The Final Fantasy Legend

The Good
The mysterious storyline and layout of the worlds presented in FFL create a unique atmosphere. The graphics and sound were superlative in 1989 and stand out as some of the best on the original Game Boy. Character flexibility is paramount, with three entirely different methods of advancement for the three different character types (Human, Mutant and Monster). While challenging, the game is not insanely difficult; the challenge level can be manipulated easily by such methods as using less characters, not developing the characters well, or using improper equipment. Overall FFL presents a satisfying gaming experience and can be a welcome diversion even today.

The Bad
FFL makes great use of one particular item trait -- limited uses. While this is to be expected with missile and magic weapons, it seems out of place with such things as swords, axes and shields. This adds to the challenge and strategy aspects of the game, however, and indeed can change from a negative to a positive in the player's mind very quickly once the player becomes used to it. The characters in FFL are exceedingly flat, but as this was 1989 and there wasn't much space on the cart, Square can't really be blamed. The story's resolution is a bit of an anticlimax, and the game could have been longer; those are the only two negative traits that really stick out.

The Bottom Line
FFL is not truly a Final Fantasy. It is, as the Japanese title indicates, part of the SaGa series. (Modern gamers might be familiar with other titles in the series such as SaGa Frontier.) Customary FF elements do have analogues, including the three-element attack magic system (Fire, Ice and Lightning) and a warmech-type boss in one of the later worlds, but overall the feel is quite different. FFL's main strengths come in its eminently customizable characters and its solid visual and audio presentation -- and the surprising final enemy.

The trek up the universe-spanning Tower in search of the secrets of Paradise crosses four major Worlds, each suffering under the domination of a fiend from ancient Asian mythology. As the player advances through each world, hints are given of something greater, more sinister at work, leaving the player with a desire to move higher and higher through the worlds -- as if the quest for Paradise wasn't enough! For such an old and little package, FFL manages to deliver quite a hook. Hardcore FF fans will need to adjust a bit to FFL's SaGa-born quirks, but the game's charm and fun will make that a breeze.