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The Honolulu Advertiser
Posted on: Friday, April 14, 2006

VIDEO GAME REVIEW
'Wild Arms' on PS2 retells original story

By John Breeden II
Washington Post

Eight years ago, when "Wild Arms" came out for the original PlayStation, gamers were amazed not just at the anime-heavy world but also the interesting mix between fantasy magic and Western-like firearms. Over the years the series has spawned four sequels. And now, it is time to return to the beginning.

"Wild Arms Alter Code: F" (rated T, for teen; for PlayStation2) is a retelling of the original story and should enthrall players who missed characters Rudy Roughknight, Jack Van Burace and Cecilia Lynne Adlehyde — and this time we really get to know them.

It takes place on Filgaia, which is dying from an ecological disaster after a war. The three heroes must embark on a quest to prevent the metal demons, who caused the war, from returning.

There is a heavy emphasis on puzzles in "Wild Arms." Dungeons can be navigated only by using each character's special abilities. When combat starts, you are dropped into a turn-based interface in which you can plan the attacks of each of your party. Combat is a huge part of the game, but there is a way to escape many minor battles without penalty — a nice function that wasn't in the original.

You get your money's worth — the game took about 40 hours to complete.