Radiata Stories

You'll get your kicks from Radiata Stories, an excellent RPG.

The developers of the renowned Star Ocean series punch up the interactivity with their latest action-RPG hybrid, Radiata Stories. The branching tale of Jack unfolds in a uniquely interactive experience that incorporates some of the best, and worst, elements of this blended genre. This interactivity comes from Jack's punting skills, as he must kick everything in order to uncover tasty items. Unfortunately, this quaint metaphor hardly masks that ever-present RPG cliché of searching every nook and cranny, and it doesn't take more than five booted bunk beds before all interest in the kicking aspect wanes.

Kick the Bucket
While the plot is your standard RPG rundown, mature gamers may be disappointed with the juvenile sense of humor. Still, Radiata Stories has its share of hilarious moments and never takes itself too seriously, inspiring a perverse sort of curiosity as to what the characters will get themselves into next.

Without question, Radiata Stories truly shines with its dynamic combat system which is reminiscent of Secret of Mana. Battles take place on a large field where Jack and friends are free to run circles around their foes. Add to this Jack's numerous and varied sword techniques and the plethora of allies that take up arms alongside him, and it becomes clear that this is one of the most entertaining and exciting combat systems around.

No, Seriously, Kick It!
The graphics are simply flawless, and Tri-Ace does a brilliant job of milking the PS2 for some astoundingly crisp and colorful cut scenes. Beautifully rendered attacks, characters, and environments pour from the screen with familiar and gratifying Tri-Ace art direction. Unfortunately, the music seems to originate from a genre definable only as "carnival jig," and the sound bites that play when Jack succeeds get pretty old pretty quick.

In the crowded action-RPG corral, Radiata Stories sets itself apart by providing a unique, truly action-oriented battle system with cornea-crushing visuals. Succeeding in delivering an enjoyable gaming experience despite some minor annoyances, Radiata Stories is a delightful addition to any RPG library.

KEY MOMENT: When Jack's left with his mouth agape by Ganz's description of the duties of the Rose Chochon Brigade, you're right there with him.

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