The result was a classic collection of role-playing experiences that still rank comfortably among the absolute best ever made.
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Both feature open explorable worlds, collectible/upgradable equipment, and strong narratives.
Plus,Legends 1and2showcase some of the most memorable and hilarious characters in theMega Manfranchise.
While the firstMega Man Legendsis a great game on its own,Legends 2improves on it in every way.
Mega Man Legends 2is basically moreMega Man Legendsin the best way possible.
Players can explore several islands instead of just one.
This additional landmass gives players more dungeons to conquer, equipment to loot, and quests to complete.
Furthermore,Legends 2improves the originals control scheme and adds more moves.
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Brave Fencer Musashis combat strikes a fine balance between pure action and role-playing methodicalness.
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Legend of Legaias story is actually fairly pedestrian.
While battles are turn-based inLegend of Legaia, attacks are primarily performed by chaining together strikes to form combos.
Players can input them at random or chain together attacks into powerful Arts.
No other RPGs use this mechanic aside fromLegend of Legaias sequel.
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Vandal Hearts
Vandal Heartshas long been criticized for its relatively simple gameplay.
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That style elevates the games biggest moments as well as the many smaller sights youll enjoy along the way.
A slow pace and stamina bar that forces players to be deliberate in their actions?
Where do you think the tradition of placing it in every FromSoftware game originated?
The game is the definition of a hidden gem due to an unfortunate launch schedule.
Grandiashines on two fronts: narrative and combat.
However, this mechanic works both ways, which givesGrandiacombat a tactical depth many RPG fights lack.
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Granted, at 100+ hoursDragon Quest VIImore than earns that part of its legacy.
It was, and remains, a daunting JRPG experience.
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This is still one of the best blends of role-playing and action/adventure ever made.
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Its complex, original, and a whole lot of fun.
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Yet, all the concepts this RPG touches upon ultimately come together to form something wonderful and memorable.
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Final Fantasy VII
Final Fantasy VIIshould be a victim of its own success.
Thats not the case, though.
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Its too difficult, too different, and it will probably never get the remaster it deserves.
However, those who have playedVagrant Storyknow it was Squares most mechanically ambitious and unique PlayStation RPG.
A game this different and innovative shouldnt feel as complete and confident as it does.
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Final Fantasy IX
Final Fantasy IXwas essentially Squares PS1 swan song.
The fact they managed to do just that is an accomplishment that should never be overlooked.
This is an across-the-board triumph that delights and impresses in equal measure.
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Suikoden II
Suikoden IIwas pretty much doomed to fail from the start.
Yet,Suikoden IIis quite simply one of the best games ever made regardless of genre.