The graphics on the back seemed decent but I was sceptical as many Japanese RPGs I had played prior were hit and miss for me. It was 1995 during the school holidays, I was 14 and was given a few dollars to rent a game from the local video store, I found when arriving It was 1995 during the school holidays, I was 14 and was given a few dollars to rent a game from the local video store, I found when arriving that I had previously rented or played most games available, all except a game on the mega drive named Shining Force. All is forgiven though, and this game, as a trailblazer of the tactical role-playing game genre, without a doubt, deserves a solid 10. The only draw back to this game is that the graphics at times seem a little rushed, 'cheap', or even a bit dated for 1994 standards for example when a sprite is laying down, their shadow appears on their left side as if they were still standing (play the game, you will see what I mean) further more, while the musical score is quite good, there should be more of it. Character's portrait art is just plain cool. Evil is so well done that it keeps you interested up until the end 'And More'.

Character development is not terribly deep, but it doesn't have to be as the plot, with its archetypal Manichaean struggle of Good vs. Thinking of the storyline of this game gives me chills all over our Hero (his official name is 'Bowie' but you name him) commands an Army of Light, nay, a 'Shining Force', which literally makes Devils tremble. For what it was when it was released in 1994, it is a gem equal to the Jewels of Light & Darkness Zeon so desires.

Shining Force II should be known as one of the greatest tactical Role-Playing Games ever made. This review contains spoilers, click expand to view.

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