PGC NEWS

The gaming world is constantly evolving, with new titles vying for players’ attention. Yet, amidst this influx of innovation, the allure of revisiting cherished classics remains strong. Square Enix’s Legend of Mana, a spin-off from the acclaimed “Mana Trilogy,” has recently received the remaster treatment, inviting players back to the enchanting world of Fa’Diel with refreshed visuals. But does Legend of Mana Remastered recapture the magic, or does it fall short of its former glory?

A Dreamlike World Unveiled

Legend of Mana offers a unique experience, especially for those unfamiliar with the original. Unlike modern games with their hand-holding tutorials and clear objectives, Legend of Mana throws you into the deep end. There’s no map, no guiding arrow – just a vast, mysterious world waiting to be explored. This nonlinearity permeates every aspect of the game, from gameplay mechanics and story progression to character development, all shaped by player choices.

The narrative itself is as dreamlike and fragmented as the world it inhabits. Think of it as a collection of interconnected fairy tales, where you, the player, are the catalyst that weaves them together. While not a cohesive single narrative, the game possesses an overarching storyline to prevent you from feeling completely lost.

Legend of Mana

The story unfolds in Fa’Diel, a land ravaged by conflict after the Mana Tree, the source of all life, withers. Various races, including humans, fairies, and beastfolk, war over the remaining Mana energy contained within ancient artifacts. As the chosen hero, your mission is to collect these artifacts, restore the Mana Tree, and bring peace back to Fa’Diel.

Embracing Nonlinearity

Legend of Mana takes nonlinearity to a new level. After choosing your gender and weapon, you’re essentially left to your own devices. There are no grand pronouncements or fated encounters; instead, the world unfolds organically through exploration and interaction. Conversations with NPCs often provide clues, leading to new adventures and the acquisition of artifacts. These artifacts, when restored, transform into dungeons or towns, shaping the world and influencing subsequent events based on their placement on the map.

Legend of Mana

The dungeons and labyrinths within Legend of Mana Remastered are diverse and engaging. Their non-linear presentation ensures a constant sense of discovery and challenge. These locations are interwoven with captivating stories, ranging from lighthearted and whimsical to tragic and thought-provoking. The player’s choices often dictate the outcome of these narratives, adding a layer of moral complexity. One particularly poignant storyline involves the Jumi, a race hunted for their jewel hearts. Another explores the internal strife within the Dragoon clan. And then there’s the forbidden love between a demon king and a holy woman.

A Unique Blend of Gameplay and Aesthetics

Legend of Mana pioneered a shift from turn-based combat to real-time action, a transition now commonplace in the genre. However, its unique blend of gameplay elements and its distinct identity remain unmatched. The game seamlessly integrates various mechanics, requiring players to strategize not only in combat but also in how they navigate the world and connect its fragmented narratives.

Legend of Mana

Even after completing the main objectives, Legend of Mana offers a wealth of engaging activities, from farming and crafting to raising pets and participating in community events. The combat system is straightforward, featuring basic attacks, a guard, and special skills activated when the RT gauge is full. Co-op mode allows a second player to control supporting NPCs, adding another layer of enjoyment.

Visually, Legend of Mana Remastered shines with its meticulously crafted hand-drawn backgrounds and character sprites, capturing the game’s whimsical atmosphere. Each location, from the haunting Bone Forest to the treacherous Snowfields, tells its own story. The evocative soundtrack by Yoko Shimomura further enhances the experience, perfectly complementing the game’s enchanting world.

Legend of Mana

Unchanged Flaws

While the remastered visuals are a welcome improvement, Legend of Mana Remastered unfortunately retains some of the original’s technical shortcomings. The inability to walk through NPCs can lead to frustrating situations, especially when they block doorways or essential paths. Following slow-moving NPCs during quests can also be tedious. The combat, while charmingly retro, suffers from noticeable input lag. The character animations are limited, and the menu system feels outdated and clunky.

Legend of Mana

Conclusion

Legend of Mana Remastered offers a unique and enchanting experience, despite its lingering technical flaws. Its nonlinear gameplay, fragmented narrative, and charming visuals create a world unlike any other. While the remaster doesn’t address all of the original’s issues, it provides a welcome opportunity for new players to discover this timeless classic and for returning fans to relive its magic.