Most RPGs today tend to impress the gamer with flashy graphics, a "catchy" soundtrack, and a huge storyline. However, not every company was what you would call mainstream. Namco released Tales of Destiny, the sequel to the popular Tales of Phantasia in Japan, in 1998. While this game has been underrated for its story and "retro graphics," Tales of Destiny truly gives the die-hard RPGer what he or she truly wants.

Graphics (95%): While considered backwards, Tales of Destiny's graphics are truly magnificent. The game opens up with a beautifully drawn movie (though a little too anime for my taste). The in-game graphics are amazing. The backgrounds have a huge amount of detail, the characters move fluidly, and there are several effects such as ripples in the water, reflections, etc. The world map's graphics take more of a step towards 3D than 2D. While the lands are perfectly fine, the sprite characters are extremely blocky and pixilate often. The battle graphics are cutting edge. While side-scrolling, the backgrounds are great and still show the usual detail. Overall, the graphics are simply breathtaking (at least to most).

Sound/Music (100%): The sound effects are adequate for the game. There is nothing spectacular, but the voices are well used. In the Japanese version, voices were used in conversations in the game, on the map, and in battle. But Namco (thank God) didn't dub these voices and used only battle voices in the US version. They add a lot to the feeling of battles. The soundtrack has to be one of the best out there. While most of the tracks are upbeat and techno, there are some orchestrated and peaceful tracks. There are even emotional tracks. While sounds aren't the most important element in a game, it certainly helps.

Storyline (90%): While not the game's strongest point, Tales of Destiny's storyline is very memorable. The story follows Stahn Aileron, a country boy looking for fame and fortune. He stows away on the Draconis to get to Seinegald but gets caught. Then monsters attack and Stahn finds a Swordian that tells him about his true role in life. While the plot outline is simply cliche, the plot develops into a war of betrayal, love, and the fight for freedom that I personally will never forget. The characters each have personality, which is something you don't see often. The dialogue was localized perfectly; not a single sentence is poorly written. Talking to characters and townspeople is not a chore anymore but a hobby. This is one of the things that makes a game worth your time.

Gameplay (100%): This is where Tales of Destiny truly shines. I'll start with the battle system, known in the game as "Enhanced Linear Motion Battle." E-LMB is Tales of Phantasia's battle system...just enhanced. These battles are carried out in real-time. You control Stahn at all times, while the other members are controlled by a fairly intelligent AI. You are able to change each character's strategy (i.e., "obliterate," "power","tatical.") at any time. In battle, you can slash, thrust, jump, jump slash, jump thrust, use one of your four selected Killer Moves, or use a spell. You can also command your characters by telling them what spells to use. The battles are simply a blast.

Outside of battle is your standard RPG play. Though just about the entire game is linear, there are numerous side quests to conquer including a game of tag, blackjack, and a summon shop. There are nine characters total. There is so much more that I really can't take up all my time to explain.

Control (100%): Nothing much to explain outside battle. You walk in four directions and at a nice pace. Battle controls are not very complicated and are very responsive. No trouble here.

Replay Value (100%): This game is very, VERY long for an RPG. This game should take 40+ hours just going through the game. After taking on the Tower of Druaga and other side quests, getting every Sacred Text, and building up to level 99, the game totals up for about 75+ hours, the second longest RPG I've ever played (besides Star Ocean II). This game will make you come back for more and more.

Overall (95%): Tales of Destiny is an RPGer's wish come true. While not having the best graphics or storyline, the gameplay and soundtrack will keep you coming. I got this game for $40 MINT off of EBay. If you find it in such condition for less, BUY IT!