Rediscovering the Lunar Remastered Collection: A Timeless JRPG Experience
If you were among the Sega CD enthusiasts during its peak, chances are you encountered skepticism regarding its lineup. Despite the frequent jests about full-motion video (FMV) games and the perceived inadequacy of Genesis ports, those in the know were privy to a valuable secret: the Sega CD hosted exceptional JRPGs. The Lunar series was a hidden gem for RPG aficionados fortunate enough to experience it. Now, with the Lunar Remastered Collection, new and old players can delve into the magic of the first two games from this iconic series.
A Miraculous Comeback for a Beloved Franchise
The revival of these classic titles is nothing short of remarkable. Initially, the PlayStation remakes introduced the Lunar games to a broader audience, bringing optimism for the series’ future. However, various factors, including Game Arts transitioning to the Grandia series and the closure of Western publisher Working Designs, stifled momentum. Over the years, attempts to rejuvenate the Lunar franchise have stumbled, plagued by complications tied to game rights. Although the first game resurfaced sporadically—like the PSP remake, Lunar: Silver Star Harmony—the sequel, Lunar: Eternal Blue, has remained elusive since its PlayStation release nearly 25 years ago.
Celebrating the Lunar Remastered Collection
The arrival of the Lunar Remastered Collection is indeed a momentous occasion. While there may be minor critiques regarding specific elements, the accessibility of Lunar: Silver Star Story Complete and Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete on contemporary platforms is a victory for fans. The remakes introduced several enhancements to the gameplay, enabling both nostalgia and fresh enjoyment. Moreover, the newly added quality-of-life features enhance the overall experience, allowing players to tailor their adventure.
Streamlined Gameplay Features
Among the most significant improvements is the option to accelerate battle sequences, featuring three adjustable speed settings. Given that *Lunar*’s battle pace can be sluggish, this feature is immensely beneficial. Furthermore, players now have access to a more versatile inventory system, allowing items to be utilized without needing to exist in a character’s personal inventory during combat. The collection also offers various graphical settings, letting fans choose between remastered widescreen views or the classic 4:3 ratio, ensuring an authentic yet upgraded experience. Save files seamlessly carry over, empowering players to transition between versions effortlessly.
Voice Acting Changes and Their Impact
One non-negotiable change is the English voice acting. Unfortunately, the original cast is not featured in this collection, likely due to rights complications. However, the new voices generally deliver commendable performances, even if nostalgic players may miss iconic portrayals like John Truitt’s Ghaleon. The localization here primarily reflects the original Working Designs scripts, which can occasionally result in some dialogue feeling awkward. Fortunately, players uncomfortable with this aspect can opt for the Japanese voiceovers.
A Lasting Legacy of Quality Storytelling
Both offerings in the collection remain exceptional, especially considering their historical context. Personally, I favor Lunar 2: Eternal Blue Complete, but each game is deserving of attention. The narratives and character developments found in both titles stand out, maintaining their appeal decades after release. While some gameplay mechanics rely on traditional approaches, the execution is consistently high-quality and engaging.
Final Thoughts: An Essential Play for JRPG Fans
Though a few adjustments, such as adding finer difficulty options similar to those in the mobile version, could enhance gameplay, the Lunar Remastered Collection remains an outstanding way to experience these beloved JRPG classics. If you are new to the series, it comes highly recommended. For returning players, this collection serves as a warm invitation to relive cherished memories. Welcome back, Lunar.
The Lunar Remastered Collection is set to launch on April 18th, 2025, available on Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC via Steam.
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