Final Fantasy Tactics: The War Of The Lions

Reviewed by Leland Bonaparte
April 14, 2008

Developer: Square Enix Publisher: Square Enix Website: Click Here Platform(s): PSP Number of Players: 1, 2 with Wi-Fi Ad-hoc ESRB Rating: Teen

How many more Final Fantasy games can we take?  With everybody on the FFVII kick, is there really any room for anything else?  “Well move over bacon here’s something meatier!” The War of the Lions is a remake of the 1997 classic with a portable twist. It’s a turn - based strategy game that takes place in Ivalice.

Let me be the first to tell you that if you are not use to playing turn-based strategy games, then you might want to think twice. Thinking your moves in advance (like chess) is the main part of this game. Making sure that you have the right job class for the mission is a must. It was not as bad as I had first anticipated. Actually I caught on to the game play pretty quick. Selecting attacks and watching them play out is interesting.

Performing certain commands will help you gain experience points and job points. The battles are pretty intense and magic attacks are played out well. The background area is very noticeable due to high and low terrain.  Canyons, hills, mountains and other various features really bring out the games different colors. Maps are also easy to navigate, plus this is where you check up on your characters performance. Another thing that I like is you can go to the warrior’s guild and purchase soldiers. This will make going into battle a little better. Everything in this game counts tword your success in battle; elevation, water, and the right decisions.

Unfortunately there are always negatives.  With the PSP speakers you can’t really appreciate the music in the game. Most of the time you really don’t listen or pay attention to the music, but in this case with the headphones you will be pleased. The music is really relaxing and brings excitement to the battle.

I must say I was quite surprised with this game. I’m not really a big fan of turn based games, but I might change my mind. This game is a breath of fresh air and it’s time for a change. A bit of a thinker this game brings back memories of the original tactics and other Square Enix games.

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