I’m about to get this game. I’ve heard much about it. Anyone else played it? What should I expect?
Topic Summary: Grandia III discussion: linear but fun battle system, lacks side quests, worth a play for fans.
Topic Overview (Wikipedia):
Grandia III is a role-playing video game developed by Game Arts and published by Square Enix for the PlayStation 2 console. Originally released in Japan in August 2005, the game was released in English in North America in February 2006, and is the first main series Grandia title to not be released in Europe. Grandia III was re-released on the North American PlayStation 3 store on July 21, 2016. The game was designed by much of the key staff of previous games in the series and includes many features seen in its predecessors, including the battle system. Music for the game was provided by series veteran Noriyuki Iwadare, and features the opening theme song “In the Sky” performed by Japanese pop/rock artist Miz.
— Read more on Wikipedia
Wow, I haven’t heard anything about it. I guess partly because I haven’t been looking, lol.
Even though the graphics for Grandia II sucked, I really liked it—good story, characters, and a unique battle system. Glad to see a Grandia III finally being released.
Been waiting for something like this; recently nothing good to play in a while. Ahh, it’s about time I did some research!
Thanks for the info.
I was really surprised the day I heard this long thought dead series was rising from the ashes once again. After playing Xtreme I was hoping for much more, and that’s exactly what I got.
Grandia III is just like the other Grandias that came before it—an epic journey where friendships are made and love is found. With a new unique battle system (like an improved Star Ocean 3), you travel with Yuki and friends around the world in a neat plane.
I was excited when I found out I could take to the skies… However, the skies are limited.
Access to new and outside places that aren’t on the linear gamepath go nowhere. One of the serious cons of this 2-disc game.
Adding an addicting card game does not cover up the lack of side quests. The leveling system, however, was completely fun and a total blast with the new fighting system.
Definitely tides me over until other games hit the market. I enjoyed the unique background and chemistry between most characters.
The dubbing wasn’t even that bad. I was pretty surprised overall with how enjoyable this game was.
I only gave it a 4 out of 5 due to its few but minor flaws. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for another quick smash and grab.
I remember picking up Grandia III back in the day after loving Grandia II, and I mostly agree with kelvinismyname’s take. The battle system is definitely the highlight—it’s fast, strategic, and the combo system feels satisfying. But yeah, the linearity is a letdown, especially coming from the more open-ended Grandia II. I think the game’s biggest strength is how it balances story pacing with gameplay; it never drags. The card game is a nice distraction, but I wish they’d put that effort into side dungeons instead. For anyone on the fence, I’d say it’s worth playing if you can grab it cheap—it’s a solid 15-20 hour ride with no filler. Has anyone tried the post-game content? I heard there’s a secret boss, but I never got around to it.