Hector's Pick #7 - Star Ocean: Til the End of Time

Just to throw this little bit of information out there; I'm not too familiar with the previous two installments in the Star Ocean Trilogy, but after playing this game I wish I could have played the others. The PS2 was my calling a few years ago, because RPGs being my favorite genre and there were tons of them to choose from. I will also say that futuristic RPGs have been somewhat of a turn-off for me. I like the old fashioned swords/shields, magic and giant dragons. I bought this game anyway at the time because I wanted something different.

The game starts you off as a young man (typical right?) who is vacationing on a tropical planet with the family when after a bit of exploring, alien ships begin to attack. After separation from friends and family due to quick evacuation, you end up hurling through space in a transport ship. Thus begins a journey to find lost friends/family. Yes, there are many RPGs that have the same storyline but very few will have you explore alien planets, which range from primitive, stone age villages to futuristic military outposts.

The game is massive. I enjoy the hectic, real time battles where tactics should definitely be considered. The dungeons almost require you to come absolutely fully stocked up on upgrades, items and gear. The game is difficult too, yet one that will easily satisfy upon completion of the more meaningless tasks such as exploring an entire area (which nets you a trophy that does very very little)

The voice acting is not bad either, it brings the characters to life a bit more life and personality. The special abilities are smooth and fun to look at which doesn't make the grind unbearable, and the CG is fantastic. I recommend you are on vacation when you start this up.