"Nothing new and original, but it is a solid RPG."

The Legend of Heroes: A Tear of Vermillion debuts as the first traditional RPG for the PSP to hit the shores of the US.

Gameplay: 4/10

There really isn't anything to do in this game, other than to fight monsters and continue on with the plot. The game lacks mini games and sidequests, so all you do is follow the linear story. The closest thing you have outside the story would be your pet, but it doesn't do anything other than assist in battle. And even then all you do is try to keep it happy or piss it off, whatever effect you prefer. Basically, it is more or less an interactive story book. Now, it should be noted that there is an unlockable sidequest feature in the Japanese release. However, it did not make it here during the transition.

Story: 9/10

Ah yes, one of the games shining point. It's a tale of two young men out on a journey to find a girl, making many friends along the way. Yes, it is a cliched story, but there are many of us who are suckers for these things. The only weak point would be a rather horrid translation, with grammar, spelling, and translation errors are apparent to the untrained eye.

Battle System: 7/10

The battle system isn't anything original. It's a turn based system where you have limited movement. However, it is a circular movement grid, rather than a tile system. Too bad they still move like it's a tile system. Also, the battle animations eventually become stale, with the same animation used for attacks named different. And they were not anything to be impressed by in the first place. But it does get the job done.

Audio: 8/10

While not anything ground breaking, the music is pretty good in this game. Only weakness I could see was that sometimes, the Music didn't match the scenarios within the game too well.

Graphics: 6/10

It's sprite graphics. You love them or you hate them. Or you can be neutral. Doesn't matter, this game isn't one that relies on its graphics.

Replayability: 5/10

There really isn't anything that is going to make you want to replay the game. Like I said before, the game is linear. Chances of you missing something good are very slim. If you want to watch the interactive story again, go for it.

Buy or Rent: If you are not one for a text-heavy game, rent it if you can. You'll probably skipping most of the reading that makes the game long.

Overall: 7/10

Basically, if you are dying for a traditional RPG for your PSP, this is for you. But don't go out of your way buying a PSP for this game.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 11/28/05