The Super Nintendo Entertainment System reached its peak in popularity around 1993. The SNES and SEGA’s Mega Drive competed for market share against Commodore’s Amiga 500, which had surpassed the Atari ST in sales and performance. Today, these platforms are considered cult classics and have been revived in forms such as the SNES Classic Mini and an upcoming Atari console (its features, including potential ST support, remain to be seen). Secret of Mana, a JRPG that became a significant title in the genre, has been re-released 25 years later with HD graphics and 3D visuals for Sony’s console and PC.
1993 and 2018.
While other Square RPGs, such as the Final Fantasy series, employed turn-based combat, Secret of Mana integrates action elements into its role-playing system. The narrative follows a traditional JRPG structure, featuring a chosen hero tasked with preventing the spread of darkness. However, the writing and character development possess a surprising depth and emotional resonance. Despite its original release date, the fantasy narrative and its overall tone have aged gracefully.
As previously mentioned, this remake features HD graphics, updated 3D models, and a re-orchestrated soundtrack intended to provide a “more modern” interpretation of the original. Regardless of the modernization efforts, Secret of Mana features a soundtrack that may not appeal to all listeners (as demonstrated in the video above). Players may prefer listening to alternative background music (film scores are a good option), even if it means missing some of the sampled voice lines.
Secret of Mana offers an accessible and intuitive experience for both JRPG veterans and newcomers. However, a primary critique is that the remake focuses primarily on updating the presentation without addressing certain dated gameplay mechanics. While Secret of Mana remains an enjoyable game, some aspects feel archaic. For example, item trading relies heavily on chance; players must often guess the effects and advantages of items based solely on their price, without clear indicators. Furthermore, the restriction that characters cannot utilize all armor types can lead to frustrating situations where players inadvertently waste currency on unusable equipment.
The local co-op functionality is excellent and feels contemporary. Secret of Mana successfully blends classic and modern elements, making it appealing to both returning fans and new players. However, a prerequisite for enjoyment is an appreciation for the JRPG genre. Overall, the experience was engaging, and the game world is certainly worth revisiting.
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