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Ranking the Game Arts Games from the Past 40 Years

Ranking the Best 20 Game Arts Games from the Past 40 Years

Game Arts has a rich history of developing and publishing some of the most beloved titles in the gaming industry. This article dives deep into the best 20 games that have come out of Game Arts in the past 40 years. With a focus on story, gameplay, graphics and sound, and legacy and reception, let’s take a journey through Game Arts’ illustrious catalog.

Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete


Platform

PlayStation

Publisher

Working Designs

Genre

JRPG

Release Date

06/29/1999

Story

Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete tells the tale of Alex, a young adventurer who dreams of becoming like his hero, Dragonmaster Dyne. He embarks on a journey with his childhood friend Luna, encountering allies and confronting the dark forces threatening their world.

Gameplay

The game is a traditional JRPG featuring turn-based combat and exploration. Players engage in battles, manage party members, and solve puzzles, all while progressing through a deep narrative.

Why It’s on This List

Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete is celebrated for its rich storytelling and character development, setting a high standard for narrative-driven RPGs.

Graphics and Sound

The game boasts vibrant 2D graphics with animated cutscenes and a memorable soundtrack, enhancing the emotional depth of the story.

Legacy and Reception

Widely regarded as a classic, Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete has left a lasting impact on the RPG genre, praised for its storytelling and engaging gameplay.

Grandia


Platform

PlayStation

Publisher

Game Arts

Genre

Turn-Based RPG

Release Date

10/26/1999

Story

Grandia follows Justin, a young adventurer, on a quest to uncover the secrets of an ancient civilization. The story unfolds with themes of discovery, friendship, and heroism.

Gameplay

Known for its innovative battle system, Grandia combines real-time and turn-based elements, offering strategic depth and dynamic encounters. Exploration is also a key component, with a vast world to discover.

Why It’s on This List

Grandia is renowned for its groundbreaking battle mechanics and heartfelt story, making it a standout title in the RPG genre.

Graphics and Sound

The game features colorful, detailed environments and an emotive soundtrack that complements its adventurous spirit.

Legacy and Reception

Grandia’s innovative gameplay and narrative have earned it a place as one of the most influential RPGs, with fans and critics alike praising its design.

Silpheed


Platform

Sega CD

Publisher

Sega

Genre

Shoot 'em up

Release Date

12/01/1993

Story

In Silpheed, players take control of a space fighter tasked with defending against an alien invasion. The plot unfolds through mission briefings and in-game events.

Gameplay

Silpheed is a vertical scrolling shooter that challenges players with fast-paced action and strategic maneuvering. Power-ups and weapon upgrades are essential for survival.

Why It’s on This List

Silpheed is a landmark in shooter design, offering an immersive experience with its blend of 3D graphics and engaging gameplay.

Graphics and Sound

The game utilizes cutting-edge graphics for its time, with 3D polygonal environments and a dynamic soundtrack that enhances the intensity of the action.

Legacy and Reception

Silpheed is celebrated for its technical achievements and remains a favorite among fans of the shooter genre, influencing many titles that followed.

Lunar: Eternal Blue


Platform

Sega CD

Publisher

Working Designs

Genre

JRPG

Release Date

12/01/1994

Story

Lunar: Eternal Blue continues the saga with Hiro and his companions battling a new evil. The narrative is rich with twists, emotional depth, and character development.

Gameplay

Building on its predecessor, the game features enhanced turn-based combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving, with a focus on strategic party management.

Why It’s on This List

Lunar: Eternal Blue is lauded for its compelling story and refined gameplay, solidifying its place as a classic RPG.

Graphics and Sound

The game presents detailed 2D graphics with lush environments and an evocative soundtrack that captures the essence of its epic adventure.

Legacy and Reception

The game is revered for its storytelling and character development, often cited as one of the greatest RPGs of its era.

Gungriffon


Platform

Sega Saturn

Publisher

Game Arts

Genre

Mecha Simulation

Release Date

11/01/1996

Story

Set in a future where nations battle for supremacy, Gungriffon puts players in the cockpit of a High-MACS, a powerful war machine. The narrative unfolds through missions and objectives.

Gameplay

Gungriffon is a mech-based shooter with tactical elements, requiring players to manage resources and complete mission objectives in diverse environments.

Why It’s on This List

Its innovative approach to mech combat and strategic gameplay make Gungriffon a noteworthy entry in the genre.

Graphics and Sound

The game features detailed mech designs and atmospheric soundscapes that immerse players in its futuristic setting.

Legacy and Reception

Gungriffon is praised for its engaging combat and strategic depth, influencing subsequent mech games and gaining a dedicated fanbase.

Thexder


Platform

PC

Publisher

Game Arts

Genre

Action

Release Date

11/01/1985

Story

In Thexder, players control a transforming robot on a mission to save humanity from an alien threat. The narrative is minimal, focusing on action and exploration.

Gameplay

The game combines platforming and shooting elements, with players navigating complex levels and using the robot’s ability to transform between modes.

Why It’s on This List

Thexder is significant for its innovative gameplay mechanics and challenging level design, which captivated players in the 1980s.

Graphics and Sound

Thexder features crisp graphics for its time and a memorable soundtrack that enhances the sci-fi atmosphere.

Legacy and Reception

The game is fondly remembered for its unique gameplay and has influenced many action-platformers that followed.

Alisia Dragoon


Platform

Sega Genesis

Publisher

Sega

Genre

Action Platformer

Release Date

04/17/1992

Story

Alisia Dragoon follows the titular heroine on her quest to avenge her father’s death and stop an evil cult. The story is woven into the gameplay through levels and encounters.

Gameplay

The game is a side-scrolling action-platformer with magical combat and companion creatures that assist the player. Strategic use of abilities is key to progression.

Why It’s on This List

Alisia Dragoon is acclaimed for its engaging gameplay and unique mechanics, offering a refreshing take on the action genre.

Graphics and Sound

The game features vibrant graphics and a stirring soundtrack that enhances the fantasy setting and action-packed sequences.

Legacy and Reception

Alisia Dragoon is praised for its innovative gameplay and has become a cult classic among fans of the genre.

Project Sylpheed


Platform

Xbox 360

Publisher

Square Enix

Genre

Space Combat Simulation

Release Date

09/28/2006

Story

Project Sylpheed places players in an interstellar conflict, taking control of a fighter pilot embroiled in a war between factions. The narrative is delivered through cinematic sequences and mission briefings.

Gameplay

This space combat game combines fast-paced dogfights with strategic mission objectives, requiring players to master their ship’s capabilities and arsenal.

Why It’s on This List

Project Sylpheed is noted for its cinematic presentation and dynamic space battles, offering an immersive experience in the genre.

Graphics and Sound

The game boasts high-quality graphics and a cinematic score that elevates the intensity of its space combat scenarios.

Legacy and Reception

Project Sylpheed is recognized for its engaging combat and story, appealing to fans of space shooters and earning a loyal following.

Grandia II


Platform

Dreamcast

Publisher

Game Arts

Genre

Role-Playing Game

Release Date

08/03/2000

Story

Grandia II follows Ryudo, a mercenary on a mission that unravels a plot of divine and demonic forces. The story is rich with character interactions and moral dilemmas.

Gameplay

The game builds on its predecessor’s combat system, offering a refined experience with strategic depth and real-time elements. Exploration and character growth are also central to the gameplay.

Why It’s on This List

Grandia II is celebrated for its engaging story and improved mechanics, making it a standout sequel and a beloved RPG.

Graphics and Sound

The game features enhanced visuals and a memorable soundtrack that complements its epic narrative.

Legacy and Reception

Grandia II is often hailed as one of the best RPGs of its time, praised for its storytelling and innovative gameplay.

Magic School Lunar!


Platform

Sega Saturn

Publisher

Game Arts

Genre

Role-Playing Game

Release Date

10/25/1996

Story

Magic School Lunar! takes place in a magical academy where players follow a group of students as they unravel mysteries and face various challenges. The story is light-hearted with elements of adventure and camaraderie.

Gameplay

The game combines RPG elements with school life simulation, requiring players to manage their characters’ studies, relationships, and magical abilities.

Why It’s on This List

Magic School Lunar! is unique for its blend of RPG and simulation gameplay, offering a charming experience in the Lunar universe.

Graphics and Sound

The game features colorful graphics and a whimsical soundtrack that captures the magical school setting.

Legacy and Reception

While not as well-known as other Lunar titles, Magic School Lunar! is appreciated for its charm and innovation, particularly among fans of the series.

Gungriffon Blaze


Platform

PlayStation 2

Publisher

Game Arts

Genre

Mecha Simulation

Release Date

10/26/2000

Story

Gungriffon Blaze is set in a world of geopolitical conflict, where players pilot advanced mechs in various missions aimed at restoring peace. The narrative is delivered through mission briefings and in-game events.

Gameplay

The game focuses on mech combat, with players customizing their machines and employing tactics to complete objectives in diverse environments.

Why It’s on This List

Gungriffon Blaze is noted for its strategic depth and engaging mech battles, providing a compelling experience in the genre.

Graphics and Sound

The game features detailed mech models and immersive audio that enhance the intensity of its combat scenarios.

Legacy and Reception

Gungriffon Blaze is praised for its gameplay and has influenced subsequent mech games, earning a dedicated fanbase.

Silpheed: The Lost Planet


Platform

PlayStation 2

Publisher

Game Arts

Genre

Shoot 'em Up

Release Date

11/07/2001

Story

Silpheed: The Lost Planet follows a pilot defending humanity from an alien threat. The narrative unfolds through mission briefings and in-game events.

Gameplay

The game is a vertical scrolling shooter, challenging players with fast-paced action, strategic maneuvering, and weapon management.

Why It’s on This List

Silpheed: The Lost Planet is recognized for its intense action and engaging gameplay, offering a modern take on the classic shooter formula.

Graphics and Sound

The game features high-quality graphics and a dynamic soundtrack that enhances the intensity of its space battles.

Legacy and Reception

The game is appreciated for its engaging combat and has a loyal following among fans of the shooter genre.

Lunar Legend


Platform

Game Boy Advance

Publisher

Ubisoft

Genre

Role-Playing Game

Release Date

04/12/2002

Story

Lunar Legend is a retelling of the classic Lunar: Silver Star Story, following Alex on his quest to become a Dragonmaster and save his world. The narrative is rich with character development and epic themes.

Gameplay

The game offers traditional turn-based RPG mechanics, with exploration, combat, and character progression central to the experience.

Why It’s on This List

Lunar Legend is notable for bringing the beloved Lunar story to handheld platforms, making it accessible to a new generation of players.

Graphics and Sound

The game features detailed 2D graphics and a soundtrack that captures the essence of its epic narrative.

Legacy and Reception

Lunar Legend is praised for its storytelling and accessibility, earning a place in the hearts of fans and newcomers alike.

Grandia III


Platform

PlayStation 2

Publisher

Square Enix

Genre

Role-Playing Game

Release Date

08/04/2005

Story

Grandia III follows Yuki, an aspiring pilot, on a journey that uncovers a battle between divine forces. The story is rich with adventure and character interactions.

Gameplay

The game features an enhanced combat system that builds on its predecessors, offering strategic depth and real-time elements. Exploration and character growth are also central to the experience.

Why It’s on This List

Grandia III is celebrated for its engaging story and refined mechanics, making it a standout in the RPG genre.

Graphics and Sound

The game features high-quality visuals and a memorable soundtrack that complements its epic narrative.

Legacy and Reception

Grandia III is praised for its storytelling and innovative gameplay, earning a place as a beloved RPG.

Lunar: Dragon Song


Platform

Nintendo DS

Publisher

Ubisoft

Genre

Role-Playing Game

Release Date

08/25/2005

Story

Lunar: Dragon Song is set before the events of the original Lunar games, following Jian Campbell as he battles a rising evil. The story explores themes of heroism and adventure.

Gameplay

The game features turn-based combat and exploration, with unique mechanics like the ability to choose between gaining experience or items from battles.

Why It’s on This List

Lunar: Dragon Song is notable for expanding the Lunar universe and offering new gameplay mechanics.

Graphics and Sound

The game features vibrant graphics and an evocative soundtrack that captures the essence of its fantasy setting.

Legacy and Reception

While receiving mixed reviews, Lunar: Dragon Song is appreciated for its contribution to the Lunar series and its unique gameplay elements.

Thexder Neo


Platform

PlayStation Portable

Publisher

Square Enix

Genre

Action

Release Date

10/01/2009

Story

Thexder Neo is a modern reimagining of the classic Thexder, following the same premise of a transforming robot saving humanity. The narrative focuses on action and exploration.

Gameplay

The game combines platforming and shooting elements, with players navigating complex levels and utilizing the robot’s transformation abilities.

Why It’s on This List

Thexder Neo is significant for its modernization of classic gameplay mechanics, appealing to both new and old fans.

Graphics and Sound

The game features updated graphics and a dynamic soundtrack that enhances the sci-fi atmosphere.

Legacy and Reception

Thexder Neo is appreciated for its modern take on a classic formula, earning a place among fans of action-platformers.

Zeliard


Platform

PC

Publisher

Game Arts

Genre

Action Adventure

Release Date

01/07/1987

Story

Zeliard follows Duke Garland on a quest to save the kingdom of Zeliard from an ancient evil. The narrative is rich with fantasy elements and adventure.

Gameplay

The game combines platforming and RPG elements, requiring players to navigate levels, battle enemies, and solve puzzles.

Why It’s on This List

Zeliard is notable for its blend of genres and engaging gameplay, offering a unique experience in the action-adventure landscape.

Graphics and Sound

The game features detailed graphics and a memorable soundtrack that captures the essence of its fantasy world.

Legacy and Reception

Zeliard is praised for its innovative gameplay and has influenced many action-adventure games that followed.

Conclusion

Game Arts has been a pivotal force in the gaming industry, producing a diverse array of titles that have captured the hearts of players worldwide. From groundbreaking RPGs like Lunar and Grandia to innovative action games like Silpheed and Thexder, the legacy of Game Arts is rich with creativity and excellence. Each game on this list has contributed to the studio’s storied history, leaving an indelible mark on gaming culture.

Jake Hauler

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