As for the Dawn of the New World, it’s pretty much the same. Visuals have been improved and an option to pick between Japanese and English audio is possible. Content wise, there’s really nothing to find in this game. Since it’s most likely rare to find this game at your local retailer, fans of the first game who missed out on Dawn of the New World can pick up this game. If you love trophies, expect a lot to collect from this game as well.
When it comes to the quality of Dawn of the New World, I must say that it’s the weakest Tales game in the series. After the events of the first game, a new hero will emerge and solve the problems caused by the heroes of the first game. The story may start off good, but it drags down as you play through the game. Combat-wise, they are pretty much the same but they added a little flair to it by introducing the ability to use pets in battle. Instead of having party members to help you out, several pets will be available in the game for you to catch and raise. Think of them as Pokemon where you will battle them, tame it, and catch it. Yes, the idea is cool for a JRPG game but it doesn’t work well in a Tales game sadly.
Another disappointing feature that I found in Dawn of the New World from the first time it was released up until now is the world map. In the first game, you are freely given a chance to explore the world while in Dawn of the New World, you are now restricted in picking up your next location through a list of menus. The things you love such as exploring the world and battling random enemies are all taken away to a much simplified form. It’s not bad, but it’s a disappointing.
Tales of Symphonia Chronicles is a great HD compilation for gamers who have never played them before on the Nintendo Gamecube or Nintendo Wii. The classic JRPG feel, bundled with amazing storylines and characters are all the things JRPG fans are looking for and can be found here. For those who have played them before, there is very little reason to get this HD compilation as not a lot has been added except for the visual improvements and trophies. Sure, the graphics look a lot better, but you can see that this game is old and has not aged well- though it’s still considered as one of the Tales games in my book. Well, not Dawn of the New World but the first game that is.
[Editor’s Note: Tales of Symphonia Chronicles was reviewed on the PS3 platform. The game was provided to us by the publisher for review purposes.]
