The Ultimate Classic RPG Guide for New Gamers: Legend of Legaia

Let's be honest. Legend of Legaia isn't the most iconic game ever made, but it does something that I had not seen before. Legend of Legaia combined the strategy of and RPG and the intensity of a fighter. Surprisingly, this combination feeds off each others unique qualities to make one nicely blended adventure.

Legend of Legaia is based in a world that is surrounded by a devilish mist, which turns even the most innocent of civilians into blood thirsty beasts. Some towns surrendered, and allowed themselves to be overtaken by the mist. While others built high walls to keep the mist out. The rest were lucky enough to find hiding places where they couldn't be touched by the mist's icy clutches. You begin this adventure as noble Vahn, who steps up to save his recluse village when the mist penetrates their protective city walls. While Vahn desperately fights to save the lives of the villagers, he fortunately encounters a Ra Seru. This is a magical creature that gives Vahn incredible power and the knowledge to not only save his home, but the entire land. Along the way you'll meet feral but sweet Noa and straight arrow Gala who will support you on your mission.

Battle is what makes the game interesting. You have your standard RPG menu selections: attack, magic, item etc. but when you decide to fight you'll be able to customize your attack by selecting between high and low kicks and right or left punches. Enter the correct strikes and discover powerful combo attacks. Even your equipped weapon, armor and battle boots change the dynamic of how your hits land on your enemies and whether or not they can be blocked. For example: throwing a low kick on a flying enemy will miss most likely. Magic is another story, your trusty Ra Seru friend can absorb the powers of monsters that have elemental affiliations. The problem is that power absorption is sporadic and has no rhyme or reason as to when or how spells can be acquired.

There are only two real downfalls for Legend of Legaia. The first being its graphics. Battle graphics are great, but the graphics used on the field are blocky and uneven. Usually I can get past blocky... but i just feel that so much effort could have been put into the overall look. I could just imagine how great the game could look on the PS3. Secondly the game gets a little repetitive. Go to a town, find someone in dire need of help, carry out a mission, restore the town then find the mist lair. It's a pretty straight equation, but a little side mission here and there would be a nice addition.

Otherwise, plug in your mp3 player, find a comfy chair and enjoy the trip though Legaia. While it isn't the most visually or audibly pleasing title, it's innovative features make it one that shouldn't be missed.

As always, I welcome your feedback and comments. Don't be shy, let me know what you think.