Change Your Image
Ersan_Hakki
Reviews
Kurono toriga (1995)
A true classic in every respect.
This game is truly a classic in every respect, with the most memorable characters ever featured in an RPG and a storyline that surpasses that of any other game in its genre. Since the release of Chrono Trigger many other interesting and unique games have emerged with graphics so advanced that in comparison Chrono Trigger is almost laughable. Therefore if you're only interested in appearance then this is the wrong game for you, however if you are interested in original RPG's with a compelling storyline then I assure you that Chrono Trigger remains unrivalled.
{Warning: plot summary} The underlining plot is simplistic in that a group of teenagers stumble upon a time gate where they learn of an oncoming threat that will destroy the world in 1999, and subsequently decide to join forces to prevent the demise of there beloved planet {end of plot summary}. However the game features so many twists that the storyline is never predictable and the multiple endings available, enable the game to alter according to the players own personality. Side quests and a special New Game+ option (accessible once completing the game) also enhance its replay value.
Furthermore the characters integrate into the storyline magnificently, with each having there own side quests that allow for immense character development. The game illustrates the emotions and ambitions of each character which gives the player a true understanding of each playable character and there relationship with the others in the group.
It should also be noted that although the graphics in Chrono Trigger are now dated, at the time they were impressive in comparison to other RPG games released for the SNES. The character designs also blend in well with the personality of the characters. Therefore it's no surprise Chrono Trigger has such an enormous fan base and I can certainly say that it has established itself as one of my favourite games of all time.
Live a Live (1994)
An original and innovative game.
Live a Live is one of Square's most underrated games and was never officially translated into English. Nonetheless, this is an outstanding game and has the key elements required for it to stand the test of time.
The game, like Square's more popular Chrono Trigger, is based on time. However rather than taking the characters through time, the game takes the actual player through various periods in a variety of different locations. This is done by breaking the game into a series of shorter games that feature different characters and can be selected in any order. Amazingly each sub-game manages to maintain an interesting storyline and pleasant characters, which when combined with great theme music makes the game very effective. However once completing all the individual stories they intertwine to conclude the game.
Since completing Live a Live a number of years ago, I am yet to have the fortune to come across a game that bears the slightest resemblance to this. It is simply amazing how the stories successfully shift from being humorous to sad and from a thriller to more philosophical.