Preview
Platform:
PlayStationDeveloper:
Square-Enix Co., Ltd.Publisher:
Square-Enix USAPreviewed by
Christian Kontul on 2003-12-06
By today's standards, the original
Final Fantasy for the NES might seem a little simplistic, but in 1987, it was the cat's meow. Not only did it have an emotional musical score that was considered revolutionary for its time, but
FF was one of the first videogames to capture players' imaginations with a tale of good versus evil.
The following year,
Final Fantasy II built upon the foundation set by the original
FF, thus, again, setting the standard for what people thought a game could be. Not only did the progressive battle system add loads more depth to gameplay, but unique characters who received development made the plot much more engaging.
Even though these RPGs are archaic for most of today's gamers, they began a tradition that still continues today; with each installment, the
Final Fantasy series continues to grow and evolve, but it never leaves the roots from which it sprung. Fascinating worlds, entertaining stories, likable (and, appropriately, detestable) characters, innovative play mechanics, and graphics and sound that push the envelope on their respective console have all become expected from the newest
Final Fantasy.
While
Final Fantasy Origins for the PlayStation won't provide people with the most advanced technological experience, it will give a nostalgic look at how far the series has come.
First released on Nintendo's Famicom in 1987, then in North America on the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1990,
Final Fantasy began a trend that still continues today after 10 sequels, a side-sequel, and numerous spin-offs. The game tells the story of four heroes, the "Light Warriors," who must restore elemental balance to a world in peril. During their journey, they learn that an evil being has meddled with time to gain control of everything. It's up to the group to travel to locations they never could've imagined to stop him.
Final Fantasy II hit in 1988 on the Famicom, and its story is that of an evil emperor who opens a gate, thus allowing monsters to enter the world and wreck havoc. Coming during what seems like an eternal period of peace, most people are unable to defend themselves and die, thus leaving a large amount of orphans behind. Four young heroes rise from the ash of war to put an end to the tyrant's reign and avenge their parents' deaths.
Unlike
FF,
Final Fantasy II never made it out in North America; now, for the first time on any system, gamers can experience this never before seen game courtesy of
Final Fantasy Origins. Thanks to the power of the PSone, tons of new enhancements have been made since the original software was released. Enhanced graphics and sound with full-motion video sequences are just the tip of the iceberg. Event scenes have been updated and entirely new sections have been added to beef the story up.
In addition, gameplay has been tweaked;
Final Fantasy and
Final Fantasy II are actually both difficult games, as they require a lot of fighting and experience gathering. Thankfully, Square has included options so that beginners and advanced gamers alike can play each game and enjoy it to the fullest. A new bestiary gives detailed information on all enemies and can be used to assist players in battle.
Finally, a gallery with pieces from renowned
FF artist, Yoshitaka Amano, as well as a photo gallery containing pictures from key points in each game, should provide a very attractive distraction.
Final Fantasy Origins won't impress gamers weened on the PlayStation 2 and Xbox when its released on the PSone in April 2003, but it's a must own for
FF and RPG fanatics. The inclusion of
Final Fantasy II, a game that never made it to North America, in an enhanced form is worth the price of admission by itself.
© 1990, 2003 SQUARE CO., LTD.
ILLUSTRATION: ©1990, 2003 YOSHITAKA AMANO
