

Sure there are those, but like any good Tales game, players are privy to conversations that exist as they explore the world itself, thanks to talking segments called Skits. Where most of the story takes place, though, is not within long-talking custscenes where important points are revealed. But it’s the expert-pacing and quality storytelling, which includes some fantastic cliff-hanging moments and criminally enticing plot hooks, that keep players wanting to move forward in their adventure. But at the end of the day, Lloyd, Colette and the rest of the party must embark upon a grand crusade to replenish the world with vital, nurturing energy called ‘Mana.’ Naturally, there are a slew of plot unravels and daring climaxes along the way, but take note that Symphonia‘s tale simply isn’t anything Earth-shatteringly new. Being tasked with saving the world, Colette is a big deal, and as such requires many hands to help her along her weighty journey. Naturally, our hearty hero falls into taking up arms in order to protect the “chosen one” - Lloyd’s childhood friend Colette. Think of Symphonia‘s tale as a sort of JRPG-101 a narrative that is set against a typical save-the-world backdrop, with a cast of personalities to really bring to life the drama that could have otherwise fallen flat.Įssentially, our leading man for the initial game is Lloyd Irving, a teenage boy who acts as the centerpiece of the narrative, though he is flanked by a supporting troupe whom are all on the expedition with him. Part of what makes Symphonia such a charming game is its tendency to stick to tried-and-true storytelling conventions and compelling characters that all feel unique, and by proxy, exorbitantly interesting. Taking a look at the first game, Tales of Symphonia is one of those timeless masterpieces that managed to impress when it first came out, and has been regaled ever since. For those who have played through either one of the games, there won’t be a lot new to see, but that shouldn’t matter much in all truth, as what is presented in this bundle package is a testament to quality roleplaying experiences. Where does Namco Bandai’s latest HD re-release, Tales of Symphonia Chronicles, fall? It’s time to find out.įor starters, Chronicles is two Tales games in one comprised of both the original GameCube adventure, as well as the Wii sequel Dawn of the New World, this package is jammed pack with content.


While many games show their age after ten years, there are a few exceptions out there that simply withstand the test of time. It’s hard to believe that the original Tales of Symphonia came out a decade ago.
