System: PSP
Dev: Alfa System
Pub: Namco Bandai
Release: Jul. 17, 2007
Players: 1
ESRB Rating: Teen
Review by Cole Smith

---

Review Rating Legend
1.0 - 1.9 = Avoid
2.0 - 2.4 = Poor
2.5 - 2.9 = Average
3.0 - 3.4 = Fair
3.5 - 3.9 = Good
4.0 - 4.4 = Great
4.5 - 4.9 = Must Buy
5.0 = The Best

It soon becomes evident that Radiant Mythology is little more than a cartoon segmented with hundreds of mini-game style side quests. The gameplay foundation is too weak to support an intense level of interest throughout, and therefore implodes upon itself.

Okay, so Radiant Mythology isn't the perfect RPG. It does entertain on a shallow level as it bridges the gap between an RPG and an action adventure game. During battles there are a lot of commands available on the interface. The list of commands changes with each particular character as it takes into account their skill level, occupation, and inventory of items. Unlike most turn-based battle systems, you have a lot more direct control over your character. Strategies can be changed at any time simply by calling up the interface and making changes. There is a level of automation to the battles that will appease action fans, as the system will automatically take into account your stats and the level of your opponent and let you have at it. But if you prefer, there are still plenty of choices that can be made on the interface for a greater degree of control- or fussing if you want to call it that.

Aside from fighting monsters, you will be required to collect food and other resources. Weapons, armor, and tools can be upgraded, or crafted, by some of these collectibles. All of these upgrades are then used to complete a side quest, whether through battles or obtaining more specialized items to further upgrade your items or skills. You will also earn fame points from battles which will give you more stature among the characters. As you become more famous, more popular characters will join your party.

The animated cartoon that appears as cutscenes in between quests is very well done. Not only does the 3D animation look great, but the voiceacting is heads and shoulders above the average RPG. The music is also very good. It's catchy and upbeat, but can get downright discordant when situations get tense. Overall the production values make this one of the best RPGs available for the PSP. Categorically speaking, hardcore RPG fans are likely to get bored with the gameplay rather quickly. Casual and newbies will get the most bang for their buck with this game as it brings them into the RPG genre gently. Best played in small doses.

By Cole Smith
CCC Senior Writer