This seems just about right... This game is the first rpg I've ever rage quit over... :/
The Last Remnant Review
Game Review | May 27, 2013 3:20 pm
Subgenre: Turn-based/JRPG
Players: 1
Developer: Square Enix Product Development Division 2
Publisher: Square Enix
Released: November 20th, 2008
ESRB Rating: M for Mature (blood, language, suggestive themes, violence)
After your eyes adjust to the inconsistencies of the graphics you are free to explore the game's characters and plot. Unfortunately the protagonist "Rush Sykes" is quite plain and nauseatingly annoying. Even with extremely talented voice acting from Johnny Yong Bosch (of Bleach fame), bad writing hinders him at every turn. When he's not being a stereotypical punk kid he is simply out-shined by the surprisingly good supporting characters. From the diverse cast of generals who make up the core of your army to the menacing villains, all have a great look and competent voice acting. That being said, the voice acting is definitely under-utilized the majority of the game.
The plot of the game is both extremely cliche and unoriginal. It does however have its moments once certain events unfold mostly due to the colorful characters you get to meet. Characters maintain their own inventory, crafting is a absolute necessity rather than a glorified hobby and the battle system is one of the kind. Whether that is a good or bad thing is purely based on your love of gambling and surprise. Yes the battle system is extremely randomized. The normal options of "Attack/Defend/Skills" are replaced by randomly generated options based on the position and skills of your army. This can make the same battle impossible or extremely easy depending upon your luck.
Another anomaly is this JRPG discourages grinding out levels. Enemies not only level to your strength they have more tactical freedom as they can select what skills to use. Bosses also benefit from this as you can never out-level them without risking they in turn become too powerful, and some individual bosses can become "game breakers," effectively making your over-preparation your downfall. This cruel system is somewhat improved upon on the PC version where you can fill out the spots in your army with powerful generals; however, on console you're forced to mainly use generic soldiers.
There is also plenty to do beyond the main story for those who are so inclined to explore everything the game has to offer. Side quests, monster hunting and ingredient gathering are all here in full force. I especially enjoyed the character specific side quests that unlock under special conditions. In conclusion, this is not a game for everyone but might be a hidden gem for the hardcore RPG gamer looking for a huge challenge.
Graphics:7/10 - Poor framerates and texture issues will plague otherwise good character models and environments.
Sound: 8.5/10 - Good voice acting and sound effects. The score can be repetitive though.
Gameplay: 7/10 - Once you understand some of the flaws and pitfalls of the battle system it can be quite rewarding. Not for the faint of heart.
Replayability: 6/10 - Not many reasons to replay but countless characters and strategies can make it interesting each time.
Overall: 7.5/10
Rating: 7.5 of 10
Reviewed: The Last Remnant™
Keywords: None
