RPG Video Games

Originally a Japan-only PS2 title, Growlanser: Wayfarer of Time brings its tactical role-playing action, ring-based weaponry, character relationships, and multiple endings to North America for the first time, complete with updated visuals for the PSP. Players take control of Crevaniel, a young man attempting to protect his world from marauding angels bent on destruction. Gamers explore towns and dungeons from an isometric perspective, forming a four-party crew from 11 different characters, and engaging in real-time battles.

In combat, players equip special rings that produce unique weapons and can be upgraded or enhanced with more than 100 types of gems. There are more than 40 different endings in Wayfarer of Time, and the conclusion players see is dependent upon the relationships they forge with other characters through conversations, going into battle, and even vacationing together. ~ Christopher Brown, All Game Guide

Originally released for Sega CD in the early '90s, and then repackaged and upgraded for PlayStation in 1999 and again in 2002 as Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete, Lunar: Silver Star Harmony represents what developer Game Arts considers the definitive version of its critically acclaimed RPG. As always, players take control of a young boy named Alex, who yearns to be a "Dragonmaster" like his hero Dyne, and guide him and his companions through an epic journey filled with combat, magic, and a healthy dose of animated cut-scenes.

PSP gamers get a chance to experience a number of additions and upgrades, including a prologue that gives some insight as to why Alex is so fond of Dyne, icon-driven menu and battle systems, and a new fast travel option. Other portions of the game have been honed as well, resulting in smaller, more-manageable towns and the abolition of random battles, while graphics have been completely redone to take advantage of the PSP's widescreen, and the remastered soundtrack includes a number of newly composed songs. ~ Christopher Brown, All Game Guide

Monster Hunter Freedom 2 invites gamers to adventure together by offering four-person cooperative battles through an Ad-hoc connection. Players may hunt alone or with friends as they complete over 350 missions and attempt to collect 700 different weapons and 1,400 separate pieces of armor. Similar to the original release, gamers must first create and customize a character, and then collect and train a variety of creatures. Connecting to the Ad-hoc network lets players gain access to additional content and quests. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide

Taking the role of Valen, players who step into the world of Dragoneer's Aria are tasked with keeping the six elemental dragons safe and sound. There isn't much to the job until a rogue black dragon appears and begins destroying everything. Valen must protect the elemental lizards by defeating the dark delinquent and restoring peace to the land. First, Valen must work his way around the environment of the game with a group of fellow dragoneers. He will fight numerous enemies and level his weapons by collecting dragon orbs. In battle, Valen can use a function called "Chain Skills" to link together attacks, and attempt a short mini-game that determines the strength of his defense against enemy blows. By connecting to an Ad-Hoc network, players may join with friends to cooperatively complete the single-player adventure. ~ Gracie Leach, All Game Guide