Grandia PlayStation

Grandia's main hero is Justin, the son of an adventurer who isn't content to just let the world move on. He's lusting for adventure, and with the help of his friends and a mysterious artifact his dad left him, he's set for the most important adventure in the history of ~Parm.

Along with his childhood friend Sue and her pet Puffy, they set off on their unknown adventure. Though ridiculed by some of the townsfolk, Justin maintains he'll be a great adventurer someday; little does he know, someday will come very soon.

The young adventurers start questioning why there's so many scientific explorations being conducted. More importantly, what does the ~Garlyle Forces, a private army, have to do with them? The once respected General Baal, leader of the army, has been acting in a very peculiar manner; what exactly is it he's looking for? As Justin, it is the player's objective to uncover the mysterious secrets that lie within Grandia's vast world.

Grandia, originally released on the Sega Saturn console, features several twists on the usual role-playing formula. Rather than using a random-encounter methodology, it offers visible critters that will actively patrol any given area. Players are then given the option to either avoid the enemy or engage in battle; running away will often result in the enemy chasing you around the map.

Combat is conducted upon making contact with any given enemy. Depending on how the encounter was handled, the enemies and your party members will line up accordingly with the terrain. From there, players may utilize magical spells (provided your characters have magical abilities), weapons, or combination attacks with other characters. Both the magic and weapon systems rely on leveling through character usage – the higher a character's level, the stronger he/she is.

Players may also buy various things such as weapons, armor, and miscellaneous items. Taking on a more traditional aspect, each character can wear a variety of helmets, chest armor, boots, and shields. Buying newer, better armor is important as your characters will be better prepared for the oncoming/tougher battles. There are over 200 different weapons, each with their own unique uses (some with magical abilities).

Rather than obtaining magic through leveling, Justin and his party members can learn magic next to designated icons. In exchange for one ~Mana Egg, Fire, Wind, Water, and Earth magic can be acquired; there are over 80 different spells, each with its own purpose and attributes.

Help Justin and his friends unlock the secrets of Grandia – the world is counting on you. Make his father proud. ~ Joe Ottoson, All Game Guide