The pinnacle of handheld gaming for me. I would have my GBA SP ready to go on my breaks at work, fire it on, and would be back in whatever battle I left off in about 5 seconds later. I'd then quick save again at the last possible second after squeezing in "just one more turn".
Giving this series a try is a definite no-brainer for anybody into grid-based strategy games or RPGs. Something about the pacing of battles just feels right. The mechanics aren't overly cumbersome or complex, while also not feeling shallow. There is a permadeath system which is really motivating in making you want to make just the right moves, though it is easy enough to just restart a battle if you lose somebody that you don't want out of commission for the rest of the game.
There are lots of different units to recruit and try out, for the most part they are standard for a fantasy setting, though the weapon triangle (swords>axes>spears>swords, etc) gives it a unique flair.
Each unit also has distinct personality, and every Fire Emblem player will always find their favorites. It's fun to experiment with different party combinations. Some units will complement others better than others, to the point that some pairings will unlock bonus dialogue that gives further backstory and a stat bonus to each. It's a creative way to add actual camaraderie to your squad.
The story isn't anything too out of the ordinary, but it is engaging, competent, and most importantly, does not get in the way of the gameplay.
Definitely worth a play for any S/RPG enthusiast!
Giving this series a try is a definite no-brainer for anybody into grid-based strategy games or RPGs. Something about the pacing of battles just feels right. The mechanics aren't overly cumbersome or complex, while also not feeling shallow. There is a permadeath system which is really motivating in making you want to make just the right moves, though it is easy enough to just restart a battle if you lose somebody that you don't want out of commission for the rest of the game.
There are lots of different units to recruit and try out, for the most part they are standard for a fantasy setting, though the weapon triangle (swords>axes>spears>swords, etc) gives it a unique flair.
Each unit also has distinct personality, and every Fire Emblem player will always find their favorites. It's fun to experiment with different party combinations. Some units will complement others better than others, to the point that some pairings will unlock bonus dialogue that gives further backstory and a stat bonus to each. It's a creative way to add actual camaraderie to your squad.
The story isn't anything too out of the ordinary, but it is engaging, competent, and most importantly, does not get in the way of the gameplay.
Definitely worth a play for any S/RPG enthusiast!