"An inspirational game with plenty of heart...from both Human and Deimos."

Arc the Lad is a relatively unknown RPG series for the PlayStation console that originally never left the shores of Japan to show up in other countries. It was not until Working Designs was allowed to re-release the three games that were made back then under a major effort of translation that it appeared in the States. Even then, the entire box set that it was marketed as went for a steep price: $75 for three games made and marketed last century. This, along with the factors of other RPG big-name titles being released at the time and the death knell of the PlayStation console itself in favor of its predecessor practically guaranteed its presence a label of 'niche'.

Now, with the release of another Arc game with next-gen graphical quality to add to the stack, this franchise may see larger recognition from the RPG fanbase and a complete rebirth.

Arc the Lad: Twilight of the Spirits offers you a world where two races, Human and Deimos, are at bitter odds with each other. Play the roles of Kharg and Darc, two respective representatives of Humanity and Deimoshood, and unlock the mysteries of their peoples' plight at the seemingly never-ending conflict.

Gameplay - 10/10. The learning curve for Arc is minimal. RPGers who have never played a strategy RPG--an RPG that has you manipulating and using singular characters one at a time as 'units' on a field instead of as a cohesive team party--will find themselves getting into the groove of things after a couple of battles. It is even better, as all characters in a battle are unrestricted by hexes and are free-moving. Anywhere within a given range, that ally/enemy may go. Voice-overs, which are a staple in the entire series, are present in this installation in complete English. Characters' attitudes and personalities are unique and defined by these voices as they execute movements in battle. This is probably one of the nicest interfaces I've seen in a strategy RPG.

Story - 8/10. The story of Arc is simple to grasp. Humans and Deimos are fighting over the powers of the Guardians, left within objects called the Spirit Stones. Embittered by constant warring, the two races have disavowed each other and now live on separate sides of the planet to avoid each other, and to live with their own kind. The story progresses with switching perspectives between Human and Deimos, never allowing you to lose sight of one's grievances in favor of another's. This allows key characters to become seen as neither good or evil, but characters with their own motivations and impulses. It allows them to break free from the traditional mold of hero and/or villain.

The story doesn't try to do anything fancy or overly complex, which is a good thing since that can alienate the gamer if things become too contrived.

Audio/Video - 9/10. The graphical quality of Arc has been compared to the quality seen in Square's Final Fantasy X. I would happen to agree that the comparison is valid, although it does come up a tiny bit short in contrast to that. Allies and enemies move fluidly in battle, and the background environments are something to behold as eye candy. The world map takes on a drawn quality while maintaining a slightly 3-D feel to it, as inclines, hills and mountains are made so that it doesn't look completely flat. It's nice to look at.

The music is fantastic in this game. Battle themes take on a metal feel, as guitars compose a lot of the main sound with synthesized sounds complementing it in the background. It is a definite change from the style of the previous games, but entirely well-received. It gets the adrenaline pumping.

Replayability - 8/10. I can honestly say that this game looks to have a lot of replayability after it is beaten, which is in contrast to many other RPGs out there. The game is simply fun on many differing levels. If you really don't get irritated by forced free battles, then that is definitely a good sign.

To buy or to rent? I'd advise all RPGers to give this game an initial try, at least. Even if you do not feel confident in shelling out $40 for the title, a rental would be satisfactory in helping you with your decision. I personally believe this is a definite buy to help quench the thirst stemming from a lack of summer games.

Cumulative Score - 8.75/10

Cumulative Score after rounding up/down - 9/10. Wow. Arc has really made my day with its excellent quality and reserved-yet-inspiring presence. Games like this are really the heart and soul of RPGs...and exemplify the purpose as to why we as gamers look for the next great releases. Specifically, for games like this. Even if Arc remains a underrated title due to its history (or lack thereof), a game like this really sparkles among all others.

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 06/26/03, Updated 06/26/03