Back in the late 90's Konami introduced RPG tactics lovers to the world of Vandal Hearts. It was followed up a few years later with a sequel and since then has fallen off the face of the Earth like many believed the early explorers of the new world would do once they reached the end of the ocean. But since we all know the world is round, you end up right back where you began if you follow along the same path which is exactly what has happened in Vandal Hearts: Flames of Justice. This isn't the third episode of the series, but rather a prequel that leads up to the first game. What remains is this burning question, is 1200 Microsoft points justifiable for Flames of Justice?

Gameplay:

Tobias Martin (the main character/hero) and friends seem to live normal teenage lives until they are thrust into the midst of a battle they do not understand and the tendrils of redemption, revenge, and deception coil around every new story element. It's hard to explain the story of Vandal Hearts without spoiling it for the reader, but Konami does a decent job providing a deep story that also allows the player to choose which path and/or side to take in certain scenarios. Certain towns have taverns where information is supposed to be gathered, but it is rather pointless and adds little to the overall storyline.

Vandal Hearts: Flames of Justice is a turned based RPG game that uses the same combat system that the first title did, and those not familiar with the series it follows closely to games like Final Fantasy Tactics and Fire Emblem. Each player in the group can only move a certain amount of squares on the battle map based on their movement speed. Once the chosen destination is reached a battle menu pops on the screen allowing the player to choose what they want to do; attack, magic, action or defend. Attacking can be done with close range weapons, such as swords and hammers, if the player is standing next to an enemy or long range weapons (bow and arrows) can be equipped. Changing back and forth between weapon types doesn't cost a turn and can be found under "action" in the battle menu. The magic option opens another menu where the player can decide which type of magic they want to use; Damage, Hex, Heal, and Augment. The action and defend choices are for item usage, weapon swap, opening chests, and defending the chosen direction. The streamlined options and combat makes VH: FoJ a great casual gaming experience with some strategy that doesn't overwhelm the player with options. The characters weapons and armor can be upgraded through stores along the way as well as equipping books in the item slot to learn new magic spells.

As the story progresses the difficulty and number of enemies that are thrown at your ragtag band of justice seekers increases for quite a challenge. The game is unforgiving if a player makes a fatal mistake rushing headlong into the fold of enemies without a basic battle plan which will make that 25 minute skirmish be all for naught. Each encounter has its own set of objectives and goals that the player must meet in order to win and advance. The best part is that the same goal isn't repeated over and over, but the player is put into different circumstances such as escape the map before being killed or captured by the endless waves of enemies or have a certain key character survive. The most annoying part of the gameplay is the lack of a auto save feature. After being spoiled so long by games that have this option I find myself aghast that this would be excluded from VH: FoJ, but I'd have to say that this is mostly due to the fact that I powered down my console only to load my game and replay over an hour worth of the story. After each battle and shopping excursion a load screen pops up that displays some concept art, early character design, and tips for the game. At first these were welcome additions, but the novelty wore off quickly since the load screens come often and when leaving a camp (which should include the world map and save option without a load time!!).

Graphics:

Vandal Hearts: Flames of Justice won't overawe a player with eye candy, but it is decent enough considering it looks better than some full retail games available on the XBOX 360. The 'cartoony' characters have a dwarfish or hobbit look about them that is strangely appealing and look like some of the CG cartoons on television. The level design is great and not one board will leave the player feeling like they have battled here before and range from dark caverns to medieval city streets. Each combat simulation is wonderfully represented by the action being performed with the chosen character and/or enemy. While many XBLA titles offer storyboard cutouts for their cut scenes, VH: FoJ uses some great animation to capture the mood and further develop the narrative.

Audio:

The music of VH: FoJ helps set the mood of the dialogue screens, as well as the combat situations. Although the melodies found within the game are typical in most fantasy RPGs, they add to the experience rather than diminish it. During the cut scenes there is some respectable voice acting instead of accustomed subtitles found in numerous XBLA games. The sound effects are inspired by the battle orders, whether its weapons clashing, the exerted grunts of effort, or conjured magic, are notably executed.

Longevity:

Vandal Hearts: Flames of Justice main story line will allocate many hours to complete without fully exploring every possible battle map. With the addition of two similar endings, based upon who on your team you side with more often two play throughs wouldn't be useless. Completionists will have to play through twice to fully obtain all the achievements. Unfortunately the game doesn't have a difficulty setting for a more intense challenge that will keep gamers coming back for more than two campaign jaunts. The game is great to pick up and play for a quick battle, but beware the addictive turn-based combat can leave the player wondering how one battle changed into playing for hours.

Overall:

Konami presented the XBLA with a fine turn-based RPG game that will have players testing out different strategies and exploring every nook and cranny on the battle field seeking plunder. While hardcore enthusiasts will find this a mediocre diversion, many gamers will find this a pleasant addition to their games library. Players aren't going to find that Vandal Hearts will blow them away with stunning graphics or an epic soundtrack, but with the core gameplay being enjoyable and a good story line they will certainly be entertained for countless hours.