SM Rating: 95

How do you improve on an RPG that is arguably the best game released on the Sega CD? Just ask Working Designs, because with the release of Lunar: SSSC, they have managed to turn a cult classic into the best RPG available on the Playstation. For anyone who has never played Lunar before, you are in for a shock. Proving polygons are not needed to make a great game, Lunar features beautifully detailed backgrounds and classic sprite based characters. The strikingly vivid animated cut scenes and unrivaled voice-overs will immediately draw you in. Each character has a unique feel to them and the amazing voice acting only adds to this. With the help of the voice talents of John Truitt, the Magic Emperor is easily the best villain ever to grace a video game. The story that Lunar weaves is it's strongest point. You find yourself rushing to find out where the story will take you next. However, don't rush too much or you may find yourself missing some of the best moments in Lunar. It seems that after almost every major event even the most inconsequential villager has something new to say, usually with hilarious results. Lunar takes every opportunity to keep you immersed in the story once it has pulled you in, with little extras like Dual Shock heightening the experience. The gameplay is classic menu driven combat, but actually requires thought. Quick button mashing will only lead you to an equally quick death.

The packaging featured with Lunar is something virtually unseen in the U.S. It features a full color hardbound manual, a cloth map, a music CD, and a "making of" CD. With extras like this, Working Designs should have no problems appeasing Lunar fans and making quick converts of everyone else.

This is a game that will sell systems, with gamers actually buying Playstations just to play it. Lunar is a true masterpiece that everyone should experience.