Title: MS Saga

Date: 03.08.2006

Genre: Console RPG

Platform: PlayStation 2

Developer: Bandai

Publisher: Bandai

MS Saga is a single player Gundam based RPG. As far as I can say, I'm very impressed and pleased how this game was done. By far, this Gundam game ranks high along with Mobile Suit Gundam: Gundam vs. Zeta Gundam and Encounters In Space. Aside from the unique RPG style of this game and featuring recognizable mobile suits (but chibi form) from Mobile Suit Gundam (and various U.C. 0079 based series), Gundam Wing, and G Gundam, this game contains an original story. Unlike many of the previous Gundam games, this game follows its own story and plot line. Enough of my rant, lets get on with the review!

Story
A unique feature to this Gundam game, an original story. Most Gundam games are based in the One Year War (U.C. 0079) or on another series. Anyways....The story follows a time or present that was cause by the Great Fall, a devastating event that annihilated 90% of mankind! But of course, people still survived off giant machines that produced synthetic foods and MSs called G Systems. An interesting note: the story manages to combine U.C., F.C., and A.C. universes. A little fyi for you Gundam nuts. Onward, our main story focuses on a young boy name Tristan and his friend, Fritz. They begin the story by obtaining a GM from the G System and end up battling a Zaku I from the get-go. Tristan and Fritz begin on the quest, after obtaining the GM and Zaku I, to avenge the loss of their orphanage and caretaker. Apparently, the killer, whose name is Zarth, they are looking for leads a group called the Dark Alliance, trying to take over the world. They set forth on this quest and meet up with others with the same goal in mind, to kill Zarth and take down the Dark Alliance.

Controls
The controls play out like a simple RPG. While on the world map or in town, character movement is controlled by the analog stick, X is used to talk to NPCs, Vendors, and accept. O is used to cancel. Triangle is used to enter menu screen.
In battle, X and O work the same as accept and cancel. Triangle, R1, and L1 are shortcut (if set in Options) to be Retreat, Charge, and/or Defend. The controls are very solid and simple to use.

Sounds

The sounds from this game are what to be expected in any Gundam game. From the sound of a Zaku machine gun firing to the explosion of an MS, the sounds are near perfect for the "Gundam" feel. The movie scene voice-overs did a nice job although sound a bit.....over dramatic (or is it just me). My only complaint about the sounds of this game is the music. The music is just weak and sound WAY too much like Final Fantasy. But aside music, the sounds and voice-overs were acceptable.

Graphics

This is the down part of the game. The character graphics of this game is very weak and seems like some kind of RPG from '02 or earlier. Even the movement of the main char looks very awkward.

While the overall character graphics are poor, that doesn't mean the mobile suit graphics are. The mobile suits are detailed, but not to regular Gundam standards because of their "chibi" form. Although in chibi form, they are highly detailed for our mecha loving eyes! Just looking at them make you just say aww and cool at the same time.

Gameplay
The gold, cream filling, sweet spot, what ever you want to call it; the best part about the game! The game plays out like a simple yet similar RPG controls/game. In my opinion, the game is very similar to Dragon Quest RPG style. Simple commands and turn base system is perfect for this game. Only difference is that attacking takes up energy, but depends on what weapon your using and there are various specials and techniques from each character. Aside from following the story, you can collect MS parts and weapons. Hell, even customize your MS to the utmost. Customization of the suit's limbs, weaponry, color, and upgrades (which are permanent); you could spend hours fighting for money/exp, buying upgrades or parts, and just tinkering with the MSs. Even though this game features near simple features and battle system, it manages to keep you playing for hours! I definitely recommend anyone who loves RPGs or Gundam to buy it! If you don't like either, at least rent it and try it out! This is a great game and is extremely fun!

Game Score

8.5

Reviewed By: Contributed