Lunar The Silver Star Remake Coming To PSP

[Mid Boss]

http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3174199


Rejoice, fans of Game Arts's long-dormant Lunar RPG series (no, Dragon Song (http://www.1up.com/do/gameOverview?cId=3136302) doesn't count): A full, grounds-up remake of the original Lunar the Silver Star (http://www.1up.com/do/gameOverview?cId=3132096) is heading to PSP this fall... in Japan, at least.
Revealed via early release of this week's Famitsu magazine, "LUNAR: Harmony of Silver Star" for PSP aims to keep the feel of the 1992 Sega CD original and 1996 Saturn/PSone remakes, but completely revamps the graphics and interface to bring them in line with 21st century standards. The view is now isometric, with lush hand-drawn backgrounds and characters. Publisher Gungho promises new events, remastered music, and an expanded backstory.
Best of all, perhaps, the PSP Lunar remake isn't outsourced: Famitsu identifies the developer as Game Arts themselves. Expect a trailer and screenshots when the official site, to be located at http://www.gunghoworks.jp/game/lunar/, goes live this Friday.

Hopefully this gets picked up for a US release. I'd prefer a Lunar 3, but this will have to do for now. Been too long since I've played the original anyway.

[SDC]

I was just about to start a thread about this.
I've never been more happy for a third remake. I'm so glad I have a PSP. I'll buy two copies.

I was so afraid the DS game killed the series. Though now, honeslt,y I'm slightly worried that mediocre sales of a remake no one asked for for an under-supported system might.

[Kapwanil]

Day One purchase for me!

Now, let's keep all of the "great ideas" from anyone who worked on Dragon Song far the hell away from this game.

[Gold_guardian]

Hell yes! Lunar is like one of the best rpgs of all time.

I am cautiously optimistic about this thought consdering how badly Dragon Song went.

[madara]

Now that is how you do handheld game. Incredible graphics! This has come stateside.

[Hostile]

I approve as well. I remember really loving Lunar: SSSC and I'm loving having all old RPGs in a handheld format.

This will prevent me from finally playing Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete though. I bought the game a year ago to play someday and I even got my PSP to play PS1 games recently but if a remake is possible, I'll wait for that.

[CoffeeEdge]

Wow. It's strange that an RPG as relatively obscure as Lunar could somehow sustain itself through three separate remakes. A unique achievement, I'd say.

Nifty news, though. <3 Lunar since 1993, represent.

Incredible graphics!
Are there screenshots available that I'm missing somehow?

[Cao Cao]

Wii @ Everyday put up the scan from Famitsu:
http://img141.imagevenue.com/aAfkjfp01fo1i-17037/loc664/88156_viploader1013887_122_664lo.jpg

EDIT: Changed the link slightly to a direct image URL. Hopefully you won't have to go through that ad gateway again.

[SynGamer]

I never got a chance to play this on the PS1 so this is great news.

[CoffeeEdge]

Wii @ Everyday put up the scan from Famitsu:
http://img141.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=88156_viploader1013887_122_664lo.jpg

Danke.

[62t]

I approve as well. I remember really loving Lunar: SSSC and I'm loving having all old RPGs in a handheld format.

This will prevent me from finally playing Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete though. I bought the game a year ago to play someday and I even got my PSP to play PS1 games recently but if a remake is possible, I'll wait for that.

I don't think any remake will have the Working Design localization

[Kirin Lemon]

Great, this'll be my ninth copy of the game, including all of the remakes and Japanese versions I own!

[Cao Cao]

I don't think any remake will have the Working Design localization

Indeed, this time around I'd imagine that one of the usual four (Atlus, NIS America, Xseed, Ignition) would pick it up and re-localize it.

[Monsta Mack]

If it was part 2 I would be all over this. I never got a copy of Eternal Blue for the PS1, and I already own the first and Legends for GBA. Hrm.

[pete5883]

Wii @ Everyday put up the scan from Famitsu:
http://img141.imagevenue.com/img.php?image=88156_viploader1013887_122_664lo.jpg
FYI for those at work, I had to click past a NSFW ad to get to the scan.

[Ryukahn]

Very interested in this, and yes those links aren't very work friendly lol.

[slidecage]

if this comes out this summer/fall in japan , why would it even stand a chance for it to come over here *at least in UMD* fourm....

I doubt there will even be PSP 1 games made summer 2010 if the Rumor of the PSP2 hits this fall

[bvharris]

This is a definite purchase for me, even though I still have the complete versions of both Lunars on PS1. Some very fond memories of these titles, and I'd love to play them on the go (though I suppose I already could if I linked my PS3 to PSP :) )

[mykevermin]

Bollocks. Just when I think I've run out of reasons to keep my PSP...

[punkmaggit]

Sah-weet! Still haven't played through the PS1 version (although I'm technically next on the list at Goozex). I'd love it if it was brought state-side!

[Dead of Knight]

I'll buy every single remake they make of this game.

[Cao Cao]

I changed the URL of the last set of scans posted to a direct image link, hopefully that won't force anyone to go through imagevenue's ad gateway. Luckily, True-Gaming (http://www.true-gaming.net/home/?p=1045) has posted some higher quality versions of the scans at their site:
http://www.true-gaming.net/tgupload/images2/0905132014723fe51d0fb50356.jpg
http://www.true-gaming.net/tgupload/images2/0905132014afefa1ae04793a17.jpg

[bvharris]

I changed the URL of the last set of scans posted to a direct image link, hopefully that won't force anyone to go through imagevenue's ad gateway. Luckily, True-Gaming (http://www.true-gaming.net/home/?p=1045) has posted some higher quality versions of the scans at their site:
http://www.true-gaming.net/tgupload/images2/0905132014723fe51d0fb50356.jpg
http://www.true-gaming.net/tgupload/images2/0905132014afefa1ae04793a17.jpg

The graphics certainly look nice. I found the visuals charming even on the PS1, but I definitely look forward to the upgrades (somewhat similar to the PSP remakes of the first two Star Oceans).

I'm definitely tempted to bust out Lunar tonight and give it another go.

[SDC]

I'll be interested to see if the isometric view messes with me as much as I think it will. It seems a very odd choice in this day and age.

[Hostile]

I also hope they do quality voice acting or at least give me the option of Japanese audio and subtitles, if they release it stateside. I probably didn't think it was horrible when I was younger but I heard the voice acting a year or so back and it was indeed terrible.

[Rig]

The game that's gonna make me buy a PSP. Kinda funny, since SSSC was the game that made me buy a PS1.

[nectarsis1]

I've been drooling all over this since I first heard. DAY 1 for sure.

[Vinny]

Holy... shat...

I hope this comes stateside.

[bvharris]

Holy... shat...

I hope this comes stateside.

I think it will. All the main Lunar games have come out here and there's certainly a precedent for RPG ports of that era coming to the PSP/DS stateside.

[J7.]

I always liked how this looked and always wanted it, but I've never played it. Does it hold up well or is it more of a nostalgia aspect at this point? What older RPGs does it compare well to?

[SDC]

I always liked how this looked and always wanted it, but I've never played it. Does it hold up well or is it more of a nostalgia aspect at this point? What older RPGs does it compare well to?

I don't really have much older-stlye RPGs to compare with, but I can tell you that at least the Playstation remake was a pretty standard, old-schoolish RPG. Relatively short, as RPGs go (I think my first playthrough was somewhere between 30-40 hours, maaaybe 45). The battle system is simple, though it incorporated some elements of movement and spacing (certain spells and moves would target a line of enemies, or radiate in a sphere and be able to catch two or more enemies at once). Your party is fixed, with a maximum of five members, although over the course of the game you'll have a few more who switch around. Spells are learned as you level up, there isn't really any customization to speak of.

The plot is relatively cliche, but it is pulled off with such sincerity that I can't help but enjoy it. And the anime cutscenes in the remake (and, from what I gather, in the Sega cd original) were absolutely outstanding for their time.

[Hostile]

A generic RPG is a-okay with me if it's done with some heart and soul. Lunar: SSSC had that, at least in my opinion.

[kevlar51]

The game that's gonna make me buy a PSP. Kinda funny, since SSSC was the game that made me buy a PS1.

Sadly, Lunar Dragon Song is the game that made me buy a DS. Granted, I got the system when the game was announced, not when it was released to horrible reviews, but still...

[J7.]

Good to know SDC. So does the game hold up today or is it more of a nostalgia appeal?

[SDC]

Good to know SDC. So does the game hold up today or is it more of a nostalgia appeal?

While it is a throwback, I think Lunar on the PSP will feel just as welcome as any other SNES/PS1-era remake/rerelease the PSP has hosted, such as Final Fantasy Tactics, Star Ocean 1 and 2 (here would be the SNES era), and Valkyrie Profile. The Lunar remake of the PS1 era didn't feel dated to me at all. In fact, the anime cutscenes made it a cut above other RPGs (which, I gather, was also a strength of the original Sega cd release)

[J7.]

May have to finally play it!

[The Mana Knight]

I just played the Japanese demo up on the PS Store. I'm not a fan of the slower character movement and the point and click world map, but everything else is pretty good. Definitely not terrible like Dragon Song IMO. I'm definitely buying the game. The updated graphics are pretty nice and it kind of feels like a brand new game exploring (outside of the same cutscenes and such).

[SDC]

I just played the Japanese demo up on the PS Store. I'm not a fan of the slower character movement and the point and click world map, but everything else is pretty good. Definitely not terrible like Dragon Song IMO. I'm definitely buying the game. The updated graphics are pretty nice and it kind of feels like a brand new game exploring (outside of the same cutscenes and such).

When I first saw the new screens I wasn't that impressed, but then I compared them to the PSOne version and was blown away.

[Hostile]

Nostalgia reminds me I really enjoyed this game and I even bought the PS1 version again a year or two ago. Also bought Eternal Blue which I have yet to play... I'm already committed to buying both if an Eternal Blue remake comes to fruition.

[Rig]

Japanese demo out? Can Japanese accounts still be made? I need to play a demo!

[mykevermin]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_Kfm0gCTX0

Try that video. Maybe it works.

The demo def. feels like Lunar. Same music and cutscenes as TMK pointed out - cutscenes are 4:3 so they have vertical bars on the sides. Slightly disappointing, but it makes sense to do that as opposed to stretching it or spending the money to redo them.

One game disc and portable? Super tempting. The demo hasn't convinced me that it would be worth $50, but $30 for sure and *maybe* $40. I don't know if it's certainly coming to the US yet.

[The Mana Knight]

Japanese demo out? Can Japanese accounts still be made? I need to play a demo!You can, but the problem is you have to re-authorize your U.S. account to play U.S. games on a PSP. Since I have multiple PSPs, I can do that.


Try that video. Maybe it works.

The demo def. feels like Lunar. Same music and cutscenes as TMK pointed out - cutscenes are 4:3 so they have vertical bars on the sides. Slightly disappointing, but it makes sense to do that as opposed to stretching it or spending the money to redo them.

One game disc and portable? Super tempting. The demo hasn't convinced me that it would be worth $50, but $30 for sure and *maybe* $40. I don't know if it's certainly coming to the US yet.It's coming stateside in Jan. for $29.99.

http://www.ebgames.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=75584

[Izod517]

Oh man, that just made my PSP purchase worth every penny. This has to be my favorite RPG franchise.

[DQT]

Gosh darn it, I want an English demo. I have the same problem with Peace Walker. Anyways I would've preferred Lunar 2. I'm assuming that will come eventually though.

My only exposure to the series thus far has been Lunar Legend, which I thought was a pretty game brought down by (IMO) a pedestrian localization and limitations of the GBA.

[Rig]

Oh man, that just made my PSP purchase worth every penny. This has to be my favorite RPG franchise.

It's actually the *only* reason I bought a PSP. I grabbed a 2.0 a couple months back for cheap (from Dell). Probably haven't even put two hours on the machine yet.

[Ryukahn]

Check out this info from Famitsu, courtesy of RPGFan (http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2009/527.html)

GungHo and its subsidiary GameArts have shed some more light on the upcoming PlayStation Portable remake of Lunar: Silver Star Story. In addition to the main story starring Alex, the developers have included another scenario in Lunar: Harmony of Silver Star. This new scenario will let the player assume control over the four legendary heroes (Dyne, Ghaleon, Mel and Lemia) who are trying to free the Goddess Althena from the clutches of an evil wizard plotting the extermination of mankind. To realize his evil scheme, he has captured Althena and summoned five gods known as princes of the dark star. To thwart his plan, the four heroes will have to take on the wizard and the five princes.

Another exclusive feature is the addition of bromides which are well hidden in various spots throughout the game. Bromides double as stat-raising items during battle and special character pictures.

Lunar Harmony of Silver Star will be available in Japan on November 12th. An English version of the game will be available on this side of the Pacific on January 12th, courtesy of XSeed Games. Sounds cool

[Rig]

The addition of bromides? I hope that means they've made new ones for this game, and kept the old ones!

Don't forget to buy soap on the boat! ;)

[Izod517]

Lunar: Harmony of Silver Star - been hoping to play that story line from the begining! Man here's to hoping for Lunar 2 being in the pipe as well.

[Dead of Knight]

http://www.famitsu.com/sp/091019_lunar/02.html
Pics, including battle screen

I am freaking the fuck out here. You can play as the Four Heroes. YOU CAN PLAY AS THE FOUR HEROES. HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT OH. MY. GOD.

[SDC]

http://www.famitsu.com/sp/091019_lunar/02.html
Pics, including battle screen

I am freaking the fuck out here. You can play as the Four Heroes. YOU CAN PLAY AS THE FOUR HEROES. HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT OH. MY. GOD.

I read that earlier in the day, but actually seeing the images is getting me really excited. I hope their section is at least a few hours long...

[Izod517]

Oh man finally seeing Dyne in the Dragon set is awesome, oh man and Ghaleon like that is interesting too. This game can't come quick enough!

[SDC]

Originally slated for an early/mid January release, EBgames/Gamestop.com now have this listed as February 2nd. It keeps the WD spirit of continual delays alive and well.

[Dead of Knight]

Originally slated for an early/mid January release, EBgames/Gamestop.com now have this listed as February 2nd. It keeps the WD spirit of continual delays alive and well.

http://i543.photobucket.com/albums/gg442/jpyllc55/fuuuu.jpg

Ok, now I have a reason to import.

[handsome_rakshas]

I don't buy RPGs, but I'm buying this for sure. I wish I could complete my game on the Sega CD, the stupid turtle won't come when I blow the whistle!

[Kirin Lemon]

http://www.famitsu.com/sp/091019_lunar/02.html
Pics, including battle screen

I am freaking the fuck out here. You can play as the Four Heroes. YOU CAN PLAY AS THE FOUR HEROES. HOLY SHIT HOLY SHIT OH. MY. GOD.

Unfortunately, you only get to play as them for about ten minutes total, and only in battles. It's strange, because the Four Heroes scenario is the very first part of the game, and feels entirely tacked-on, almost as if it's a teaser for some prequel game that's in the works.

Anyways, I've been playing the Japanese version for a couple days now, and aside from some annoying load times in between every single screen, it's a nice graphical and musical update to Silver Star Story. Yeesh, after the American version is released next year, I'm going to own ten versions of this game. Madness!

[SDC]

Unfortunately, you only get to play as them for about ten minutes total, and only in battles. It's strange, because the Four Heroes scenario is the very first part of the game, and feels entirely tacked-on, almost as if it's a teaser for some prequel game that's in the works.

Anyways, I've been playing the Japanese version for a couple days now, and aside from some annoying load times in between every single screen, it's a nice graphical and musical update to Silver Star Story. Yeesh, after the American version is released next year, I'm going to own ten versions of this game. Madness!

Two questions
1. A preview video I saw a while back had me worried that perhaps the game ran rather slowly. What are your thoughts?
2. Sega CD, Saturn, Playstation, GBA, PSP...do you own every version in Japanese and English? That's the hardest-core thing I've ever heard.

[Kirin Lemon]

Two questions
1. A preview video I saw a while back had me worried that perhaps the game ran rather slowly. What are your thoughts?
2. Sega CD, Saturn, Playstation, GBA, PSP...do you own every version in Japanese and English? That's the hardest-core thing I've ever heard.

1. I haven't noticed it running slowly at all, and no signs of slowdown whatsoever. Those loading times I mentioned before do get quite annoying when you're exploring towns, though.

2. I do! I really, really love the Lunar franchise, especially Silver Star and all its variations. I own every version of every Lunar game ever released in America and Japan.

[georox]

I just got rid of my last copy of Silver Star Story. Final one I had was the GBA remake... I just gave it to a friend. I'm too nice of a person. >_>

[Dead of Knight]

Unfortunately, you only get to play as them for about ten minutes total, and only in battles. It's strange, because the Four Heroes scenario is the very first part of the game, and feels entirely tacked-on, almost as if it's a teaser for some prequel game that's in the works.


I had a feeling that would be it. It's still a fucking nice addition though.

[SDC]

http://cache.gawker.com/assets/images/9/2009/12/lunar.jpg

Deluxe edition is $39.99, while the game will still be available for $29.99

God bless us, everyone.

[Dead of Knight]

Sold. I'm such a sucker.

[RAMSTORIA]

god dammit, i dont have time for rpgs anymore. now im going to buy this, i know i am. and to make matters worse im probably getting the collectors edition.

i too am a sucker.

[xeno]

I want that

[thelonepig]

Now it just needs to come up for preorder somewhere. Amazon finally has the game only up for preorder.

[LostRoad]

Wait are we getting all the bromides with the CE or just one random one?

[SDC]

Wait are we getting all the bromides with the CE or just one random one?

Package includes: Outer box, game, what I'm sure is the Japanese pre-order soundtrack, and a set of 13 bromides.
http://kotaku.com/5429696/the-definitive-silver-star-harmony-package-for-lunar-fans

[LostRoad]

^ Ty, that's pretty cool to hear they are willing to do this for fans. This is only the second psp game to come out in the states with a bigger outer box correct?

[SDC]

^ Ty, that's pretty cool to hear they are willing to do this for fans. This is only the second psp game to come out in the states with a bigger outer box correct?

Third, at least.
Atlus:
Prinny: Can I really be the Hero?
Persona PSP
(both contained the game and a CD only)

XSeed:
Lunar: Silver Star Harmony

I don't know of any others offhand.

[Rig]

CE?! Yay!

...I already had the regular edition preordered on Amazon. Guess I'll just have to jump on the CE when it's available.

[Vinny]

Sweet. I'm down for a CE since it has the same price as a standard PSP game ($30 for the regular version, $40 for the CE).

[mlisette23]

Third, at least.
Atlus:
Prinny: Can I really be the Hero?
Persona PSP
(both contained the game and a CD only)

XSeed:
Lunar: Silver Star Harmony

I don't know of any others offhand.

SMT:Persona from Atlus came with one as well.

[Poor2More]

Day one purchase for the PSP, but I have a moded PSP....I will be force to update firmware : ( choices choices...

[Dead of Knight]

god dammit, i dont have time for rpgs anymore. now im going to buy this, i know i am. and to make matters worse im probably getting the collectors edition.

i too am a sucker.

My replays of Lunar SSSC on the PSone were under 15 hours. My first playthrough when I was like 11 was 35. :lol:

[Rig]

I think my first playthrough was 23 hours.

Preordered the CE on Amazon.

[Kirin Lemon]

A link to the Limited Edition preorder on Amazon for the lazy:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0031ATU5W/ref=ord_cart_shr?_encoding=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&v=glance

I beat the Japanese version yesterday! Aside from some obnoxious loading for every new screen, and some weird issues with the arbitrary order in which characters attack (regardless of their speed), it was excellent. Looking forward to playing it again in a couple months.

[SDC]

A link to the Limited Edition preorder on Amazon for the lazy:

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0031ATU5W/ref=ord_cart_shr?_encoding=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&v=glance

I beat the Japanese version yesterday! Aside from some obnoxious loading for every new screen, and some weird issues with the arbitrary order in which characters attack (regardless of their speed), it was excellent. Looking forward to playing it again in a couple months.

Are there any specific changes or enhancements that caught your attention?

[Kirin Lemon]

Are there any specific changes or enhancements that caught your attention?

Hrm, not really, aside from the pretty new graphics and the music remixes. The entire game plays out exactly like Silver Star Story after the short Four Heroes scenario at the beginning (which has *no* relation to the rest of the game - it's a very strange addition). The battle mechanics are exactly the same also, only with the addition of an "Arts Gauge" (think Limit Breaks), which lets you unleash some pretty powerful, cheap moves that make boss fights a bit easier. Bromides are still present, though a few are obtained in different ways (they switched up a few of those that were basically impossible to get without a guide).

I just thought it was fun to revisit the game again, since it's been years since I played it in one of its many other incarnations. Aside from the load times, this is probably the best version available, and hopefully the English translation will do it justice.

[Dead of Knight]

Arts Gauge was in the GBA game.

[Kirin Lemon]

Arts Gauge was in the GBA game.

Ah yeah, I thought I remembered something like that. I played the Japanese version of that one, too, before the English one came out. I was so appalled at Ubisoft's crap-ass translation that I never finished playing through it again.

[Dead of Knight]

I imported the GBA version before it was announced for the US. I've played Lunar so many times that I didn't even really pay attention to the dialogue in the US version.

[The Mana Knight]

I'm going to be honest here, I think I'll buy the CE AND PSN version.

[Hostile]

Glad to hear it at least stacks up to the original and gladder to hear it's better in some ways. I don't think I need the C.E. (original PS1 C.E. was pretty cool) but I'll think about it.

[Hostile]

The regular edition is $2 cheaper @ $28 for now.

[Wolfpup]

Oh crud. I just saw an add for this in the Playstation magazine.

Unfortunately I no longer own my SegaCD or that copy :( That was my favorite. DAMN I would buy a new SegaCD in a heartbeat and a ton of games if I could. Saturn too :(

I own both Playstation 1 games, and I suppose I'll be preordering the collector's edition for this (one of the few games I'd be doing that on).

*BUT* I have serious concerns about it, and half wonder if I shouldn't. I'm sorry but Lunar = Working Designs, and I can't imagine this with different, probably terrible voice acting, and without that attention to detail :-/

But resisting this would be even harder than all the will power I had to use to resist that DS game.

[DiscoJer]

Demo up on PSN

[crowbb]

Oh crud. I just saw an add for this in the Playstation magazine.

Unfortunately I no longer own my SegaCD or that copy :( That was my favorite. DAMN I would buy a new SegaCD in a heartbeat and a ton of games if I could. Saturn too :(

I own both Playstation 1 games, and I suppose I'll be preordering the collector's edition for this (one of the few games I'd be doing that on).

*BUT* I have serious concerns about it, and half wonder if I shouldn't. I'm sorry but Lunar = Working Designs, and I can't imagine this with different, probably terrible voice acting, and without that attention to detail :-/

But resisting this would be even harder than all the will power I had to use to resist that DS game.


Well on the bright side, without WD, it'll have less fart jokes. I loved WD back in the day but they did love inserting quite a bit of toilet humor in their translations.

[slidecage]

not sure if the CE is worth 12 bucks more

[SDC]

Demo is out in the US store. Just started it. The opening song has been redone. I want a cast list yesterday.

http://www.lunarsilverstarharmony.com/

Oh man it is gonna be so great. I'll buy this a hundred more times if they keep remaking it.

[Gden]

Alex is Yuri Lowenthal (guy who's an anime VA, played Ben Tennyson in Ben 10 alien force, and also played in Star Ocean 1). I knew his voice from the get-go, I also do not like the new girl's singing the opening, I prefer the original song, or at the original song's singer. I am not a fan of Nall's new voice. Its Spike Spencer who I am a huge fan of, but the voice does not fit the itty bitty body.

[Rig]

Downloading the demo now. Yay!

[Vinny]

Demo is out in the US store. Just started it. The opening song has been redone. I want a cast list yesterday.

http://www.lunarsilverstarharmony.com/

Oh man it is gonna be so great. I'll buy this a hundred more times if they keep remaking it.

I wasn't expecting a demo. Dammit... I need to dig out my brother's PSP and play it. Man, I wonder if that thing still works... neither one of us have played it in ages.

Hopefully they re-make Eternal Blue as well. I've been meaning to re-play a few of my old PS1 RPGs but remakes make things much more convenient.

BTW, whatever happened to Lunar 3? I remember them announcing a Lunar game on the PS2 back it was originally released but nothing's come of that announcement. I know it's no longer coming but anyone know why?

[Wolfpup]

Someone said Studio Alex doesn't exist anymore :(

I guess I should really download the demo. Hmm...I guess that guy on Alien Force is okay (although the original Ben 10 was better IMO, at least as far as I could watch Alien Force before I got rid of cable).

[Dead of Knight]

Holy shit, the new lyrics for the main theme are horrible.
http://www.lunarsilverstarharmony.com/

"Far away, farrrrrrrrrrrrr away"

Who the fuck wrote this? :lol: Victor Ireland am cry.

Other voices as on the site:
Alex- Not bad. Fairly close to the O-Town guy.
Luna- Nooooo. Does not sound like Luna. Her voice sounds like a bitch. Luna must sound innocent.
Nall- People were bitching about this on NeoGAF, but honestly I don't think it's bad. Nall is a male after all. It's just a different interpretation from the super-squeaky voice from WD.
Ramus- Sounds fine.
Nash- Doesn't sound right. The voice just doesn't seem to fit him.
Mia- Did they get the same person to do this voice? Seems very possible. Sounds almost identical to the original. Yay.
Jessica- Sounds very much like the original too. More yay.
Kyle- The clip on the site is of him drunk, so can't say too much about his voice. But he speaks too fast for a drunk guy.
Mel- Again very much like the original, but maybe slightly less gruff? Same guy maybe?
Lemia- Sounds too young to me.
Ghaleon- FFFFFFFFFF It just isn't the same without John Truitt. He WAS Ghaleon.

Overall, not too horrible. Could be a lot worse, but it could be a lot better.

[Wolfpup]

I can't imagine what this must be like for Vic Ireland and friends :-/

Song's not as atrocious as I would have feared, although...

Okay, yeah, Ben Tenason as Alex is okay.
Luna-YUCK-you're totally right Dead, she's completely wrong. At least that's my first impression, but...well maybe it'll work in the context of the game.
Nall-okay I think
Ramus-different, but probably okay
Nash-first impression, I hate it
Mia-sounds great
Jessica-I think it works
Kyle-atrocious. Pain.
Mel-eh, gets the job done, I guess :-/
Lemia-I agree, she sounds too young though at least isn't terrible
Ghaleon-I'd like the original, but actually this guy seems to be doing it right from that clip. Far from the worst (except of course he's one of the most important so if it doesn't work...)

[Kirin Lemon]

Holy shit, the new lyrics for the main theme are horrible.
http://www.lunarsilverstarharmony.com/

"Far away, farrrrrrrrrrrrr away"

Who the fuck wrote this? :lol: Victor Ireland am cry.

You must not be familiar with the Japanese lyrics, then. The new version is much more accurate.

Most of the character voices are a bit closer to their Japanese counterparts as well, though Nash is... wow, no. I'm willing to give Luna the benefit of the doubt for now, since it's not so much the voice as her intonation for the one line (her Japanese voice is often abrasive and bitchy, too), and I can probably get used to Nall. Everyone else seems to be just fine.

[Dead of Knight]

You must not be familiar with the Japanese lyrics, then. The new version is much more accurate.

Sure it's more accurate. The lyrics just don't sound as good in English. Thus why Vic changed that shit.

[Wolfpup]

sure it's more accurate. The lyrics just don't sound as good in english. Thus why vic changed that shit.

+1 :)

As far as I'm concerned, a translated 'thing' can be it's own thing when it comes over here. Could be better or worse than the original, and I have no problem with a story being gutted and rewritten. If this is more of just a translation, that might be interesting for comparison's sake, but Working Designs wrote some really magical stuff.

Heck, I remember Albert Odyssey (possibly spelled wrong). It looked really good because it was one of the last 2D games prior to the (hopefully ending) drought of 2D, but I bet that would have been horrifically boring/generic without their work.

[Dead of Knight]

Post on NeoGAF summed it up perfectly:
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19320312&postcount=488

Also, when you direct translate a song and then need to shoe horn lyrics into lines to make it fit... What an amateur move.


Also Victor Ireland confirmed himself that the only returning VA is Jenny Stigile, who did the singing and Royce in SSSC. Confirmed that she did the opening theme for the PSP version at the least, dunno about Royce:
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19321229&postcount=491

[pete5883]

Also, when you direct translate a song and then need to shoe horn lyrics into lines to make it fit... What an amateur move.
I remember thinking the song in Alundra suffered particularly from this. And that was Ireland's work, if I'm not mistaken.

[Kirin Lemon]

I don't recall this much outrage when Lunar Legend was released, and that thing was a fucking abomination!

I have a feeling that some people will be determined not to like this, regardless of how good a job Xseed has done on the localization, and Victor Ireland being a fat baby about the whole thing doesn't help. The intro is fine - it's just different from what you're used to. I also expect much better voice acting this time around, since most of the Working Designs cast was, at best, amateurish.

[Wolfpup]

Well I don't think so, and this cast so far sounds between equal to to far worse, depending on the character.

And yeah, the GBA/DS ones...but I think it was easier to ignore those. I mean no one took them seriously.

Planning on downloading the demo once I finish Assassin's Creed Bloodlines.

[Poor2More]

Quick question, I have a moded PSP, if I download this demo from PSN will they require me to update to official Firmware?

[Dead of Knight]

I don't recall this much outrage when Lunar Legend was released, and that thing was a fucking abomination!

I have a feeling that some people will be determined not to like this, regardless of how good a job Xseed has done on the localization, and Victor Ireland being a fat baby about the whole thing doesn't help. The intro is fine - it's just different from what you're used to. I also expect much better voice acting this time around, since most of the Working Designs cast was, at best, amateurish.

There wasn't any VA in Lunar Legend.

Oh I'm still getting this, and I'm sure I'll enjoy it. I'm a Lunar whore. So much so that I got both the Japanese and English versions of Lunar Legend. And enjoyed them. And then I also actually finished Lunar DS. I'm just doing some pointless bitching about it because I'm bored and because I'm used to the original VA after playing it god knows how many times (has to be over 5 times).

And yes, Victor Ireland is a big, fat, whining crybaby.

[SDC]

Holy shit, the new lyrics for the main theme are horrible.
[url]
Luna- Nooooo. Does not sound like Luna. Her voice sounds like a bitch. Luna must sound innocent.


Y'know, I was thinking about this. It has been a loooooong time since I've played this, but she seems kind of bitchy to Alex in the demo, at least. Doesn't she have something of a mean streak?

[Kirin Lemon]

There wasn't any VA in Lunar Legend.

Oh I'm still getting this, and I'm sure I'll enjoy it. I'm a Lunar whore. So much so that I got both the Japanese and English versions of Lunar Legend. And enjoyed them. And then I also actually finished Lunar DS. I'm just doing some pointless bitching about it because I'm bored and because I'm used to the original VA after playing it god knows how many times (has to be over 5 times).

And yes, Victor Ireland is a big, fat, whining crybaby.

I was referring to Legend's translation, which was all kinds of atrocious. I've already seen complaints about the translation quality of this remake, which from what I've seen so far, is just fine. People seem predisposed to bitching before there's much to bitch about, and that just rubs me the wrong way.

Anyways, I understand where you're coming from, having also played this game into the ground about a billion times, but I'm genuinely looking forward to some (mostly) better voice acting this time around, now that the wooden delivery of the Working Designs cast is out. I'll always miss John Truitt, though.

[ChibiJosh]

I'll just say that I finished the demo and can't wait for this game to be out. I hardly played any RPGs last year, but this year looks like it's going to be very different.

[Dead of Knight]

I was referring to Legend's translation, which was all kinds of atrocious. I've already seen complaints about the translation quality of this remake, which from what I've seen so far, is just fine. People seem predisposed to bitching before there's much to bitch about, and that just rubs me the wrong way.

Anyways, I understand where you're coming from, having also played this game into the ground about a billion times, but I'm genuinely looking forward to some (mostly) better voice acting this time around, now that the wooden delivery of the Working Designs cast is out. I'll always miss John Truitt, though.

Yeah Lunar Legend's translation was pretty atrocious, but I'd already played SSSC a million times before so it didn't bother me so much. What I was saying with the voices is that most people can't yet bitch about the translation since much of the game has yet to be revealed, but voice clips of almost all the characters are already posted on the website for everyone to bitch about. And Legend had no voices to bitch about.

[blandstalker]

The intro is fine - it's just different from what you're used to. I also expect much better voice acting this time around, since most of the Working Designs cast was, at best, amateurish.

I agree with this. I listened to both the WD version yesterday and the new version. I was surprised to hear it's the same woman singing (though I can hear that now), but that just fits in nicely to what I'm about to say.

They're different aspects of the same thing. The WD lyrics scan a lot better, but they also don't really say a lot -- they favor easy rhymes and romantic cliches over what the original song actually had to say.

Don't get me wrong -- I am very fond of the song, but lyrics like:

"In your dreams, love is the plot carried on wings of hope"

I mean, it's pretty and it rhymes, but what is it saying and what does it have to do with the game? Not much either way.

Also, the WD versions weren't completely without clunky lyrics:

"Each of our souls intertwine when we do"

Uh, what? Our souls intertwine when we...intertwine. Well, duh.

The new song is certainly clunkier in the lyrics department, but the words at least describe the game. The original lyrics could describe any number of games or movies or anime.

Which is better? Depends what you want: poetry or authenticity. This is not a black-and-white question, either, and has a long history (and baggage) in anime.

That brings us to the singer. In the WD version, she's less polished but has a good, honest voice -- in other words, perfect for Luna. Now, she has more technique, but uses that technique to make the song more emotional. Also perfect for Luna, but in a different way. Same singer, but she's grown and changed and wants to bring something new (and yet thoughtful and respectful) to the song.

Which is better? Hard to say. And it's always hard to accept change.

But I think it's good to hear new translations and attempts at localizations and see what they bring to the table. It's the balance between faithful in meaning and elegant in English, and that can be really challenging.

Me, I'm looking forward to the Boat Song, and will probably buy the CE just for the soundtrack. That alone sold me on the original.

[Rig]

I'm fine with new voice actors. I enjoyed the demo. The localization seemed just fine to me.

One thing I've never understood is how many people "enjoyed" the VA's for SSSC. Most of the lines were cringe-worthy, IMO. Hopefully a new cast can make me feel not so embarassed when people hear that coming from the PSP. :lol:

[FriskyTanuki]

Is there any news on what the bonus is for beating the demo and transferring that save to the full game?

[georox]

Grr, I want the CD/bromides, but I need a PSN copy not a UMD copy! Why can't they give a download code option, or a buy-the-Ce contents option!

[Wolfpup]

Hmm...I played through to Quark on both the PSP and PSX versions.

The voices and translation on better on Silver Star Story, period. I don't know how there's any comparison, unless you like Luna sounding bitchy or whatever. The personalities are both sweeter and come through better with the WD translation. (Though having Ben Teneson voice Alex is definitely not a terrible idea.)

Graphics have been totally redone...more advanced now, though not 100% better. And the overworld's been removed, which is a bit odd.

All in all...well I think WD would do a much better job with it, but it's still classing looking. Reminds me that we desperately need more 2D games! (And turn based RPGs, and strong stories...)

I guess I'll preorder, though I still feel weird about it. Not sure...

Can anyone talk about Growlancer Generations? I see I can still get a new copy, and since that's Working Design's last game...

I just usually suck at strategy RPGs.

[Kirin Lemon]

Is there any news on what the bonus is for beating the demo and transferring that save to the full game?

It's a weapon, the Silver Darts, which give +8 to attack and +16 to magic defense, and have an added sleep effect. They're useful up through Meribia, and you can't actually buy them until late in the game, for a somewhat high price. If you load the demo data, Alex's father gives them to you near the beginning of the game.

One thing I've never understood is how many people "enjoyed" the VA's for SSSC. Most of the lines were cringe-worthy, IMO. Hopefully a new cast can make me feel not so embarassed when people hear that coming from the PSP. :lol:

It's true, the voice acting by the Working Designs cast was mostly terrible. I think these people are operating on nostalgia, and not reality.

[SDC]

Is there any news on what the bonus is for beating the demo and transferring that save to the full game?

Apparently the clear data will unlock some kind of bonus equipment.

[Wolfpup]

Do you have to start from where the demo ends? Or can you repeat it and still get the equipment?

And anyone have any Growlancer Generations thoughts? :D

[DeathMoJo]

I just wanted to update some who were unsure of a DD release, so i shot XSEED an email asking! Here is the response! Good news for us GO owners!


From XSEED Games <comments@xseedgames.com>
to James
date Sun, Jan 17, 2010 at 7:57 PM
subject Re: Lunar: Silver Star Harmony

hide details 7:57 PM (1 hour ago)

Hello James,

Yes, our current plan is to release a digital version of Lunar: Silver Star Harmony on the PlayStation Store at the same time as the UMD release.

Hope this helps.

Ken @ XSEED Games
The Sky Crawlers: Innocent Aces taking flight soon! www.skycrawlersinnocentaces.com
Have 30 seconds? You can still complete a full RPG! www.halfminutehero.com
Sign up to receive e-mail updates from us at http://www.xseedgames.com/signup.php
- Show quoted text -

[Dead of Knight]

Victor Ireland is such a fucking mega-ego crybaby. :lol: But I like how someone on NeoGAF talked him down to size:
Vic's post: http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19344676&postcount=513
Pwnage: http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19348922&postcount=531

Seriously, XSeed is one of the most competent JRPG localizers right now, probably right behind Fatlus as the best. Vic Ireland is just upset they didn't want his megaton ego involved. Wehhh wehh wehh.

[Kirin Lemon]

Victor Ireland is such a fucking mega-ego crybaby. :lol: But I like how someone on NeoGAF talked him down to size:
Vic's post: http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19344676&postcount=513
Pwnage: http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19348922&postcount=531

Seriously, XSeed is one of the most competent JRPG localizers right now, probably right behind Fatlus as the best. Vic Ireland is just upset they didn't want his megaton ego involved. Wehhh wehh wehh.

Ahahaa, that's pretty great. I had no idea Ireland was such a fucking whiner until a couple days ago.

[Paco]

I heard the reason that Gran Turismo 5 got delayed from March is because someone said the words VICTOR IRELAND in the building.

[Paco]

It's a weapon, the Silver Darts, which give +8 to attack and +16 to magic defense, and have an added sleep effect. They're useful up through Meribia, and you can't actually buy them until late in the game, for a somewhat high price. If you load the demo data, Alex's father gives them to you near the beginning of the game.



It's true, the voice acting by the Working Designs cast was mostly terrible. I think these people are operating on nostalgia, and not reality.

That's fighting words right there. Truit is the only man that can play Ghaleon properly.

[FriskyTanuki]

It's a weapon, the Silver Darts, which give +8 to attack and +16 to magic defense, and have an added sleep effect. They're useful up through Meribia, and you can't actually buy them until late in the game, for a somewhat high price. If you load the demo data, Alex's father gives them to you near the beginning of the game.
Apparently the clear data will unlock some kind of bonus equipment.
Thanks. I like when developers give some incentive to play their demos before buying the games (Patapon, Patapon 2).

[Wolfpup]

That post linked to that's supposed to be Vic's doesn't look remotely bad to me...

[Dead of Knight]

Victor saying Fatlus is copying his old business model:
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19353949&postcount=560

weh weh weh

EDIT:
Vic's lame response:
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19354478&postcount=571

[Kirin Lemon]

That's fighting words right there. Truit is the only man that can play Ghaleon properly.

If you read my other posts, you'll see that I'm a huge Truitt fan. But you should also realize that while he did an awesome job, his Ghaleon was nothing like the original Japanese voice. The new voice actor is nailing the Japanese voice perfectly, however.

Victor saying Fatlus is copying his old business model:
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19353949&postcount=560

weh weh weh

EDIT:
Vic's lame response:
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19354478&postcount=571

Biggest whiner ever.

[Dead of Knight]

Perhaps he forgot a key part of Fatlus's business model: Actually getting games out within 5 years of acquiring the licenses for them. And not being a whiny asshole because Sony is blocking release of your shitty, outdated acquisitions.

[evildeadjedi]

Definitely buying this so I kill the damn bone dragon without it fucking freezing!!!!(shakes fist at Sega CD version).

[Kirin Lemon]

Perhaps he forgot a key part of Fatlus's business model: Actually getting games out within 5 years of acquiring the licenses for them. And not being a whiny asshole because Sony is blocking release of your shitty, outdated acquisitions.

For serious.

Definitely buying this so I kill the damn bone dragon without it fucking freezing!!!!(shakes fist at Sega CD version).

You're in luck, that boss doesn't exist anymore!

[Dead of Knight]

This post in this thread on Gamefaqs is incredible:
http://www.gamefaqs.com/boards/genmessage.php?board=960180&topic=53126661
To be honest, I'm not inclined to believe much of what Victor Ireland says. He's straight-up lied in interviews plenty of times. Remember when he claimed that GameArts liked WD's addition of needing to play the harp at the end of Silver Star on the Sega CD so much that they incorporated it into the Japanese remake? Or the fiasco with the Dark Scimitar?

Plus, for all the good Working Designs did, they didn't exactly treat GameArts with much respect in their localization of the Sega CD games. The GameArts logo was completely removed from both games' intro sequences, and WD's name was plastered all over the packaging, giving the impression that they'd developed it themselves. And they did that for a lot of games. I would never go into business with this guy.

And don't even get me started on Gaijinworks. The fact that he would deliberately name his company that is insane. It would be like naming an American company Negroworks.
:rofl::rofl::rofl:

Is that true about removing the Game Arts logos and shit? That's one of the sleaziest things I've ever heard of, goddamn.

[Wolfpup]

I knew perfectly well the originals were developed originally by Gamearts back when they first came out. If they altered something, it's not like it was a secret. And I've never played anything I've liked from Gamearts that wasn't handled by Working Designs for what that's worth.
I'm getting tired of this Working Designs bashing. They've got some absolute killer cult classics, and theyr'e whey we started getting decent translations from other companies. Before them (and for years after them) everything was Japan-o speak.

[Vinny]

What exactly does Vic Ireland do these days? Is he living off of the money he makes by selling those sealed copies of Lunar, Growlanser, etc. with his John Hancock?

[Kirin Lemon]

I'm getting tired of this Working Designs bashing. They've got some absolute killer cult classics, and theyr'e whey we started getting decent translations from other companies. Before them (and for years after them) everything was Japan-o speak.

I don't think we're bashing Working Designs so much as we're bashing Victor Ireland, and his huge-ass ego. It's pretty obvious what a slimy twat he is at this point, and his company was driven into the ground due to his own incompetence.

I also don't buy into your "Without Working Designs, we wouldn't have decent translations!" bullshit. The evolution of the industry and games themselves brought about better translations, period.

[Dead of Knight]

I don't think we're bashing Working Designs so much as we're bashing Victor Ireland, and his huge-ass ego. It's pretty obvious what a slimy twat he is at this point, and his company was driven into the ground due to his own incompetence.

I also don't buy into your "Without Working Designs, we wouldn't have decent translations!" bullshit. The evolution of the industry and games themselves brought about better translations, period.

This, this, and this. I played and loved many WD games, and I still replay them to this day. It's just Victor Ireland is an incredible douche.

What exactly does Vic Ireland do these days? Is he living off of the money he makes by selling those sealed copies of Lunar, Growlanser, etc. with his John Hancock?

You mean those games he found IN HIS CLOSET? :lol:

He has this supposed company now, Gaijinworks, as alluded to in my previous post. Supposed because they've only translated one shitty game (Miami Law) in the many years since the company was announced. It took Vic three years to even land a localization job, probably because his douchiness and tardiness was well-known throughout the industry. They are supposedly handling games for Sunsoft, but nothing specific has been announced yet. The best thing about the whole Miami Law thing is he himself only rated the translation they did a 7/10. :lol:

[Paco]

Victor Ireland's "THE CLOSET" is almost as fun as the fleamarkets "FELL OFF THE TRUCK"

[DQT]

I don't understand where the nickname Fatlus came from. As much as they've grown they're still pretty niche.

The idea of any developer going to neogaf brings to mind the image of a zebra drinking water at the crocodile filled watering hole. I don't have much sympathy for Ireland.

Also DoK does have a point. Luna's voice reminds me of Lucy Van Pelt for some reason. All the other voices sound really good to me as someone who never played the Sega CD or PS games.

[Dead of Knight]

I don't understand where the nickname Fatlus came from. As much as they've grown they're still pretty niche.

From this:
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=358586
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a37/drohne/yourealreadyfat.png

[DiscoJer]

The idea of any developer going to neogaf brings to mind the image of a zebra drinking water at the crocodile filled watering hole. I don't have much sympathy for Ireland.


Heck, back in the day, he used to post on usenet.

[Hostile]

Spent the past hour trying to get the demo to work on CFW but to no avail. I think I'll just download a demo save file... I at least have high hopes I can just buy the game and play it on my CFW without problems.

[Wolfpup]

I'm not seeing what Ireland's saying that's so bad. It just sounds like typical "I'm going to bash a creative guy 'cause he's speaking publicly and I'm going to nitpick it" type thing to me.

[SDC]

And I've never played anything I've liked from Gamearts that wasn't handled by Working Designs for what that's worth.

Then you have never played Grandia, obviously.

[Wolfpup]

Actually yes, I have...

[Kirin Lemon]

I'm not seeing what Ireland's saying that's so bad. It just sounds like typical "I'm going to bash a creative guy 'cause he's speaking publicly and I'm going to nitpick it" type thing to me.

If you can't see it, you might be retarded.

Actually yes, I have...

So much for "might be"...

[Wolfpup]

In other words, it's anti-Ireland fanboi hate. Wonderful :(

[SDC]

Victor saying Fatlus is copying his old business model:
http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=19353949&postcount=560

weh weh weh

To be fair, he is not wrong. WD really did popularize "special editions" and "extra content." Not only of games themselves, but they were also the first to produce hardcover strategy guides, which are now a commonplace part of large releases. Ireland may sound whiny, but that is one point I don't think can be refuted.

Of course, I think it is easy to say now that current-day Atlus is doing a better job at localization than WD did in its heyday. It seems to remain true to the spirit of the originals while injecting time-sensitive jokes, but nobody seems to complain. Although, I think there is also far more acceptance for time-sensitive and referential humor now than there was in the early/mid 90s.

[Ryuukishi]

Loved SSSC back in the day and I'm looking forward to playing through this. What a great idea to include physical versions of the bromides as a bonus!

[DiscoJer]

Although, I think there is also far more acceptance for time-sensitive and referential humor now than there was in the early/mid 90s.

Since WD's demise, I can't remember any jokes about the current president or rock stars put into RPGs. Maybe there have been, I certainly haven't played every RPG in the last 10 years. But those really always rubbed me the wrong way.

RPGs should be an escape from the news and constant political stuff (which admittedly, can't be avoided in almost any other form of entertainment either, but that's still annoying, I think). It's not so much that it eventually becomes dated, just that it's in there in the first place.

[Vinny]

I finally got around to playing the demo and my god... that intro song is awful. I actually skipped it after hearing the first two lines. You guys weren't kidding about it sucking. And I'm not sure I like the new voices... and I wish the videos were widescreen (I take it that they just used the PS1 versions?).

I get a feeling that this is going to be one of those remakes where the nostalgia of the original (well, not really... since the PS1 version was a remake itself) might prevent me from enjoying the remake.

[SDC]

I finally got around to playing the demo and my god... that intro song is awful. I actually skipped it after hearing the first two lines. You guys weren't kidding about it sucking. And I'm not sure I like the new voices... and I wish the videos were widescreen (I take it that they just used the PS1 versions?).

I get a feeling that this is going to be one of those remakes where the nostalgia of the original (well, not really... since the PS1 version was a remake itself) might prevent me from enjoying the remake.

Unfortunately they did just use the PS1 cutscenes. Quite a shame, considering the rest of the game looks outstanding. The cutscenes aren't BAD looking, but it is obvious they are old.

As for the intro song, go to the official website for the game. Honestly, with both verses together, I think it has more to do with the actual game. The lyrics might not be BETTER than WD's translation, but I don't think they are bad. or really, any more awkward.

[Wolfpup]

I've been thinking if they're going to have Luna sound like that, they should have just gone all the way, make her sound like this gruff six pack smoker.

I was trying to think of a comparison, and realized she should sound like Marge Simpson's sisters, only throw in a cough after every other sentence :lol:

[Paco]

Since WD's demise, I can't remember any jokes about the current president or rock stars put into RPGs. Maybe there have been, I certainly haven't played every RPG in the last 10 years. But those really always rubbed me the wrong way.

RPGs should be an escape from the news and constant political stuff (which admittedly, can't be avoided in almost any other form of entertainment either, but that's still annoying, I think). It's not so much that it eventually becomes dated, just that it's in there in the first place.

Since Working Designs demise, I've actually become accustomed to getting my games on time rather then a few years late.

[Wolfpup]

Well between Working Designs being gone, people not making many turn based games anymore, Sakaguchi leaving Square, and more accessible western RPGs, I've just plain not been playing the number I used to :-/

I didn't like every game they did, but at least I could expect SOMETHING there.

Wish I'd gotten to play Magic Knight RayEarth :(

(And still wondering about Growlancer...)

[Dead of Knight]

Oh lulz. Gamestop and Amazon now both have the date as 3/2. Can XSeed please announce an official date? And apparently if this date is true, they want to send it out to die, releasing it one week before FF13.

[FriskyTanuki]

I don't think FFXIII will change how much it sells since it's on the PSP and that is the biggest factor for it not selling big.

[Wolfpup]

Speaking of PSP RPGs, I JUST got an email from Atlus about Persona 3 on the PSP coming this summer! I remember being kind of intrigued by that, and then by 4. I'd MUCH rather play them portable, all things being equal...which they should be (yay PSP hardware!)

I'm iffy on the series though-sounds too complex for me, but I bought Persona 1 anyway.

Weird thing is I wonder what happened to Persona 2? At any rate yet more RPG love for the PSP :)

[FriskyTanuki]

Atlus is probably looking at Persona 1 sales to see if they should put the same amount of work into bringing Persona 2 to the PSP.

[Halo05]

Am I the only one that found the demo to be almost completely without charm? The new sprites (or whatever they are) don't have the soul of the originals. It is made more jarring seeing the old cutscenes which I have such fond memories of and then seeing (for example) Ramus with his over-the-top awkward attack animation. I think I'll stick with the PSOne version.

[Wolfpup]

I *STILL* haven't decided what to do.

Ironically, all this talk about Lunar got me to finally buy Growlanser Generations, new from Amazon :-D (Along with a copy of Lost Odyssey, since inexplicably I sold mine :-/ )

[RAMSTORIA]

voices and songs changed?! that wasnt part of the deal! how bad is it?

[SDC]

voices and songs changed?! that wasnt part of the deal! how bad is it?

The only one that bugs me is Nall, but that's because I don't particularly like his VA to begin with (Spike Spencer, did the voice for Shinji Ikari in the Evangelion dub).

The songs have different lyrics, but the same singer. Some people hate them, but I feel like both versions are relatively awkward anyway, and with this version the lyrics match up with the game a little bit better.
The original releases of Silver Star Story and Eternal Blue had fantastic voicework for the time, but I don't think the changing VAs hurt Silver Star Harmony at all, really. I'll miss the hell out of John Truit, though.

[Wolfpup]

I think that opening song DOESN'T match up as well personally.

The new voice actors are hit and miss. Some seem like very solid choices to replace the originals. The Ben Tennison guy as Alex for example. I'd rather have the original, but obviously he's a professional and can do the right type of age/innocence required, so he seems like a great choice.

But chain smoking bitch Luna? Yeah, that's a problem :lol: Kyle's atrocious too.

I don't know. Just don't know what to do about this game. Haven't been this conflicted over buying a game...probably for decades.

[Gden]

>< I don't like when people talk about how they don't like Spike because he did Shinji's voice. Yeah he was whiny but shinji is just that a whiny bitch, and a pervert. Spike is a GREAT VA, just playing shinji's a lose/lose situation, you either aren't as good as the japanese voice or you are as good, and just come over whiny, because of it.

[SDC]

>< I don't like when people talk about how they don't like Spike because he did Shinji's voice. Yeah he was whiny but shinji is just that a whiny bitch, and a pervert. Spike is a GREAT VA, just playing shinji's a lose/lose situation, you either aren't as good as the japanese voice or you are as good, and just come over whiny, because of it.

I wasn't complaining that he played Shinji, I was simply pointing out what I consider to be his most famous role. Shinji Ikari is my favorite anime character, and the lines as Spike delivered them at the end of episode 26 pretty much changed my life (lame, but true).
But after hearing Megumi Ogata's interpretation of the character, Spike's just doesn't hold up. I'm not sure how that's a situation unique to Shinji Ikari, though. Isn't any English VA going to be judged against the original seiyu?

[Vinny]

Looks like I'm not the only one who's having the whole remake vs nostalgia issues...:lol:

I still can't stand the intro song. I mean... it just plain SUCKS. I actually liked (and still do) the intro song in SSSC. I didn't any of the new voices but I'll get over that since they're not really bad (well, Nall's voice is kinda unfitting).

BTW, what's up with the damn back bars which show up on the left and right sides every time you talk to someone or during in game cut scenes? That's annoying as hell.

[FriskyTanuki]

Finished the demo and it was pretty good. There are a few weird issues I had but nothing that's a big deal. Looking forward to the full game, which probably was delayed until March from what I've heard.

It feels like there should be a counter system when you dodge a hit, though I don't know if dodging is related to randomly pushing buttons just before the attack or not. Does Nall, or whatever the flying rat is called, do anything in battle besides fly around? It doesn't seem like there's any point to have him fly around if he isn't going to help at some point. I don't know why I have to rely on the Sasquatches to break the crystals, so I had to backtrack and go through a bunch more fights just to get to the end of the demo.

[bebop]

Dude every one here needs to stop bitchin so much. I've played the original psx version and the demo. Its a remake. It sounds like some of you guys just want a rerelease on PSN.

The voice acting I heard was ok. Not anything to write home about but not bad either. Also lets not judge all the voice acting from one sample from online. At least they are professional voice actors not just random people working designs dragged off the street. And yes this is not a working designs translation, just play the original if that's what you want. I personally would rather get a new experience while also getting some nostalgia too.

I personally can not wait for this game and I had nothing but smiles on my face while I played the demo. I dig the graphics and the music is cool.

I am little miffed at how there is no overworld to walk around on... But I suppose that was all you did in the other one was walk around it, just time to listen to happy music. Now you just select your destination. Not a big deal, does take away illusion of exploration.

Does anyone know if PSN will release game for download same week as release? Or will it be months later. PSP GO users are screwed...

[DeathMoJo]

Does anyone know if PSN will release game for download same week as release? Or will it be months later. PSP GO users are screwed...

I made a post in here about and emailed Xseed last week about, they said they planning to have it avaiable as DD alongside the UMD version on its release date. However, they did not say if they will be releasing the Special Edition as UMD and DD or just UMD.

[depascal22]

BTW, what's up with the damn back bars which show up on the left and right sides every time you talk to someone or during in game cut scenes? That's annoying as hell.

I have the same issues. It's not a deal breaker by any stretch but a little weird.

Anyone know what bonuses will be unlocked by having a save file from the demo on your memory stick?

[Rig]

I have the same issues. It's not a deal breaker by any stretch but a little weird.

Anyone know what bonuses will be unlocked by having a save file from the demo on your memory stick?

Pretty sure somebody mentioned it's a weapon. Poison darts? Something you get late in the game gets unlocked at the beginning.

[Ryuukishi]

Yeah, those pillarboxes during dialogue scenes were extremely weird and distracting. I wonder if it's possible that they're only present in the demo code.

[nectarsis1]

The black bars are because they (understandably) used the PS1 cut scenes which aren't widescreen..nor would it make sense financially to redo them.

[StarKnightX]

Looking forward to playing this game again. Also hoping to finally beat the game without having to cheat to do it. The previous PS1 release I had to use a gameshark to help me from about when you have to stop the grinder (if not sooner) to the end of the game. I think it's one of the only RPGs that I've had to cheat to beat , and it still kinda bothers me.

[depascal22]

The black bars are because they (understandably) used the PS1 cut scenes which aren't widescreen..nor would it make sense financially to redo them.

It's not during the cut scenes though. You wander around with a beautiful widescreen presentation and then you talk to a NPC and it slightly crops down. Not to a full screen but it's noticeable when you stop talking.

[Vinny]

It feels like there should be a counter system when you dodge a hit, though I don't know if dodging is related to randomly pushing buttons just before the attack or not. Does Nall, or whatever the flying rat is called, do anything in battle besides fly around? It doesn't seem like there's any point to have him fly around if he isn't going to help at some point.

Dodges are completely random. Nall does serve a purpose, he wakes up KO'd characters and, I can't remember if he does anything else. I think he might heal certain status ailments after a while (if you, yourself don't heal them).

[Hostile]

Another company gets a sarcastic thumbs up for releasing in March. It looks like it's officially delayed.

[Reira]

Wow, don't know how I missed the fact the demo's out. I have to go play it now.

I remember passing on this game & the sequel years ago, waiting for it to go on sale/go down in price. (Yeah...) Actually forgot about this game, then last Saturday I found the omake box of extras from Lunar 2 at a school sale. Came with standees (I don't know how many there are supposed to be, but there's a bunch), medallion (no necklace string or pouch), and the book. Only paid $.20 for it. Maybe it's a sign from the gaming gods telling me to pick up this game.

I wish it wouldn't come out so close to FFXIII, though...

[Rig]

Wow, don't know how I missed the fact the demo's out. I have to go play it now.

I remember passing on this game & the sequel years ago, waiting for it to go on sale/go down in price. (Yeah...) Actually forgot about this game, then last Saturday I found the omake box of extras from Lunar 2 at a school sale. Came with standees (I don't know how many there are supposed to be, but there's a bunch), medallion (no necklace string or pouch), and the book. Only paid $.20 for it. Maybe it's a sign from the gaming gods telling me to pick up this game.

I wish it wouldn't come out so close to FFXIII, though...

Wow, nice find!

I've picked up a number of Lunar:SSSC's over the years, but have never seen a cheap copy of Lunar 2 (or its Omake box).

I've got my original purchased Lunar 2 and all the goodies stashed away at home, but, I would like to get the disc variants/backup goodies.

[Vinny]

Another company gets a sarcastic thumbs up for releasing in March. It looks like it's officially delayed.

Any word as to why? I'm looking forward to the game but by March, I'll have Heavy Rain, FFXIII, and GoW3 to worry about... and of course, there's also Yakuza 3 which I'm regretfully going to pass up on (unless there's some sale that can make all 5 of these games affordable for me.

[Purkeynator]

Wow, nice find!

I've picked up a number of Lunar:SSSC's over the years, but have never seen a cheap copy of Lunar 2 (or its Omake box).

I've got my original purchased Lunar 2 and all the goodies stashed away at home, but, I would like to get the disc variants/backup goodies.

The cheapest copy of Lunar 2 for PSX I saw was a $40 copy at a Toys R Us in Las Vegas in spring 2002. They only had one copy and needless to saw I snatched that right up. I remember it because at the time I thought, well its still not very cheap but it's probably going to be the last time I see a new one in a store. And it was.

[georox]

I so hope they do a digital collectors, I want the Bromide cards, but I plan on a digital copy.

[georox]

Glad to hear you are looking forward to the release of Lunar: Silver Star Harmony. Unfortunately, the digital version will be like the regular UMD version where no additional goodies will be included, only the UMD Limited Edition version will be packaged with the soundtrack CD and collector's cards.

So, definitely no Digital Collector's Edition.

Things you learn as a journalist: Best way to get information is to contact people. Thankfully one email is all it took, I didn't have to start tracking people down.

[2DMention]

I preordered the LE. DLed the demo, and after playing the DQ remakes I have to say battles move pretty slow in this game.

I'm curious to see what kind of changes they'll make to this game.

[Astinus Majere]

Amazon just added release date shipping for this game.

[Dead of Knight]

Amazon just added release date shipping for this game.
You mean release date delivery. :D

This is great because I was going to order it from Amazon anyway since I have Prime. Can't wait for March 2nd (hopefully that is the official date)!

[depascal22]

What happened to the RPG thread?

[Josh5890]

I'm still on the edge. Just too many games thie quarter!!!

[slidecage]

I have heard bad things about the remake (no longer a walkaround map just click on go)

not really sure if im going to buy it or not yet......

2 things i can do...

RENT It from gamefly (meaning i need to open another slot , upgrade for around 4.50) and get the game sometime between March 4 to March 6 to 8th (gamefly has a release date right now of MARCH 4 but has been changing a lot of games to release day at the last second)

or buy it from amazon

27.99 with prime (the LE is not worth 12.00 to me) - the 4.50 upgrade fee i would save by not renting it from gamefly Total price 23.50

BUT heres the catch... do i really have time to play the game... right now Just on rentals backlog

Ragnarok DS around 6 hours in an according to the quest info only about 30% done (have not even started on side quest)

Yu gi oh 2010 Ds getting it today or tomorrow via gamefly.

newer games i got and sucking my time

Sudoku Ball Detective
and
Glory of Heracles (got this off gamefly first week and still have to play it ... did the keep it now as soon as i got it ... only put in maybe 1 hour)


so long story short ...i probally just upgrade and then buy it when it falls to 10 -20 around summer

[ChibiJosh]

I have heard bad things about the remake (no longer a walkaround map just click on go)


You could've learned that from playing the demo.

[Paco]

The walking did SHIT on the Playstation remake anyways. It was just there to waste time. Oh I walked around. Nothing to fight. Unless you want to talk about the Sega CD version which WAS exploring and fighting.

[slidecage]

The walking did SHIT on the Playstation remake anyways. It was just there to waste time. Oh I walked around. Nothing to fight. Unless you want to talk about the Sega CD version which WAS exploring and fighting.

so is this the remake of the Sega cd verison or the ps1 verison or is it the same game....

i know i played it on the sega cd (still got it) dont know if i ever played it on the PS1.. (though i do have it)

[FriskyTanuki]

The comparison screens they released shows the PS1 version, so that's the version that was remade.

[Paco]

so is this the remake of the Sega cd verison or the ps1 verison or is it the same game....

i know i played it on the sega cd (still got it) dont know if i ever played it on the PS1.. (though i do have it)

It's a remake of a remake of a remake. On the Playstation version dungeons were made easier and a bit shorter, monsters were weakened and some areas were completely cut out. Some stuff was also made just for the remake too such as the three sisters as where the sega cd just had Xenobia of the vile tribe.

[Rig]

Looks like my copy has shipped from Amazon...
Kinda regretting using Super Saver on this one. :l

Then again, it's in Indiana today, and I'm in Illinois. Hopefully it shows up tomorrow.

[ChibiJosh]

Mine is shipping soon. Should have it on Wednesday.

[bvharris]

Just got a shipping notice for RDD. Can't wait to dive into this one, it's been way too long.

[slidecage]

mine went into shipping soon... so should get it tomorrow since it still says

Release day

hopefully get to it maybe weds cause

Ragnarok DS is taking up all of my time

update my shipping now shows

New Castle DE
Shipment has left seller facility and is in transit - Mar 01, 2010 2:50:54 PM


Man that had to cost amazon a pretty penny to ship it from delawere to indiana overnight

messing around on UPS site a 1 pound package from their zip code 19733 to mine :)

They have to get a hell of a discount cause the Cheapest shipping i can get is 35 bucks

I highly doubt amazon paid 35 bucks to ship it

[bebop]

Wonder if this will be on PS store Thursday...I also wonder if load times are significantly better on digital version...wanna play, but don't wanna wait.

Course PS3 could still be down also...

[slidecage]

March 1, 2010 10:12:00 PM Philadelphia PA US Departure Scan
March 1, 2010 08:52:00 PM Newark DE US Departure Scan
March 1, 2010 08:19:00 PM Newark DE US Shipment received by carrier
March 1, 2010 02:50:54 PM New Castle DE US Shipment has left seller facility and is in transit


so far be interesting to see how this works.... say it gets to indy around 4 or 5 am est time...... thenit would have to move to another shipping hub.... before it gets to me... still showing tomorrow : )

[Hostile]

Could anyone confirm if the UMD version works with CFW 5.50 GEN-D3 (should work with OFW 6.10 games)? Thanks.

[2DMention]

Looks like GS will be getting it today so I'll go pick it up after work.

[The Mana Knight]

I ordered the LE. My copy should be arriving today. :D

[leeloo1977]

This game makes me wish I had a PSP.... I just don't care for portable gaming. Still I could see myself buying a PSP at some point in the future just to play this game. Isn't there a way to play a game on your T.V. using the PSP? I am also hoping they announce a true sequel for the PS3.

[depascal22]

This game makes me wish I had a PSP.... I just don't care for portable gaming. Still I could see myself buying a PSP at some point in the future just to play this game. Isn't there a way to play a game on your T.V. using the PSP? I am also hoping they announce a true sequel for the PS3.

As long as you don't get the original PSP 1000, you can get AV cables that will hook to your TV.

[Dead of Knight]

The load times are fucking atrocious. Of course I am playing on my husband's Japanese launch PSP, so there's 90% of my problem right there.

[doodofdoods]

Ow, my eyes. Guess I shouldn't of been playing this at night with the lights off. the four heroes special attacks killed my eyes with all those flashes.

[bvharris]

So I popped it in last night and played for several hours, the nostalgia was definitely overwhelming. I didn't find the load times that bad, but the last PSP game I played was the BoFIII import, so nothing would seem bad after that.

The only thing that pissed me off was them changing the words to the opening theme, which just seems dumb. I'm sure at some point I'd read an explanation as to why, but I can't remember it, maybe it was a rights issue? No better explanation I can think of.

Sad Piano Theme better make the cut:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTbedt3GUD0

[Draccius]

Enjoying it so far, but can't say I've gotten to far. The Four Heroes bit left quite a bit of an opening for a possible prequel...

[bvharris]

Enjoying it so far, but can't say I've gotten to far. The Four Heroes bit left quite a bit of an opening for a possible prequel...

It was cool being able to play as them, for sure.

I was tempted to let Ghaleon die. :D

[Vinny]

Question: did they fix the problem with the tiny bars which appear on the left and right side of the screen during gameplay?

I am NOT talking about the bars which appear during the the cutscenes... those I can understand since they took the original 4:3 cutscenes from SSSC. I'm talking about the very tiny bars which appear on the sides of the screen whenever there's a conversation going on but go away when the conservation is over.

I just go mine but haven't opened it since I'm a bit busy right now. The package is very nice though.

[Draccius]

Question: did they fix the problem with the tiny bars which appear on the left and right side of the screen during gameplay?

I am NOT talking about the bars which appear during the the cutscenes... those I can understand since they took the original 4:3 cutscenes from SSSC. I'm talking about the very tiny bars which appear on the sides of the screen whenever there's a conversation going on but go away when the conservation is over.

I just go mine but haven't opened it since I'm a bit busy right now. The package is very nice though.

No, and I don't think that's an actual "problem," per se. I think it's an intended attempt to make dialog a little more cinematic.

[Vinny]

No, and I don't think that's an actual "problem," per se. I think it's an intended attempt to make dialog a little more cinematic.

Oh... I don't get how that makes it more cinematic because it's pretty annoying and keeps distracting me.:lol:

Thanks!

[Dead of Knight]

Question: did they fix the problem with the tiny bars which appear on the left and right side of the screen during gameplay?

I am NOT talking about the bars which appear during the the cutscenes... those I can understand since they took the original 4:3 cutscenes from SSSC. I'm talking about the very tiny bars which appear on the sides of the screen whenever there's a conversation going on but go away when the conservation is over.

I just go mine but haven't opened it since I'm a bit busy right now. The package is very nice though.

Still has those, and I agree, it's retarded. It shows up when you open chests too. Also, black backgrounds during special attacks is retarded. The game is SO graphically intense, you know, it just HAS to have slow ass load times and only one background used during special attacks.

I didn't play much last night, but plan to play more tonight. What I played though left a foul taste in my mouth, and it's not the translation or the voice acting. Though I wish XSEED had fixed the things I mentioned above during localization.

[Paco]

Oh... I don't get how that makes it more cinematic because it's pretty annoying and keeps distracting me.:lol:

Thanks!

You think that's annoying? The battles are the most annoying thing I've ever seen. Who the hell decided that EVERY SPELL has to make the screen go black and do SHINING EFFECTS? Perfect for triggering epilepsy.

[Paco]

Still has those, and I agree, it's retarded. It shows up when you open chests too. Also, black backgrounds during special attacks is retarded. The game is SO graphically intense, you know, it just HAS to have slow ass load times and only one background used during special attacks.

I didn't play much last night, but plan to play more tonight. What I played though left a foul taste in my mouth, and it's not the translation or the voice acting. Though I wish XSEED had fixed the things I mentioned above during localization.


That's one of the GOOD things to come out of Irelands delays. He oftentimes fixed up Japanese shit like this. The original Lunar only had THREE save slots. Ireland moved it up to 15 "an entire memory card" another thing he did was sometimes fix load times, made battles quicker and so forth.

If Ireland had his hadns on this. We'd be playing it in 2011. He would have fixed a lot of shit though. Maybe even redrawn a background.

[Dead of Knight]

That's one of the GOOD things to come out of Irelands delays. He oftentimes fixed up Japanese shit like this. The original Lunar only had THREE save slots. Ireland moved it up to 15 "an entire memory card" another thing he did was sometimes fix load times, made battles quicker and so forth.

If Ireland had his hadns on this. We'd be playing it in 2011. He would have fixed a lot of shit though. Maybe even redrawn a background.

I know that. I don't miss Vic's translation and voicework. I do miss him fixing up the games.

[Paco]

I know that. I don't miss Vic's translation and voicework. I do miss him fixing up the games.

He delayed the original Lunar so he could have Myght fart. But yeah I do miss his fixing up of menus and loading time.

[2DMention]

Haven't had time to play this - I'm still working on replaying DQ8 a 3rd time.

[Dead of Knight]

This is just fucking atrocious:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyxI4bInxe4

[Paco]

This is just fucking atrocious:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyxI4bInxe4

Because this was so much more classy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znUIKehJaZc

[Dead of Knight]

I wonder if he does this in the PSP version... only one way to find out!

[LordVila]

Please tell me I'm not the only one who takes great pleasure out of letting Ramus die during every fight.

[Dead of Knight]

So far... I think Jessica's voice is the only one that is an improvement over the Vic Ireland voices. All the other ones are worse, whether that means very slightly worse or "holy shit" bad.

[blandstalker]

This is just fucking atrocious:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QyxI4bInxe4

Okay, I was steeled for the worst.

It's, um, not that bad. In some ways, it's pretty good.

This is from someone who bought the Sega and PS1 versions because of the Boat Song. I also arranged it and learned to play it on piano long before that was fashionable. I even used it at an audition.

In short, I've always loved this song.

That said, the new lyrics, while clunkier, are closer to the Japanese original. And you get the whole song.

The WD version of the song scans a lot better (though it's not free of clunk, either. There are a couple of lines that are fucking hell to sing well). But it's more sugary and favors cliche over substance. The Japanese version is more hesitant, more wistful, and less melodramatic.

While I am disappointed that someone didn't spend a little longer fixing a few of the lines that don't scan at all, it isn't atrocious. It's different, for sure. But, like the opening, it trades some of the poetry for actual emotion.

I guess I will have to pick this up. Damn.

[Josh5890]

I think I'm gonna wait for a $20 offer. I've never played any Lunar game before so I think I can wait a little longer. Besides I still have both Star Ocean's and FF2 to finish.

[slidecage]

hopefully one of these days i will get to open this (maybe tonight)

last 3 days been playing

Battle of the mutant bug game

[Gden]

Just trying to get a confirmation, but are the load times of this game any good, or bad?

[Dead of Knight]

Just trying to get a confirmation, but are the load times of this game any good, or bad?

They're horrible. Especially if you have an older PSP. If you get it on PSN or have a 3000 they are not bad at all. On my 1000 though it's a joke how bad it is.

[Josh5890]

They're horrible. Especially if you have an older PSP. If you get it on PSN or have a 3000 they are not bad at all. On my 1000 though it's a joke how bad it is.

Dang, all I have is the phat and I'm not a fan of getting them off the PSN usually

[Dead of Knight]

Dang, all I have is the phat and I'm not a fan of getting them off the PSN usually

Yeah, it's pretty horrible. If I didn't get the LE I definitely would have gone for the PSN version. It's really bad for us phatties. Paco has a 3000 and the load times are signifcantly reduced. Sucks ass. I don't have a problem with most games because most decent games don't screw phatties over this badly.

[Paco]

Yeah, it's pretty horrible. If I didn't get the LE I definitely would have gone for the PSN version. It's really bad for us phatties. Paco has a 3000 and the load times are signifcantly reduced. Sucks ass. I don't have a problem with most games because most decent games don't screw phatties over this badly.

LOL You think Lunar loading is bad on the Phat? Dissidia is far worse on the phat then on the later iterations. And I'm not talking a few seconds of loading times either.

But I would love to have the PSN version to get rid of the loading times on the UMD one, but I think it's tolerable. Though the 3-4 hour battery life is NOT tolerable when playing Lunar.

[Rig]

I have a PSP 2000, and I don't think the loading times are bad. A second or two for some things, at most.

Granted...the only other PSP game I have played is Half-Minute Hero...so maybe other games load much faster than Lunar? *shrugs*

[TheSSNintendo]

The little loading times don't really bother me that much. So far I'm at the Old Hag's Forest, and I'm really enjoying this version of the game. Now if only they did the same thing for Lunar 2.

[Gden]

I have a PSP 2000, and I don't think the loading times are bad. A second or two for some things, at most.

Granted...the only other PSP game I have played is Half-Minute Hero...so maybe other games load much faster than Lunar? *shrugs*

This was what I was waiting to hear, as I have a PSP 2000.

[2DMention]

I have a PSP 2000, and I don't think the loading times are bad. A second or two for some things, at most.

Granted...the only other PSP game I have played is Half-Minute Hero...so maybe other games load much faster than Lunar? *shrugs*

I have a 2000, and I think the load times are pretty nasty, especially when you first boot the game up.

[LostRoad]

Does anyone like the new voice work, between this and the long ass load times this is starting to bug me. Just to many changes for this game to really pull me in. I went in looking forward to a nostalgic experience but I am left with a bad taste in my mouth.

[2DMention]

I don't know what to think of the new music or voices. It's been so long since I've played either the PS1 or the SCD versions.

I feel myself waxing nostalgic for this game, although I'm not sure if I like how they have the layout of the towns in this game.

The battles seem like they really slug along, especially after I'm spoiled with Dragon Quest IV & Vs speedy battles.

What is the demo save supposed to unlock? I didn't notice anything.

[Rig]

I don't know what to think of the new music or voices. It's been so long since I've played either the PS1 or the SCD versions.

I feel myself waxing nostalgic for this game, although I'm not sure if I like how they have the layout of the towns in this game.

The battles seem like they really slug along, especially after I'm spoiled with Dragon Quest IV & Vs speedy battles.

What is the demo save supposed to unlock? I didn't notice anything.

Demo unlocks Silver Darts (weapon for Luna). You can purchase them later in the game, but by then, they aren't really that great.

[sublime90]

i got a quick question. i have Lunar on the PS1 (both Lunars) and have yet to play them. should i play Lunar on my PS2 or get the remake on PSP?

[Paco]

i got a quick question. i have Lunar on the PS1 (both Lunars) and have yet to play them. should i play Lunar on my PS2 or get the remake on PSP?

I'd play the PS1 version. It loads faster and the music is better. Though the PSP one isn't that bad, and supposedly it's another remake so there may be storyline changes. Haven't really seen em thus far though.

[SDC]

i got a quick question. i have Lunar on the PS1 (both Lunars) and have yet to play them. should i play Lunar on my PS2 or get the remake on PSP?

The game is fantastic either way. I've been pretty impressed with the new graphics and the new layouts for areas (the perspective for Meribia is totally different, but the city is laid out in roughly the same manner, for instance).
These days, I much prefer playing RPGs on handhelds, so if you share that trait in any way I'd strongly recommend the remake. But if you don't care about graphics or portability, the original is equally outstanding.

Don't be discouraged by people complaining about the voice acting or translation though. The PS1 version (Working Designs' translation) and voicework is beloved more out of nostalgia, if you ask me. Nash and Nall are equally annoying in both versions. So far most of the other characters are fine by me, and the translation is relatively similar (though slightly more literal, and because of that perhaps slightly more awkward).

[Ryuukishi]

I'd say play it on PSX. It's a retro JRPG through and through, and the old-school tile background graphics just fit the experience better IMO.

[Dead of Knight]

Because this was so much more classy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=znUIKehJaZc

Yup, happy to report he farts in this version too.

[2DMention]

Some bonus impressions 1/2 way through:

-You get way too much money from enemies, but it seems to be just enough to buy new equip when you need it.

-Seeing enemies on the screen is kinda pointless as you usually can't run away from them anyway.

-Battles seem a little too easy.

[Rig]

The game is fantastic either way. I've been pretty impressed with the new graphics and the new layouts for areas (the perspective for Meribia is totally different, but the city is laid out in roughly the same manner, for instance).
These days, I much prefer playing RPGs on handhelds, so if you share that trait in any way I'd strongly recommend the remake. But if you don't care about graphics or portability, the original is equally outstanding.

Don't be discouraged by people complaining about the voice acting or translation though. The PS1 version (Working Designs' translation) and voicework is beloved more out of nostalgia, if you ask me. Nash and Nall are equally annoying in both versions. So far most of the other characters are fine by me, and the translation is relatively similar (though slightly more literal, and because of that perhaps slightly more awkward).

As a huge Lunar fanboy...

I agree. WD's dub was not very good, IMO.

That being said, I don't think you could go wrong playing either one. The PS1 version would be what I would play...but that's 'cause I don't really like handhelds.

[Wolfpup]

Eh, SegaCD > Playstation > Playstation Portable :-D

[slidecage]

i dont know if its just cause i no longer like the PSP or what but i can not get into this game... Yet i can play junk on the DS ...

Will just toss this on the back burner along with all of the other RPG games i have for the PSP (ie star ocean 1 and 2 to name a few)

[Dead of Knight]

Fucking game just froze on me in the middle of battle in the final fucking dungeon. Opened the UMD drive like I normally do when this happens, did nothing, had to reset. Fuck. I lost maybe 15-20 minutes of progress but every minute of gaming is precious to me during busy season at work. :(

[Dead of Knight]

Done. The game was wayyy wayyy wayyy too easy. I skipped most of the battles I could in the final dungeon and still beat the final boss in like 5 rounds. :lol: Many of the voices are atrocious (NALL, Dyne, Royce, Luna) and the rest are just average. The load times suck as I've already mentioned, especially if you have a 1000 like me. The only things they bothered actually adding to this game is the 20 minute prologue at the beginning (the voices and dialogue are seriously god-awful in that) and one 1-minute sequence in the middle of the game with the same characters as the prologue. This game isn't worth it if you have already played the PSone version. Newcomers may just not get why Lunar is so beloved by so many if they start with this one, though.

One particular thing that made me go WTF though:
Black Dragon Grief now gives EXP when you beat enemies with it. And it still costs the same. WTF :lol:

[2DMention]

Still playing. Stuck in the Lost Woods. (I hate games that have lost woods in them)

[Dead of Knight]

They did something to those woods in this game... I was wandering around in there for like an hour even though I'd gone through every screen. :lol:

[2DMention]

I had to look up an FAQ to get through that. How much of the game is left?

[SDC]

I had to look up an FAQ to get through that. How much of the game is left?

If memory serves, you have maybe three major dungeons left.