Tactics Ogre - Let Us Cling Together [U] ISO
[SLUS-00560]

If you like RPG-Tactical games, like Final Fantasy Tactics or Vandal Hearts, this is what you're looking for.

If you have played FFTactics, this game is basically, in facts, it's predecessor. You'll see a lot of similarity in gameplay and story, but nevertheless it's great overall.

After generations of war between the various ethnic groups, King Dogare brought peace to the land of Valeria. When the king dies Valeria is split into three different groups, each claiming the throne. You take the role of a young boy as he embarks on a quest to save the land from turmoil and assume the throne. You will have to journey throughout the land and recruit members for an army. Once recruited, the members will gain experience through the turn-based battles. Up to 10 party members can participate in any battle. Eventually, the characters can change classes and learn skills that are specific to each class. However, you will have to make sure your party is balanced or you will face certain doom. Will you be able to save the world from chaos in Tactics Ogre?

TRPG - Tactical Role Playing Game: a game which combines the best elements of strategy and role-playing genres, to provide an electronic experience like none other. Classic Example: Tactics Ogre: Let us Cling Together - one of the best games that ever came out on the PlayStation.

Set in the midst of a continent rent asunder by social strife, magical mischief and political intrigue, the storyline of Tactics Ogre involves a cast of striking characters, who embody all sorts of human traits. Through this turbulent and tumultuous time, the player must not only lead an army through battle, but also take critical decisions that determine what sort of future he creates.

The gameplay revolves around a strategic world map upon which the player's force moves between cities and other locales, and tactical battlefields where combat takes place. Combat takes the form of turn-based battles between ten members of the player's army (always including the main character) and enemy forces (normally no more than ten). Slain enemies leave behind treasure or cards - the latter altering unit statistics if collected during combat. Terrain, elements and altitude all influence how units perform in battle - thereby adding another layer of strategy. Experience is earned through combat and training; human characters can change class after they rise through a number of levels, whilst some non-humans obtain extra powers.

Graphically, it should be noted that Tactics Ogre was originally made for the Super Nintendo; nonetheless, it contains a number of nice animations, particularly for spells. The various character classes and creatures are all skilfully depicted - and items also possess small, yet distinctive, icons. Musically, the game is excellent, and the sound effects are apt.

Multiple paths (and endings) as well as the various secrets in the game, not to mention the different types of armies one can create, all ensure that Tactics Ogre has enormous replay value. In addition, it contains an extensive tutorial to assist players who happen to be unfamiliar with TRPGs.

All in all, anyone with a high degree of intelligence will relish this brilliant Japanese game.

[Note: Those who use the Connectix Virtual Game Station, may find that sometimes the game will not save on the first try; however it will do so on the second or third attempt. Similarly, loading saved games may require more than one try.]