Shining Force

Description

Control up to 12 characters in battle -- select them from a cast of 30 playable characters Improved graphics feature added visual effects and character patterns Unique card system allows you to collect special abilities and bonuses that could turn the tide of battle in your favorProduct Description Resurrection of the Dark Dragon is based on the original episode of the super popular Shining Force franchise first published in 1992. But compared to the original the battles are more tactical, there are new character animations, the gameplay is more balanced, and 3 new characters have been added. There is also a new "Unique Card System" that adds a new dimension to the battles. The scenario, which was supplied by staff who worked on the original, has a mysterious traveler named Darksol befriend the King of Runefaust while he secretly plans to resurrect the ancient and terrible Dark Dragon. Review When this game first released on the Genesis in 1993, it impressed gamers with its huge cast of characters, varied classes, and strategic combat. It also served as an inspiration for many turn-based titles that were to follow. Even though all of the elements that made this stand out in its time are still present, they are essentially in their original form. While the gameplay is still fun, Shining Force certainly feels like it has gathered some dust over the years.To be fair, this isn't the exact same game that came out 11 years ago. The graphics are considerably improved, and there are also a handful of new characters and sidequests. But even with these alterations on the surface, the core hasn't changed. You wander around towns and you get into battles. As you progress, you add more party members to your pool of fighters and assemble a team based on each characters' abilities. Sound familiar? The biggest problem with this otherwise successful formula is that due to the basic battle system, it eventually feels like you're just repeating the same drill again and again.While it does have a decent mix of strategy and RPG elements, you can't escape the fact that this is still just a Genesis game with a few minor improvements. With the other turn-based strategy titles available on GBA, like Final Fantasy Tactics Advance, Shining Force is really more enjoyable as a piece of nostalgia than a fresh gaming experience.Concept:Jump on the "re-release previously successful titles" bandwagon Graphics:Though jazzed up from the Genesis version, the parts that look best go by too quickly to savor Sound:The battle sounds are generic, and the score does little to rouse your fighting spirit Playability:The combat system and menus are easy to learn and navigate. Simple but effective Entertainment:The battles are fun and challenging, yet lack the depth to make the game truly engaging Replay:ModerateRated: 7.5 out of 10Editor: Joe JubaIssue: June 20042nd Opinion: Striking a nostalgic chord, this remake of the Genesis classic brings back a flood of fond memories, but also a slight pain with the realization that the games that we cherished back in the day don't necessarily stack up well against today's juggernauts. While boasting balance tweaks; enhanced menu management; and the inclusion of new characters, items, and side missions; the gameplay is just as shallow as before. It's an enjoyable play, but if you've already worked your way through Final Fantasy Tactics or any turn-based strategy game in the last five years, there's a good chance that you'll be disappointed by its simplicity.Rated: 7.5 out of 10Editor: Andrew ReinerSubscribe to Game Informer -- Game Informer Review

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UPC Number: 73086585013

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