I just recently finished Phantasy Star IV which I enjoyed very much...I also recently tried out PS 2 and didn't like it one bit. So here's the question...In terms of gameplay, is PS III like 2 or 4?
I just recently finished Phantasy Star IV which I enjoyed very much...I also recently tried out PS 2 and didn't like it one bit. So here's the question...In terms of gameplay, is PS III like 2 or 4?
Actually Phantasy Star IV was very inspired by Phantasy Star II. Both of the titles feel very Sci-Fi-ish, whilst III perhaps more fantasy influenced. Also, III is considered by many to be the worst of the series. It's only redeeming value IMHO is it's generation system... it's quite epic in that aspect.
Overall though, II is a much better game than III, and better than IV storywise and musicwise. I'd say that the best of would go: Phantasy Star I, Phantasy Star II, Phantasy Star IV, and only then III. I honestly don't know why you wouldn't like II. Unless you just have a problem with the simplified combat system (which hasn't aged well admittedly).
You could also try out Phantasy Star Gaiden, and Phantasy Star Adventure, both on the Game Gear.
I only played for a few minutes but the combat system turned me off right away. Also the game seemed really slow.
Now, the combat system of Phantasy Star III looks just horrid, as does the rest of the game. Graphically, it's very dated. I don't like PS III one bit, and while I'm striving to get every other Japanese/US release Phantasy Star game, I won't stand to have it in the house.
Now admittedly PS2's combat system is a bit spare and spartan, but it doesn't have those really wierd buttons like the running guy for your "retreat" option. Which is a really wierd, dated animation.
I actually enjoy Phantasy Star III, though it is without question the worst in the series (as it appears on the Genesis, anyway). The story is barely there and the dungeons look much the same, but the battles are quick and painless. Its menu system is odd, but once you get accustomed to it, the game flows fairly easily.
Anyway, Phantasy Star IV is easily my favorite of the bunch, and PSII rates a close second. You might also want to try the original, even if, like a lot of 8-bit RPGs, it seems frustrating by today's standards.
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On the heals of the Phantasy Star Collection for the GBA, Sega is also porting PS4 to the PS1 in Japan. Let's just pray it comes out in the States.
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