I'm bored lets talk RPGs

[Rodimus]

We got:

Valkyrie Profile: Silmeria - Currently Out
Tales of the Abyss - 10.10.06
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner - 10.10.06
Final Fantasy XII - 10.31.06

Pretty good month for RPGs. Their's something for everyone. Anyone hear anything about Devil Summoner? From what I've read it's not the "press turn" system anymore.

[RelentlessRolento]

awsome starting point.

Still limiting my knowlage of RPGs to those done by the FFT/Vagrant Story design teams...

and to start debate: I still consider FF8 the best in the series if you don't include FFT.

[Roufuss]

Devil Summoner is an action RPG... IGN has a good preview up.

Also this month -

Summon Night 2 GBA
Super Robot Taisen Original Generation 2 GBA
Yggdra Union GBA
Contact DS
Children of Mana DS
Magical Starsign DS
The new Dot.Hack game for PS2
Phantasy Star Universe

[botticus]

Well, something for everyone that has a PS2 anyway. ;) Add:

Contact - 10/17
Summon Night 2 - 10/17
Super Robot Taisen 2 - 10/17
Magical Starsign - 10/23
Yggdra Union - 10/24
Children of Mana - 10/30

I think a list with PS2, DS, and GBA will cover just about everyone.

Edit: Damn you Roufuss, why don't you go fix your computer or somethin?

And Rolento, if you're counting every FF game... yes, you're out of your mind.

[Roufuss]

Edit: Damn you Roufuss, why don't you go fix your computer or somethin?


STFU, it takes like 10 minutes to reboot ;)

[RelentlessRolento]

And Rolento, if you're counting every FF game... yes, you're out of your mind.

finally, someone who kows how my mind works!

and yes, FFX (or 10... whatever!) was a shame to FF while FFX-2 was pure turdly living.

and contact will rock your mental balls.

[Rodimus]

Devil Summoner is an action RPG... IGN has a good preview up.

Also this month -

Summon Night 2 GBA
Super Robot Taisen Original Generation 2 GBA
Contact DS
Children of Mana DS
Magical Starsign DS

You're playing Super Robot Taisen Original Generation for GBA right? I have one for Saturn, but it's Japanese. These games always looked very cool, especially the newer PS2 version. Some very nice 2D going on. What anime series does it draw from? Gundam? Evengelion?

[RelentlessRolento]

can someone list all the card based RPGs that have been released? I've found I have enjoyed these alot more than traditional and would love to get around to a few of them... I'm considering culdcept saga for the 360 when it's released.

Also, I didn't caer at all for Lost Odessy for a while, but the recent gameoplay videos and movie got me hooked.

[RegalSin2020]

Well I really don't know about Card based RPG's but there is this new Toy which is really a game system. You scan the cards and then they are displayed in 3d.

Then you can fight with each other like in a fighting game. It reminds me of that scanner football game.

[MarkMan]

Hi.

I was always partial to FF9. I'm not that huge of a FF fan anymore. But I've played them all. FF 12 though is slowly winning me over.

Dragon Quest VIII was my favorite RPG this generation though so far. Then Digital Devil Saga right behind it.

Contact is good from what I played of it so far, a good friend of mine reviewed it and he said it was a great experience through and through.

/me still wants Earthbound. I'm a sucker for traditional RPGs. Since it's what I grew up on.

[Rodimus]

I'm not a big fan of the style but a couple I know that I've actually played:

Kingdom Hearts: CoM (GBA)
Baten Kaitos (GC)
SNK vs Capcom: CFC (NGPC) - but I know you're played this one
Phantasy Star Online 3 (GC)

And honestly, SVC: CFC was the only one I liked.

[RelentlessRolento]

Well I really don't know about Card based RPG's but there is this new Toy which is really a game system. You scan the cards and then they are displayed in 3d.

Then you can fight with each other like in a fighting game. It reminds me of that scanner football game.


I'm more for digital cards since in the end, it dosn't hurt your wallet as badly.

[Rei no Otaku]

Baten Kaitos is the best card RPG out there. I'm currently playing the second one.

Super Robot Taisen OG is completely original. There's no mecha from any anime series. It's still an excellent game though, and I can't wait for the second one. I really hope we get the PS2 version they just announced.

I can't wait for Tales of the Abyss. I want that game so badly, and when it comes out I'm not even going to leave the house after I start playing it.

[Chacrana]

We got:

Valkyrie Profile: Silmeria - Currently Out
Tales of the Abyss - 10.10.06
Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner - 10.10.06
Final Fantasy XII - 10.31.06

Pretty good month for RPGs. Their's something for everyone. Anyone hear anything about Devil Summoner? From what I've read it's not the "press turn" system anymore.

All of those are must have games for me. I got Valkyrie Profile Silmeria today, have FFXII CE and Tales of the Abyss preordered, and I'm getting SMT Devil Summoner on day 1.

Devil Summoner uses an action RPG system but there's really not too much that's known about that for some reason... Gamebrink's review was extremely positive though and might help to shed some light on some areas that domestic previews haven't discussed.

[Chacrana]

Well I really don't know about Card based RPG's but there is this new Toy which is really a game system. You scan the cards and then they are displayed in 3d.

Then you can fight with each other like in a fighting game. It reminds me of that scanner football game.

I saw that commercial. That thing looked ridiculous and I was wondering exactly who would buy that aside from a couple very stupid 6-year-olds. Easily the dumbest idea I've seen in a while.

[RelentlessRolento]

Still in debate over getting FFXI due to time and school... want it badly since it's the same guy who did Vagrant Story and FFT basicly, and everyone knows how good the writing was in those (at least in FFT)...

[Chacrana]

And Rolento, if you're counting every FF game... yes, you're out of your mind.


Bah, Final Fantasy 8 never gets any love. I'm a little weird I suppose since I loved 8 and 10. Not sure what my favorite in the series was though since really, 6 (what I played at least), 7, 8, and 10 are all about even for me.

[Rei no Otaku]

FF8 gets no love because it's garbage. That game scarred me for life. I still wake up in a cold sweat because it. I wake up screaming things like "No more plotholes!! Please!", "The same orphanage? You've got to be fucking kidding me!!", and "Broken junction system, noooooooo!" And if my PS1 kills me in my sleep for making it play that horrid piece of trash, I won't blame it at all.

[jalu6]

Hi.

I was always partial to FF9. I'm not that huge of a FF fan anymore. But I've played them all. FF 12 though is slowly winning me over.

Holy crap, I just assumed I was the only person who liked FF9. All I ever hear is how lame it is and how the kid had a tail. We should start a support group or something. You know, make tshirts and all.

[Roufuss]

Super Robot Taisen OG is completely original. There's no mecha from any anime series. It's still an excellent game though, and I can't wait for the second one. I really hope we get the PS2 version they just announced.


The translation for Super Robot Taisen OG is flat out horrible, though.

The only high point is that Excellen somehow incorporates sex into everything she talks about... the sexual inneudo's run VERY high.

And the game uses so...many...acronyms... here's an example:

"Oh no, the EOTI is now the DC who has incorporated the UCC to attack us, but the EFA has been captured working on the ATX project, our PM's cannot stand up against their AM's oh no here comes a MAPW!"

The gameplay is solid, as always, I always wondered wtf the story was about when I played all the imports but sadly, I still wonder wtf the story is about.

[Apossum]

*starts flame war*


Currently playing PSO: Blue Burst to get hyped for PSU.

question: do you guys always finish your RPGs? I always start them and get like halfway through, then drift away from them. Not because they're bad, I just get sidetracked by other games.

except I always beat FF games and I beat nocturne and Xenosaga 1.

can't wait for XII. played through a couple hours of the Japanese version and loved it.

[Rodimus]

^ So it's not just me, I've been trying to find out how the battle system is. All I read was it's an action RPG syle, but it's still random battles. You fight everywhere, even in towns. And the encounter rate is very high.

I like it when RPGs break away from the streotypical "fantasy land." If I'm not mistaken Devil Summoner is set in Japan post WWII.

[Roufuss]

question: do you guys always finish your RPGs? I always start them and get like halfway through, then drift away from them. Not because they're bad, I just get sidetracked by other games.
.

I used to do that, but now I actually finish them all the way through.

[Rei no Otaku]

The only problem I found with the translation is that it's flat. It's too literal. Because it's very close to the Japanese. They just need to spice it up. From what I heard though Banpresto was really anal about how Atlus localized the game. My guess is that they were forced to be that exact. Which is a shame of course, but oh well. It's far better than not getting the SRT games.

[RelentlessRolento]

FF9 wasnt bad... it just felt a little played out IMHO...

FF8 was the biggest leap I've ever seen in the series, with FFXII looking to do it possibly again.

anyone not liking how FFXIII is turning out? Other than the graphics, I am not finding much to like about it.

[Roufuss]

The only problem I found with the translation is that it's flat. It's too literal. Because it's very close to the Japanese. They just need to spice it up. From what I heard though Banpresto was really anal about how Atlus localized the game. My guess is that they were forced to be that exact. Which is a shame of course, but oh well. It's far better than not getting the SRT games.

I don't care one way or the other because I would have just imported them eventually... the gameplay carries over for the most part from game to game, they are easy to play in Japanese once you get the hang of it.

It is a shame the translation is so fucked up, even worse that Banpresto probably made them keep it that way. Half the time I don't even understand wtf is going on because the story just seems too succinct and nothing is really explained very well, and everyone talks like a bad Japanese dubbing.

At this point I don't even bother with the story, I just go straight into the battles, which are decent as always.

[Chacrana]

FF8 gets no love because it's garbage. That game scarred me for life. I still wake up in a cold sweat because it. I wake up screaming things like "No more plotholes!! Please!", "The same orphanage? You've got to be fucking kidding me!!", and "Broken junction system, noooooooo!" And if my PS1 kills me in my sleep for making it play that horrid piece of trash, I won't blame it at all.

I liked the junction system. It allowed for a ton of customization which is the one thing I wish that more RPGs offered.

*flame flame flame*

I love talking about FFs because people get fucking pissed over 'em. It makes the standard conversation about games a lot more interesting.

[Chacrana]

*starts flame war*


Currently playing PSO: Blue Burst to get hyped for PSU.

question: do you guys always finish your RPGs? I always start them and get like halfway through, then drift away from them. Not because they're bad, I just get sidetracked by other games.

except I always beat FF games and I beat nocturne and Xenosaga 1.

can't wait for XII. played through a couple hours of the Japanese version and loved it.

I finish an RPG if it's good. If it's bad, it's gone. Back in the day I used to stop midway with RPGs because I'd get sidetracked so it took me several attempts to get through a game. Now I can just blow through an RPG without stopping halfway through though which is nice.

And yeah, I can't wait for FFXII either. It seems like Square nailed this one so it should be interesting.

[Roufuss]

I think I'm going to pass on SMT: Devil Summoner for now... Atlus games are rapidly dropping to $29.99 new and $24.99 used so I'm going to see if the trend continues.

With Tales of the Abyss hitting on the same day for $10 cheaper (and taking forever to price drop, look at Legendia), it's really a no brainer which one I should get.

If Devil Summoner starts getting rare I'll snag a copy, though.

[Chacrana]

I think I'm going to pass on SMT: Devil Summoner for now... Atlus games are rapidly dropping to $29.99 new and $24.99 used so I'm going to see if the trend continues.

With Tales of the Abyss hitting on the same day for $10 cheaper (and taking forever to price drop, look at Legendia), it's really a no brainer which one I should get.

If Devil Summoner starts getting rare I'll snag a copy, though.

As long as you get one of the two. I'm getting both mainly because I'm a self-proclaimed SMT whore and because I preordered Abyss for $20... so I kinda can't pass that up. I can't see either of the two being anything short of phenomenal.

Best RPG season we've had in years... maybe ever?

[Rei no Otaku]

I don't care one way or the other because I would have just imported them eventually... the gameplay carries over for the most part from game to game, they are easy to play in Japanese once you get the hang of it.

It is a shame the translation is so fucked up, even worse that Banpresto probably made them keep it that way. Half the time I don't even understand wtf is going on because the story just seems too succinct and nothing is really explained very well, and everyone talks like a bad Japanese dubbing.

At this point I don't even bother with the story, I just go straight into the battles, which are decent as always.
I'm imported them too, but I like having them fully in english. I'll sure complain to Atlus about it, but I'm not going to turn away the games in English. As wooden as it is at times, a lot of the characters still shine through. Excellen being a prime example.

I'm buying both Devil Summoner and TotA. No promises on my actually getting a chance to play SMT though. I still need to finish Baten Kaitos Origins.

[Roufuss]

As long as you get one of the two. I'm getting both mainly because I'm a self-proclaimed SMT whore and because I preordered Abyss for $20... so I kinda can't pass that up. I can't see either of the two being anything short of phenomenal.

Best RPG season we've had in years... maybe ever?

Well, I also can't play two RPG's at once, so I might as well save $50 for now. Plus after Abyss I want to start Valkyrie Profile 2.

[Chacrana]

Well, I also can't play two RPG's at once, so I might as well save $50 for now. Plus after Abyss I want to start Valkyrie Profile 2.

I can't play 2 RPGs at once either. I have a nice thing called "I don't operate on logic" which makes it reasonable to buy so many RPGs in a short span though.

[Rodimus]

question: do you guys always finish your RPGs? I always start them and get like halfway through, then drift away from them. Not because they're bad, I just get sidetracked by other games.

That still happens to me, but I always try to finish it. But for me it also depends on the game. Example: I was playing Shadow Hearts 3: FTNW but put it on hold for Valkyrie Profile: Silmeria. But with all these RPGs coming out, Shadow Hearts is gonna have to wait a while.

I just hate wanting to start back up an RPG again and forgeting everything.

[RelentlessRolento]

*flame flame flame*

I love talking about FFs because people get fucking pissed over 'em. It makes the standard conversation about games a lot more interesting.


yeah, once you bring up FF and combine it with opinions = instant flame off... I have yet to see a conversation that just goes over thoughts and ideas that are constructive... FF is like a curse to conversations both online and in real life >_<

time for some discussion over horrible RPGs...

what was that old SNES rpg where you start playing as a caveman, but progress through different eras? I got far enough in that game to make out with the local hottie cavewoman...

[Roufuss]

I'm imported them too, but I like having them fully in english. I'll sure complain to Atlus about it, but I'm not going to turn away the games in English. As wooden as it is at times, a lot of the characters still shine through. Excellen being a prime example.


Oh yeah, some of them shine, but then the majority of them don't really develop... I mean, what's the deal with Katina and Russel? Why do they keep calling that guy Sean "XO"? Why does Radha keep saying non-sensical crap like "Radra agosnis sifnaf", is that supposed to be yoga or something?

I just wish some of these people were a little more fleshed out, but I'm only on episode 14 so maybe they'll get there.

I don't have the problem where it's wooden, I just have the problem where it dosen't make sense at all and I can see now why reviewers docked points for it.

[Chacrana]

I'm imported them too, but I like having them fully in english. I'll sure complain to Atlus about it, but I'm not going to turn away the games in English. As wooden as it is at times, a lot of the characters still shine through. Excellen being a prime example.

I'm buying both Devil Summoner and TotA. No promises on my actually getting a chance to play SMT though. I still need to finish Baten Kaitos Origins.

How's Origins? I played 5 or so hours of Baten Kaitos 1 but didn't really care for it... the card combat felt clumsy and completely unnecessary and the storyline and characters seemed pretty bland... so I'm kinda interested in finding out how Origins shaped up.

[RelentlessRolento]

anyoen have the name of that SNES RPG I was talking about?

[Apossum]

anyone not liking how FFXIII is turning out? Other than the graphics, I am not finding much to like about it.


I highly dislike their trick of putting the battle menu in to cutscenes...that's just lame. yeah, all battles are going to look that good and choreographed. right.

on the other hand, maybe those are what the in game graphics will look similar too (just without all the crazy shit happening during a normal battle.) I think it'll turn out good though. it's crazy that they've announced a bunch of versions of the game. wonder what XIII Vs. will be about.

[Chacrana]

I highly dislike their trick of putting the battle menu in to cutscenes...that's just lame. yeah, all battles are going to look that good and choreographed. right.

on the other hand, maybe those are what the in game graphics will look similar too (just without all the crazy shit happening during a normal battle.) I think it'll turn out good though. it's crazy that they've announced a bunch of versions of the game. wonder what XIII Vs. will be about.

It'd be interesting if Square really took a cinematic approach to battles though... all they've shown is this one character, so what if she's all you get in the game? Then I could see crazy battles like that happening.

[RelentlessRolento]

It'd be interesting if Square really took a cinematic approach to battles though... all they've shown is this one character, so what if she's all you get in the game? Then I could see crazy battles like that happening.


I'm actually just pissed at the overall design. I don't like anything I've seen in it. If it's anything kingdom hearts designer team releated, then I'm not playing it already (sad, right?)

[Rei no Otaku]

How's Origins? I played 5 or so hours of Baten Kaitos 1 but didn't really care for it... the card combat felt clumsy and completely unnecessary and the storyline and characters seemed pretty bland... so I'm kinda interested in finding out how Origins shaped up.
If you didn't like the first one, then you're not going to like Origins. The story is a little better, but it's pretty much more of the same. The only major change is that each character now draws from the same deck, and the difficulty is higher.

[Chacrana]

I'm actually just pissed at the overall design. I don't like anything I've seen in it. If it's anything kingdom hearts designer team releated, then I'm not playing it already (sad, right?)

Really? I love the futuristic-ness of it. Eh, to each his own I guess.

[RelentlessRolento]

wow... this grew fast...

[RelentlessRolento]

Really? I love the futuristic-ness of it. Eh, to each his own I guess.

agreed. I dont mind the sci-fi stuff (i like that part actually), it's just that everything FF is going so over the top in design, I just want it all to be simplified...

I just wish FF would turn over and start all over again in terms of design (not gameplay).

[Rodimus]

what was that old SNES rpg where you start playing as a caveman, but progress through different eras? I got far enough in that game to make out with the local hottie cavewoman...

Secret of Evermore? I remember not liking that one.

[RelentlessRolento]

Secret of Evermore? I remember not liking that one.


I think maybe... who knows... I guess I'll do my research. I liked it because ti was so oddly played out and nothing made any sense. good stuff (in a horrible way).

on a side note: Front Mission 1 is being ported and supposedly updated to the PSP. I got hooked on the FM series since part 3 hit. It's the onyl series of games I have no interest in until the games get a year old... I need to get my brain checked.

[Chacrana]

I think maybe... who knows... I guess I'll do my research. I liked it because ti was so oddly played out and nothing made any sense. good stuff (in a horrible way).

on a side note: Front Mission 1 is being ported and supposedly updated to the PSP. I got hooked on the FM series since part 3 hit. It's the onyl series of games I have no interest in until the games get a year old... I need to get my brain checked.

Secret of Evermore was pretty shit... I think from the second the screen said "Podunk, USA" I was like "awww, shit." Then I played maybe 5 minutes and hit the eject button. My first impression was completely right.

[RelentlessRolento]

Secret of Evermore was pretty shit... I think from the second the screen said "Podunk, USA" I was like "awww, shit." Then I played maybe 5 minutes and hit the eject button. My first impression was completely right.


:lol: yes it was a shit game, but a few CAGers should know my baddly odd tastes.


but as I was saying: any Front Mission fans here? did the online version get released ever in japan?

[VanillaGorilla]

I probably won't be buying any of those games. VP is on my Gameznflix queue, I have never liked the battle systems in the Tales Of games, I am not really a fan of "every 4 steps" random battles that the SMT series is known for, and FFXII....uh, no, I prefer to control the battles myself.

What the fuck is taking Level 5 so long with bringing Rogue Galaxy to America? Oh well, at least they fixing some of the quirks the Japanese version had.

[Chacrana]

What the fuck is taking Level 5 so long with bringing Rogue Galaxy to America? Oh well, at least they fixing some of the quirks the Japanese version had.

Yeah, that's what made the delay more acceptable for me. Rogue Galaxy is a game with a ton of potential and it's rare to see a delay like this actually go towards what seems to be a legitimate upgrade. I'm fine with waiting till January if what we're getting is a perfected version.

[Logg]

I have always like Front Mission, someday I will beat Front Mission 4 ( I want to Anyway)

[Rei no Otaku]

:lol: yes it was a shit game, but a few CAGers should know my baddly odd tastes.


but as I was saying: any Front Mission fans here? did the online version get released ever in japan?
Secret of Evermore sucked ass.

I love Front Mission. Thing is I can't even think about the series without crying. The fact that we're not getting FM5 depresses me something awful.

[MarkMan]

Devil Summoner was pretty fun, I played a little big of the Japanese version and some of the early build of the US vers at our booth at Anime Expo... I really like the look of the game, I felt it played more like Parasite Eve or Tales of Symphonia than the usual turn based action.

Also gotta love the full title, aka the longest title ever for a videogame:

Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner - Raidou Kuzunoha vs. the Soulless Army

[Chacrana]

Did it seem like there was a sufficient amount of strategy to Devil Summoner? That's my one concern, but I'm fairly confident that the devs succeeded.

And yeah, the title is great. Often, I'll go up to somebody who knows at least a little about games and say "Guess what comes out next week?" When they ask what comes out, I yell the full title at them in a Japanese accent. I get style points for that.

[sarausagi]

:lol: yes it was a shit game, but a few CAGers should know my baddly odd tastes.


but as I was saying: any Front Mission fans here? did the online version get released ever in japan?

I spent close to a hundred hours with FM3, so you could say I am a fan, never got FM4 though, depressed about FM5, and wary of FM online

Anyways, I don't care about all these hot new RPG's...

I'm getting FF XII but the demo left me unimpressed, battles demand way too much concentration, I like to take my time and think out my battles..fuck real time

I haven't thought of Valkyrie Profile 2 yet, I liked the first one but it seems way too focused on gameplay, the original's story could have been incredible if it went from the prologue on but it became a "kill boss, save dead person, fight battles" formula way too quickly....is the VP2 story any better?

Don't like or know much about the Tales series, I have Phantasia [GBA] on a back log so I'd play that before "Abyss"

Right now I'm busy with a play through of Xenogears, just about to beat it, all I need to do is get some Simp Circuits and buy some more drives/generators then I'll finish the game

After that it's on to Xenosaga Episode III, I've been dying to play it but I decided I wouldn't play it without going through Gears one more time.

[RelentlessRolento]

I have always like Front Mission, someday I will beat Front Mission 4 ( I want to Anyway)


yeah, the only real highlight of part 4 was thelink system and bad voice acting.

[Apossum]

this was successful. nice job on the title rodimus! :)

i'm starting "I'm bored, lets talk train simulator hentai dating games"

agreed. I dont mind the sci-fi stuff (i like that part actually), it's just that everything FF is going so over the top in design, I just want it all to be simplified...

I just wish FF would turn over and start all over again in terms of design (not gameplay).

I see what you mean. all I could think during the opening movie of XII was "hey, this is like star wars" O_O somebody said the opening reminded them of episode 1...hate to say it was spot on. not saying it'll be "like" star wars, just the blend of romanesque buildings...and flying things with lasers is similar.

[Chacrana]

i'm starting "I'm bored, lets talk train simulator hentai dating games"



WTF YOU WANT ME TO POST EVERY MESSAGE IN THERE!?!?!?

[Apossum]

WTF YOU WANT ME TO POST EVERY MESSAGE IN THERE!?!?!?


that's the plan 8-)

[RelentlessRolento]

I wonder how many porn/hentai RPGs are out the (not the Sim/conversation/dating types... I can't stand those)?

[Chacrana]

I wonder how many porn/hentai RPGs are out the (not the Sim/conversation/dating types... I can't stand those)?

The only one out in the US is Brave Soul which looks terrible. As for JRPGs, the only one that comes to mind is Brutish Mine... that's only in Japan.

[Roufuss]

Nice, just got sent the translated rom for Seiken Denetsu 3... I guess I know what I'm doing this weekend now.

[botticus]

Nice, just got sent the translated rom for Seiken Denetsu 3... I guess I know what I'm doing this weekend now.Thieving bastard.

And what the hell, I leave this thread for two hours, and SoE gets shit upon? It wasn't the greatest, but I put that in my list of good SNES RPGs. FFs, Lufias, Mana, EB, E.V.O., BoFs, Evermore, probably some others I'm missing off the top of my head.

[Roufuss]

Thieving bastard.

And what the hell, I leave this thread for two hours, and SoE gets shit upon? It wasn't the greatest, but I put that in my list of good SNES RPGs. FFs, Lufias, Mana, EB, E.V.O., BoFs, Evermore, probably some others I'm missing off the top of my head.

You're the one who sent me SD 3 ;)

I'd fully support it if Square brought it out here in English, but they just want to whore out FF a few more billion times.

[VanillaGorilla]

Nice, just got sent the translated rom for Seiken Denetsu 3... I guess I know what I'm doing this weekend now.Translated Seiken Densetsu 3 is soooooo 2000.

[Rodimus]

Nice, just got sent the translated rom for Seiken Denetsu 3... I guess I know what I'm doing this weekend now.

I was expecting some kind of GBA release of this. It would've been perfect. I played a translated rom about 4 years ago, it was very short. I think I beat it in 30 hours.

[62t]

also check out the rest of the square snes japanese line up that got fan translated

Front Mission 1
Bahamut Lagoon
Treasue Hunter G
Romancing SaGa 3
also Star Ocean 1 (Enix)

[Chrono72090]

also check out the rest of the square snes japanese line up that got fan translated

Front Mission 1
Bahamut Lagoon
Treasue Hunter G
Romancing SaGa 3
also Star Ocean 1 (Enix)

You're missing one:

Rudra No Hihou

It's good :O!

And also get Terranigma.

[depascal22]

I just found this thread. Do you guys notice that it's all the fighting game regulars that are posting here? Maybe there's something about 2D fighters and turn based RPGs that go together?

Anyway, back on OTT. After I'm fininished with God of War, I'm going to start playing either Persona 2 or Dragon Warrior VII. Any suggestions?

[js1]

Holy crap, I just assumed I was the only person who liked FF9. All I ever hear is how lame it is and how the kid had a tail. We should start a support group or something. You know, make tshirts and all.

FF9 is one of my favs of alltime! In part because it was the 1st rpg I ever played from start to finish. I would have never played it ,if sony would have had better launch titles for ps2.

[Chacrana]

I just found this thread. Do you guys notice that it's all the fighting game regulars that are posting here? Maybe there's something about 2D fighters and turn based RPGs that go together?

Anyway, back on OTT. After I'm fininished with God of War, I'm going to start playing either Persona 2 or Dragon Warrior VII. Any suggestions?

I dunno what it is, but yeah, I like RPGs probably more than I like fighting games (and I love fighting games.) As for Persona 2 Vs. Dragon Warrior VII, I've heard that Dragon Warrior VII drags like crazy and that it's full of minor annoyances that add up... so I'd say Persona 2.

[js1]

I have a question for everyone, Do you find yourself playing less rpg's due to have less time or more games than before? Or not searching for EVERYTHING in the game just to beat it faster and move on to the next game.

[RegalSin2020]

I just found this thread. Do you guys notice that it's all the fighting game regulars that are posting here? Maybe there's something about 2D fighters and turn based RPGs that go together?

Anyway, back on OTT. After I'm fininished with God of War, I'm going to start playing either Persona 2 or Dragon Warrior VII. Any suggestions?


These are the representations of gaming from the most built up to the most simply

RPG- is basically representation. It does not need to have the best graphics or anything. It is wide and expansive and last for long periods of time.

Action- Takes place in a room or Snadbox like play area. The player can travel back and forth to the begining and end in a matter of seconds. You don't even need to tour the entire are to finish the game.

Adventure- is a straight linear game. While yes you might be able to travel back and forth there will never be a chance where you can stray off course. There is no altrnative just level 1, Zone 2, or Stage 3. Graphics can vary.

Fighting- Fighting is the most simple of all geres. the whole game takes place in a small closed off area. Thuis the graphics is sappose to be the best thing in the world. Fighting is the ground stone of all geres. If you can take the entire world of Fighting and build it into a RPG you will have a pretty friggin good looking game.

Almost all games is in these gere no matter how put it will go into these geres.

Now what does barberic Fighting people and bookworm RPG people have in common?

Both Geres is extremely strong in the Art area. Just look at the posters and billboards for fighting games and compare them with RPG's. You will see the simularities. Even decorative clothing, hideous bodies, or ambitions of power or destruction, beautiful structors and creations.

Both Geres have bloody battles, death all over the place, Evil Empires, and the destroyers of the Universe. Think about it in the RPG world and Fighting world who is the baddest of the bad? Now when we answer that what will we see?

Then women and sex icons that appears in bothe Geres like the Bountiful Chung-Lee, the Petite but stick on chested Tifa( Tiffany), the classy Aerith,
The Blonde animal like Cammy White, or even the "Sex for Pussy" Mai Shiranui
with the bounce that is again featured in Dead or Alive Kasumi who looks rather like Ranmas Kasumi. The point is sex is present is both geres even in the 2d days and Sex Sells.

The point is both players of the seprate geres longs for that world.

[Chacrana]

:-s

[willardhaven]

Final Fantasy XII looks like the last hurrah for a semi-medieval game.

FF9 was great, whoever doesn't like it has no business discussing the series.

I'm looking forward to the PS2 Mana game, I wish SE would drop their release price to 40, but I guess they have no reason to. They were making some pretty bad games for a while, so it's good to see some decent titles on th way.

[Roufuss]

:-s

I think the guy is on PCP.

[Apossum]

:-s



it gets more and more epic with each post.

[botticus]

I have a question for everyone, Do you find yourself playing less rpg's due to have less time or more games than before? Or not searching for EVERYTHING in the game just to beat it faster and move on to the next game.By far less, sadly. The last console RPG I played through was Path of Radiance.

The problem is, most RPGs require some continuity. Meaning, if I don't play it for a week, I don't remember what the hell was going on, and I have to figure that out before continuing on. So I really need to be able to allocate some time in order to play an RPG, which is just more and more difficult. Instead, I find myself throwing on an action game or just playing my portables. I'm doing my best to get around that though.

[gigan54]

I thought that FF9 was the best of the ps1 games. I really enjoyed the story and thought Kadaj was a woman at first. the ending was nicely done and very dramatic.

I just recently finished FF IV for the GBA not too long ago. and I was a little bit disappointed in it. cecil pissed me off half the time, and the only saving factor of this game were the plot twists. other than that, this game was quite forgettable.

[Rodimus]

Anyway, back on OTT. After I'm fininished with God of War, I'm going to start playing either Persona 2 or Dragon Warrior VII. Any suggestions?

I played like 30 hours into DQVII and I really wanted to beat it, but got freakin boring.

I had a lot of fun with Persona 2, it was a good challange. It's a pretty hard RPG, so be prepared to fight some tough bosses. (que the hardcore gamer saying, "It's not hard if you're prepared.")

[Apossum]

I played like 30 hours into DQVII and I really wanted to beat it, but got freakin boring.

I had a lot of fun with Persona 2, it was a good challange. It's a pretty hard RPG, so be prepared to fight some tough bosses. (que the hardcore gamer saying, "It's not hard if you're prepared.")


it is freaking hard.

I died repeatedly in the first fight and decided not to play the game :lol:

[RegalSin2020]

There is no real way to die in any dragon quest game. If you die constantly then you have no concept of Stratergy. Also yes if you tend to hand around in Dragon Quest fighting to gain exprience then the game will be boring. Like playing FF6 trying to get Energizers from T-Rex.

[Apossum]

There is no real way to die in any dragon quest game. If you die constantly then you have no concept of Stratergy. Also yes if you tend to hand around in Dragon Quest fighting to gain exprience then the game will be boring. Like playing FF6 trying to get Energizers from T-Rex.


No, U have no concept of Stratergy.

[Sarang01]

I thought that FF9 was the best of the ps1 games. I really enjoyed the story and thought Kadaj was a woman at first. the ending was nicely done and very dramatic.

I just recently finished FF IV for the GBA not too long ago. and I was a little bit disappointed in it. cecil pissed me off half the time, and the only saving factor of this game were the plot twists. other than that, this game was quite forgettable.

I still need to pick up FFIX and have been wanting to for a while. The big appeal to me is the Old Schoolers like the Black Mage in 3D since I started out on the original FF.
edit: As to the comments about "Secret Of Evermore" I like it. Maybe not enough to wish it in place of SOM2 but I'm glad it got made. It has an old story feeling I like.

[Rodimus]

it is freaking hard.

I died repeatedly in the first fight and decided not to play the game :lol:

You talking about the fight with Joker, guy with a bag over his face? I know a friend who quit for the same reason. He could never get past him.

The last boss of Persona 2 takes about an hour to beat. But the hardest boss was some police officer with 4 mechs helping him. I got so frustrated with that battle. Probably the hardest fight I remember doing in an RPG.

[Rei no Otaku]

http://www.atlus.com/devilsummoner

SMT: Devil Summoner site is up.

[Apossum]

You talking about the fight with Joker, guy with a bag over his face? I know a friend who quit for the same reason. He could never get past him.

The last boss of Persona 2 takes about an hour to beat. But the hardest boss was some police officer with 4 mechs helping him. I got so frustrated with that battle. Probably the hardest fight I remember doing in an RPG.


I guess that was him. It was the very first encounter in the game. I really didn't get it...RPGs are meant to immitate board games and die-rolling, but usually it's heavily biased in the player's favor. Persona 2 seemed like it wasn't at all.


speaking of which, what are some nicely balanced RPGs--- where it's not too easy and not too hard? I personally felt SMT: Nocturne was the most balanced RPG I've played...challenging but not impossible. On the other end, FF and Xenosaga are incredibly easy and don't require much thought (secret bosses and such notwithstanding.)

[Chacrana]

wow, Persona 2 was really that difficult? I really need to try that game soon... I really would like to have my ass kicked.

[Rodimus]

wow, Persona 2 was really that difficult? I really need to try that game soon... I really would like to have my ass kicked.

I'm shocked, I figured you'd beat all the SMT games. Defintly the most challanging RPG I've played. Like Apposum said, it was so hard it turned many people off. Just like Nocturne it's all about demon managment. Keep upgrading your Personas and that should help alot.

For a side note Persona 2 was actually made in 2 parts. The first part "Innocent Sin " never made it to the states. But we got the last part, "Eternal Punishment." I would have loved to play Innocent Sin. Even though it's a sequel, it's made so you don't have to play the first one to understand it.

[spoo]

I thought that FF9 was the best of the ps1 games. I really enjoyed the story and thought Kadaj was a woman at first. the ending was nicely done and very dramatic.

I just recently finished FF IV for the GBA not too long ago. and I was a little bit disappointed in it. cecil pissed me off half the time, and the only saving factor of this game were the plot twists. other than that, this game was quite forgettable.
Wow me and you have the complete opposite tastes ;)

I liked FFIX but I hated the ending! The Indiana Jones-esque ending of:
Zidane running to the Iifa tree to save Kuja left a bad taste in my mouth. FFIX is to Indiana Jones as FFXII is to Star Wars.
It was a disappointment after what I still believe to be the best ending ever, FFVIII: The kiss was very well done a perfect ending of a story about finding oneself and afraid to love.

FFIV is on the top of my favorite FF games. I love everything about it, the only flaw I would say is that it is overly easy. I am from the old school of FF and I started with the first on the NES but the only one I didn't care for much was *equips flame shield* was FFVII of the main series (I-XII.)



New topic, does anyone know of a fan translation for Earthboand 2 (Mother 3)?

[sarausagi]

I guess that was him. It was the very first encounter in the game. I really didn't get it...RPGs are meant to immitate board games and die-rolling, but usually it's heavily biased in the player's favor. Persona 2 seemed like it wasn't at all.


speaking of which, what are some nicely balanced RPGs--- where it's not too easy and not too hard? I personally felt SMT: Nocturne was the most balanced RPG I've played...challenging but not impossible. On the other end, FF and Xenosaga are incredibly easy and don't require much thought (secret bosses and such notwithstanding.)


Maybe you should play the original Grandia or perhaps Parasite Eve [Chrysler Tower..]

[Chacrana]

I'm shocked, I figured you'd beat all the SMT games. Defintly the most challanging RPG I've played. Like Apposum said, it was so hard it turned many people off. Just like Nocturne it's all about demon managment. Keep upgrading your Personas and that should help alot.

For a side note Persona 2 was actually made in 2 parts. The first part "Innocent Sin " never made it to the states. But we got the last part, "Eternal Punishment." I would have loved to play Innocent Sin. Even though it's a sequel, it's made so you don't have to play the first one to understand it.

I first picked up DDS (and later DDS 2 and Nocturne) just this February so I haven't had a chance to get to Persona 2 yet (though I do have it.) Anyway yeah, it's kinda disappointing that we never got Innocent Sin over here since I've heard that it was an excellent game, but since the game is pretty self contained, I think I'll be okay.

Well anyway, Persona 2 has to come after Devil Summoner... shit, I might end up finishing 6 SMT games in the course of a year (If Persona 3 makes its Feb. release.)

[Rodimus]

Well anyway, Persona 2 has to come after Devil Summoner... shit, I might end up finishing 6 SMT games in the course of a year (If Persona 3 makes its Feb. release.)

I'm a little skeptical about Persona 3. I've been hearing very mixed things about it already. Plus I'm upset they changed the art style. Question: Do they blow their brains out with guns to summon their Persona?

[Sarang01]

What is everyone thinking about the VCS and what RPG's will be released for it?

[Chacrana]

Question: Do they blow their brains out with guns to summon their Persona?

Yes. Which is what makes the game a must have. Honestly, we need more suicide in our games. There's a game based on the Death Note anime coming out, but this lets you kill youself in English!

Err... anyway, even with the different art style, I'm optimistic. Famitsu gave it a 9/8/8/8 which is pretty damn good and the dev. team has proven several times now that they know what they're doing. The game is still very dark and gothic so it shouldn't really be too much of a departure... I'm pretty intrigued about the battle system too since it could be a lot of fun (another slightly more action-y combat system.)

[Brak]

What is everyone thinking about the VCS and what RPG's will be released for it?
EarthBound is all I'm thinking about.

[Rodimus]

Well I'm sold now. RPGs need more guns.

[JEKKI]

aw man now u got an rpg post, dang...

I beat valkyrie profile lenneth last nite,

I got both the A & B endings, and I wanna get the C one when I have time.

my friend game tested for VP2 and says good things about it,

but I dont got time for that rite now...

Im currently playing Shadow Hearts 2, still on disc 1 tho.

(and I bought part 3 for $20 at gamerush!!)

I hope to beat that by the end of this month so I can play FF12

[botticus]

What is everyone thinking about the VCS and what RPG's will be released for it?I'm hoping to see E.V.O., if you consider that an RPG. Otherwise besides Earthbound it's almost all Squeenix, we'll see what they do.

[craven_fiend]

Its about time that RPGs got their own topic.

I am currently playing Tales of Phantasia. Its enjoyable so far. Though I've restarted twice to get special stuff I missed.

I recently got 100% on FF 1/2. So I am in a game for the long haul.

And the only way I play multiple RPGs is if one is portable.

[RegalSin2020]

Its about time that RPGs got their own topic.

I am currently playing Tales of Phantasia. Its enjoyable so far. Though I've restarted twice to get special stuff I missed.

Which version?

[2Fast]

EarthBound is all I'm thinking about.

That and Super Mario RPG are what I'm looking forward to the most.

God I love Mario RPG.

[fatbeer]

My guess for Tales of Phantasia is the gba version since the text is in english unlike the japanese ps1 or snes.

I never really enjoy tales of phantasia after play tales of syphonia.Its a huge step back.The battle mechanias arn't refined,ai is dumb as heck,titles don't add stats boost unlike Tales of Syphonia(The only tales game that actually reward for titles),and arche mini boring .Most of the boss can be beaten very easily if use the same 2 special combo or trapping them in the corner.

[depascal22]

So how do you guys rank the games in the Tales series? I finished Tales of Symphonia about 3 months ago and I loved it. The only parts I didn't like was when I couldn't fight with Lloyd. I haven't played any of the other games of the series but I am interested in the new Tales of the Abyss.

[Chacrana]

So how do you guys rank the games in the Tales series? I finished Tales of Symphonia about 3 months ago and I loved it. The only parts I didn't like was when I couldn't fight with Lloyd. I haven't played any of the other games of the series but I am interested in the new Tales of the Abyss.

Tales of the Abyss is supposed to be even better than Symphonia which is great news for me since I loved Symphonia. I didn't care for Phantasia or Tales of Destiny, but I definitely recommend Tales of Eternia. It wasn't as good as Symphonia, but it was still an excellent RPG and the combat system was very fun.

[Sarang01]

Tales of the Abyss is supposed to be even better than Symphonia which is great news for me since I loved Symphonia. I didn't care for Phantasia or Tales of Destiny, but I definitely recommend Tales of Eternia. It wasn't as good as Symphonia, but it was still an excellent RPG and the combat system was very fun.

Tell me the story of Abyss will be better than ToS which seemed ho-hum from what I've played so far.

[fatbeer]

For the tales series,the newer version are much better because they refine the combat system and add more content expect tales of legendia it took a step back from symphonia.I think Tales of Legendia has one of the most memoriable quote that still stuck in my head.Norma said "I wish they Supersize my chest".I hope Tales of Abyss will pick up the slack and vastly improve the tales series.

From worse to best
Tales of Phantasia
Tales of Destiny
Tales of Destiny 2
Tales of Legendia
Tales of Symphonia

[tehweezner]

question: what should i play next? xenosaga 1, final fantasy tactics or kingdom hearts?

i'm about to finish MGS3 and before that i finished FFX-2. i'm leaning towards kingdom hearts.

craven: does FF 1/2 = FFX-2? i finished it at 58% and am never looking back!
definitely the weakest FF i thought, still was fun though.

i leveled up a bunch in the area where you fight animus and the three weird bug bosses. each battle gave at least 2000 exp and the battles took like 5 sec. each w/ 3 warriors. i still couldn't beat the desert thing w/two warriors and a white mage, i gave up.

[fatbeer]

question: what should i play next? xenosaga 1, final fantasy tactics or kingdom hearts?

i'm about to finish MGS3 and before that i finished FFX-2. i'm leaning towards kingdom hearts.

craven: does FF 1/2 = FFX-2? i finished it at 58% and am never looking back!
definitely the weakest FF i thought, still was fun though.

i leveled up a bunch in the area where you fight animus and the three weird bug bosses. each battle gave at least 2000 exp and the battles took like 5 sec. each w/ 3 warriors. i still couldn't beat the desert thing w/two warriors and a white mage, i gave up.

Out of those 3,you should probably play Kingdom Heart because fast pace combat system,pretty good storyline and lot of extra contents.You should definatly avoid the Gummi ship sidequest,you will understand once you play it.

Which final fantasy tactics your talking about the gba version or the psx version?Both version are equally fun and enjoyable combat system with different class skills,job quest and large variety of skill.The down of both version is the story line:ps1 version has horrible translated story and advance version storyline barely made any sense.

Xenosaga 1 is pretty decent game.Not a hall of famer or just plan great,it just good or ok.If you enjoy watch a bunch of cutscenes and fanastic story then you might want to play this game.The combat system is very weak.The main characters humonid troops deal more damage than the gears

[Rei no Otaku]

So how do you guys rank the games in the Tales series? I finished Tales of Symphonia about 3 months ago and I loved it. The only parts I didn't like was when I couldn't fight with Lloyd. I haven't played any of the other games of the series but I am interested in the new Tales of the Abyss.
Worst to best

Destiny
Eternia (Destiny 2)
Phantasia
Legendia
Symphonia

If you liked Symphonia, then you'll most likely like Abyss. They're made by the same development team.

[Sarang01]

Why can't they add a good storyline as well?!

[botticus]

Why can't they add a good storyline as well?!I happened to think very highly of Symphonia's story.

[RegalSin2020]

You gotta be kidding to say Tales Of Phantasia is the worst. Tales Of Phantasia
is probably one the best RPG out there in the world.

The problem is that whatever occured between Namco and Tri-Ace lead to the the cripple of the Tales Games. All Tales games is not made by Tri-Ace. In fact Star Ocean is the real Tales series.

Namco is so cheap they used the same engine from the PSX game for another game which contains non used character data like with Zelda and the Arwing.

Tales Of Phantasia on the GBA is the worst version since. The game uses the PSX Chibi character graphics, the music is a edit of the PSX music, and lastly
they dumbed down so many of the specials.

Wait it gets better since most of all Tales/Star Ocean games is released in English they decided to have new vioce overs. Yet they dump the intro music for some crappy 4-bit run over and the intro spells out DAD along with the extra dorky phrases. This is why I am unable to play the new Tales games without sheilding my ears.:cold:

[depascal22]

I happened to think very highly of Symphonia's story.

Same here. It's pretty cliched but there were some pretty good twists. I know it's also cliched for a guy in your party to turn out to be a double agent/traitor but I liked it nonetheless.

[Rodimus]

From worse to best
Tales of Phantasia
Tales of Destiny
Tales of Destiny 2
Tales of Legendia
Tales of Symphonia

Sounds about right to me, but I never played Legendia. To bad the true Tales of Destiny II never came out to the states. Any word of the ToD remake making its way over? Somehow I doubt it will.

[craven_fiend]

Which version?

It was the GBA version.

question: what should i play next? xenosaga 1, final fantasy tactics or kingdom hearts?

craven: does FF 1/2 = FFX-2? i finished it at 58% and am never looking back!
definitely the weakest FF i thought, still was fun though.


I'd suggest Final Fantasy Tactics, then Kingdom Hearts.

And by FF 1/2, I was refering to Dawn of Souls on the GBA.

I haven't really given X-2 a chance. One of these days I will.

[Rei no Otaku]

I haven't really given X-2 a chance. One of these days I will.
Don't bother. Game is horrible.

[Spades22]

Symphonia was alright, not the best but decent. Abyss looks way better to me though...and I didn;t bother with Phantasia. I tried it a bit but the battle seemed a little slow for me and I don't like Handheld systems much. Uhh...the only Tales games I know about are Symphonia, Legendia, Phantasia, and the new Abyss...are there other releases in North America too???

And I hated the Symphonia story, worst story ever which is the main reason I didn't like the game. And also the characters were the most annoying characters to ever be in a video game. Abyss looks more "matured" than Symphonia...

Oh and I loved FF9 it was my favorite RPG I've played yet (I havent played many though lol)

[botticus]

I wish we could get some information, any information, on Tales of the Tempest. Saw a little paragraph about its appearance at TGS(?), but that's it

[xghostsniperx]

You gotta be kidding to say Tales Of Phantasia is the worst. Tales Of Phantasia
is probably one the best RPG out there in the world.

The problem is that whatever occured between Namco and Tri-Ace lead to the the cripple of the Tales Games. All Tales games is not made by Tri-Ace. In fact Star Ocean is the real Tales series.

Namco is so cheap they used the same engine from the PSX game for another game which contains non used character data like with Zelda and the Arwing.

Tales Of Phantasia on the GBA is the worst version since. The game uses the PSX Chibi character graphics, the music is a edit of the PSX music, and lastly
they dumbed down so many of the specials.

Wait it gets better since most of all Tales/Star Ocean games is released in English they decided to have new vioce overs. Yet they dump the intro music for some crappy 4-bit run over and the intro spells out DAD along with the extra dorky phrases. This is why I am unable to play the new Tales games without sheilding my ears.:cold:

You really need to learn how to proof read your posts.

Anyways, I recently found a good deal on eBay for every Nippon Ichi strategy game out right now with all the guides. I have the Complete Disgaea 2 set as well.

I was really excited when I started Disgaea, but after about twenty hours of playtime I was bored out of my my mind. I'm thinking about forcing myself to finish it, but if Disgaea is the best of the NIS games, I hate to think what the others are like. Do you guys think I should just throw them back up on eBay?

[Chacrana]

Symphonia was alright, not the best but decent. Abyss looks way better to me though...and I didn;t bother with Phantasia. I tried it a bit but the battle seemed a little slow for me and I don't like Handheld systems much. Uhh...the only Tales games I know about are Symphonia, Legendia, Phantasia, and the new Abyss...are there other releases in North America too???

And I hated the Symphonia story, worst story ever which is the main reason I didn't like the game. And also the characters were the most annoying characters to ever be in a video game. Abyss looks more "matured" than Symphonia...

Oh and I loved FF9 it was my favorite RPG I've played yet (I havent played many though lol)

Well Tales of Destiny 1 and 2 also came out in the US (Tales of Destiny 2 is also known as Tales of Eternia.) Eternia was great, but Tales of Destiny was... well, not so great.

[Spades22]

Woah really? What console are they for...

Oh for the PS1? Ah thats alright I'd rather not go back in time, I'm sick of the oldies.

[Chacrana]

Woah really? What console are they for...

Oh for the PS1? Ah thats alright I'd rather not go back in time, I'm sick of the oldies.

Well, Tales of Eternia was released on the PSP in the UK. Since the PSP's region free, you can import Tales of Eternia and it'll be in full English and everything.

[Roufuss]

Well, Tales of Eternia was released on the PSP in the UK. Since the PSP's region free, you can import Tales of Eternia and it'll be in full English and everything.

Just hope you don't get a copy with the Volt glitch, like I did :(

[gigan54]

I can't believe we're seven pages into this and no one's even mentioned the masterpiece that is crono trigger. that was the first rpg that I just couldn't get enough of. I remember trying to max out all of my characters stats with stars (**)
ayla, frog and crono was my favorite team.

also, the music was well done and catchy. I don't know how well it'll hold up now, but I'm now in the mood to give it another go. I don't have the time for it but I've got the will.

my name is Gato
I've got metal joints
beat me up
and earn 15 silver points

:D

[Roufuss]

I'm hoping SE gets smart one day and makes a good port of Chrono Trigger onto something. I was always hoping for the GBA.

It's too much work to hook my SNES into my HDTV, and even then the graphics don't look all that hot in that setting.

[depascal22]

Will Final Fantasy Chronicles play on a PS2 Slim? I've got a sealed copy and I've always wanted to play both games but I didn't want to open it just to find out that it won't play on my system.

[Chacrana]

I'm hoping SE gets smart one day and makes a good port of Chrono Trigger onto something. I was always hoping for the GBA.

It's too much work to hook my SNES into my HDTV, and even then the graphics don't look all that hot in that setting.

Yes. Final Fantasy IV? Cool. Final Fantasy V? Okay. Final Fantasy III? Okay, fine, goddammit, just gimme something different. Final Fantasy is great and all, but I've been wanting the definitive version of Chrono Trigger a LOT more than Final Fantasy remakes. All I've got is the PS1 version with the shitty load times. If I buy the SNES version, it'll be expensive and I'll lose the cinematics and the bonuses... there's really no way to win with the game right now, so it'd be nice if Square decided to put an ultimate version on the DS or something... Chrono Trigger is easily one of my favorite games of all time and I really, really want to see another release of it.

[Roufuss]

Yes. Final Fantasy IV? Cool. Final Fantasy V? Okay. Final Fantasy III? Okay, fine, goddammit, just gimme something different. Final Fantasy is great and all, but I've been wanting the definitive version of Chrono Trigger a LOT more than Final Fantasy remakes. All I've got is the PS1 version with the shitty load times. If I buy the SNES version, it'll be expensive and I'll lose the cinematics and the bonuses... there's really no way to win with the game right now, so it'd be nice if Square decided to put an ultimate version on the DS or something... Chrono Trigger is easily one of my favorite games of all time and I really, really want to see another release of it.

Yea, I'm kind of pissed too that they just keep whoring out all their FF games one at a time on the GBA.

SquareEnix should REALLY take a page from Capcom / Midway and do an SE collection. The games are small enough they could fit tons onto one DVD. Hell, they could even charge $50 for it, but imagine a compliation with every one of Square and Enix's awesome RPG's. They could do an NES era one, an SNES era one, and fans would eat that shit up. All it would have to be is just cleaned up ports of their games, hardly any work involved at all.

I guess it's more profitable to just whore out Final Fantasy though.

[chodax]

FFVIII>FFVII, every one will probably argue with me, but i think 8 is better.

[depascal22]

I thought 8 was better also.

[Chacrana]

Yea, I'm kind of pissed too that they just keep whoring out all their FF games one at a time on the GBA.

SquareEnix should REALLY take a page from Capcom / Midway and do an SE collection. The games are small enough they could fit tons onto one DVD. Hell, they could even charge $50 for it, but imagine a compliation with every one of Square and Enix's awesome RPG's. They could do an NES era one, an SNES era one, and fans would eat that shit up. All it would have to be is just cleaned up ports of their games, hardly any work involved at all.

I guess it's more profitable to just whore out Final Fantasy though.

I'm fine with the remakes to be honest. I just wish that Square would be more of a slut and whore out some of its better or slightly less popular games (like CT, Secret of Mana, maybe even bring over Seiken Densetsu 3, etc.) But yeah, I'm still willing to pay a ton for classic games if they're that good. Capcom's Mega Man and arcade collections? The Metal Slug Anthology? I'd buy these things at $100 a piece because they're that fucking good. Square must know they're sitting on a goldmine...

In conclusion, more companies need to become whores.

[chodax]

I'm fine with the remakes to be honest. I just wish that Square would be more of a slut and whore out some of its better or slightly less popular games (like CT, Secret of Mana, maybe even bring over Seiken Densetsu 3, etc.) But yeah, I'm still willing to pay a ton for classic games if they're that good. Capcom's Mega Man and arcade collections? The Metal Slug Anthology? I'd buy these things at $100 a piece because they're that fucking good. Square must know they're sitting on a goldmine...

In conclusion, more companies need to become whores.

Square should team up with Paris Hilton then.

[Rodimus]

FFVIII>FFVII, every one will probably argue with me, but i think 8 is better.

I wont argue but FFVII has always been my favorite, then again I've never been a big Final Fantasy fan. I always play them, but it's not my favorite series. However I really liked the characters in FFVII.

Chrono Trigger was also my gateway drug into RPGs. That and Mario RPG. Those were some fun games. I must have beatin Chrono Trigger like 6 or 7 times. And I know alot of people who hated Mario RPG but I thought it was great.

[botticus]

FFVIII>FFVII, every one will probably argue with me, but i think 8 is better.FFVI > FF*, so it's all good. I liked VII, and it was certainly good, but it's only considered one of the best because it was the first one in 3D and the first one that most people were introduced to.

And I agree on all the CT talk, but since a compilation disc will almost certainly end up a PS2 exclusive, I'm gonna go ahead and disagree with that suggestion. Let's just keep seeing DS remakes, and I'm cool with it. I think one of the cooler things of CT was the combo attacks. That Cross Slash or whatever it was with Chrono and Frog was sweet.

[fatbeer]

If you liked Symphonia, then you'll most likely like Abyss. They're made by the same development team.

if tales of abyss is anywhere close to symphonia i'm in.Walmart has tales of abyss game for $29.82,great for those who missed out overstock glitch or target deal. They also have the guide for $10.22.

http://www.walmart.com/catalog/search-ng.gsp?search_constraint=0&search_query=tales+of+abyss&ic=20_0

[Spades22]

I would play Eternia IF I had a PSP...don't want to buy one for that.

[Rei no Otaku]

Final Fantasy 4 was the best in the series. None of the others have come to close to its greatness.

[botticus]

Final Fantasy 4 was the best in the series. None of the others have come to close to its greatness.I give 4 the nod on best environments (I mean, come on, they somehow worked the moon into that shit), but the diversity of characters and story line splits in 6 were fantastic.

I want to go back and replay the fight in the moogle caves. :D That was a good improvement on the pseudo-strategery they first put in 4 at Yang's castle.

[RegalSin2020]

When did everyone just start talking about RPG?

Final Fantasy is over rated. For a turn based game the game is average at best. The graphics may be jaw dropping but the senario's gets weirder and weirder along the way.

I still say Tales Of Phantasia is the best thing to hit this Planet.


FFVIII>FFVII, every one will probably argue with me, but i think 8 is better.

Your absolutely correct. FF7 was basically FF6 but in 3d. FF7 also had three differnt Bahamut variations while the did everything extremely nice they kinda failed to keep intrest of gameplay.

What made me sad was that Midgar was only one disc. The entire game should have taken place in that one area and then switch to the outside world.

FF8 is probably the best FF out there in 3d. It had everything to offer and not only that the game gave away so many mini games instead of recycling the races like FF7 did.

[spoo]

Chrono Trigger was also my gateway drug into RPGs. That and Mario RPG. Those were some fun games. I must have beatin Chrono Trigger like 6 or 7 times. And I know alot of people who hated Mario RPG but I thought it was great.
I love Chrono Trigger but I would rather not talk about the most overrated IMHO RPG of all time Chrono Cross...

The talk about Tales of Destiny not being very good I would beg to differ. I can't get into the Tales going 3D, SO does it better but ToD is in my top 5 PSX RPG games easily. I know I may not have mainstream taste with my RPG but I know what is fun and ToD is fun. I never did get around to play ToD2 (NA) and most likely never will.

[Spades22]

Oh ya for the record Mario Legend of the Seven stars or something like that was a very awesome game. Too bad the emulator screwed up right when I got Gino.

Paper Mario I remembered I guess could also be classified as an RPG...that has to be one of my favorites for sure. I think I beat it like 2 times in 1 week...

[Rodimus]

Question for everyone: What's your opinion on RPGs with Minigames?

[sarausagi]

Question for everyone: What's your opinion on RPGs with Minigames?

Most of the top tier RPG's always tend to have mini games

FF VII: chocobo breeding, chocobo racing, golden saucer games, battling

Xenosaga Episode I: drilling, xenocard, slots, poker

I like it, always a good way of spicing up the gameplay and letting the player do somethings you might usually only read about or see in cut scenes. I think FFX had a few too, besides blitzball, most of them were located in I think calm plains or something like that

[VanillaGorilla]

Don't forget the FFVIII card game, which I REALLY liked.

[depascal22]

Question for everyone: What's your opinion on RPGs with Minigames?

I like them as long as I don't have to spend an entire session trying to either figure it out or figure the small quirk that will allow you to beat it. I really liked the card game in KOTOR because it felt like something you would do if you were actually in that world. It was like seeing a 3 card monty stand in the subway, a chess game in Central Park, or a craps game in Harlem. It felt authentic to the Star Wars universe and drew me in even farther.

[RelentlessRolento]

Don't forget the FFVIII card game, which I REALLY liked.


god bless your soul... one of the high points in any FF mini-games...

[jalu6]

I haven't been playing too many RPGs lately, but I've gotten the bug again and need a new one to play. The last RPG (or I guess they are considered Action/RPGs) that I played were Fable and Jade Empire. I liked them both, but by now I am completely sick of the good/evil dynamic and the character customization.

My favorite RPG of all time was FF2, and I liked it because it's simplicity - you gain a few levels you gain a new spell. You dont have to worry about adding skill points to your mana or your health.

I've always found those systems quite limiting since you have to decide how you want to play the game in the beginning. For example, if I wanted to start out as a melee character in Fable and later decide I wanted to be an archer, I would end up with some sort of weak hybrid character who wasn't very good at anything.

So basically, can anyone suggest a begginner friendly RPG, for any current gen system with a good story and solid battle system that wont have me sitting in menus stressing over where to put points so I dont completely paint myself into a skill corner? Turn based or active is fine, I just don't want to be in a situation where I make a few bad decisions in the beginning and it prevents me from doing something cool or fun 20 hours later.

Thanks

[Rei no Otaku]

So basically, can anyone suggest a begginner friendly RPG, for any current gen system with a good story and solid battle system that wont have me sitting in menus stressing over where to put points so I dont completely paint myself into a skill corner? Turn based or active is fine, I just don't want to be in a situation where I make a few bad decisions in the beginning and it prevents me from doing something cool or fun 20 hours later.
Any of the FFs, the Tales games, Shadow Hearts games, Valkyrie Profile, Baten Kaitos, lots more...

Most console RPGs don't involve distibuting skill points. So you can really pick any of them.

[Chacrana]

Any of the FFs, the Tales games, Shadow Hearts games, Valkyrie Profile, Baten Kaitos, lots more...

Most console RPGs don't involve distibuting skill points. So you can really pick any of them.

Valkyrie Profile would probably kick someone's ass if they haven't played at least a few RPGs before. Any of FFs or Tales games are definitely good gateway drugs though. I'd also recommend the Mario RPGs even though they're unconventional since they are very accessible.

[Spades22]

Ya skill points = sucks. I'd definitely recommend Tales cause all of your characters gain stats even if you don't use them. I don't think, I forget, if the same can be said for FF.

[Rodimus]

Valkyrie Profile isn't very begginer friendly. Since you can't just infinitely run around and level up you have to be careful with what you spend your money on and who you need to level up. Plus getting the good ending is something you'd need a faqs for and follow step by step, and even then it's confusing. I couldn't imagine getting that ending by pure luck. The boss Bloodbane was pretty darn hard. Much more difficult than the actual last boss. Lastly if you don't have a PSP you'd end up spending more than $150 for the PS1 version of this game. Not recomended for a non-hardcore RPG player.

But anything else they said would be okay.

[jalu6]

Valkyrie Profile would probably kick someone's ass if they haven't played at least a few RPGs before. Any of FFs or Tales games are definitely good gateway drugs though. I'd also recommend the Mario RPGs even though they're unconventional since they are very accessible.

Yeah, I played the GC Paper Mario, and it was great. I'll have to wait for that Virtual Console to play the N64 version.

I know DQ8 is only $20 and it looks like a lot of fun, but I hear its pretty difficult, is that another game that would kick my ass? :) From what I've seen the art style looks awesome, and the reviews are extremely positive.

Is Tales of Symphonia part of that series you are talking about? I got it at Target for $15 months ago, but I never played it. Would that be a good next choice?

[botticus]

Is Tales of Symphonia part of that series you are talking about? I got it at Target for $15 months ago, but I never played it. Would that be a good next choice?I would highly recommend it. The basic gameplay is pretty simple, and the real-time battle system is a lot of fun.

[Rei no Otaku]

Valkyrie Profile isn't very begginer friendly. Since you can't just infinitely run around and level up you have to be careful with what you spend your money on and who you need to level up. Plus getting the good ending is something you'd need a faqs for and follow step by step, and even then it's confusing. I couldn't imagine getting that ending by pure luck. The boss Bloodbane was pretty darn hard. Much more difficult than the actual last boss. Lastly if you don't have a PSP you'd end up spending more than $150 for the PS1 version of this game. Not recomended for a non-hardcore RPG player.

But anything else they said would be okay.
I'd still recommend it. Sometimes you have to jump in the deep end. There's nothing wrong with trying out a game that many people say is "difficult." You like it, and you work at it. Not to mention all he asked for were RPGs without skill point allocation.

Plus damn, the game isn't even that hard. Only if you're going for the best ending is it challenging.
Is Tales of Symphonia part of that series you are talking about? I got it at Target for $15 months ago, but I never played it. Would that be a good next choice?
You own ToS, but haven't played it? Yeah, you shouldn't be asking for more RPG suggestions. You should just be playing that game.

[Chacrana]

Yeah, I played the GC Paper Mario, and it was great. I'll have to wait for that Virtual Console to play the N64 version.

I know DQ8 is only $20 and it looks like a lot of fun, but I hear its pretty difficult, is that another game that would kick my ass? :) From what I've seen the art style looks awesome, and the reviews are extremely positive.

Is Tales of Symphonia part of that series you are talking about? I got it at Target for $15 months ago, but I never played it. Would that be a good next choice?

DQ8 is semi-difficult compared to Final Fantasy, but you can level up to where you need to be without an issue if you're really struggling. If you have Symphonia though, throw that shit in the GC right now. It's the best game in the series that's come out in the US so far.

[Rodimus]

Not to mention all he asked for were RPGs without skill point allocation.

He also asked for current gen systems, unless he wants to play on a PSP. And even though it doesn't have skill point allocation, the game limits the player with the time he has. Bottom line, I don't think this was a good recomendation. And the price man, the price!!! This is supposed to be CAG.

As for the difficulty it's above average, still harder than most RPGs.

[jalu6]

Thanks for all the suggestions! I dont have a PSP (or a PS1 memory card, come to think of it) so I think I'll be throwing in Tales of Symphonia after work tonight. If I'm at BB and looking for something to pick up, I'll probably grab DQ8 since it still looks really interesting, but Tales is a good excuse to dust off the GC anyway.

[depascal22]

Easy RPGs from the current gen? Since you have a GC, go with Tales of Symphonia and Skies of Arcadia. You'll really like both of them and that should take you at least a month to beat them both. One is active battle and one is turn based so you'll get your fill of both styles.

[fatbeer]

If you like easy and simple rpgs you should Lunar Blue,Lunar Silver or any FF games.If you like ultra easy fun rpgs try Kingdom Hearts 1 and 2 and pokemon since there general demographic is aim toward kids and have very low difficulty settings

[MadFlava]

Tons of RPG's on all platforms recently. PS2 leads the pack but the DS has some of the most amazing RPG ever to grace a handheld. PS3 is getting an expanded version of Oblivion. In the next year or two the 360 will get two quality RPG's from MistWalker. It's an amazing time to be an RPG gamer.

[spoo]

Thanks for all the suggestions! I dont have a PSP (or a PS1 memory card, come to think of it) so I think I'll be throwing in Tales of Symphonia after work tonight. If I'm at BB and looking for something to pick up, I'll probably grab DQ8 since it still looks really interesting, but Tales is a good excuse to dust off the GC anyway.
I wouldn't recomend DQ8, it is long and is a level grinder. I would suggest Final Fantasy X, Kingdom Hearts or Wild Arms: Alter Code F.

[jalu6]

I wouldn't recomend DQ8, it is long and is a level grinder. I would suggest Final Fantasy X, Kingdom Hearts or Wild Arms: Alter Code F.

I did beat both Kingdom Hearts games, but I never really considered them RPGs. I always thought of them more as action games with some FF characters thrown in. I've never actually played much FFX, but my roomate used to play it constantly, and I've seen enough of it that I doubt I'd want to play it again.

Don't know much about Wild Arms though. I'll have to check that one out.

[Rodimus]

I tought Wild Arms Alter Code: F was boring. I actually prefer the orginal for PS1. The translation and dialouge in WA AC:F was mind numbing. I was looking forward to playing it so much. But 30 hours in I had to quit, I was falling asleep. Trust me, don't get it.

[Rei no Otaku]

I wouldn't recommend DQ8 because it sucks. I realize I'll probably be the only one to say that, but I found the game boring.

As far as Wild Arms, I liked Alter Code F. Granted it's not the best in the series. I think WA4 is the best one followed by WA3. Both are easy to find, and cheap.

[Rodimus]

I think I got to the last boss of Valkyrie Profile 2. But he killed me. I'll try again tomarrow morning. It sucks that you get all the best characters at the very end.

EDIT - After some rest, I finally took him down. Took me 3 tries. After beating it I'm still left wth questions about the story, here are a couple but Major Spoilers Ahead, be warned:

1. Why is Arngrim in this game? They explained why Lezard's hanging around the past, but still don't know what's up with Arngrim. Is it two diffrent people? Was he reincarnated?

2. Since this is a sequel in the past (think Back to the Future 2) does this mean the events in VP1 will never play out? It sure seems that way cause Brahms is dead & Odin seems to be gone as well.

Anyway's It's on my trade list now, so if someone wants it drop me a line it's up for grabs. Next on my list is SMT: Devil Summoner.

[Roufuss]

Traded in three pretty worthless games (one being FFX-2) and put $20 down on Tales of the Abyss, so I'm all set for tommorrow and to get that art cell.

[Spades22]

Oh ya tales of the abyss comes out today. Hmm I won't be getting it though even though I want it bad. Might as well play the cheaper games I never got to play first. I might get it for Christmas though...do you think this game will eventually, or pretty soon, become a GH or get a price drop?

[Rodimus]

Oh ya tales of the abyss comes out today. Hmm I won't be getting it though even though I want it bad. Might as well play the cheaper games I never got to play first. I might get it for Christmas though...do you think this game will eventually, or pretty soon, become a GH or get a price drop?

Well, if it does it'll have to be out for a year. How much does Legendia sell for now? Did it drop to $19.99 yet?

[VanillaGorilla]

Did i hear someone say the Lunar games are easy? No sir, they are not.

[Spades22]

Well I can wait a year...but ya comparing it to LEgendia would be nice. I bet it will sell a bit more though.

[62t]

Did i hear someone say the Lunar games are easy? No sir, they are not.
they are probably talking about hte PSOne remake.

[Rozz]

Since Roufuss brought up FFX-2, am I the only one who found it unbearably boring at one point? I played it for 30 hours and could never progress furthur because of how boring it got.

[The Mana Knight]

I just got a 10% off coupon for CC, in OXM. If CC has TotA by either Thursday or the weekend, I'm going to buy it there. If they don't, I'm just going over to Best Buy since a buddy of mine works there (kind of want to buy a game where he rings it up).

Traded in three pretty worthless games (one being FFX-2) and put $20 down on Tales of the Abyss, so I'm all set for tommorrow and to get that art cell.It's near impossible for me to get rid of an RPG. The only times I ever got rid of an RPG was because my Sega Saturn's internal battery went out for the third time (so I lost all my data saves) and .Hack//QUARANTINE (since I also had INFECTION and was probably never going to beat it).

I'm going to be very busy buying RPGs this month. I'm definitely buying TotA, FFXII Collector's Edition, Children of Mana, and Magical Starsign. If I can make room, I'll get SMT Devil Summoner, .Hack//G.U., Summon Night Swordcraft Story 2, and Yggdra Union. What's the chances of me beating all those games? Around 0.1%. I just love RPGs too much to pass all them up.

[Chacrana]

http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/talesoftheabyss/review.html?sid=6159629

Tales of the Abyss Review: 7.9. Pretty damn good considering we've seen 2 entries in the series this year already.

[Rei no Otaku]

Since Roufuss brought up FFX-2, am I the only one who found it unbearably boring at one point? I played it for 30 hours and could never progress furthur because of how boring it got.
I found the game to be unbearably awful. I liked FFX, and and X-2 was blasphemy. As far as I'm concerned the game never existed.

[sprintsucks5892]

Okay, I want to buy either SMT: Nocturne or Digital Devil Saga 1.
Which is your favorite and which do you reccomend?

[Chacrana]

Okay, I want to buy either SMT: Nocturne or Digital Devil Saga 1.
Which is your favorite and which do you reccomend?

Between DDS and Nocturne? Nocturne. DDS has more story and DDS 2 is probably better than Nocturne, but Nocturne is double the length of DDS 1 and it's damn good. There's a lot more to do and it's definitely darker than DDS which is kinda cool. If you're only buying 1 game, get Nocturne.

[62t]

Okay, I want to buy either SMT: Nocturne or Digital Devil Saga 1.
Which is your favorite and which do you reccomend?
DDS1. DDS is much more easier to get into. It also has a better story and characters. Plus you can get DDS2 which is right after the first game. And it is not like DDS1 is a short game, it can easily last 50 hours.

[Roufuss]

It's near impossible for me to get rid of an RPG. The only times I ever got rid of an RPG was because my Sega Saturn's internal battery went out for the third time (so I lost all my data saves) and .Hack//QUARANTINE (since I also had INFECTION and was probably never going to beat it).


I don't have the same attachment to shitty games or games I don't care about... this month I sold about 15 RPG's alone, all for PS2, alot of newer ones like Grandia 3, Tales of Legendia, Suikoden V. I never even touched most of them, and to be honest, my RPG schedule is going to go like this:

Tales of the Abyss ---> Valkyrie Profile 2 ---> SMT Devil Summoner

Eventually I'll rebuy Tales of Legendia and Suikoden V to play when there is nothing more interesting to me, and by that time the games will be less than $20 if history means anything. I'm not going to buy games anymore just because I can, it's how I got into this situation of too many games to begin with. I'd love to buy all the RPG's for October but with two RPG's already to go through with a third I'm ready to buy, I gotta taper it off.

I was NEVER going to touch FFX-2 again, I got $12 for it after the trade 3 bonus at Gamestop, that money is much better suited towards Abyss.

[Chacrana]

DDS1. DDS is much more easier to get into. It also has a better story and characters. Plus you can get DDS2 which is right after the first game. And it is not like DDS1 is a short game, it can easily last 50 hours.

For the record, I finished DDS 1 and 2 in about 24 hours each. That's a reasonable length, but considering that I spent twice that time on Nocturne (though I admittedly did more side quests), I think Nocturne is a better value.

DDS is probably easier to get into though... it won't kick your ass quite as much at first.

[The Mana Knight]

http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/talesoftheabyss/review.html?sid=6159629

Tales of the Abyss Review: 7.9. Pretty damn good considering we've seen 2 entries in the series this year already.I'd agree, since most RPGs get ripped on by U.S. reviewers (especially many of my favorites). I'm definitely buying it, especially since I heard it was one of the best Tales games (the new battle system is really appealing to me).

That reminds me, I need to post an announcement in my "Tales of ________" Facebook group (I created the only Tales series group). I might change the Tales of Symphonia pic to a Tales of the Abyss pic
I don't have the same attachment to shitty games or games I don't care about... this month I sold about 15 RPG's alone, all for PS2, alot of newer ones like Grandia 3, Tales of Legendia, Suikoden V. I never even touched most of them, and to be honest, my RPG schedule is going to go like this:

Tales of the Abyss ---> Valkyrie Profile 2 ---> SMT Devil Summoner

Eventually I'll rebuy Tales of Legendia and Suikoden V to play when there is nothing more interesting to me, and by that time the games will be less than $20 if history means anything. I'm not going to buy games anymore just because I can, it's how I got into this situation of too many games to begin with. I'd love to buy all the RPG's for October but with two RPG's already to go through with a third I'm ready to buy, I gotta taper it off.

I was NEVER going to touch FFX-2 again, I got $12 for it after the trade 3 bonus at Gamestop, that money is much better suited towards Abyss.Ah. It's understandable. Come to think of it, I need to take advantage of that bonus soon to get rid of Metal Slug 4/5 (due to Anthology coming to PSP).

Did you ever try to beat FFX-2, if you don't mind me asking? I'll admit I somewhat had to force myself to play through it, but I did (that was a time I had much less RPGs compared to now, on PS2, so it wasn't completely a problem). I'll admit I only touched my copy twice since I beat it. :P Not sure if anyone had a similar experience, I beat the game in 23 hours and was up to Level 75 on all characters, since leveling up was so simple.

I put up the Tales of the Abyss avatar and sig, since I plan to change my sig/avatar on Wednesday, during a big RPG release. Magical Starsign, FFXII, and/or Children of Mana will be next.
For the record, I finished DDS 1 and 2 in about 24 hours each. That's a reasonable length, but considering that I spent twice that time on Nocturne (though I admittedly did more side quests), I think Nocturne is a better value.

DDS is probably easier to get into though... it won't kick your ass quite as much at first.From my experience, I made it to the very end of DDS1, but I just can't beat it, due to be severly under leveled and whenever I try to gain level ups, an enemy does some attack that knocks out my entire party. I still love the game, but that's what normally happens. I'm around 27 hours though. I have only played DDS2 for 4-5 hours though, due to buying too many games around DDS2 release. As for Nocturned, I'm halfway through the game. Personally, I liked it more than the DDS series, but I'm around 20 hours into it (half way through). The reason I haven't progressed is because I forgot where to go. :(

[Roufuss]

From my experience, I made it to the very end of DDS1, but I just can't beat it, due to be severly under leveled and whenever I try to gain level ups, an enemy does some attack that knocks out my entire party. I still love the game, but that's what normally happens. I'm around 27 hours though. I have only played DDS2 for 4-5 hours though, due to buying too many games around DDS2 release. As for Nocturned, I'm halfway through the game. Personally, I liked it more than the DDS series, but I'm around 20 hours into it (half way through). The reason I haven't progressed is because I forgot where to go. :(

Leveling up in DDS 1 is simple... gotta go to the Avenpura (name is probably wrong) waterways, people drop tons of exp... do some optional bosses, too.

[willardhaven]

Anybody think it's worth ordering the new Tales from GS/EB for the art cell? Or should I just wait for TRU?

Also, do you guys think with everyone going for the LE version of FF XII that the regular edition will become the sought after version?

[fatbeer]

If you just want the preorder item,just purchase it then return the item.This way you can the artcell for free,most preorder items don't have a sku.

[62t]

Anybody think it's worth ordering the new Tales from GS/EB for the art cell? Or should I just wait for TRU?

Also, do you guys think with everyone going for the LE version of FF XII that the regular edition will become the sought after version?
no because only 1 store (Eb/gamestop) is selling the LE

[Rodimus]

Nocturne > DDS

The game has so much depth, and it's extremly open ended. But that might turn some people off cause it's not a simple RPG. It's challanging, and you can literally get any enemy on your team (with the exception of 2 - 3 bosses.) You ever see an enemy in an RPG and say, "I wish I had that guy on my team?" All your choices effect the outcome of the game. While it's not very character driven it has a dark, moody atmosphere that fits perfectly into Nocturne.

The best part of this game is fusing demons to create super powerful ones, to take on the battlefield and slaughter all the little weak demons. You can create any demon with any skills you want. You can make your perfect team of doom. The fiend class has some of the most awsome demons. And all the demons are real mythological beings taken from around the world. You can read their bios and learn a little something.

The only downfall is I got the neutral ending which was boring. But that was my fault. I wish I would've just picked a side.

[The Mana Knight]

Anybody think it's worth ordering the new Tales from GS/EB for the art cell? Or should I just wait for TRU?

Also, do you guys think with everyone going for the LE version of FF XII that the regular edition will become the sought after version?I've been screwed too many times with bonuses where I never get them at EB, so I just said screw it and, I'm going to buy the game somewhere else (probably CC).

[Roufuss]

Does anyone know why the guide for Abyss isn't coming out until 10-24? I could have sworn it came out with the game, but sure enough, it wasn't at my EB this morning, and gamestop.com lists the guide as 10-24.

Why even bother releasing a guide if it's two weeks after the game has come out? I'll have completely beaten the game by then... good job, Brady.

The art cell is pretty nice, as well.

[62t]

I've been screwed too many times with bonuses where I never get them at EB, so I just said screw it and, I'm going to buy the game somewhere else (probably CC).
you are not missing much, the art cell is not that great.

[Rodimus]

Just picked up Devil Summoner. I couldn't help myself. I looked through the guide and it didn't look like it was worth $20.

[Chacrana]

Just picked up Devil Summoner. I couldn't help myself. I looked through the guide and it didn't look like it was worth $20.

Phew... so the game actually came out... I'm always nervous when I'm excited about an upcoming game because I feel like the company's going to delay it at the last second...

Anyway, when I'm back home tomorrow I'm grabbing it for sure.

[The Mana Knight]

Just picked up Devil Summoner. I couldn't help myself. I looked through the guide and it didn't look like it was worth $20.I have so much to crap to buy this month, that I just had to hold off on Devil Summoner. The only thing that worries me about the game is that action RPGs haven't had too big of a success with me (turn-based suits me much better). After I get FFXII (or pay it in full), I'll probably get it.

I'm debating whether I should stick with the collector's edition of FFXII. I'm kind of short on $$ right now, but I am one of the bigger Final Fantasy fans and missing out on it might hurt me in the long run. The only thing an extra $10 would be used for is to buy more RPGs I probably won't play for a while (since FFXII would have priority).

[LostRoad]

Just got my copy of TotA in today and found it odd ( though no biggie ) that on the back of the art cell it just says " Limited Edtion of 24,000 ". Do they not number these anymore?

[depascal22]

I tried to get Tales of the Abyss at Wal-Mart today. I stopped by around lunchtime and the guy said it was supposed to be in but only one person knew where the games were located in the back. I hung around for about 15 minutes to see if she would show up but she never did. I called back a half hour ago and the guy that worked there said the game might or might not come in at all. I might as well just order it online for 30 bucks and bite on the shipping. I'm still coming out ahead compared to buying it at Crapstop.

[fatbeer]

Does anyone know why the guide for Abyss isn't coming out until 10-24? I could have sworn it came out with the game, but sure enough, it wasn't at my EB this morning, and gamestop.com lists the guide as 10-24.

Why even bother releasing a guide if it's two weeks after the game has come out? I'll have completely beaten the game by then... good job, Brady.

The art cell is pretty nice, as well.

QFT

by the time I receive my guide from amazon i could probably complete the game.I think I will be a bit patient and wait for guide to arrive.In meantime I should start playing my big pile of games.The art cell look pretty nice.I wonder is it actually "limited to 24,000".Most eb/gamestop around here still have plenty of artcells.I guess few people actually preorder Tales of abyss

[MarkMan]

Final Fantasy XII, I'd have to say is SO good thus far. I'm really impressed. The CG quality is amazing and the gameplay is a nice change from the traditional FF game.

I need to pick up Devil Summoner today. X_X

[Rodimus]

Chacrana - Well good news about Devil Summoner. The fusions are intact. I'm not sure if it's as deep as Nocturne's. But leveling up seems very quick at the moment. I'm only 2 hours in and already at level 6. Not like a SMT game at all. But it is just the begining. I expect it to get pretty hardcore later.

No voice acting, kinda of a shame.

EDIT - 3 hours in at level 10.

[depascal22]

That's good news on Devil Summoner.

[Spades22]

So has anyone played any Tales of the Abyss yet?

[Chacrana]

Chacrana - Well good news about Devil Summoner. The fusions are intact. I'm not sure if it's as deep as Nocturne's. But leveling up seems very quick at the moment. I'm only 2 hours in and already at level 6. Not like a SMT game at all. But it is just the begining. I expect it to get pretty hardcore later.

No voice acting, kinda of a shame.

EDIT - 3 hours in at level 10.

Good to hear that the game's got at least some SMT staples. In terms of quality, how does it stack up to the other SMTs?

[Rodimus]

Good to hear that the game's got at least some SMT staples. In terms of quality, how does it stack up to the other SMTs?

Well since it's not turned based it doesn't have a great strategy feel anymore. But enimies still have weaknesses,but it seems quicker to hack em' up instead of toggling through menus. My biggest complaint is that the protagonist doesnt block as fast as I want him to, he's got a nasty recovery time after attacks. Maybe that changes. I still have alot to play.

Like always this SMT game captures the atmosphere perfectly. It's "lighter" than other SMT games, not as dark. I'm not 100% sure how demon fusion works yet, since I only have 4 of them.

[Rei no Otaku]

Been playing Abyss and Devil Summoner.

First Abyss, is quality Tales. The characters are great. Luke is a real ass. Granted he's a product of his enviorment, but he's not likeable at all. That's not a bad thing though, since it's obvious we're supposed to be annoyed by him. The battle system is like Symphonia's, but it's interesting what they did this time. As you level up more skills open up to you, that in most RPGs you get in the beginning. This is good since it eases you into it. Like when you get to level 5 you gain the ability to move anywhere on the battle field, and not just on a path to the enemy, like in Symphonia. I also have to say the voice acting is really good. I noticed Luke is voiced by the same guy who voiced the Prince in PoP1 and 3.

Devil Summoner is a lot better than I thought it would be. I was a bit leary due to it being real time, but it's a lot of fun. There's a lot of neat things you can do in battle with the various types of bullets you have, and the demons you can capture. Also the atmosphere of the game reminds me of an old 50s comic books, which is a good thing. Finally, it does seem a lot easier than other MegaTen games.

[Chacrana]

Well, thanks Rodimus and Rei... you've made it that much more difficult to wait until tomorrow when I'll inevitably be getting SMT: Devil Summoner... hell, hearing that Tales of the Abyss turned out well is nearly as bad since I'm waiting for that to arrive in the mail.

Got absolutely nothing to do until tomorrow...

[depascal22]

Good news on Abyss and Devil Summoner. I just got my EGM where they gave FFXII a Gold medal and Game of the Month. On the same note, they didn't really like Magical Starsign or Baten Kaitos Origins. They gave Devil Summoner pretty good review though.

I think I'll pick up Abyss and FFXII this month and wait on a pricedrop for Devil Summoner.

[The Mana Knight]

I just bought Tales of the Abyss at Best Buy today. I'll play it when I get the chance.

[depascal22]

I guess everyone's playing ToA or SMT: DS. Lucky bastards.

[Rodimus]

^ It seems pretty split. Either ToA or SMT:DS. The exception is Rei. Like most gamers I can't play two RPGs at the same time.

And after Devil Summoner I'm gonna have FFXII. Then the Wii launch with Zelda. Abyss wont fit in for a while. It sucks that nothing intresting came out for months, since Suikoden V & Kingdom Hearts II. Infact during the summer dry season I resorted to playing old working Design games I never beat like Vay & Albert Odyssey. BTW both were great.

[Roufuss]

^ It seems pretty split. Either ToA or SMT:DS. The exception is Rei. Like most gamers I can't play two RPGs at the same time.

And after Devil Summoner I'm gonna have FFXII. Then the Wii launch with Zelda. Abyss wont fit in for a while. It sucks that nothing intresting came out for months, since Suikoden V & Kingdom Hearts II. Infact during the summer dry season I resorted to playing old working Design games I never beat like Vay & Albert Odyssey. BTW both were great.

I don't know, you should be able to finish Devil Summoner before the 31st, enough time to squeeze in Tales of the Abyss.

And yea, the summer months ALWAYS suck because developers wait to release everything... it's kind of ridiculous.

I'm starting Abyss tommorrow, needed to wait for a day my girlfriend would be at work because I need concentration to play an RPG.

[Rei no Otaku]

^ It seems pretty split. Either ToA or SMT:DS. The exception is Rei. Like most gamers I can't play two RPGs at the same time.

I'm also playing God Hand, Baten Kaitos Origins, Valkyrie Profile Silmeria, Okami, KoF 2006 and Samurai Warriors 2.

Yeah, I'm insane.

[Rodimus]

I don't know, you should be able to finish Devil Summoner before the 31st, enough time to squeeze in Tales of the Abyss.

And yea, the summer months ALWAYS suck because developers wait to release everything... it's kind of ridiculous.

I'm starting Abyss tommorrow, needed to wait for a day my girlfriend would be at work because I need concentration to play an RPG.

I should be able to finish before the 31, but I don't think I could squeeze in TotA. I remember clocking in 100 hours for Symphonia. And that game took me about 4 weeks to beat. Any idea how long Abyss is?

And I don't think my wife was fond of the fact that I was spending 4-5 hours a day playing VP2. I think one day I spent about 11 hours playing. I looked like this at the end of the day --> :drool: So I need to cool down the video games before she goes on strike and stops cooking.

[Chacrana]

Man, after 2 weeks of next to no gaming it'll be nice to tear into an RPG.... tomorrow morning I'm headed out to Gamestop to preorder my Wii and then I'll pick up SMT DS and probably something else at BB since I have a ton of reward zone certificates to use up.

I hate reading a thread like this and then not being able to play any of the games in question... ah well. Tomorrow's gonna be fun.

[Spades22]

Dang how can you guys buy all those games right when they come out? Sure, maybe I Could afford a few, but I just cant get myself to spend that much on video games!

And school is just so busy for me, I usually only get in about half an hour a day of console gaming on average. Hmm I cant wait till summer just to sit back, go to mindless work, then come home with my cozy blanket and a cup of hot chocolate, sit back and play an RPG =P

[Rei no Otaku]

I don't even know why GS bothers to pay me. Just keep my check, and give me games.

[Rodimus]

I hate reading a thread like this and then not being able to play any of the games in question... ah well. Tomorrow's gonna be fun.

Well, after you pick it up tomarrow come on back and we can discuss. I hate going to gamefaqs to disscuss RPGs. Just a bunch of close minded fanboys.

[Chacrana]

Well, after you pick it up tomarrow come on back and we can discuss. I hate going to gamefaqs to disscuss RPGs. Just a bunch of close minded fanboys.

Oh, I know what you mean. And everything is spoiler-laden as well (especially in the topic titles.) But yeah, I'll put some good time into Devil Summoner and I'll definitely have soem impressions by the end of the day.

Got a package with a bunch of anime today though so that might cut into my playtime a bit...

[Chacrana]

Okay, I got Devil Summoner... time to git' goin on that.

Oh, and I preordered my Wii which is good.

[Apossum]

Okay, whose got the PSU beta?

just finished DLing it, gonna be on after my drive to Chicago...not going out tonight, so PM or FR me if ya wanna play!

[The Mana Knight]

I have the PSU demo, but I found it to be quite annoying to join with friends, the first time, since I have to locate them and trade cards (so I can add them and they can add me). I definitely enjoyed what I played, but I don't feel it's worth $10 a month.

[2Fast]

I have the PSU demo Apossum. I think I'm gonna spend all weekend playing Mario & Luigi: PiT, don't really feel like doing much else after work and homework. Anyone play/beat M&L:PiT? How long does it take?

[Roufuss]

I have the PSU demo Apossum. I think I'm gonna spend all weekend playing Mario & Luigi: PiT, don't really feel like doing much else after work and homework. Anyone play/beat M&L:PiT? How long does it take?

About 8 hours.

It is a very long game that drags on and on, imo (even though it's only 8 - 10 hours)... I thought it was a huge step down from Superstar Saga and the Paper Mario games.

I didn't like all the "gimmick" bosses in the game.

I want to start Tales of the Abyss but I need to finish Super Robot Taisen Original Generation first... here's another game that just keep dragging on and on. Luckily I only have 5 levels left (And I'm not replaying the other pilot, forget that, took me sheer force of will to get through the game in the first place) and that's finally on to Abyss.

My main problem with SRT is that there isn't enough strategy to it, I've really only powered up two or three people and the game is a cakewalk. The only strategy I can see is "send your strongest people in with the biggest guns" and that's the equivalent to pushing the win button. Three or four shots of Rampage Ghost is really all it takes for any boss in the game.

I will admit the story has gotten ALOT better near the end of the game. It drags on to much in the middle, imo.

[2Fast]

About 8 hours.

It is a very long game that drags on and on, imo (even though it's only 8 - 10 hours)... I thought it was a huge step down from Superstar Saga and the Paper Mario games.

I didn't like all the "gimmick" bosses in the game.
That short, really? Shit. I'm already at 7 hours, looks like I'll have to find something else to play. Maybe I'll finally start Paper Mario: TTYD.

[Roufuss]

That short, really? Shit. I'm already at 7 hours, looks like I'll have to find something else to play. Maybe I'll finally start Paper Mario: TTYD.

Put it in a spoiler where you are and I'll tell you how much further hours wise you have to go.

Or PM it to me. Either way, I just finished it a few weeks ago, so I remember it well. Things wrap up VERY fast near the end.

[2Fast]

Put it in a spoiler where you are and I'll tell you how much further hours wise you have to go.

Or PM it to me. Either way, I just finished it a few weeks ago, so I remember it well. Things wrap up VERY fast near the end.

I very recently out of the giant dinosaur that had all the Yoshis in it and am about to go to the next area.

[Roufuss]

Wow, you're there at 7 hours? That's about... the halfway point. I guess I blew through the game pretty fast. I'd say you've got another 7 hours to go.

I was underleveled until the very end when I powerleved for about an hour to destroy the main boss.

[kittycatgirl2k]

I really enjoyed Mario and Luigi PiT. Then again, I was a sucker for the other two games too. Having completed all three, the GCN one was my fav followed by the GBA and then finally the DS game. It WAS a step down but still was fun enough to keep me engaged although a few areas did seem to drag out for forever.

It took me 20 hrs or so to complete it. Because I am pokey and didnt rush through it plus left my DS on and open for long periods of time. LOL so I have no idea how long in took in reality. It was fun but will never play it again.

[kittycatgirl2k]

Hey maybe someone can help me out.

I am interested in picking up a new RPG. I havent bought one at full price this year which is unusual for me. Final Fantasy XII is a no brainer - I have collected all of those from the beginning..however...

I am VERY interested in the Valkyrie Profile sequel. The original was one of my favorite RPGs. It was dark, depressing and absolutely captivating. But it was not the battles that pulled me in, but rather the elaborate and illuminating backstories that gave life and emotional attachment to your party members that you snatched from the grave... This element has been eliminated from VP:S so therefore I balked when I went to EB to buy it and ended up leaving it behind. $40 or 50 is a big purchase for me these days being sick and jobless and all so I can no longer throw my dough to the four winds like I did. :(

And with FFXII out soon...does anyone that has played VP think it would appeal to me after that long spiel I just typed out? Its definitely on my future to-get list when the price bottoms though along with Shadow Hearts:New World, Kingdom Hearts II and a few others.

For the record heres a few RPGS I loved/hated.
Loved: Lunar 1 & 2, Secret of Mana, FFVI, Valkyrie Profile, Chrono Cross, Breath of Fire 2, FF: Tactics, KOTOR, Jade Empire, Rhapsody etc
Hated: Baiten Katos, Dark Cloud, Lufia, La Pucelle, Star Ocean: 2nd Story, Suikoden II, The Mana Game on the GBA...

[Rei no Otaku]

Honestly, if you're going into it for a story similar to the first game don't bother. I was disappointed by that as well. I still think it's a good game, it's just nowhere near as interesting, storywise, as the first one was. The loss of the einherjar backstories is huge, IMO.

I'm loving Tales of the Abyss so far. So I can easily recommend that.

[Roufuss]

Felt it was appropriate to post in here also that Tales of Legendia and Grandia 3 have finally gotten a price drop to $29.99 new MSRP.

Gamestop has Legendia for $24.99 used ($22.50 after discount) and Grandia 3 for $26.99 (under $25 with the discount).

I just sold my Legendia awhile ago for $35 - $40 on Ebay because I had too many RPG's, I think when I finish Abyss I will snag a used copy for $22.50 after Edge card as they seem to be in ample supply around here and give it a shot since I know alot of people here really liked it.

[Rodimus]

Felt it was appropriate to post in here also that Tales of Legendia and Grandia 3 have finally gotten a price drop to $29.99 new MSRP.

It's about damn time Legendia got a price drop. I guess I'll play that one before Abyss. As for Grandia 3 I wouldn't bother. Awful dialogue, boring characters, predictable story. Let me know if this sounds familiar:

A restless boy wants to leave his village for adventures but ends up helping a mysterious elf girl whose fate is intertwined with the world. Eventually you must save the world from an ancient dark god who breaks free from his seal.

[MarkMan]

Is anyone here playing Final Fantasy XII yet? I know it's out there(I'm not condoning downloading/piracy in any way! I have an official review copy)... but I just wanted to know if anyone else is playing it. I really like the game thus far. The game is simply beautiful. I love the stylistic change for the series.

Just picked up Devil Summoner and I'm excited to play through it... after FF XII and PSU open beta lovin'... lol.

What's everyone looking forward to in 2007? Me? Persona 3. :)

And if it comes out here. Though not technically an RPG, but has RPG elements... Yakuza 2(gonna be importing this in December!)

[Roufuss]

Ugh, I'm giving up on Super Robot Taisen OG, I'm on mission 40 on the Kyosuke route and the game has been a cakewalk until right now. I've got to fight one tough boss, just for an even tougher boss to show up and I can't use my ship to refill my ammo / energy since the ship is gone.

I think this is where I just give up on the game and move on and start Abyss... I'm sick of this game anyways.

[Spades22]

haha Rod sounds like Zelda to me. But I still want Grandia AND Legendia. Anyway glad there is finally a price drop lol...but I'm still not paying that (waiting for a deal somewhere)

[craven_fiend]

haha Rod sounds like Zelda to me. But I still want Grandia AND Legendia. Anyway glad there is finally a price drop lol...but I'm still not paying that (waiting for a deal somewhere)

Perhaps getting all 3 at the TRU, B2G1 free deal. That is if you can find another $30 game you want.

[Spades22]

Tight those are there? I'm in Canada and we just had that deal >_> Ah well I'm sure there will be another sometime. I got another 5-6 games I need to play through first anyway, so I'm sure by then...

[Roufuss]

Ugh, I'm giving up on Super Robot Taisen OG, I'm on mission 40 on the Kyosuke route and the game has been a cakewalk until right now. I've got to fight one tough boss, just for an even tougher boss to show up and I can't use my ship to refill my ammo / energy since the ship is gone.

I think this is where I just give up on the game and move on and start Abyss... I'm sick of this game anyways.

Ok, for some reason I couldn't leave this game alone, and found the secret to completely destroying the bosses, so I'm finally on the last stage.

[botticus]

Yes, folks, Roufuss is masochistic.

[Roufuss]

Yes, folks, Roufuss is masochistic.

I'm just happy the game has provided a tiny bit of difficulty near the end... even then, it's still easily beatable if you just abuse the status effects.

[kittycatgirl2k]

Thanks, Ill skip VP then and just concentrate on getting and playing FFXII. The story was what made it so magical... and unique... i dont know why they would strip it of the one thing that seems easiest to put together. ah well... I havent really liked the Tales games so far... the Gamecube one bored me and i havent gotten around to my Tales of Phantasia GBA yet because of that.

[depascal22]

I ended up ordering Tales of the Abyss from walmart.com for 30 bucks. It'll be a week before it gets here but that just gives me time to finish God of War.

[Roufuss]

Nice, last boss in Super Robot Taisen OG is a cakewalk too... I took out all her energy, so she only has two attacks now - one of them at Range 1, one of them from Range 4 - 9.

If I stay within 2 to 3 spaces of her, I can wail on her with everything and she can't do a damn thing, espically since she dosen't move!

This game was ok, I think I'll give it a 7/10, only because I hated that part in the middle where they suddenly shoved 20 new mechs and characters down my throat, and because the game was a bit too easy other than 1 stage.

Super Robot Taisen OG 2 is supposed to be alot harder and I think it only has one story to follow, instead of the two in OG 1. I thought it came out in October, but I guess it's been pushed back to November now.

I think I clocked in a good 20 - 30 hours on SRT OG, though.

[Rodimus]

Just did a trade and got Tales of Abyss. Guess I'll be joining the bandwagon soon.

[The Mana Knight]

boring characters, predictable story. Let me know if this sounds familiar: I agree liked Yuki and Alfina a lot, and I was glad to see an RPG where the main character likes to fly planes (kind of interesting IMO). This is coming from someone who loved Grandia Xtreme (although not as much as the 1st or 2nd). I'll admit I haven't beaten G3 yet, but I am 23 hours into the game. The only thing holding me back right now is that I'm severly under level (which is what hurts my progress in some RPGs, like DDS, due to too many RPGs to play). Some RPG stories these days are kind of predictable IMO, but that doesn't bother me. I don't mind seeing the main character washed up on shore. :P Or even, a main character walking up all sleepy eyed from his bed.

[Roufuss]

Most RPG stories these days are kind of predictable IMO, but that doesn't bother me. I don't mind seeing the main character washed up on shore. :P Or even, a main character walking up all sleepy eyed from his bed.

You're playing the wrong RPG's then. I don't think I've played an RPG recently that could be called stereotypical or predictable.

[The Mana Knight]

You're playing the wrong RPG's then. I don't think I've played an RPG recently that could be called stereotypical or predictable.Well, I'm not saying every RPG I've played is predictable (I'd say only a small percentage is). Sorry, I changed my wording to "some", instead of "most", because I did make it seem that every RPG is that way, which isn't true.;) I was talking about RPGs like Shining Tears, Arc The Lad: EoD, YSVI, etc. which seemed to have a similar beginning (with a main character being washed up on shore). The RPGs I've been playing lately, haven't been that way (like Valkyrie Profile 2, Atelier Iris 2, Xenosaga Episode III, TotA, Enchanted Arms, etc.).

[Rodimus]

The SMT series aren't your Sterotypical RPGs. And the Suikoden series is, but to a point. Yes, it's got elves & dwarves but it's more political, instead of ultimate good vs ultimate evil. Very often in the series your enimies aren't considered evil. That breaks the mold a bit and I like that. (With that said, Luca Blight is pretty damn Evil.)

What's the most sterotypical RPG you ever played? I'd say almost any older Working Designs RPG. Vay, Albert Odyessy, Lunar.

[Roufuss]

What's the most sterotypical RPG you ever played? I'd say almost any older Working Designs RPG. Vay, Albert Odyessy, Lunar.

Lunar is GameArts, Albert Odyessy is Sunsoft... not sure if you just meant Working Designs in general since they were the publisher, but it's a pet peeve of mine when people give credit to Working Designs for games they didn't even make, just translated (poorly, at that).

Here's two big problems I have with Working Designs... I just pulled it from the Wiki since it summarizes how I feel:



Interjecting Innapropriate Humor

A significant sement of gamers greatly rejected Working Designs' tendency to interject humor, especially the juvenile and purile kind, into their games that was not present in the original Japanese releases of those titles. The jokes were usually Americanized (the numerous Bill Clinton jokes in Lunar 2), and often out of context (adding Star Wars references or 90s slang to games with non-technological fantasy settings, for example).
[edit]

Translation Issues

The introduction of this particular style of humor was one factor of Working Designs' localization process which had also involved chucking away much of the game's original script (especially that belonging to secondary characters and non-player characters). This material would then be completely rewritten by Working Designs' localization staff. Former employee Zach Meston accused Working Designs of having their games translated by college students, whose nonsensical work then had to be turned into a coherent script by the game writers. Victor Ireland, then-president of the company, refused to reply to Meston's allegations, instead sarcastically chastising him for breaking a non-disclosure agreement.



Victor Ireland was such a hack, and he's the world's biggest whiner. Someone is always at fault other than himself, whether it's Sega, Sony, or someone completely different. I'm almost glad Working Designs is no more so he won't have any more scripts to butcher and any more games to put in publishing hell.

Now that we have companies like Atlus who do an awesome job translating and bringing out RPG's, there is no need for a hack job like Victor Ireland.

Imagine if SMT: Nocturne had jokes about President Bush in it... that's what Nocturne would be like if WD did it.

[Rodimus]

^ Sorry about that. I know they're not made by WD. Just a goof.

[Chacrana]

The SMT series aren't your Sterotypical RPGs. And the Suikoden series is, but to a point. Yes, it's got elves & dwarves but it's more political, instead of ultimate good vs ultimate evil. Very often in the series your enimies aren't considered evil. That breaks the mold a bit and I like that. (With that said, Luca Blight is pretty damn Evil.)

What's the most sterotypical RPG you ever played? I'd say almost any older Working Designs RPG. Vay, Albert Odyessy, Lunar.

The most stereotypical RPG is Lunar. It has absolutely every cliche ever in the genre. It's also not very good when you look past the nostalgia.