Finally there's the tension system which allows you to store power for devastating attacks. To take advantage of the system players will use the "Psyche Up" command to build up the character's power for several turns, and then unleash a very powerful attack that can turn the tide of battle. In this kind of state, a character could defeat a seemingly unstoppable creature with one or two blows.

Final Thoughts

Dragon Quest VIII on the surface seems like your standard turn-based role-playing game, but when you take into account all the charm, dazzle and sizzle rolled into this game, coupled with the North American release touches, you can't deny that it is one RPG that is worth watching out for when it hits retail in November. I can't wait to get my hands on the game and hope it is every bit as good as the very first game that came to North America on the Nintendo Entertainment System so many moons ago.

In the meantime, check out these brand new Dragon Quest VIII screens !

© 2004, 2005 ARMOR PROJECT/BIRD STUDIO/LEVEL-5/SQUARE ENIX



© 2004, 2005 KOICHI SUGIYAMA All rights reserved, used with permission.