Valkyrie Profile (PlayStation, 2000)

Basic info -
1.) This is a RPG; which means you can love it or hate it.

2.) This game one of the rarest game in the World - A mint English version will fetch around $100 while a Japanese version will by $60. What puzzling about this game is that it was made by Enix; the same group of people that created FF series.

About the game, first impression -
One thing that Valkyrie profile stands out is the art. Unlike the standard anime-ish in most RPG from Japan, this game used a classical style that looks like Rembrandt would had done. The graphic is a sight to behold. Remember, this was for the first playstation so it is quite impressive.

About the game, gameplay -
Rather odd combat system; You play like mario/sonic when exploring with jumps, goodies and puzzles all over the places. And for Combat, you have to actually engage your enermies as encounters don't automatic show up. And during combat, some of your special required that you hit a certain combo... similar to any fighting game (aka. DOA, TEKKEN) This game is very different then any FF or other RPGs.

Characters development are well structured and balanced in this game, sure you can cheat, but you will miss a lot to useful skill later.

Your foes in this game aren't wallflowers to be pluck... They are armed to the teeth, any combat can be your last. Some of the Bosses had party killing ablities, so be very prepare. (even if you game shark this game, some of the combat will still give you problems)

About the game, final impression -
VP is a fantasic rarity; it had all the elements to an true RPG. Sure, you can force your issue though the game, but you likely to die a lot. Instead, this game required you to thinking a lot before you advance. It's a thinking person game... beside, you need time to absorb those beautiful artworks and understand the plots....

Minor complains -
This game only have 2 disks. This means that it's about 30 hours of play time total. Although there is a bonus level to this game to extend game play. Also, this is a psx CD game, so the anime parts is a bit disappointing. Another problem, the storyline of this game pretty much end any chances of a continuation game - hence there was no Valkyrie Profile 2.

But all in all, a very enjoyable game.