Game: "Valkyrie Profile"
System: PlayStation
Genre: RPG
Published by: Square Enix

Reviewer: Pentegarn (Forum Profile)
Posted: 1/26/2010

Review: At first, when I discovered this game, I assumed that it would be just another RPG on a system that already had quite a few to choose from. When I finally delved into it, I discovered it had so much more to offer. While it is not the best looking game the Playstation had, it more than made up for it with a gaming experience that was unforgettable.

You play the role of the Valkyrie, a battle maiden who collects souls of the dead on Midgard to Valhalla to fight for the Aesir in their war against the Vanir. The game starts with Odin ordering you to gather warriors for Ragnarok. After a short tutorial where Freya teaches you the basics, you are on your own, and the clock is ticking. You have 8 periods to send enough warriors to help win Ragnarok. Each period, you use your power to find dying warriors (Einherjar). Then you train them and send them to Valhalla as needed. One period Valhalla may need warriors, another period they may need archers or mages. Each period you are reviewed, and if Odin is pleased, you are rewarded with extra Materialize Points, items, and sometimes even special treasures.

The story has two possible final bosses depending on who you send to Valhalla. The story for both is quite different, so replay value is high. I especially enjoyed the story involving Lucian and Lenneth. Each character has an interesting story where they look to Valkyrie for redemption. Game play is pretty solid, the Einherjar can be customized a bit with skill points and equipment. Spells are as spells should be, devastating and useful. Combat is simple in it execution, but with enough of a nuance of strategy to keep most people interested.

What stood out most of all to me was the games music. It is good enough to stand on it’s own without a game, and provides perfect ambiance in the different settings of the game. Even if you don’t ever play the game, I urge you to check this games soundtrack out. It is that good.

While the time limit and less than stellar graphics may put off some people, the rest of the experience Valkyrie Profile offers more than makes up for it.

Overall rating:
(Scored on a 0.5 - 5 pickles rating: 0.5 being the worst and 5 being the best)