Phantasy Star Adventure

The Good
The Phantasy Star franchise, to me these games define, what 16-bit RPGS were all about. These are the modest RPGS that changed it all. With darker plots, and more realistic characters, no one can argue that the modern console RPG would not be what it was if not for this franchise. What many do not know however is that, aside from the main four games, two “spin-offs” also emerged. But can a spin-off possibly live up to a legendary franchise?

In Phantasy Star Adventure, which is set some time before Phantasy Star II takes place, you are living on Motavia, Algol’s second planet. One day you receive a letter from an old friend, whom now lives of Dezolis.(Sometimes translated as Dezoris.) He has made the discovery of the century, and asks you come visit him. Being a loyal friend you set of see him. The adventure, takes place entirely on Dezolis. And as the name implies is an adventure game at heart. But fear not Phantasy Star faithful, there are still plenty of RPG elements.

As an adventure game, you explore towns, the wilderness, and everything in between. You collect items, use them, solve simple puzzles. Talk to NPC’s. And overall as an adventure game it is pretty solid. RPG elements include combat, with turn based combat. You also level-up. And can earn cash, or meseta, which is then used to buy medicines, weapons, or even quest items. This too is done rather well.

The setting is great and it is nice too see a familiar place but, from a different point of view. As well as showing you some aspects of the Phantasy Star universe, rarely seen, such as spaceports.

The Graphics are good overall, particularly when you consider the relative weakness of the Sega GameGear.

The sound effects and music get the job done. But do not go in expecting Phantasy Star II quality tunes such as “Rise Or Fall”, “Place Of Death”, or the melancholy “Never Dream”.

The Bad
As per most adventure games, this game is very short lived. It can be cleared in five hours or less.

Do not expect an epic plot, like it's "cousins".

The combat could have been implemented better. Once again, do not expect the quality of any of the main four Phantasy Star games.

The Bottom Line
This was once one of the M.I.A. Phantasy Star games. Available only to those able to read Japanese. Now due to emulators, and ROMS, you can play an English version of the game.