Jonnas

Haha... People actually say "Shay-man"? In Metal Gear Solid, no less? Then again, I've always pronounced it "Shuh-mahn", because that's how it is in Portuguese ("Xamã"). Can't say I like the correct pronunciation ("Xámã"?), so I'll keep using mine. Gungnir always seemed obvious, just pronounce it as if you were Scandinavian, right? How do people even mispronounce it? "Guhng-nyre" or something? Deus really was obvious, can't believe people still mispronounce it. And I'll definitely start using the correct "Mana" pronunciation from now on. I thought Symphonia 2 was just messing around when they changed the pronunciation of that word from the first game. (In a related note, I really hate "Kray-tos" instead of "Krah-tos". Do you plan on ever touching that one?)

Recent gameplay trailers prove this theory wrong, though (Gametrailers has more exclusive gameplay videos, if you're interested) Damn, I'm so psyched for this game. I love both series (especially Tekken), and to see a game where the combat system is such a perfect mesh of both series, it's just... *droooool* I can't wait to see who else will make the cut. I hear they plan to bring more Street Fighter characters besides the ones present in SSFIV, so here's hoping for R.Mika, Birdie, Alex, Hugo and Elena. Also, we need info on Tekken x Street Fighter. I seriously can't see how are they going to make projectiles effective.

I didn't play any of the 3D Sonic games before Unleashed, but I liked it (at least the Wii/PS2 version). Werehog levels and unnecessary plot aside, the game was ace. I'd give it 7 in 10 (because flaws are still there. But Unleashed is peculiar, in that the good parts, the mediocre parts and the horrible parts are distinct, they never intersect in-game). I have yet to play Colours, however, but I am psyched for it. And this "Generations" thing... I'm not holding my breath until we have more info.

I only played the PS2 version, and I don't know what you mean by "offscreen activation", but everything else you mentioned was there. Maybe it had to do with the single-player mode? Future Gohan played a prominent role in one of the movies (the one that focused on the apocalyptic future), but I don't think the BT3 version of him makes much reference to that. Wasted potential, considering the one-armness. Future Gohan wasn't the worst one, though. BT3 had King Vegeta, King Cold, random Frieza soldiers, and a few movie minions that never did much. But it also had Tao Pai Pai, Grandpa Gohan and General Blue, so character variety was many kinds of awesome.

Really, really, good sequels? -Super Smash Bros. Melee -Fire Emblem: Blazing Sword (as compared to Sealed Sword/Binding Blade) -Kirby's Dream Land 2 -Pokémon Gold/Silver -Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks (as compared to Phantom Hourglass) -Megaman 2 -Mother 3 -Super Mario Land 2 -Wario Land 3 -Super Metroid -F-Zero GX -Sonic 2 -Sonic 3 & Knuckles -Advance Wars 2 Maybe I exaggerated?

Well, damn, well remembered. After SC2's fluid, fun gameplay, we get a SC3 filled with overcomplicated modes and bland characters, different button inputs for every character because the developers felt like doing it, and every single hit releases FLASHES and SPARKS! Pretty much the only positive I saw was that my main, Voldo, had seen his stance versatility improved. And even that was spoiled by needing to learn the new inputs.

But Melee already had a K.K. Slider trophy... I hate Brawl vs. Melee arguments. It's just two sides completely unable to realise that the other one actually has a different POV. I know a lot of discussions are like that, but when two sides are continuously spouting arguments that are completely meaningless to the other side... And just to make it clear, I don't play competitively, but I liked Melee better. I do admit that Brawl has tons of advantages (and it's the one I play regularly nowadays), but I just liked Melee's physics better. Also little details like better events, and better "Break the Targets", or the bonuses, or the fact that self-destructs actually registered. But Brawl has more characters, improved those that utterly sucked in Melee, introduced Boss Rush, there's better stage variety (even if I miss some Melee stages), more music, the SSE was actually pretty fun, and if you want to have Pokéballs-only on Very High, the game won't shower you with explosive crates and capsules. And to keep more on track with the thread... Pokémon Ruby/Sapphire. There were a lot of changes I disliked, and lack of compatibility with G/S killed interest in the series for everyone I knew. Also, Soul Reaver 2. They decided to sacrifice any quality in gameplay for what was essentially an interactive movie. Sure, it had awesome plot, but that's literally all it had.

The Water Temple in MQ is way more bearable than its Normal counterpart. I remember at least that much. Also, you can't get the Hover Boots before you beat the Water Temple. You literally can't take that route. I can only think of three Zelda games where the Water Temple is that difficult: OoT (normal), MM and Oracle of Ages. ...We should have more of those

Well, the Forest Temple is quite confusing, yes. But the Water Temple is moreso. Good luck in Master Quest, then. I think I need to replay that one, because my memory is getting fuzzy... I'm actually glad Zant lost it. Before facing him, I honestly thought he was Ganondorf. At least by turning insane and going all surrealism on you he set a personality for himself.

If you're inclined for MM, complete MM. You're probably not in the "boring and weird" crowd. One of the things I love about MM is that it stretches Zelda conventions pretty far back As for Master Quest... Worth a play if you're familiarised with OoT dungeons. The MQ dungeons do get a bit insane. But go for OoT first, if you haven't completed it.

Most people don't seem to realize that Nintendo isn't trying to widen the chasm between the "casual" and the "hardcore", it's trying to shorten it. Hence, a Zelda game that's easier to control. It's not a bad thing. I'm just wishing this game isn't like Phantom Hourglass, where the game was laughably easy, I'm hoping it's more like Spirit Tracks, where it's potential is put to good use. But I'm optimistic. Three words: Four Armed Stalfos

Golden Sun One of the most beautiful town themes I've ever heard. Golden Sun Lalivero I do not know the original name of this track, I only found a piano fan version, but it manages to capture the original's sense of suffering and despair. Skies of Arcadia Beautiful piano piece that accompanies a few scenes in SoA. Usually in genuinely emotional scenes. Skies of Arcadia These two tracks serve roughly the same purpose: providing an amazing ending for an amazing game. Tales of Symphonia Zelos ~Serious Arrangement~ A bit context sensitive. Becomes quite powerful in a certain optional scene, the more you realize the motives behind Zelos' actions. Megaman: Dr. Wily's Revenge Ending Theme Simple, yet satisfying, ending, accompanied by an amazing Game Boy tune. Wily's Revenge had great music, imo. Astro Boy: Omega Factor This action game has an unusually extensive plot, and a very emotional ending, helped greatly by the music. Chrono Trigger Considering all the love Chrono Trigger gets around here, I'm surprised this track hasn't been mentioned yet. Chrono Cross One of the most beautiful videogame music tracks I've ever heard. Chrono Cross' soundtrack is simply amazing.

The main plot is pretty basic, but I love how the game doesn't take itself too seriously. Zelda, in particular, is a very amusing character this time around. "Come on, Link, we need to hurry to the top of the tower!" *I choose "To save Anjean, right?"* "...Uhh... Yeah! That's totally what I meant, yes!" As for the driving...It's a complaint I never understood, just like Wind Waker's sailing. In TP, you ride your horse, in most Zeldas, you walk everywhere... But the train and the boat are hated methods of transportation. I mean, I can see why the evil trains can be bothersome, but still... Too bad you missed an awesome final boss sequence, though (as well as an awesome optional boss, probably) I hope we can agree that the game has good music, though.

Just to say... I agree that letting other studios handle Zelda isn't a bad idea (just look at the Capcom-made games. They're excellent), but it it doesn't need to be a western developer. Japanese developers can come up with Shadow of the Colossus. Western developers can come up with Elder Scrolls. And honestly, I'd rather let Team Ico, instead of Bethesda, take care of Zelda. That said, didn't TP let you skip some cutscenes, at least? I remember skipping some, when replaying the game. Either way, "not skipping cutscenes" isn't a trademark of the Zelda series. But silent protagonists are, and you can't possibly convince me that Link suddenly talking would be a good idea. As for lack of voice acting... The only problem I see is with Link's name. Anyway, lack of voice acting doesn't bother me. I don't see why it would bother anyone. And I don't remember who said that text in videogames isn't needed anymore, but I completely disagree. Voice acting is nice and all, but it can't replace nice, clean, text. Anyway, I find the lack of Spirit Tracks love a bit baffling. Not just in this thread, but in general, you know?

Ah, I see. I didn't like Marche because he was actively trying to doom an entire world, without explaining his reasons properly. I mean, I appreciate the message of "escapism is bad", but there are many things wrong in applying it to that situation, and when others called him out on it, he just said "No! You're wrong and I'm right!". A case of bad writing, I guess. Meanwhile, that Luso fellow sounds like the kind of idiot I don't like. It's okay if the hero's idiocy comes from optimistic idealism (like in Tales of Symphonia), but there are so many idiot protagonists which are simply stupid, it's insulting.

To my surprise, you seem to be fairly experienced in JRPGs. I knew I had forgotten something. The Mario & Luigi series are great fun, a very enjoyable spin on the JRPG genre. I'd recommend starting with Superstar Saga, but Bowser's Inside Story is great on its own right (and don't worry, you don't need to play one to get the other). Partners in Time is bit weaker due to less humour, but still good. In a side note, Paper Mario is also awesome. I have yet to play Thousand Year door, but the first one is just classy. If you're talking about Marche...I agree If you're talking about FFTA2... Then I wouldn't know About Covenant of the Plume... there are a few very difficult missions in the game, yes. They're temptation for you to use the plume, and go down the "evil" path (the "no sacrifices" path is very hard without a New Game+, actually). Beating them without sacrifices is quite possible, but only recommended when you are better used to the game's mechanics. That second major battle you faced, was it against a blond lancer called Earnest? If so, yes, that battle is unforgiving. There are other paths you can take, though. Or you can even use the plume, trying the "good path" at a later time.

Dream Land 2 is better than Dream Land 3, IMO. Mainly because collecting the "candies" (it's what I used to call them when I was a kid) was challenging, and made more sense than the challenges in DL3. But you know, I'd love to see the animal buddies return. Dream Land 3 was a bit easy and slow-paced, but the game's problem was not realizing its full potential with the puzzles and animal buddies. I haven't played it in a while, but I remember noticing that back then.

I wasn't aware that FFIX was available on the PSP. In that case, it is very, very recommended. It's not very "animesque", you can play through the entire plot without exploring or grinding, and the game is made with so much love, and you can just feel it while playing. I so want to play the first Valkyrie Profile. Somber is the right word to describe the DS game, too. EDIT: Seeing that video made me realise how "animesque" the special effects and battle system can be, though. The character designs are tame, but the battle system falls heavily on the exaggerated "anime style".

Fire Emblem (GBA) - Strategy RPG. Deep, well developed characters (though most of it is in optional conversations), good plot, accessible gameplay, zero grinding involved (seriously, it's literally impossible) and provides a great challenge in the higher difficulties. My favourite GBA game. Sacred Stones is similar, but with less characters Chrono Trigger - Basic battle system, but engaging and accessible at all times. Plot and characterization aren't complex, but they are very enjoyable. It's hard to think of someone not liking this game. Final Fantasy VI - Engaging plot, devoid of anime/jRPG clichés. The gameplay is still very much like a traditional jRPG, though. Final Fantasy Tactics series - The GBA version had incredibly engaging gameplay, but infuriating plot and unbalanced gameplay (battles were either pathetically easy or ridiculously hard). Maybe the PSP and DS games corrected those flaws, but I'm not sure. Valkyrire Profile: Covenant of the Plume - The plot is very, very different than your standard jRPG. That's the main reason I'm recommending it, because it's a sRPG with aRPG-styled battles, which means you may not like it. Barely any grinding, though. Golden Sun (1&2) -The first thing you need to know is that plot and characterization are very basic, nothing special. I mean, the characters, locations and setting are lovable, but that's it. The game focuses mainly on exploration and puzzle-solving. Battles are quick, but they are still turn-based, and they're the least annoying random battles I've ever seen. The second thing is, you need both games (the first one and Lost Age). The first one ends abruptly in the middle of the plot, and Lost Age continues immediately. I think the developers ran out of space in a single cart or something. I haven't played Dark Dawn, so I don't know if that one holds up well on its own.

Just watched the last two videos: 1. The stuff you mention about Game Designers actually reminds me of a Project Management course I'm having in Civil Engineering. Being a project manager is very similar. I was almost expecting you to make some sort of "counterpart comparison" at some point; 2. I'm not one to complain if games are "easy" or anything, but the only time it has bothered me was in Twilight Princess, where there was practically no depth in exploration. Without that "sidequest" depth, the flaws in the main quest become much more prominent (like the laughably basic ways to defeat bosses (that aren't Stallord), or the normal enemies' infinite incompetence, or the rushed final dungeons). These are flaws that were there in Wind Waker, but without all of the exploration and interesting items, they suddenly bother me. 3. Again, about "easy" games, I always laughed whenever "high difficulty" was considered a flaw among reviewers. It's one thing for that to be mentioned on a popular magazine (with a wide audience), but on a gaming news site, where their target audience is used to such games and would love a challenge? (Case in point, an RPG site criticizing Fire Emblem: Radiant Dawn for being difficult. Many Fire Emblem fans are used to difficult challenges, and many disliked the fact that Path of Radiance's "Hard Mode" was removed for western releases.)

So far, Sonic Colours has been getting scores near 85% in most places. Gametrailers is the only exception so far, I think (67%). Face it, a score like that for a purely 3D sonic game is actually pretty awesome. The game's being generally well received, which hadn't happened since, what, Sonic Adventure 2? And that game came out on the Dreamcast.

I'm no cheese expert, but I highly doubt that Camembert encompasses more than half of the existing types of cheese. Next thing, you'll be saying that the Tales series is like Final Fantasy... P.S.: For the original OP, if you're new to Strategy RPGs, Disgaea is not good for you. It's not because of the grindfest (which can actually be unusually fun), but because of the steep learning curve. I love SRPGs, and even I thought Disgaea was confusing at first. If FF Tactics A2 plays like the GBA one, then that's a much better choice. Actually, the first Fire Emblem for the GBA is the most intuitive SRPG I've played, and my favourite GBA game. I don't think you're willing to buy GBA games, but the suggestion stays.

I'll give you a nudge towards Bowser's Inside Story. The battle system is a lot of fun (much better than normal turn-based games), it has one of the best main characters ever, you never have to level-grind (except for the optional battles), and the writing is quite humorous. Seriously, any RPG fan should play a Mario RPG at one point, and Bowser's Inside Story is a pretty good one. The original ToS is easy to find? Seriously? I heard it was out of print. Speaking of which, I was only suggesting RPGs for the consoles you mentioned, but if GC games can be your thing, Tales of Symphonia and Skies of Arcadia are two of the best RPGs I've ever played. If Vesperia is similar to Symphonia, you probably won't regret it. Battles are always fun in that series. Uhhh... What? Those two game have nothing to do with each other. Other than the fact that battles are fast-paced and turn-based, that is.

Bowser's Inside Story is an excellent take on the genre. Partners in Time is also pleasant, though BIS is better in every way. Golden Sun: Dark Dawn is about to come out. The predecessors were excellent in terms of gameplay, and it seems they would match your tastes. This game seems to be following suit, so give it a try.

! I can't believe I forgot Metroid II, I love that game! And the ending credits... Also, a track from Wily's Revenge that I had forgotten to post: The .Best "menu" track ever.