Legend of Mana PlayStation

Legend of Mana is the fourth game in the Seiken Densetsu series. In the ~U.S., it is the successor to the highly acclaimed Secret of Mana. In the beginning, the player is offered a choice between two different characters, a male and female sprite. The two characters each have a separate quest to complete. In addition, a decision has to be made on the player's primary weapon.

The selection ranges from melee weapons such as battle-axes and swords to bows and spears. Choose wisely -- the statistics of your character will be shaped by the primary weapon. By choosing a warrior's weapon, such as a sword, your level of strength will increase throughout the game. If you pick a staff, the character will become a more powerful magic user. Also, each weapon possesses a special, extra-powerful attack. By holding down the attack button, the special attack can be charged.

The magic system of the game is unique. In Legend of Mana, the traditional idea of Magic Points does not exist. Instead, the spells are cast through the use of musical instruments. Each character will be able to choose from a number of different instruments. The magic is also influenced by the presence of the eight elements. The elements, such as Wind or Fire, will designate the type of spell to be cast.

The gameplay is a throwback to the old mechanics of the series. Basically, you set out on a quest to save the world. Along the way, you will run into a number of evil characters. By choosing from a number of weapons and spells, you can wipe out the evil that has plagued the land. Unlike a traditional RPG, Legend of Mana takes place in real-time. In other words, you do not simply choose an attack and wait for the game to deliver the blow. Instead, you'll have to guide the battles on your own.

One addition to the series is the land creation system. In the beginning, the world of the Legend of Mana has yet to be shaped. Through the quest of the character, you will find a number of sacred artifacts. In essence, you use the items to create the surrounding world. By combining the artifacts with the eight elements, you can actually shape the landscape of the game. As the story progresses, the world will continue to be guided by your actions in a non-linear fashion.

Like its predecessor, Legend of Mana is a multi-player game; two people can combine their efforts to save the world. The player can also choose from a number of pets to assist in the fighting and meet over ten different characters. The game also supports both the ~Dual Shock Analog Controller and the memory card. ~ Bryan Melville, All Game Guide