Gaming Target - Game Boy: Lufia: The Legend Returns

Written by Daniel Ekman on September 18, 2001

First Impressions: Fans of the classic Super Nintendo Lufia has something to look forward to.

Lufia is still remembered fondly by many, and with The Legend Returns Never-Land Company has created a true sequel that takes place 100 years after the defeat of the Sinistrals. Unfortunately the Sinistrals are back and have raised a floating fortress called Doom Island from the depths of the sea. Being even stronger this time around after having partnered up with Balzak, the God of Fire, the Sinistrals are not to be taken lightly.

The game starts when Wain, a lone hero in the village of Patos, meets a mysterious woman named Seena. Seena, strong-minded and a little sentimental, has begun her journey alone with a certain destiny. When Seena happens to meet Wain she feels something inside of him that she has never felt in others. Seena wants to solve the riddles of the four towers, and after having talked to Wain she decides that she could need his assistance. Along the way as many as ten other characters will come into play, each of them with a unique personality and different special attacks.

Even if the promised plot has strong ties with previous Lufia games, there is one big difference in the gameplay department: all of the dungeons in this title will be randomly generated. Additionally, the randomly generated Ancient Cave from Lufia II makes a return, and still resets the characters' level to zero upon entering it. The over 200 floors of this cave promises many secrets along with precious items, though.

The main character Wain will travel through those dungeons with at least two sword moves, with which he will hack and slash his way towards victory. He won't be alone, however, as up to nine characters can be taken into battle simultaneously. Their ability to use magic is affected by how they are placed during battle, and care should be taken so that a game over won't ensue. While treading the soil of a monster-ridden dungeon, one can always hope that there won't be any nasty surprises. Thankfully the developer has opted not to include randomly generated battles, and thus enemies will be fully visible on screen.