There's definitely a debate to be had on which version of Linda3 is better--the original PC Engine, or the remake on the Saturn and PS1. Of course the only place that debate happens is in my head, but hey...
The graphics here are obviously simpler (resembling a pico-8 game) and the game lacks a few QOL improvements and post-game extras, but as a complete, individual experience, this original might just win out. It's harder, for one, time passing more quickly and enemies both more aggressive and more likely to run, but also the cutscenes here are, I'd argue, better directed, their strange style and limited movement better representing the story than the remake's traditional anime scenes.
The ending was also changed for the remakes, which is a shame because what we get here is very possibly my favorite video game ending of all time. It's as beautiful as it gets here, and makes this version an easy recommendation on its own for me.
Either way you go though, Linda3 is an incredible experience. It is a completely unique, idiosyncratic RPG that very purposefully works against genre cliches of the time. It challenges the player both narratively and mechanically, and the game's open world monster hunting gameplay loop beat Pokemon to punch (and does it in an arguably more interesting way). The game is funny, scary, very very sad, and one of the most beautiful experiences the genre can offer if you are willing to give yourself up to it.
The graphics here are obviously simpler (resembling a pico-8 game) and the game lacks a few QOL improvements and post-game extras, but as a complete, individual experience, this original might just win out. It's harder, for one, time passing more quickly and enemies both more aggressive and more likely to run, but also the cutscenes here are, I'd argue, better directed, their strange style and limited movement better representing the story than the remake's traditional anime scenes.
The ending was also changed for the remakes, which is a shame because what we get here is very possibly my favorite video game ending of all time. It's as beautiful as it gets here, and makes this version an easy recommendation on its own for me.
Either way you go though, Linda3 is an incredible experience. It is a completely unique, idiosyncratic RPG that very purposefully works against genre cliches of the time. It challenges the player both narratively and mechanically, and the game's open world monster hunting gameplay loop beat Pokemon to punch (and does it in an arguably more interesting way). The game is funny, scary, very very sad, and one of the most beautiful experiences the genre can offer if you are willing to give yourself up to it.
Killbutt
2 years ago