This portable RPG is far from perfect, but it gets the basics right and is a lot of fun.
D&D Tactics is a TRPG for PSP based on the 3.5 Dungeons and Dragons rule set. Those familiar with the 3rd edition rules (through actual pen and paper play to Neverwinter Nights, for example) should be able to dive right in with little problem.
You get to build a party of adventurers before setting off, which is awesome. You choose everything from class to name to stats to looks... although admittedly some of the cosmetic customization is rather limited. The characters themselves are smallish on the screen anyway, but it would have been nice to have a few more portraits.
The action is a true grid-based turn system, and the combat mirrors the D&D rules quite well, for better or (to a small extent) worse. The game is slow and steady, much like any other TRPG. It's a little on the easy side, which is kind of a letdown, but there's still a satisfying amount of tactical options.
Expect to do as much micromanaging as you do battling. This will be complicated by the fact that the menu system isn't entirely streamlined or intuitive. In this respect, it feels almost like an NES game. Once you figure it out, you'll have no problems, but even then don't expect to spend less than 15 minutes between each mission trading and selling items.
The presentation of the game is adequate for a game of its type, with standard character models and minimal animation. The dungeons, however, look fantastic. With the exception of the few celtic-type tunes near the intro, most of the music was forgettable.
The Verdict
D&D Tactics is the sort of RPG you will either love or hate. If you have an appreciation for Dungeons and Dragons, and would a (nearly) authentic video game translation, I see no reason not to pick it up. Really, after reading the Gamespot review, its not nearly as bad as they make it out to be if you have a little patience. By the way, monsters popping out of nowhere? DUH! This is D&D. You can't see through walls and you can't see in the dark! Man up... seriously.
For other RPG fans, you might consider giving it a try. It functions well enough, but it will probably rarely wow you. It does nicely fill the RPG void on portable consoles right now, however, especially if you're looking for a Tactics RPG that isn't anime. A rarity in that respect, alone!
Other gamers need not apply... the game's lengthy micromanaging and slow pacing will quickly put out anyone without a great deal of patience.
+Dungeons and Dragons on the go
+Functional tactical gameplay
+Solid (if underwhelming) presentation
-Clunky menus take some getting used to
-Characters and animations look somewhat generic at times
-Music is average at best
-Not 100% faithful to D&D (but it gets as close as is reasonable)
-A little too easy for my taste