Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Tales of Legendia’s battle system follows the series’ signature Linear Motion Battle System, offering fluid, real-time combat on a 2D plane. You directly control Senel or another party member, while the remaining allies act according to AI tactics you assign before each fight. This hybrid approach keeps encounters lively without overwhelming newcomers, and allows you to focus on pulling off satisfying combos and Artes.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

Beyond standard attacks, the game encourages experimentation through its Fusion Artes system: chaining specific moves in sequence unlocks powerful new abilities. Mastering these combinations feels rewarding, as you watch Senel unleash devastating techniques or see Shirley support the team with her mystic powers. With nearly fifty Artes to discover, you’ll find yourself mixing and matching move sets to suit different foes and playstyles.

Exploration on the gargantuan ship Legacy is more than mere backdrop. You’ll traverse bustling ports, eerie ruins and lush forest decks, each area offering hidden treasures or recipe ingredients. The cooking mechanic stands out—collect materials to recreate traditional dishes that boost stats or heal post-battle. It’s a charming diversion that adds depth to loot gathering and reinforces the sense of living aboard a floating civilization.

Graphics

On PlayStation 2 hardware, Tales of Legendia punches above its weight with richly detailed character models and expressive facial animations. Designer Kosuke Fujishima’s signature art style shines through in the distinctive silhouettes and flowing costumes, capturing the characters’ personalities even in mid-battle. Voice lines accompany key actions, lending each hit and parry extra impact.

The environments are varied and well-realized: from the sunlit decks of Legacy’s upper levels to the dimly lit catacombs beneath the ship’s hull, each location feels lived-in. Light shafts filter through portholes, and particle effects—sparks, swirling motes of pollen or magic dust—elevate the world’s mystical ambiance. Though occasional texture pop-in occurs, it rarely hampers immersion.

Cutscenes blend in-engine footage with beautifully animated, hand-drawn sequences. These vignettes highlight crucial story moments with dramatic camera angles and well-timed musical swells. Overall, Legendia’s presentation still holds up, delivering a vibrant, anime-inspired aesthetic that fans of JRPG artistry will appreciate.

Story

At its heart, Tales of Legendia is the tale of Senel Coolidge, a white-haired loner devoted to his younger sister Shirley. Their world turns upside down when they chance upon Legacy—a colossal vessel that once housed an ancient civilization. As they explore this floating continent, they uncover ruins, relics and legends that hint at secrets older than memory itself.

The narrative gains momentum when Shirley is mysteriously abducted by agents seeking her latent connection to the ship’s ancient power. Senel’s quest to rescue her becomes a journey of self-discovery and emotional growth. Along the way, he assembles a motley crew—an ex-first mate, a spirited princess, and a silent harbinger of the old faith—each with personal stakes in Legacy’s fate.

The pacing balances lighter character banter and ‘skits’ with high-stakes intrigue. You’ll witness tender sibling moments juxtaposed against betrayals and revelations about the world’s cyclical history. While the story sometimes leans on JRPG tropes, its focus on family bonds and cultural identity gives Legendia a distinct thematic flavor that keeps you invested.

Overall Experience

Tales of Legendia is a standout JRPG that blends engaging real-time battles with an evocative sense of wonder. Its battle mechanics reward strategic planning and skillful execution, while the cooking system and exploration add charming layers of depth. Even years after its release, the game’s systems feel robust and accessible.

The strong voice acting, compelling character arcs and richly realized environments make for an immersive voyage aboard the enigmatic ship Legacy. Although some players may find the story’s pace deliberate and the graphics occasionally show their age, the heartfelt themes and memorable cast sustain the adventure from start to finish.

For fans of classic Tales entries or anyone seeking a story-driven JRPG with real-time combat, Tales of Legendia remains a worthy voyage. It rewards patient exploration and curious experimentation, promising dozens of hours uncovering secrets and forging bonds with a ragtag crew determined to save both their world and each other.

Retro Replay Score

7.2/10