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Square’s mech strategy title is the first one released in the U.S., featuring solid graphics, tough battles, and two separate storylines. The game looks good and the game’s music is excellent. The battles are solid with mech part damage(Destroy a arm or leg), tough battles, and a overall lengthy adventure.
Unique Features: Use of mechs, mech body damage, long quest, and two separate storylines.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Front Mission 4
Genre: Strategy
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 6/15/2004
Japanese Release Date: 12/18/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features use of Wanzers(Mech) and features a lengthy adventure, and there numerous event triggers which trigger hidden simulations and secrets. All the wanzers are customizable with numerous weapons, armor, and skill enhancers which add to the overall game play. You can expect solid visuals and excellent music.
Unique Features: Lengthy quest, solid strategic battles, customizing your wanzers, and a good number of secrets to uncover.
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Full Metal Alchemist and the Broken Angel
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Racjin/Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 1/18/2005
Japanese Release Date: 12/25/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Acting as a side story to the anime/manga series, we join Ed and Al on a Action/RPG adventure. There are numerous enemy types, cool attacks, usage of alchemy(Make weapons), and solid music. Some excellent anime cutscenes and some vocal tracks add to the story, yet the only negatives are simple animation and stiff movement.
Unique Features: A solid license title based on the excellent series and features fun game play.
Rating: 9.25
Rarity: Shouldn’t be rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
If you would like to make a submission, post your review in this thread and it will be edited into the list by myself or Dragoon Taryn. There are plenty of examples to assist you. Also include "-Reviewed by (Your Name)-" beneath so proper credit can be given. Please avoid abbreviations of the title or other aspects of the game in your review unless you have noted earlier that something can be abbreviated as [whatever].
Please make sure the game has not already been reviewed before making a review! If you want to add/correct something to someone's review, please post the correction/addition, and we'll edit it into the review with proper credit given to you.
They are in alphabetical order by title, or should be, but you can hit Ctrl+F (Windows) or Apple+F (Macintosh) and type in the title or anything else to quickly locate the game/developer/genre/etc.
Finally, keep in mind we reserve the right to modify your review should it be inaccurate, highly disagreeable, etc. If you have any comments on existing reviews, please post in the "Comprehensive RPG List - Discussion Only (http://forums.gamewinners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=498985)" thread.
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Here is a template you can follow if you wish (copy/paste the bit below with the tags. Don't quote it and c/p though.):
]Title:[/B]
]Genre:[/B]
]Developer/Publisher[/B]:
]Platform[/B]:
]ESRB Rating[/B]:
]Description[/B]
]Battle System: [/B]
]Unique Notes:[/B]
-Reviewed by -
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Title: Actraiser
Genre: Action/God Sim
Developer/Publisher: Quintet/Enix
Platform: Super Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Japanese Release Date: 12/16/1990
Europe Release Date: 3/16/1993
Description: The game set up as you are a God and you want to bring people back to the land, to do that you must clear out enemies. When the first act is done, comes the sim parts you have to defend the people from beast and tell them where to build. As the civilization expands you will gain experience and gain items from the people, then once you have helped them enough you will go to another area to build another society. Numerous detailed monsters and bosses will be your enemies, you must survive pitfalls and other hazards. Excellent graphics and wonderful music score make this one of the best SNES titles out there.
Unique Features: Being a God and expanding your society is cool, as are the awesome action parts.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Easy to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Advance Guardian Heroes
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Treasure/Ubisoft
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 2004
Japanese Release Date: 9/22/2004
Europe Release Date: 2/18/2005
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: A sequel to the classic Guardian Heroes(Saturn) that takes us back to the world of the original, bringing back characters and updating the gameplay. The game features RPG elements yet you play the game as a beat em up(Think Streets of Rage) and for this game there are more techniques. Excellent 2D animation, great music, fun game play, and a two player mode adds more the already solid game. All is not well with the great game, the only negative is that it can suffer from slowdown.
Unique Features: The beat em up style with RPG elements makes this a fun Action RPG with a different style, with multiple characters and a good story makes this a fun portable game.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Should be easy to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Advanced Dungeons and Dragons: Heroes of the Lance
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: U.S. Gold/Pony Canyon
Platform: Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Japanese Release Date: 3/8/1991
Description: Based on the D and D series, this is a horrible game. The game features unresponsive controls, terrible graphics, and some bad music. While the game has a minimal storyline that translated to the game, yet it is so badly applied(The game is actual based on a novel in the DragonLance series).
Unique Features: Numerous monsters types and a muddled storyline.
Rating: 3.5
Rarity: Commonly found.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Age of Empires: The Age of Kings
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Backbone/Majesco
Platform: Nintendo DS
U.S. Release Date: 2/14/2006
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: In taking the PC classic series to the DS, it has been made similar in design as the Advance Wars series. You play through numerous timelines and historic characters are playable, the battles are turn based. Numerous units, long battles, and solid techniques make this a fun Strategy game.
Unique Features: Playing as numerous historic heroes is cool as are the numerous units to use.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Aidyn Chronicles: The First Mage
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: H20 Interactive/THQ
Platform: Nintendo 64
U.S. Release Date: 63/14/2001
Japanese Release Date: 8/3/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game has a decent 3D world, numerous enemies to fight, and 14 characters to play as. The game has numerous problems like bad camera, little to no music, and awkward level up system/difficulty level. Many areas(including starting areas) can get you killed, where you will fight numerous tough monsters. The story line is also could have been better, yet at least makes you want to progress the tale.
Unique Features: Cool world to explore, numerous characters, and a interesting storyline to keep you progressing.
Rating: 6.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Albert Odyssey
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sunsoft/Working Designs
Platform: Saturn
U.S. Release Date: 7/31/1997
Japanese Release Date: 8/9/1996
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game features a solid turn based system with tons of skills and magic, the game has excellent dialog written by Working Designs. The game’s graphics are nicely drawn and feature some solid music, the voice acting is pretty solid as well. Yet all is not well, the game does feature lots of loading in between battles.
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Hard to find outside of EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Alundra
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: SCEI/Working Designs
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 12/31/1997
Japanese Release Date: 4/11/1997
Europe Release Date: 6/1998
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Alundra is a 2D Action/RPG with a lot in common with Landstalker(Genesis), it features tons of platforming, battles, and hard puzzles. The game has a solid storyline and features Alundra who can go into people’s dreams, it is also a fair number of times you do so. The game features great music, excellent animation, and tons of weapons/items.
Unique Features: Tough puzzles, excellent sword play, cool storyline, and a great story make this a solid choice.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: A little tough to find outside of EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Alundra 2
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Matrix/Activision
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 2/29/2000
Japanese Release Date: 11/18/1999
Europe Release Date: 6/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The first Alundra was a amazing 2D action/RPG with tough puzzles, yet Alundra 2 uses terrible 3D graphics and has nothing what made the original so fun. While the 2D is serviceable, the puzzles are easier(Which is kind of nice) and the game play standard Action/RPG fare. While fun for what it is, it still is a far cry from the original.
Unique Features: Tons of weapons, items, minigames, and some cool puzzles.
Rating: 7.25
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad(Part of Arc the Lad Collection)
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: G-Craft/Working Designs
Platform: Playstation/Wonderswan Color
U.S. Release Date: 4/18/2002
Japanese Release Date: 6/30/1995
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: This was one of the first RPGs for the PSOne, yet Sony never wanted to release it in the U.S., so Working Designs finally brought it here. The game has vibrant graphics, excellent music, and a decent storyline. The game has a standard gird movement system, numerous skills, and a cool set of characters. The game’s real weakness is that it is very linear and short(Around 7-10 hours long).
Unique Features: Cool characters, excellent dialog, and some fun battles.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Hard to find complete.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad 2(Part of the Arc the Lad Collection)
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: G-Craft/Working Designs
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 4/18/2002
Japanese Release Date: 11/1/1996
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features a new cast of characters(Although all the characters from Arc 1 appear again) and is less linear than the first title. The game has solid graphics, great music, and a decent storyline. The game also features a solid grid battle system with lots of usage of skills, the game has lots of tough battles to fight(Just look at the last boss). With this release, there is also monster recruiting which adds to the overall gameplay. Plus, you monster data can put with the bonus monster battle disc. The game’s use of guild job system, intriguing and adds missions and money to your pocket.
Unique Features: More options to travel and backtrack, tough battles, new characters, and monster recruiting adds to the game.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Hard to find complete.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad 3(Part of the Arc the Lad Collection)
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: G-Craft/Working Designs
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 4/18/2002
Japanese Release Date: 10/28/1999
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features solid graphics, good music, and has a decent storyline. The game uses the guild job system again and adds to it, bring more replay value to the game. The game has detailed character models that you can tell they are doing certain actions, swing sword or cast spell. The negative of the game is that, the game is very easy and while offer experienced players no challenge.
Unique Features: Solid S/RPG gameplay, cool characters, and a game good for beginners.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Hard to find complete.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad: End of Darkness
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Cattle Call/Namco
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 6/14/2005
Japanese Release Date: 11/3/2004
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Set five years after Twilight of Spirits, you being the game as Edda who is the main character. Many elements of the Arc series are used, such as Edda becomes part of the Hunters Guild(Main source of progress) and you can character cards that let you go into battle as famous Arc characters like Arc and Tosh and more). The games change from strategic to Action/RPG is indeed saddening, for the old style was so much better. It plays well for a online game and can quite fun.
Unique Features: Using most of the famous characters from the Arc series is awesome, so is the idea to make this playable online.
Rating: 7.75
Rarity: It should common.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Arc the Lad: Twilight of Spirits
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Cattle Call/Sony
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 6/25/2003
Japanese Release Date: 3/20/2003
Europe Release Date: 1/30/2004
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features excellent graphics, solid difficult battles, and numerous characters. The game has a new set of characters and the game play is very solid, the game’s length is long( If you want to find all characters, items, and level up your characters can take up to 70-100 hours). Taking elements from the previous titles and enhancing it, then game comes off well.
Unique Features: Lots of characters, tough numerous battles, and a decent storyline.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Astonishia Story
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sonnori/Ubisoft
Platform: PSP
U.S. Release Date: 6/6/2006
Europe Release Date: 6/23/2006
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: Based on a 1994 PC game never released here, a redux(while not much was changed) is here for the PSP. The story is nothing special as it very clichéd, the music is pretty good. The graphics are standard 2D that looks nice and features a excellent anime intro. Negatives are the long load times and the experience is hard to come by.
Unique Features: While at $39.99 the price is steep for a such a weak RPG, at $20 it is a little better. The game features no strategy so it use the strongest character to kill enemies, but it is a fun very old school title.
Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not hard to find at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Atelier Iris: Eternal Mana
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Gust/NIS
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date:6/28/2005
Japanese Release Date: 5/27/2004
Europe Release Date: 3/17/2006
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The graphics use excellent 2D animated sprites and backgrounds, the game features a good number of characters(That can switched out of battle). There are numerous items to create, cool character level up system, and a excellent music score.
Unique Features: Amazing 2D animation, cool characters, and a overall bunch of challenging bosses.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Not hard to find at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Atelier Iris: Eternal Mana 2
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Gust/NIS
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 4/25/2006
Japanese Release Date: 5/26/2005
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: The game uses high detailed 2D sprites and the game looks amazing, the soundtrack is pretty good as well. This time you play as two characters, as the hero type there is Felt and the alchemist is Viese, both elements work very well together. Basically you have a share ring, that enables you to share items back and forth. The game has excellent pacing so if you don’t have a lot of time to play you could play through numerous areas and events in just a hour.
Unique Features: Beautiful animation, solid game play, and a overall excellent pacing of story.
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Azure Dreams
Genre: Random Generated Dungeon RPG/Monster Sim
Developer/Publisher: Konami
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 6/30/1998
Europe Release Date: 112/1998
Japanese Release Date: 11/13/1997
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: As Azure Dreams beings you enter a tower and must fight thorough 99 floors without running back to town, yet if you do leave it starts over a level 1 all over again. The graphics are nicely animated, solid music, and the difficulty is tough. As you progress through the floors of the dungeon, you can find numerous eggs that you must breed and raise to fight along side you. Like most Random generation dungeon RPGs, you start out at level 1 yet your monster retains all it’s experience.
Unique Features: A always changing dungeon means more game time, solid battle system, usage of monsters(Familars), and a tough difficulty level.
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: It can be a little tough to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: The Bard’s Tale
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Inxine Entertainment/Ubsoft
Platform: Playstation 2/XBOX
U.S. Release Date: 10/26/2004
Europe Release Date: 3/24/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The update of the Bard’s Tale is a action/RPG that focuses heavily on hack and slash, yet adds a lot to the mix like solid voice acting(Cary Elwes is a excellent choice for a voice of a character) and numerous items to find. While the graphics and cutscenes are nice, the music is quite good.
Unique Features: Cool hack and slash game play, pretty good music, and some excellent voice overs make this a fun Action/RPG to check out.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean
Genre: Turn based/Card battle
Developer/Publisher: tri-Crescendo/Monolith/Namco
Platform: Game Cube
U.S. Release Date: 11/16/2004
Japanese Release Date: 12/5/2003
Europe Release Date: 4/1/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game’s battle system uses cards(Magnus) that have certain skill numbers(The higher the effectiveness and attack/defensive) and for those who have played Chrono Cross(PSOne),this should be familiar(It was made by some of the same team). The games graphics are beautiful, music is excellent, voice acting(Kind of bad), and the overall storyline is immersive. Numerous characters join your party and the magnus card system is cool, you can capture essences of things(Like water or fire) to use.
Unique Features: Cool battle system, solid graphics, excellent music, and overall great usage of strategy for the battle system.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Battle Hunter
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Success/A1
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 6/1/2001
Japanese Release Date: 12/22/1999
Europe Release Date: 4/12/2001
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: A strange mixture of turn based RPG and board game, the combo of the tow is interesting. The games has some decent 2D graphics, music is pretty bad, and there is very little story. The game has limits that are saddening, you can only level up your character to 15 and the game has only 15 missions. A plus is that it features four player multiplayer, yet finding a multi-tap can be hard to do.
Unique Features: Mix of RPG and board game, four player, and some nice graphics.
Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not hard to find and cheap.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Beyond Oasis
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Ancient/Sega
Platform: Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 12/8/1994
Japanese Release Date: 12/9/1994
Europe Release Date: 1994
Description: Vibrant graphics, amazing music score, and great game play. Numerous monsters, puzzles, and items to find make this a solid Action/RPG. The game is so well designed with it’s enemy layouts to the level designs, the music score is just as amazing.
Unique Features: Solid action, tons of monsters, and great level designs
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Beyond Shadowgate
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: ICOM/TTI
Platform: Turboduo
U.S. Release Date: 1993
Europe Release Date: 1993
Description: Taking the original puzzles of Shadowgate and updating it, with the update comes new 3D environments. Numerous hazards are fatal for the main character and the game play is quite challenging, tons of detailed backgrounds.
Unique Feature: A fully solid puzzle deep RPG with challenging game play and beautiful music.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: It is very hard to find and expensive.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Beyond the Beyond
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Camelot/Sony
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 8/31/1996
Japanese Release Date: 11/3/1995
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: While a decent length RPG with a cool battle system, suffers from a boring storyline and characters. While the animation is nice, music pretty good, the boring storyline brings it down.
Unique Features: Cool battle system, decent length of game play, and some nice animation.
Rating: 7.25
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchanel
Platform: Saturn(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 8/27/1998
Description: One of the best series of Strategy/RPGs that has never been released in the U.S., well worth the time and effort of playing it. The game uses the standard grid movement system, usual stats and skills, and a insanely interesting storyline. The game lets you choose a master character that effects, in some ways the ending you will receive, there are few endings and options to play. The story is about a war between heaven and hell, yet the demons win (They have black wings) and make the white winged angels their slaves. This is where the main character comes in, he was in a coma and now based on choices he can effect the world. The graphics are good, music is pretty good, and the voices are solid. Plus, to use special attacks and skills you need blood points you get these from killing enemies. Also when a character dies they stay dead, no coming back.
Unique Features: Excellent storyline, different masters to choose from, and solid battle system.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: It can be tough to find the first print version of the game, yet the second edition is easier to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix 00
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchannel
Platform: Playstation(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 5/13/2004
Description: This is a remake of the GBA BM Zero, it has updated graphics, excellent storyline, and solid music. The storyline is that a land that is free from the battles between the angels and demons, lives Cain with his friend Mattia. Yet a demon comes for Mattia, a angel takes out the demon and then takes Mattia. Cain then seeks out to find Mattia, yet he is killed by a angel and before he dies he grows a set of white wings. He then seeks out Mattia, of course it doesn’t make many people happy. The game has a excellent S/RPG battle system, cool characters, and excellent skills.
Unique Features: Excellent storyline, cool characters, and solid graphics make this a title worth importing.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix A/D
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchannel
Platform: Dreamcast(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 9/30/1999
Description: While this is a remake of the original Black/Matrix, it does add some nice features like new anime cutscenes and some new storylines. Yet it is basically the same game with solid gameplay, excellent storyline, and numerous characters.
Unique Features: Excellent storyline, cool characters, and solid battle system.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Can be easier found than the Saturn versions.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix Cross
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchannel
Platform: Playstation(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 12/14/2000
Description: Acting as a remake of the Saturn version with added content, like new master characters to unlock. The same great S/RPG game play, cool storyline, and excellent characters.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, cool characters, and excellent storyline.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Black/Matrix Zero
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nec Interchannel
Platform: Game Boy Advance
Japanese Release Date: 8/30/2002
Description: Another solid Strategy/RPG featuring angels and demons, the game has excellent 2D animation, solid music, and a decent storyline. While sadly another title left in Japan, it can be played without knowledge of Japanese yet you will miss out on a lot.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, cool characters, and excellent storyline.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Blade Dancer: Lineage of Light
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Hit Maker/NIS
Platform: PSP
U.S. Release Date: 7/18/2006
Japanese Release Date: 3/12/2006
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: Featuring solid 3D graphics, good music, and anime intro starts with promise. The game play is turn based(It reminds me of the battle system of Phantasy Star 1-4) and features weapons that break(You can repair them). The game features a pretty clichéd storyline, yet the characters are interesting and there are lots of stuff to find.
Unique Features: A solid battle system, pretty good graphics, and a cool set of characters.
Rating: 7.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Brandish
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Falcom/Koei
Platform: Super Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 2/1995
Japanese Release Date: 6/25/1994
Description: A solid Action/RPG with a high challenge level of enemies/bosses, a under-appreciated classic. While graphics are the best, the game play and music make up for it.
Unique Features: A tough adventure where to complete it, you have to make it through a huge labyrinth.
Rating: 8.25
Rarity: Can hard to find except on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Brave Fencer Mushashi
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square/Square/EA
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 10/31/1998
Japanese Release Date: 7/16/1998
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: BFM is a Action/RPG that stars Mushashi, he is transports to the kingdom of Allucaneet to save the princess and bring peace. The game’ progression is steady and never daunting, the characters are all humorous and memorable. As you progress in the game, you must find five scrolls to give you new powers to help fight bosses and puzzles. Mushashi can assimilate and take enemies skills by using on of his two swords, the game also focus on a 24 hour cycle which effects when stores are open, puzzles, and when to talk to people.
Unique Features: The game’s assimilation skill adds to the game and so does the 24 hour cycle system. Overall a in-depth fun and challenging Action/RPG.
Ratings: 9.5, 7.2
Average Rating: 8.35
Rarity: Shouldn’t be too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom/Square(GBA version) by Capcom)
Platform: Super Nintendo/Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 8/1994(SNES), 12/13/2001
Japanese Release Date: 4/3/1993(SNES), 7/16/2001
Europe Release Date: 12/1/2001
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The storyline follows Ryu(A member of the Light Dragons) who must confront the Dark Dragons, of course with help from numerous characters. The game play is turn based and there are numerous weapons, items, and Ryu has the ability to change into dragons. The game features tons of enemies and bosses, it’s random encounters are plentiful yet fun.
Unique Feature: Tons of items and skill for the character make this a engrossing RPG experience.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Both games can be pretty scarce.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire 2
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom
Platform: Super Nintendo/Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 12/1995-4/16/2002
Japanese Release Date: 12/2/1994-12/21/2001
Europe Release Date: 4/25/1996-6/28/2002
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: Ryu and Nina are back, yet there numerous new characters with excellent skills. The battle system is standard turn based system with tons of items, weapons, skills, and of course Ryu’s usage of Dragon form. A solid engrossing storyline, cool characters, excellent puzzles, and fun game play.
Unique Features: Solid RPG with tons of challenging quest, lots of bosses and enemies to meet.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: A little hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire 3
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom
Platform: Playstation/PSP
U.S. Release Date: 4/3/1998
Japanese Release Date: 9/11/1997-8/25/2005
Europe Release Date: 10/1998-2/10/2006
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: This BOF title yet again brings back Ryu and Nina, but adds more characters and skills sets to use. Solid animation, excellent music, and a decent storyline. The game features tons of secrets to find and items to find, which adds to the overall game play. The game has a solid battle system and excellent use of Ryu’s dragon skills.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, decent storyline, and lots of secrets to find.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire 4
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 11/28/2000
Japanese Release Date: 4/27/2000
Europe Release Date: 8/3/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Yet again you assume the role of Ryu and many of the same characters appear(Nina), the battle system is the same standard turn based system. In battle, there are tons weapons, skills, and Ryu’s ability to turn into a dragon. Yet the battle system is usual, you can take advantage of the Tactical Battle system so you can send wounded units to the back row. Beautiful animation and almost hand painted backgrounds bring the game to life, and even many of the backgrounds look pre-rendered they are in fact done on the fly. The usual action object based puzzles are included(As well in most BOF games).
Unique Features: Beautiful graphics, solid gameplay, and a excellent storyline make this a great game.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Rare in some areas.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Capcom
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 2/16/2003
Japanese Release Date: 11/14/2002
Europe Release Date: 11/28/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: A vastly different entry in the BOF series, set within a future where people live under ground. The game still features Ryu, yet in the game you can only use dragon booster a set number of times or you die. The game has a SOL system, where you can restart were you died or restart the game with items, skills, and zeeny you have found yet you may see cutscenes that you didn’t the first time. This brings a lot of replay value, yet also makes it feel disjointed in storyline.
Unique Features: Different style of entry in the series, SOL system, and some tough bosses.
Rating: 7.5
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Brigandine
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Hearty Robin/Atlus
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 10/31/1998
Japanese Release Date: 4/12/1998
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: As the game starts you have a choice of five generals to play as and each have a land, each general has their share of strengths and weaknesses. The bulk of the game is organizing troops, summoning monsters, choosing armies, and fortifying castles. Numerous side quest, soldiers, and options make this a long S/RPG, plus playing through with all generals is a lot of fun. Yet not all is well, graphics wise are pretty standard and the game can be challenging.
Unique Features: Playing through as numerous generals adds to the overall game, as does the side quests and depth of the game.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Can quite hard to find and can be a little expensive.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Konami
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 5/5/2003
Japanese Release Date: 5/8/2003
Europe Release Date: 5/9/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Featuring solid 2D animation, excellent music, solid level designs, and the ability to take the skills of monsters make this one of the best Castlevania games. The game has a solid number of enemies and bosses, tons of skills and weapons to collect, and numerous twists in the story.
Unique Features: Solid level design, ability to take enemies skills, and tons of monsters/bosses to fight.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too hard now that it is part of a Castlevania GBA double pack.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Konami
Platform: Nintendo DS
U.S. Release Date: 10/4/2005
Europe Release Date: 9/30/2005
Japanese Release Date: 9/25/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Dawn of Sorrow is a sequel to Aria of Sorrow(GBA), it features Soma as the main character again. The game features excellent 2D graphics, a excellent storyline, cool bosses, and a in-depth monster soul(Skills you receive from monsters). There are multiple characters to play as(After beating the game) and a two player mode. The games usage of the DS capabilities are to seal bosses you must draw with the stylus and on the top screen is the map of the game.
Unique Features: Awesome game play, cool bosses, more cool monster souls, and multiple characters.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Konami
Platform: Playstation/Saturn(Import)
U.S. Release Date: 10/27/1997
Japanese Release Date: 3/20/1997
Europe Release Date: 11/19/1997
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Castlevania usually has more to do with the action genre(Castlevania 2 with standing), with this entry it features RPG elements. The game features awesome 2D animation, solid game design, numerous enemies to fight, and a few twists in story. The game stars Alucard and this is second time he has played a major part in the story of Castlevania(Last time, he was a playable character in Castlevania 3), the story is well thought out and features a some cool twists. There are a few familiars(Demons who help and fight by your side) and tons of skills to find. The Saturn version is actually a little different than the PSOne version, it has a few extra familiars and extra areas to explore.
Unique Features: Amazing detail to animation of characters and monsters, well thought out level designs, tons of monsters and bosses to fight, and lots of skills to help through out the quest.
Rating: 10
Rarity: The non greatest hits versions can be tough and expensive to find, yet the Greatest hits version is a little easier to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Chocobo’s Dungeon 2
Genre: Random Dungeon RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 11/30/1999
Japanese Release Date: 12/23/1998
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game features Chocobo as the main characters and many supporting characters are Square FF creatures like Mog. The game progresses like most Random Dungeon RPGs, you try to survive numerous floors while fighting monsters and finding items. The game has decent graphics, solid music, and tons of dungeons to explore. While the game comes off like a kid’s game, it does have a decent challenge level.
Unique Features: Playing as Chocobo, multiple dungeons, and excellent amount of items.
Rating: 8.25
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Chrono Cross
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 8/15/2000
Japanese Release Date: 11/18/1999
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Featuring amazing character designs, solid battle system, and some excellent graphics. The game is a sequel to Chrono Trigger and while featuring new characters, there are little connections that link the two (Those who played CTrigger with FF Chronicles, would have seen a bonus animated film after completing the game which adds a twist to it). The game has a large roster of characters to recruit and only some can be recruit in one game(If you play through again with a plus game, you have the opportunity to get those you missed), yet if you have a item and have completed the game you can bring all the characters together. The game’s battle system is quite fun and full of strategy, numerous skills and magics are available to use. The game does away with typical RPG leveling up, yet after battles and bosses you receive upgrades to your characters(You don’t receive experience points). The game has a deep storyline(Yet it can be confusing, if don’t pay attention) and numerous twists that add to the overall story. The music is excellent and demand that you should pick up the soundtrack,.
Unique Features: Tons of characters to recruit, excellent storyline, and awesome soundtrack add up to make one of the best RPGs.
Rating: 10, 9.25
Average Rating: 9.625
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Chrono Trigger
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square/ Square Soft
Platform: Super Nintendo/Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 9/21/1995/7/21/2001
Japanese Release Date: 3/11/1995/11/2/1999
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Featuring art by Akira Toriyama and awesome game design by Square, CT is one of the best RPGs ever made. Featuring numerous characters, skills, place to time travel to, and a overall great storyline. It features tons of endings some of which require one or two character to go up against the last boss, add with it combined attacks between characters up to all three fighting.
Unique Features: Tons of endings, great side quests, awesome music and story, and sweet set of bosses make this a RPG to remember.
Rating: 10, 9.0
Average Rating: 9.5
Rarity: SNES version can be expensive and the PSOne versions(part of the FF Chronicles set with FF4) can be a little cheaper(Yet it features loading).
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Cima: The Enemy
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Neverland/Natsume
Platform: Game Boy Advance
ESRB Rating: Everyone
U.S. Release Date: 11/17/2003
Description: As Ark J. you must help numerous lost NPCs and protect them from the numerous Cima monsters. The game features a excellent overworld that you must travel through with the NPCs in tow. Keeping them alive becomes much like a puzzle and can be quite tough since the monsters and bosses get in the way. Sadly, a widely ignored title that features solid gameplay,music, and overall a excellent challenge.
Unique Features: Overall, the unique feature of Cima is that it features more brain and might usage than most Action/RPGs(Instead of hack and slash).
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Overall it shouldn’t be hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Colosseum: Road to Freedom
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Ertain/Koei
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 7/20/2005
Japanese Release Date: 2/17/2005
Europe Release Date: 9/9/2005
ESRB Rating: Mature
Description: Koei’s attempt at a gladiatorial style game like Shadow of Rome(Action game and is way better than this game), yet comes off lacking. The game gives you numerous options to create a character to play as, you are brought as a slave to a gladiator school and must earn your freedom. You make money based on how well you do at the games and if you don’t die. The game has solid graphics, some good music, and some gore battle touches (Not as good as Shadow of Rome though). Yet the game is flawed in one of the most important features of any action/RPG game(Even action games), it features no lock-on button so you end up hitting nothing and flailing about. You need to be able to strafe, yet you can’t and it is a sad that such a features was left out(Especially, in this day and age).
Unique Features: Being able to build up your characters stats, numerous battle types, and the ability to buy your own slaves to fight by your side is nice.
Rating: 6.5
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Cosmic Fantasy 2
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nippon/Working Designs
Platform: TurboGrafx CD(Turbo Duo)
U.S. Release Date: 1992
Japanese Release Date: 4/15/1991
Description: A solid RPG with excellent cutscenes, cool characters, tons of tough bosses, and a overall solid storyline. Amazing graphics for the time and excellent music, lets not forget the sweet cutscenes.
Unique Features: Cool storyline, cutscenes that are amazing, and tons of dungeons to explore.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Hard to find except EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Crusader of Centy
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nextech/ Atlus
Platform: Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 6/16/1994
Europe Release Date: 1994 under name Soleil
Japanese Release Date: 6/17/1994 under Ragnacenty
Description: The game features beautiful detailed graphics and wonderfully designed, examples of touches are when walking a beach you see foot prints and even ground erosion(Unheard of at the time). A perfect mix of puzzle, swordplay, spirit animals, and a lock on strafe make this a shining gem. The music is quite good as well, overall this is one of the best Action/RPGs ever made.
Unique Features: Excellent use of puzzles, challenges, solid music, and the graphics make this a game worth checking out.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Hard to find and can be expensive.\
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Crystalis
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: SNK
Platform: Nintendo/Game Boy Color
U.S. Release Date: 1990
Japanese Release Date: 4/13/1990
Description: One of the best Action/RPGs created, it featured solid character development, lots of monster types, and numerous items to find. The game has a long length with a massive world to explore, tough bosses to fight, and a interesting storyline. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, you are a person who was frozen and must go on a epic quest. The game has vibrant graphics, solid music, and numerous lands to explore. The Game Boy Color game added some voice, yet it is the same great game.
Unique Features: Tons of items to find, lots of enemies/bosses to fight, excellent level up system, and a massive land to explore.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare either copy.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Culdcept
Genre: Card battles
Developer/Publisher: Omiya Soft/NEC
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 12/4/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: As the first Culdcept game released in the U.S. it went virtually ignored, sadly it is true yet a XBOX360 version may come hear. Culdcept is a card game where you have creatures in cards and you can set them on the map, if a opponent lands on that spot(Like monopoly) – both monsters will fight. The game features tons of battles and excellent sprites for characters and wonderful backgrounds, the battles can be rewarding if you keep with them.
Unique Features: The card battle system is fun and challenging.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity: Can be tough to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dai Senryaku 7: Modern Military Tactics
Genre: Strategy
Developer/Publisher: SystemSoft/Kemco
Platform: XBOX
U.S. Release Date: 2/15/2005
Japanese Release Date: 5/25/2003
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: There are over 400 units of military weapons to use and the battles take place on grids, you can build units as well which adds to the game. The game’s graphics are basic, the music is good, and there is some solid A.I.
Unique Features: Over 400 units and building of them is cool.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity:Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dai-2-Ji Super Robot Taisen Alpha
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Banpresto
Platform: Playstation 2(Import)
Japanese Release Date: 3/27/2003
Description: As a Strategy/RPG, the SRT series are some of the best and they all can be incredibly challenging. The game has numerous mobile suits, tough battles, and tons of strategic options. The game has excellent graphics, solid music, and a good storyline. Sadly, this will never make it to the U.S.
Unique Features: Numerous mobile suits/pilots, tons of strategic options, and challenging battles.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dark Cloud
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Level 5/Sony
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 5/8/2001
Japanese Release Date: 12/14/2000
Europe Release Date: 9/21/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game set you forth to recreate the world that was destroyed, you will have to survive the numerous floors of dungeons to find the parts to fix the world. The game has you put things together like buildings and putting the right parts to people’s house. Multiple characters are playable and there is a bonus dungeon with one hundred floors.
Unique Features: Tons of dungeons, multiple characters, and numerous enemies.
Rating: 9.0, 4.0
Average Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dark Cloud 2
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Level 5/Sony
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 2/17/2003
Japanese Release Date: 11/28/2002
Europe Release Date: 9/12/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features stellar graphics, tons of replay value, and solid game play. The game gives you the option of doing numerous things like practice a form of golf(Spheda), make lots of inventions, go fishing, and enter tournaments. As you progress in the game, you go through numerous dungeons and have the option of playing as different characters.
Unique Features: Numerous options of game play, multiple characters, and beautiful graphics.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not rare at all
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dark Savior
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Climax/Sega
Platform: Saturn
U.S. Release Date: 11/30/1996
Japanese Release Date: 8/30/1996
Europe Release Date: 1997
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Created by the team behind Landstalker, this is another solid Action/RPG that features their trademark isometric jumping. The game has tough boss battles, cool puzzles, and some cool platforming. The game features some nice graphics, solid music, and a interesting story. The only real negative us that Sega felt the need to change the currency from beer/cigarettes to chocolate.
Unique Features: Some cool battles, lots of areas to explore, and some tough puzzles.
Rating: 8.5
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dark Wizard
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sega
Platform: Sega CD
U.S. Release Date: 194
Japanese Release Date: 11/12/1993
Description: The graphics of DW is of beautiful animation and solid backgrounds, the music is quite good. The game play is based on the basic grid battle system, the battle are quite challenging and fun. Numerous characters and classes are available making the game more fun to summon them and customize them.
Unique Features: Tons of battles, cool classes, and overall high challenging gameplay.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Tough to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Deadly Towers
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Irem/Broderbund
Platform: Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 9/1987
Japanese Release Date: 1/12/1986
Description: As a prince you must travel through the deadly towers and thats all you really need to know. The game has ugly backrounds, terrible hit detection(You try to hit enemies, yet just don’t), and some good music. The game has little direction so you just go through numerous doors and hope you get some where.
Unique Features: Numerous monster types, many rooms to explore, and some good music.
Rating: 2.0
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Disgaea: Hour of Darkness
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Nippon Ichi/Atlus
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 8/27/2003
Japanese Release Date: 1/30/2003
Europe Release Date: 5/28/2004
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Basically one of the most humorous storylines in all of games and featuring tons of lovable characters. The storyline is about Laharl who is son of the overlord of the underworld, his father pasted away and when he wakes from his coma. Numerous demons are trying to overtake his rightful place, so he must create numerous characters to fight along side him. The story while humorous it still features a lot of heart, the characters come to life with awesome voice work. Graphics, wise it features beautiful 2D art and the soundtrack is very good. Part of the fun is boosting your characters to insane levels and making numerous character classes. One of the best S/RPG ever made(IMO The best).
Unique Features: The numerous levels and options to level up your characters to 9,999, bring a lot to the game. Tons of challenging battles, funny characters, and numerous endings make this a excellent title.
Rating: 10
Rarity: While not rare can be found a lot on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Quest 8
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Level 5/Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 11/15/2005
Japanese Release Date: 11/24/2004
Europe Release Date: 4/13/2006
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: DQ8 is one of those types of games that you either love or hate, it is very old school and features minimal story. Yet Level 5 has created a living world to truly explore and that is one it’s very strengths, there is so much land to explore. The characters are wonderfully voiced and their mannerisms perfectly fit in their character, each character is voiced by British actors(Dragon Quest series has always been set in England). The game features it’s tried and true battle system, numerous monsters that will confront you are brought to life from Akira Toriyama’s art. So much of DQ8 is so well designed, yet some will be put off by the minimal story parts(There is much in tale, yet there are parts when you may not know where to go). This is still a shining example of a classic RPG brought to life.
Unique Features: Beautiful cell-shaded world and characters, excellent music, solid translation and voicing of characters, and fun battle system(Where you can master numerous weapons).
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Easily found.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Force
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sega/Working Designs
Platform: Saturn/Playstation 2(Import)
U.S. Release Date: 11/30/1996
Japanese Release Date: 3/29/1996
Europe Release Date: 4/25/1997
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game starts with you choosing a general(Later more are unlocked) and you have a region of land, you must set out and conquer the other nations. The battles are handled with a 100 soldiers versus a 100 and each has a general, the battles are nicely staged. The game features numerous classes of soldier and each general can command any unit(Once you find a badge to use these troops, all generals can fight and use a specific attacks or support skills. There are numerous strategic movements you can command your troops to use(Like pincer attack or defend general) and some battles require tons of strategy. The game features tons of characters and each enemy general can be captured, if you capture them you can sometime bring them to your side. The game has a solid storyline and each general adds more to the overall storyline, the game features solid graphics and music.
Unique Features: The epic battles and numerous battle option make this a Strategy game worth playing.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Finding it for less than $50-100 is hard to do.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Force 2(Import)
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sega
Platform: Saturn
Japanese Release Date: 1998
Description: Sadly never released outside of Japan, DF2 is another awesome S/RPG. While the game is Japanese, you can play the game without a FAQ(but it helps) it is set up almost the same as the original. Yet there are numerous new generals and this time you can have more than one type soldier. What you can do is have 50 soldiers and then 50 mages in back, there are numerous strategic options to choose from. The same great battle system is back with some more options to use and tons of characters to fight with you. The graphics are updated a little bit and the music is solid as usual, the game is awesome.
Unique Features: Numerous options in different soldier types and new strategies help make this a solid title.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Slayer: Legend of Heroes
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Falcom/Hudson
Platform: TurboGrafx CD(Turbo Duo)
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Japanese Release Date: 10/25/1991
Description: The game features solid RPG elements like storyline, cool characters, amazing music, some excellent graphics, and a great challenge. The game is one of the best early RPGs and features standard turn based battle system, yet for all the genre standards it breaks out on it’s own.
Unique Features: Solid storyline, excellent music, and tons of areas to explore make this a solid RPG to track down.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Hard to find except on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Valor
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Namco
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 10/16/2000
Japanese Release Date: 12/2/1999
Europe Release Date: 6/30/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Actually a remake of a 8 bit arcade game “Dragon Buster”, Dragon Valor uses a solid 3D engine. The game play is of a standard Action/RPG with numerous and varied dungeons, the towns are large and features lots of NPCs. The draw of the game is fighting the huge bosses and interacting with numerous characters through out the game. The game also features a generations system, based on who you marry it opens up playable characters that are their children.
Unique Features: Tons of huge bosses and the generations system make this a solid title to play.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity: A little hard to find outside of EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Warrior
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Enix
Platform: Nintendo/Game Boy Color(In a two pack with DW2)
U.S. Release Date: 8/1989
Japanese Release Date: 5/27/1986
Description: This game featured the option to play one of the first RPGs in the U.S., Nintendo Power even gave copies of the game with a subscription. The game has numerous areas to explore, lots of monster types, and deep character stat development. The game had some tough enemies/bosses, exploring was fun, and the story while basic was interesting. The graphics were solid, excellent music, and awesome monster designs.
Unique Features: Deep character stat development, long quest, numerous tough enemies/bosses, and lots of exploration.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Totally not rare at all, except DW1 and 2 game boy color can be tough to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Warrior 3
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Enix
Platform: Nintendo/Game Boy Color
U.S. Release Date: 4/1992-7/16/2001
Japanese Release Date: 2/10/1988-12/8/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: DW3 starts in the land of Aliahan and features numerous towns, enemies, and challenging bosses. Solid graphics bring the games world to life (Even on the Nes) and you an have a couple classes to help you in your party.
Unique Features: Tons of enemy classes, bosses, character classes, and solid music help make this a excellent title in the Dragon Warrior(Quest) series.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dragon Warrior Monsters 2: Cobi’s Journey/Tara’s Adventure
Genre: RPG/Monster Sim
Developer/Publisher: Enix/Enix
Platform: Game Boy Color
U.S. Release Date: 9/15/2001
Japanese Release Date: 3/9/2001
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: Set in the Dragon Quest/Warrior world were trainers breed and train monsters(Like Pokemon) and there are numerous types. Both games are fun are for trading monsters between the two, while similar to Pokemon it makes it’s own way. The many bosses are challenging and the game is fun, there tons of monsters to find.
Unique Features: Well, having a slime as a pet is pretty cool and having many monsters from the series is cool too.
Rating: 8.0
Rarity: Shouldn’t be hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Drakengard
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Cavia/Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 3/2/2004
Japanese Release Date: 9/11/2003
Europe Release Date: 5/2/12004
ESRB Rating: Mature
Description: The game is a mix of Action(Think Dynasty Warriors) and shooter elements riding a dragon(Think Panzer Dragoon), it is a solid mix of genre. There is numerous endings and 65 weapons to find and level up. The graphics are solid, yet there is pop up and fogging of the backgrounds. The game also features a good storyline, yet a hint of incest brings the story down.
Unique Features: Tons of enemies to fight, 65 weapons to find( to get many of them you must replay missions), and numerous endings make this a fun experience.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Not hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Drakengard 2
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Cavia/Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 2/14/2006
Japanese Release Date: 6/16/2005
Europe Release Date: 3/3/2006
ESRB Rating: Mature
Description: This sequel features all new playable characters, yet does have connections to the original by the way of characters showing up(Including one of the main characters being playable from the original). The game play is divided between on foot battles and dragon shooter elements, you can use the dragon on the fly as long as there is room. The battles are handled similar in style to Dynasty Warriors, yet includes a level up system and weapon level up.
Unique Features: Usage of the dragon, leveling up weapons, on the fly switching of playable characters, and excellent cutscenes.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Shouldn’t be at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dual Hearts
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Matrix/Atlus
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 9/23/2002
Japanese Release Date: 2/14/2002
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The features solid graphics, good music, and some cool game mechanics. The game features tons of items, weapons, and puzzles which adds to the overall style of the game. The negative is that the camera can get caught in certain areas, a common problem in many 3D action games.
Unique Features: The game’s use of puzzles, platforming, and sword play make this a solid Action/RPG to play.
Rating: 8.25
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dynasty Tactics
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Koei
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 9/17/2002
Japanese Release Date: 2/14/2002
Europe Release Date: 9/17/2002
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Featuring solid strategic planning, numerous characters, lots of items, and pretty good visuals. The game features more in common with Final Fantasy Tactics(Grid usage) then say Romance of Three Kingdoms series. Solid music and lots of game play, that may bring casual gamers to the ROTK series.
Unique Features: The game features solid strategy battles, numerous characters, and a lengthy quest.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Dynasty Tactics 2
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Koei
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 9/23/2003
Japanese Release Date: 6/26/2003
Europe Release Date: 11/17/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game’s visuals have been updated and a lot of the darker hued areas are brightened, yet the game looks good. The game has adds some more character storylines, yet there are less endings which kills some of the replay value. The game is still a solid mix of strategy, numerous characters, and some really cool stages.
Unique Features: The storyline is nice for fans of the Romance of Three Kingdom series and the games numerous generals are nice.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Shouldn’t be rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Earthbound
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Ape Studios/Nintendo
Platform: Super Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 6/1/1995
Japanese Release Date: 8/27/1994(Mother 2)
Description: Earthbound is set within modern times with usage of ATM cards and items from this time, Aliens come to your section of town and you must explore. The game features numerous and funny characters, making the quest so much fun. Ness and his numerous friends must use their skills and items to make it through the game.
Unique Features: Setting in the modern world with modern items(Such as using a phone to call mom or dad in order to save) and humorous storyline.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: It can be hard to find and a little expensive.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Eternal Eyes
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sunsoft/Crave
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 10/2/2000
Japanese Release Date: 12/2/1999
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game has solid 2D graphics, good music, and has some cool 3D battle fields. The game uses grid based combat and use of puppets that become your party, if you use crystals puppets have other skills/attributes. The game has a decent storyline and features some cool art, yet for some this game may be too juvenile(Despite some mature elements).
Unique Features: Strategy/RPG battles, use of numerous types of puppets, and some cool characters.
Rating: 8.25
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Eternal Ring
Genre: First Person RPG
Developer/Publisher: From Software
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 10/24/2000
Japanese Release Date: 3/4/2000
Europe Release Date: 10/22/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: With numerous areas to explore and lots of monsters to battles the game has some involving moments, yet what kills the title is the plodding pace(As in movement and progression are slow). The game had excellent graphics(For 2000), okay music, and minimal story.
Unique Features: Explore a huge world, lots of enemies, and first person view.
Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Exile
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Telenet/Working Design
Platform: TurboGrafx CD/Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 1992
Japanese Release Date: 3/29/1991
Description: The game has a solid storyline, excellent voice acting/cutscenes, and solid battles. The game is set up like a side scroller, featuring tons of tough enemies/bosses.
Unique Feature: Awesome cutscenes/voice acting, cool battles, and tough bosses.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Pretty rare in complete condition.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Exile: Wicked Phenomenon
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Telenet/Working Designs
Platform: TurboGrafx CD
U.S. Release Date: 1993
Japanese Release Date: 9/22/1992
Description: As a sequel, it continues with the storyline and characters from the original and brings with it solid cutscenes/voice actors. The game has tough battles, cool storyline, and the return of characters.
Unique Features: Tons of battles, cool characters, and solid voice acting/cutscenes.
Rating: 9.0
Rarity: Pretty hard to find complete.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: The Faery Tale Adventure
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: New World Computing/Electronic Arts
Platform: Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Description: Featuring a PC game style interface, with very badly rendered graphics tries to tell a decent story. The game has awful sound and the game play is pretty boring. To be honest, the only reason to own the game is if you are a collector of bad games or Genesis games.
Unique Features: Lengthy quest, some interesting monster designs, and a awful game.
Rating: 5.25
Rarity: Can be rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Faria
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: GameArts/Nexsoft
Platform: Nintendo
U.S. Release Date: 6/1991
Japanese Release Date: 7/21/1989
Description: Featuring a mix of Dragon Warrior and Legend of Zelda, in that there is leveling up, exploration that you will need to use certain items to make it through, and when in towers the game scrolls like Zelda 1. The graphics are detailed, featuring a female main character(Which is uncommon), and a decent storyline.
Unique Features: Numerous weapons/armor/items, tons of areas to explore, and a deep level up system.
Rating: 8.75
Rarity: Can be rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Fatal Labyrinth
Genre: Random Dungeon RPG
Developer/Publisher: Sega
Platform: Genesis
U.S. Release Date: 1991
Description: The game has numerous random dungeons and many different monsters types, yet the game is very flawed. The game plays terribly and without a instructions/guide, it is unplayable. The game has some nice graphics, story is minimal, and the sound is okay.
Unique Features: Tons of rooms to explore, lots of monsters, and little story.
Rating: 6.0
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Faxanadu
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Falcom/ Nintendo
Platform: NES
U.S. Release Date: 8/1989
Japanese Release Date: 11/16/1987
Europe Release Date: 12/28/1990
Description: Faxanadu’s battle system is of a typical Action/RPG, movement is done in the style of a sidescroller. There are numerous enemies and platforming elements, you can get numerous weapons, armor, and magic items. There are excellently designed bosses and enemies, with subtle animation. The only real negative is that in movement mainly in jumping, it is stiff jump mechanics.
Unique Features: The basic game design, excellent number of weapons, items,and numerous classes, solid boss design, and password system make this a enjoyable adventure.
Rating: 9.5
Rarity: While it may not be numerously seen, it can quite common and cheap.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Nintendo, Game Boy Advance(Part of Dawn of Souls), Playstation(Origins)
U.S. Release Date: 7/12/1990
Japanese Release Date: 12/8/1987
Description: The first game in the Final Fantasy series, featured a solid quest, numerous character classes to choose from(Up to four in your party), and lots of enemies to fight. The only negative is that the game had very little storyline other than your basic quest and the numerous town NPCs that you can speak to. The game had numerous monsters, tough bosses, and some areas that had environmental damage. On both the GBA and PSOne, both featured a easy mode
Unique Features: Long quest, a few classes to choose from, tough bosses, and lots of items, weapons, and magic to buy and find.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare to find since it’s numerous releases.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 2 (JAP)
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Famicom(Import), Game Boy Advance(Part of Dawn of Souls), Playstation(Part of Origins)
Japanese Release Date: 12/17/1988
U.S. Release Date: 2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The first Final Fantasy game that features well designed characters and in depth storyline. The game has well developed characters, cool storyline, and lots of monsters to fight. Yet the game features a new type of battle system, if you use a weapon or magic a hundred times it will get stronger. This also introduced phoenix downs and chocobos. Now the challenge on this title is tough, difficulty level is astounding yet beating the game is rewarding.
Unique Features: Lots of new additions, tough game play, and a interesting storyline make this a solid RPG adventure.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 3 (JAP)
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Famicom(Import)/DS remake
Japanese Release Date: 4/27/1990
Description: The only Final Fantasy title never to be released in the U.S. at least until the DS remake. This is the first Final Fantasy to feature a true character class system(To be later used in Final Fantasy 5, FFTactics, and FFTAdvance). The game has excellent graphics, solid music, and interesting characters.
Unique Features: Excellent use of character class system, solid storyline/characters, and numerous monsters/bosses to fight.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 2 (US)(SNES) / Final Fantasy 4 (JAP)
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Super Nintendo/Playstation/ Wonderswan Color
U.S. Release Date: 1991-6/2001-12/12/2005
Japanese Release Date: 10/21/1991-3/21/1997-12/15/2005
Europe Release Date: 6/2/2006
ESRB Rating: Everyone+10
Description: This GBA port adds slightly updated visuals, having the ability to use certain characters at the end of the game, and a bonus dungeon to get all the characters their ultimate weapon. Anyone who has played the original version on the SNES or PSOne, this is the best version. Yet for as good the game is, the GBA version is stopped by some slowdown. Yet this features some of the most defined characters, solid storyline, numerous enemy types, and a lengthy quest. The PSOne version’s weakness is that it features frequent loading.
Unique Features: Lots of dungeons, excellent characters, solid storyline, and bonus dungeons add to a already amazing game.
Rating: 10, 8.75
Average Rating: 9.375
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 5
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Super Famicom(Import), Playstation(Part of FF Anthology)
U.S. Release Date: 10/2/1999
Japanese Release Date: 12/6/1992-3/19/1998
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: This game was never released for the U.S. Super Nintendo because it was deemed to tough for U.S. public, it wasn’t released until 1999 on PSOne(Part of FF Anthology). The game features solid graphics, excellent music, and while the story isn’t as good as FF 3/4/6 it is still pretty good. The major hook of the game is use of the character class system(First truly used in FF3) and the solid use of the skills of the classes help through the game. While the number of characters is lower than FF4, the characters are still interesting and bring a lot to the story. The game has lots of tough bosses, numerous areas to explore, and a decent challenge. A re-release with add features is one the way to the Game Boy Advance.
Unique Features: Solid use of the character class system, lots of challenging bosses/enemies, and interesting characters.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 3 (US)(SNES) / Final Fantasy 6 (JAP -or- Part of Final Fantasy Anthology)
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Super Nintendo/Playstation/ Wonderswan Color
U.S. Release Date:10/20/1994-10/1999
Japanese Release Date: 4/12/1994-3/11/1999
Europe Release Date: 3/1/2002
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: A amazing storyline, side quest, cool characters, numerous bosses, and a game broke so much ground. A well written storyline and developed characters, awesome battle system and lots of dungeons. Tons of espers(Summons), magic, weapons, and numerous items that add to the overall game play. The only negative of the PSOne version is that it features frequent loading.
Unique Features: A lengthy quest, solid characters, tons of weapons, items, spells, and a excellent battle system.
Rating: 10, 10
Average Rating: 10
Rarity: Can be hard to find for either system without paying quite a bit for them.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 7
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation, PC
U.S. Release Date: 9/1997
Japanese Release Date: 1/31/1997
Europe Release Date: 11/14/1997
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The best selling Final Fantasy title and even though many are diluted that it is the best FF/RPG title, it is indeed a solid RPG. As the first FF(True FF) to appear on another system than Nintendo/Super Nintendo, it uses the extra power to do some excellent things. The graphics are excellent, the music is awesome, and features some of the best CG cutscenes(From that time). While graphics/cutscenes don’t make a great game, actual game play does and the FF7 does offer solid game play. From the cool materia system(Each piece of armor/weapon has a number of slots and putting materia in them, makes you learn their skills/magic) to the solid battle system all make this a solid title. The story is good and while many question Sephiroth’s role as a villain(I actually think he is a pretty good one) or as a weak momma’s boy, the game has some interesting twists. The game also uses numerous minigames to play and some you play more than the regular game.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, use of the materia, and a pretty deep storyline make this a solid title in the FF series (Yet not the best, IMO).
Rating: 10, 10
Average Rating: 10
Rarity: Not too rare in both forms, regular release or greatest hits.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 8
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation/PC
U.S. Release Date: 9/7/1999
Japanese Release Date: 2/11/1999
Europe Release Date: 10/27/1999
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: As most FF titles do, this one does change some conventional elements of the FF series. The game has excellent graphics, breathtaking CG cutscenes, and some of the best music. Some of the different conventions that are changed are monsters don’t drop items(You receive money from your occupation), you make weapons from items dropped by monsters, and guardian forces(Summons) play a important part of the game play(You junction them to characters that can enhance stats). The game uses a solid battle engine, lots of monsters/characters to fight, and a interesting storyline. The game’s strengths are solid character designs, excellent music, and some amazing cutscenes. Yet the game, happens to be a little more complicated than other titles. Many gamers hated the fact that to understand the junction system, you need to read a long faq for answers.
Unique Features: Great character designs, tons of battles, great use of guardian forces, and some amazing cutscenes.
Rating: 9.25, 6.5
Average Rating: 7.875
Rarity: Not to hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy 9
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 11/13/2000
Japanese Release Date: 7/7/2000
Europe Release Date: 2/16/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: While the last two games in the series(FF7 and FF8) focused more on futuristic designs, this is a return to the fantasy setting. The game featured solid graphics, excellent music, and a great storyline. Almost all the characters are interesting and become loveable, yet they all grow as the game progresses. The game has a solid battle engine, some fun(Yet some are annoying) minigames, and lots of items to find. The game also has tons of humorous mentions of previous titles in the series, like when Zidane looks at a huge sword he says “I know a guy that uses a sword like that” or even getting Kain’s lance. The game also boast some cool bosses, a tough bonus boss, and some of the cool characters in a FF game. While all the great things, the last boss is kind of lame in both design and factoring into the overall storyline.
Unique Features: Setting in a fantasy world, numerous likable characters(Vivi), and a interesting storyline.
Rating: 10, 9
Average Rating: 9.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy X
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 12/7/2001
Japanese Release Date: 7/19/2001
Europe Release Date: 5/24/2002
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features memorable characters(Yes, even Tidus), epic storyline, amazing music, and some beautiful cutscenes. The way the game handles leveling up, is usage of Sphere Grid System where you can raise numerous stats(First you need the spheres) and there are numerous side quests to venture on. The game features solid visuals, excellent music, and much of the level designs are solid. One negative is the fact that the game is very linear, you don’t get to explore the world like the other titles in the series.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, tons of side quests, some awesome characters, and lengthy quest.
Rating: 10, 7
Average Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy X-2
Genre: RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 11/18/2003
Japanese Release Date: 3/13/2003
Europe Release Date: 2/20/2004
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: As the first sequel to a Final Fantasy game, it uses the same monsters and some of the same environments. The game features a all girl cast(Yuna,Rikku, and Paine) yet it comes off as a forced experience, such as the overall lame music, horrible platforming(Why in a FF game?), and a cheesy Charlie’s Angel’s vibe. The game does have some nice elements, the solid graphics, excellent cutscenes, cool battle system(Dress system is kind of cool), and seeing much of the world from FFX is nice.
Unique Features: The first sequel to a FF title and the battle system is nice, yet the overall game is flawed.
Rating: 8.0, 8.0
Average Rating: 8.0
Rarity: Not hard to find at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy Tactics
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Quest/Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 1/28/1998
Japanese Release Date: 6/20/1997
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The development team of Quest was acquired by Square and they made this excellent S/RPG, it is excellent combination of Tactics Ogre/Final Fantasy character classes. The game has solid graphics, excellent music, and a decent storyline (Yet it does have some bad translation). The game uses the standard grid movement system and many of the stages that you fight on, have multiple dips and high areas making terrain effect important. The game has a excellent class system that features numerous classes and bonus effects based on the class chosen, of course the class also effects what weapons and skills you have. Lots of different monsters types, numerous battles, and a bonus dungeon add to the over all game play. Plus, add in the fact that you can recruit through a series of events Cloud Strife from FF7 (Although you must train him from level 1) makes this game and his quest a little more interesting.
Unique Features: The game boasts long quest length, open character class system, tons of challenging battles, and a bonus dungeon/bonus character.
Rating: 10
Rarity: The original version can be a little rare, yet the Greatest Hits version is a little more common.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Final Fantasy Tactics Advance
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 9/8/2003
Japanese Release Date: 2/14/2003
Europe Release Date: 10/24/2003
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The game’s main characters are kids that find a book that brings them to the world of Ivalice, each character is at different places. The main character joins a clan and must complete numerous jobs, that bring in money and items. The game uses the job system from the previous FFT, yet only certain species and genders can have a specific class. The game’s storyline is actually kind of cool and while being childish, as some maturity. The game features solid graphics, excellent music, and a lengthy quest if you want to level up your troops. Yet there is a flaw, basically judges police the world of Ivalice and certain battle have ever changing laws. Some of the laws are no swords and I a character breaks the law, then they are either fined money, skills, or sent to prison. Yet there are cards that you can get that negate the effects of the law, so you can use a items that is outlawed.
Unique Features: Solid battle system, some excellent battles, cool classes(Yet it would be nice, if all races could use them), and a decent storyline.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Fire Emblem
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Intelligent Systems/Nintendo
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 11/3/2003
Japanese Release Date: 4/25/2003
Europe Release Date: 7/16/2004
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The first Fire Emblem(Actually the seventh game in the series) to be released in the U.S. and S/RPG similar to Shining Force, there are numerous characters and classes. The challenging of the Fire Emblem games is that if a character dies, they are dead forever(Or you have to restart). Each weapon in the game focus into a weapons triangle, certain weapons are stronger than others. There is a indepth storyline and each character can grow to like certain characters, at the end of the game if certain characters speak together you may trigger a marriage or friendship. The graphics feature detailed characters and backgrounds, the music is excellent.
Unique Features: The game can be tough and the fact that characters can die forever, it is a fun and challenging storyline.
Rating: 9.75, 9.75
Average Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Easy to find, yet complete hard to do.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Intelligent System/Nintendo
Platform: Game Cube
U.S. Release Date: 10/17/2005
Japanese Release Date: 4/20/2005
Europe Release Date: 11/4/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features numerous characters, a solid storyline, excellent music, and you can equip individual skills. The game features solid graphics, excellent use of tactics, and challenging battles.
Unique Features: Features fun game play, cool characters, solid tough battles, and overall great storyline.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones
Genre: Strategy/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Intelligent System/Nintendo
Platform: Game Boy Advance
U.S. Release Date: 5/23/2005
Japanese Release Date: 10/7/2004
Europe Release Date: 11/4/2005
ESRB Rating: Everyone
Description: The Sacred Stones for the first time in the series features a open level up and class upgrade system, you can power up your character to withstand most attacks. We are introduced to the new land of Magvel and the hard times of the numerous characters in the game, many of the character are quite defined. There is also the solid storyline and character conversations, many are very humorous or cool. There are numerous characters, classes, and weapons. Once the game is completed, there are numerous unlockable characters that add to the overall game.
Unique Features: Open class system, excellent characters, and solid quest.
Rating: 10
Rarity: Not hard to find at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Forever Kingdom
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: From Software
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 1/21/2002
Japanese Release Date: 6/21/2001
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: As a sequel to the launch title Evergrace, the game features much of the same that made the title sell. Yet the game has terrible graphics(While a improvement on the original title), so-so music, and some stifling game play. Basically, part of the story three characters all share a life bar(Yes, no individual life bars) which makes the game frustrating. The game has numerous enemies, traps that can damage you, and so cheap bosses that can kill you in one hit.
Unique Features: Numerous enemies and three characters all share one life bar.
Rating: 5.75
Rarity: Not rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Front Mission 3
Genre: Strategy
Developer/Publisher: Square
Platform: Playstation
U.S. Release Date: 2/29/2000
Japanese Release Date: 9/12/1999
Europe Release Date: 8/11/2000
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Square’s mech strategy title is the first one released in the U.S., featuring solid graphics, tough battles, and two separate storylines. The game looks good and the game’s music is excellent. The battles are solid with mech part damage(Destroy a arm or leg), tough battles, and a overall lengthy adventure.
Unique Features: Use of mechs, mech body damage, long quest, and two separate storylines.
Rating: 9.75
Rarity: Not too rare on EBay.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Front Mission 4
Genre: Strategy
Developer/Publisher: Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 6/15/2004
Japanese Release Date: 12/18/2003
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: The game features use of Wanzers(Mech) and features a lengthy adventure, and there numerous event triggers which trigger hidden simulations and secrets. All the wanzers are customizable with numerous weapons, armor, and skill enhancers which add to the overall game play. You can expect solid visuals and excellent music.
Unique Features: Lengthy quest, solid strategic battles, customizing your wanzers, and a good number of secrets to uncover.
Rating: 8.5
Rarity: Not too hard to find.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-
Title: Full Metal Alchemist and the Broken Angel
Genre: Action/RPG
Developer/Publisher: Racjin/Square Enix
Platform: Playstation 2
U.S. Release Date: 1/18/2005
Japanese Release Date: 12/25/2005
ESRB Rating: Teen
Description: Acting as a side story to the anime/manga series, we join Ed and Al on a Action/RPG adventure. There are numerous enemy types, cool attacks, usage of alchemy(Make weapons), and solid music. Some excellent anime cutscenes and some vocal tracks add to the story, yet the only negatives are simple animation and stiff movement.
Unique Features: A solid license title based on the excellent series and features fun game play.
Rating: 9.25
Rarity: Shouldn’t be rare at all.
-Reviewed by Sanjuro-