As for actual gameplay, this is mainly tried and tested stuff. But if it’s not broken, why fix it? Fortunately, for those who rip their hair out at the sound of random battle music, players can see enemies and choose whether to attack. Aside from the other standard battle mechanics of a turn-based RPG, there are a couple of features to make Blue Dragon a fresh experience. Firstly, players can cleverly lure various enemies into a battle in the hope they’ll turn on each other leaving you to cheekily sweep up the experience points and items. This will hopefully keep you on your toes and encourage you to think tactically about your approach, instead of systematically advancing on enemies. Secondly, each character in your party is followed by a Blue shadow, with Shu’s shadow being a dragon (Blue Dragon, get it?). These shadows will guard your squad, and are who you’ll be utilising for most of the battles.
For those of you who love impressive graphics (who doesn’t?), Blue Dragon will not disappoint you. But if you’re expecting Oblivion or Call of Duty style realism, you’re going to be in for a shock. Blue Dragon is more akin to Kameo in terms of style, only much more impressive. And there are plenty of cut scenes to get you drooling too.
All the noises coming out of Japan are positive, with a sequel already having been announced. It won’t be to everyone’s taste, but it seems Blue Dragon could well be the title that stops your JRPG loving, PS2 owning, friends from scoffing at your Xbox 360. In fact, with any luck they’ll be jealous.
Blue Dragon should be out in the US before summer with Europeans looking set for a longer wait.
