Final Fantasy Crystal Chronicles

The Final Fantasy series has graced the games industry since the late
1980's and proved itself one of the best console-RPG franchises ever. Its history is a storied tale of one designer who single-handedly lifted his company--Square at the time--out of impending bankruptcy in the form of Final Fantasy for the NES. After establishing itself and going huge, the series continued to evolve over time--NES, SNES, and then, after a dispute over the cartridge format that Nintendo had planned for the N64, to PS1 and PS2. Years later, the couple has rekindled; Square is now Square-Enix; and out of their reconciliation comes Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles.

Unlike traditional Final Fantasy titles, Crystal Chronicles is more of an action-RPG that sports a heavy emphasis on multiplayer through Nintendo's much-touted GC-GBA connectivity. You and three other friends (provided everyone has GBA's and link cables) can create your own unique party and support one another with constant teamwork. Although playing with buddies undoubtedly creates an entertaining experience, there's always the single-player mode that lets players go at it on their own.

In terms of presentation, the game displays a variety of attractive qualities. Visuals are very nice, and though the exaggerated character models could turn off some players, there is no denying the detail and effort poured into environments, what with all the impressive lighting and water effects about. In true Final Fantasy fashion, the music is catchy, calming, and a joy on the ears.

The story, which has actually taken a bit of a backseat to the action elements, consists of a world in great danger by a mysterious and deadly mist. The populace has but one hope: a blessed crystal powered by magical water called Mirula Droplets. Crystal Chronicles places you as a member of the Crystal Caravan, a gang of fellows who search far and low for this coveted water. You'll travel the world by wagon, conversing with other caravans, fending off bandits, and locating various dungeons that require your attention. These dungeons, which make up a large section of the gameplay, contain hordes of monsters to dispose of, and thanks to the simple yet friendly combat system, the battles are always fun. Attacking enemies, either by melee or through magic, is done with the A button--pressing it repeatedly or holding it down for a bit unleashes powerful combinations with your equipped weapon; and cycling through a screen is required to cast a spell or use an item. These spells are not learned by gaining experience, but rather, are found within orbs that appear after slaying creatures. To present a balance, only two spells can be equipped per character at a given time. And don't think that combat merely boils down to flailing on the controller and performing spells here and there; strategy is involved in managing your crystal container, a bucket that protects you and your pals from the fatal mist. During battle, members have to work together and pass the crystal where its necessary because if one strays too far from it, health begins to deplete slowly, but if someone runs directly next to it, energy is recovered very quickly.

Despite a smaller focus on a grand plot, Final Fantasy: Crystal Chronicles is currently one of the most promising GC titles we've seen. Obviously, Square-Enix wants teamwork to be a huge factor in the game's enjoyment.
Recently released in Japan, Crystal Chronicles has topped the sales charts and achieved excellent ratings. When it hits here, all signs indicate that the success will only continue. Keep your eyes peeled for more news on the game and look for our review once the games debuts.