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Falcom Classics is a remarkable compilation that brings together some of the most cherished titles from the legendary Nihon Falcom, a studio renowned for their pivotal role in shaping the landscape of role-playing games (RPGs). Released in 1997 for the Sega Saturn, Falcom Classics is a treasure trove for nostalgia seekers and RPG enthusiasts alike. This collection features three iconic games: Dragon Slayer, Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished, and Xanadu, providing a unique opportunity to experience the early days of the RPG genre.
Story
The narratives within Falcom Classics are a testament to the timeless appeal of classic RPG storytelling, each game offering its unique world and lore.
Dragon Slayer
Dragon Slayer is often credited as one of the pioneers of action RPGs, setting a foundation upon which many future titles would build. The story revolves around a hero tasked with rescuing a captured princess from the clutches of an evil dragon. While the premise might seem simplistic by today’s standards, it was groundbreaking at its time, laying the groundwork for more complex narratives in the genre.
As players progress through the game, they encounter various dungeons filled with monsters and puzzles, each requiring strategic thinking and quick reflexes. The story unfolds through exploration and combat, emphasizing the hero’s journey and the timeless battle between good and evil.
Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished
Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished is a cornerstone of the action RPG genre, known for its engaging story and innovative gameplay mechanics. The narrative follows Adol Christin, a young adventurer who arrives on the island of Esteria, a land plagued by mysterious storms and demonic creatures. His quest to uncover the secrets of the island and the ancient civilization of Ys forms the crux of the story.
Throughout his journey, Adol meets various characters who aid or hinder his progress, each with their own backstories and motivations. The game’s narrative is rich with intrigue, exploring themes of heroism, friendship, and the clash between ancient magic and modernity.
Xanadu
Xanadu, a sequel to Dragon Slayer, expands upon its predecessor’s story and gameplay mechanics. Set in a vast, interconnected world, Xanadu presents a more complex narrative involving political intrigue, mythical lands, and the quest for power. Players assume the role of a wandering hero who becomes embroiled in a conflict involving warring factions and powerful deities.
The game’s story is deeply woven into its world-building, with players uncovering lore and secrets as they explore dungeons and interact with NPCs. Xanadu’s narrative is both epic and personal, inviting players to immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of myths and legends.
Gameplay
Falcom Classics showcases the evolution of RPG gameplay mechanics, offering a diverse range of experiences across its three featured titles.
Dragon Slayer
Dragon Slayer is celebrated for its innovative blend of action and RPG elements. Players navigate a series of dungeons, battling monsters in real-time combat. The game introduces key RPG mechanics such as inventory management, character progression, and puzzle-solving, all of which were revolutionary for its time.
Despite its simplicity, Dragon Slayer’s gameplay is engaging and challenging, requiring players to think strategically and make quick decisions. The game rewards exploration and experimentation, encouraging players to discover hidden items and secret paths.
Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished
Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished is renowned for its “bump” combat system, where players attack enemies by colliding with them rather than using traditional weapon strikes. This mechanic adds a unique layer of strategy, as players must carefully position Adol to maximize damage while minimizing risk.
The game also features a robust leveling system, with players gaining experience through combat and upgrading Adol’s equipment to enhance his abilities. Exploration is a key component, with the game’s world filled with hidden treasures, secret areas, and challenging bosses that test players’ skills and perseverance.
Xanadu
Xanadu builds upon the foundation set by Dragon Slayer, offering a more complex and expansive gameplay experience. The game features a hybrid of action and turn-based combat, allowing players to switch between different modes depending on the situation. This flexibility adds depth to the gameplay, encouraging players to adapt their strategies to overcome various challenges.
Xanadu also introduces a comprehensive character customization system, with players able to choose and develop different skills and abilities. The game’s interconnected world is rich with exploration opportunities, offering numerous quests, dungeons, and secrets to discover.
Graphics and Sound
Falcom Classics brings the visual and auditory charm of early RPGs to the Sega Saturn, preserving the nostalgic aesthetics while enhancing them for a modern audience.
Graphics
Each game within Falcom Classics retains its original pixel art style, which exudes a timeless charm that resonates with fans of retro gaming. The compilation benefits from subtle graphical enhancements, such as improved color palettes and sharper sprites, which make the visuals more vibrant and appealing on contemporary displays.
Dragon Slayer and Xanadu feature simple yet effective graphics that capture the essence of classic fantasy worlds. Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished stands out with its detailed character portraits and expressive animations, which add depth to the storytelling and character interactions.
Sound
The soundtracks of Falcom Classics are a testament to Nihon Falcom’s reputation for creating memorable and emotive music. Each game features a distinctive score that enhances the atmosphere and complements the narrative.
Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished is particularly noteworthy for its iconic soundtrack, composed by Yuzo Koshiro and Mieko Ishikawa. The music ranges from uplifting and adventurous themes to haunting and melancholic melodies, perfectly capturing the emotional journey of Adol Christin.
Dragon Slayer and Xanadu also boast impressive soundtracks, with compositions that evoke the spirit of epic adventures and mythical worlds. The sound effects across all games are crisp and effective, adding to the immersive experience.
Legacy and Reception
Falcom Classics holds a special place in the hearts of RPG enthusiasts, celebrated for its role in preserving and revitalizing some of the genre’s most influential titles.
Upon its release, Falcom Classics was well-received by both critics and fans, praised for its faithful adaptation and enhancement of the original games. The compilation was lauded for its accessibility, offering modern players a chance to experience the origins of action RPGs without the need for outdated hardware.
The collection’s influence extends beyond its initial release, inspiring subsequent remakes and re-releases of the featured titles on various platforms. Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished, in particular, has seen numerous adaptations and remakes, testament to its enduring popularity and impact on the RPG genre.
Falcom Classics also played a crucial role in introducing a new generation of gamers to the works of Nihon Falcom, solidifying the studio’s reputation as a pioneer in RPG development. The compilation’s success paved the way for future collections and remasters, ensuring that classic RPGs remain accessible and relevant in the ever-evolving gaming landscape.
Conclusion
In summary, Falcom Classics is more than just a compilation of games; it is a celebration of the rich history and evolution of the RPG genre. By bringing together Dragon Slayer, Ys I: Ancient Ys Vanished, and Xanadu, this collection offers players a unique opportunity to experience the pioneering spirit and innovative gameplay that defined early RPGs.
The game’s impact and legacy are evident in its enduring popularity and the continued influence of its featured titles on modern RPGs. Falcom Classics serves as a reminder of the timeless appeal of well-crafted stories, engaging gameplay, and evocative music, making it a must-play for anyone interested in the roots of the RPG genre.
