Legend of Mana

A given recommendation, but a qualified one for genre fans drawn to experimental design. The non-linear, fairytale-like structure offers real player agency alongside a stellar audiovisual presentation, lush pre-rendered vistas, and Yoko Shimomura's whimsical soundtrack. It is held back by being far too opaque for its own good, with minimal direction, poorly explained systems, and rigid, dated combat.

SwitchUp: 85.

Gorgeous remake visuals and soundtrack but shallow combat.