The only game I ever bought on impulse, and well worth it.

User Rating: 8.9 | Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete PS
A long time ago, when I used to read GamePro magazines at the grocery store while my mom shopped, I remember seeing some screenshots of a game that looked like tons of fun. But, alas, it was for a system I did not own and could not afford. So I just remember re-reading that article several times and wishing I had money. Eventually, I forgot about it. Then, when I was walking out of a video game store in the mall, I saw a game that had a familiar face on it (Luna) and I did a double take. Next thing I know, I own it. Oh hells yes, I finally had Lunar, along with a napkin that I later realized was the map to the game. Oops. Other than Final Fantasy VII and Super Mario 64, I don't think I have ever coveted a game so. It was worth the wait.

You play the character Alex, who is the classic teenage "hero but he doesn't know it yet" type. He is smitten over a blue-haired beauty called Luna, and that is about the extent of his concerns. All too soon, however, he gets swept up into a dragon-laden adventure where he himself must take center stage. Just like any modern RPG, he assembles a large team of characters that have defined roles and abilities (with very unique personalities). The story is large and compelling, full of drama.

The game is not easy. Power leveling is almost necessary at certain stages unless you have a lot of luck. There are certain areas where, even though you just defeated the previous boss, your team is just not ready to traverse. Therefore, you need to go back to a previous stage and beat up on them. It's a good way to stock up on items and money, as well. The bosses themselves are usually not too difficult, with a few exceptions. There is usually a rhythm into which you must fall in order to win. However, certain bosses change tactics as you deal damage, so thinking is involved. Overall, the combat is very satisfying. Like a any standard RPG, your combat team can be rearranged and placed forward or backward depending on their tendencies. Though there's not much new about the game, everything is delivered in a satisfying way.

Being a turn-based RPG, responsive controls are not much of an issue. The controls are standard RPG fare, and let's just leave it at that. The sound and music are wonderful. The voice of Alex sounds just like what he is: a skinny teenager. It works. All the other voices work with their characters, as well. The in-game graphics may seem a bit dated, but that is because they are. I still rate them very highly because of the clarity, softness, and brightness, not because of the anime cut scenes. Because Lunar was first released in the early 90s, I rated it as such.

If you're looking for a classic RPG with a great story, Lunar may be for you. It's fun, which is all that matters in the end.