Dawn of Mana

aka: Seiken Densetsu 4
Moby ID: 33469
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Description

Dawn of Mana (Seiken Densetsu 4) is a game in the World of Mana / Seiken Densetsu series by Square Enix. The story takes place shortly before Sword of Mana and as an action game with exploration elements the gameplay involves traversing levels full of challenges including feats of dexterity, solving puzzles, and defeating monsters in various ways. Unlike the other games in the series, it cannot be considered an RPG.

Gameplay is separated by cut-scenes that depict the plot and story using the characters and environments, voice-overs, narration, and pictures. The player controls the main character, Keldy, who wields a sword for attacking, a whip for grabbing and throwing, and pellets for ranged attacks. Unlike the other Mana games there are no shops where equipment or new items can be bought - there are only music tracks and movie clips. Keldy can only enhance his combat performance with certain ribbons and special arrows. Enhancements come through emblems, by meeting certain requirements, left behind by enemies or bought at the Challenge Arena shop. They usually boost the character's basic abilities. Magic is also available through seven different spells.

The story is divided into eight chapters and the game also sports a Challenge Arena mode where players need to complete 32 separate challenges, optionally with the help of a pet, bought in shops or obtained through eggs discovered in the game. The game uses the Havok physics system, allowing Keldy to use his whip on almost any part of the environment. This is further encouraged through the game's Mono system, where objects hit in the surroundings of enemies induces panic, also making available boost medals.

Spellings

  • 聖剣伝説4 - Japanese spelling

Groups +

Screenshots

Promos

Credits (PlayStation 2 version)

322 People (288 developers, 34 thanks) · View all

Producer & Director
Lead Programmer
Lead Planner
Lead Designer
Cinematics Supervisor
Original Story Writer
Scriptwriter
Music Composers
Sound Director
Image Illustrator
Background & Level Editor
Concept Work
Effects
Characters
Menu System
Effects & Cinematics
Character AI & Navigation
Boss Enemies
Script Engine & System
Objects & Mechanisms
Menus & Tools
[ full credits ]

Reviews

Critics

Average score: 53% (based on 27 ratings)

Players

Average score: 4.0 out of 5 (based on 5 ratings with 0 reviews)

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Identifiers +

  • MobyGames ID: 33469
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Contributors to this Entry

Game added by virx61.

Additional contributors: Foxhack, Fred VT.

Game added May 1, 2008. Last modified February 22, 2023.