(continued from previous page) ...it to manual.

The combat menu is very simplistic which allows an easy integration into this genre for newcomers. The menu is pretty bare bones and has a simple to the point working. One of the other downfalls to this battle system is the fact that the loading feels kind of lagged between the environment and the battle screen. Because the battles are all random, this can get annoying very quickly. The random fights are also too quick in occurrence thus forcing you to get a feel of repetitiveness that might not sit well with you. The fact that most battles are ended quickly makes this even worse.

As far as magic goes, this game is your standard magic point based style. You’ll have your special attacks that require MP and you’ll have to replenish them to keep on using them. This game isn’t anything special in this department, just very generic. It’s what you’ve come to expect out of most standard RPG formats. However, there was one upside to the visual effects for these attacks. Agetec did a marvelous job creating fantastic effects in just a 2D pixilation atmosphere. Anybody who tries it will be pleasantly surprised.

One of the nicest features about this title is the way the NPC’s interact with the main character. Their dialogue is not only witty and entertaining but they put Pietro in some funny situations as well. Make sure to visit everywhere in the castle before going out to the forest; that way you won’t miss out on some funny events, like being lit on fire. If that isn’t reason enough to explore the castle, the slew of treasure chests surely is. There are about 15 treasure chests scattered throughout the area, so make sure you check it out.

Another small but noticeable feature you may enjoy in this game, is unlike some RPG’s, your character is always engaged to running in PoPoLoCrois. This will save you from having to hold down a button in order to run like some RPGs force you to do. There is, however, a walk button for those of you who like to take your time.

The graphics are the bread and butter of this title. Don’t go into it expecting fleshed out over-the-top graphics. These are pixilated designs that are done at an incredible level. The detail and time it must have taken to create the world is just astounding. I was very impressed by the environment and character design and this one thing alone almost makes the game worth playing. The vibrant atmosphere in this 2D rendered game is nothing shy of fantastic.

However, one feature that seemed to annoy us to no end was the score. This game features a terrible harmonica score that almost makes your ears bleed. After about ten minutes, we found ourselves muting the handheld and enjoying the simplistic sound of background music. Don’t expect anything worth noting out of this aspect of the title.

In the end, even with the stellar graphics and the easy to adapt to style for beginners, PoPoLoCrois falls short in the entertainment department. With the repetitive battle system, horrid soundtrack, and slight lag between toggles of menus, this game just doesn’t cut it with so many other RPGs available for the PSP handheld.