The Legend of Legacy HD | PS5

From the 3DS to the PS5 "The Legend of Legacy" makes a bold return to modern consoles in a HD remastered format with it's turn based combat, characters with unique stories, and it's signature art design helmed by Tomomi Kobayashi intact. 

Following the discovery of a returning island not unlike that of the lost city of Atlantis seven protagonists with different goals in mind set forth to Avalon under the blessing of the King of Adventurers to explore the island's mysteries, loot treasure, and map out the areas for further exploration efforts. In a company of three these oddly paired adventurers venture onward to fulfill their own individual destinies. Among them are an elementalist, an amnesiac, a treasure hunter, a mercenary for hire, a frog prince, and others whose eyes are all set on the prize that is Avalon. 

When it comes to gameplay things are fairly much straightforward, and simple in "The Legend of Legacy". In a party of three led by your main choice of protagonist you will face the creatures of Avalon that lie in wait as you explore it's lands, obtain key items, and map out locations for profit sake. Each of the seven protagonists that you can command comes complete with a short bio explaining their purpose in the plot as well as their occupation, and base RPG stats. 

Each character plays differently, and takes on different class based roles as they level up through battle learning new skills. You will find among them some more defensive types as well as those with more offensive roles. Those, and some who are reliant on unique gameplay gimmicks which are further dependent upon SP. 

No matter the grouping party formation matters in "The Legend of Legacy". It is with the three formation options (Protector, All Attack, Run) that you can opt for more defensive, offensive, or neutral approaches to combat from the start. Combat outside of said formation is dependent on whatever weapon the character is equipped with, and all characters can wield all weapons. Repeated use of weapons will unlock special attacks known as arts. Enabling multiple options for attack in battle scenarios. Each character can swap between a two attack/defense types, and an item/tool option should healing or remedy be needed. 

As you go about exploring the maze-like areas of Avalon in your party of three maps to various regions will be revealed and filled in on the current map. In turn the map, once completed, can be sold back at the coastal town of Initium for a reward. This of course is a side objective that gives the player something to do outside of progressing plot points through set pieces and character interactions. 

Also at Initium are characters that can be recruited under certain circumstances as well as an inn where you can rest or swap out your party members. The inn also doubles as a save point between outings. Additionally there's a local bar for juicy insider info as well as the King of Adventurer's castle, and a merchant who sells everything from weapons and gear to special items and maps. It is this merchant who will also buy completed maps.

The end goal for each character in "The Legend of Legacy" is fulfilled by advancing through key battles, situations, and interactions as you explore the different regions of Avalon. This ultimately leads to a story conclusion for the main character. Taking in account things like party members during the final stretch of gameplay. 

Needless to say there are multiple character specific endings, and the game does reward the player for seeing each characters' story through to the end. Along the way you will level up your party, learn new arts, equip them with better equipment, and map out Avalon as well as fill in the pages of the Encyclopedia as you encounter enemies, characters of interest, and key locations. 

The Verdict ...

Like it's pint sized protagonists, "The Legend of Legacy" is a small game with a lot of heart. It's simple by design with flagship mechanics that do nothing profoundly different in accordance to genre staples. What makes it shine though is the interesting roster of class based characters, and the mystery of Avalon itself. 

Exploration is a key component of gameplay, and allows the player the chance to see Avalon revealed in real time alongside their party. Slowly, but surely revealing destinies, and the destination. For what it's worth "The Legend of Legacy" plays out like an entry level turn based JRPG that is more forgiving than most games. The only way to lose is to get reckless and careless with your combat choices, and unless you are button bashing your way through each battle that likely won't happen. 

I actually owned the limited edition of "The Legend of Legacy" on the 3DS, and loved it back then. My opinion hasn't changed. If anything I'm glad PlayStation owners will get a chance to play a remastered port of the game that is polished to perfection. Don't miss out on this one come March 22nd!!!