Illusion of Gaia

Game Details:

Illusion of Gaia tells the epic story of the protagonist Will embarking on a journey to find his missing father, gradually becoming involved in the fate of saving the world. In the adventure, players will explore relics around the world, such as the Egyptian pyramids, Mayan ruins, and the Great Wall of China. The combat system is real-time action, featuring a character transformation mechanic. Will can transform into the powerful knight "Freedan" or the mysterious warrior "Shadow," possessing completely different combat styles. The game blends real-world civilization elements with a fantasy background in terms of gameplay and narrative, with a profound plot and moving music, and is hailed as one of the "Soul Trilogy" (along with _Illusion of Gaia_ and _Terranigma_) on the SFC platform.

Editor's Recommendation:

If you are an action-adventure game enthusiast, you definitely can't miss Illusion of Gaia. This game not only has a deep plot and world setting, but also integrates action, puzzle-solving, and character growth systems in terms of gameplay. Unlike traditional JRPGs, this game does not have a level system. Instead, it increases abilities by defeating enemies, making combat more focused on strategy and operation. In addition, the transformation system is a highlight, allowing players to respond flexibly in different scenarios. The game has exquisite graphics and music composed by Yōichirō Yoshikawa, which is extremely infectious. The plot revolves around humanity, fate, and sacrifice, which is enough to move people's hearts.

Game Guide:

In Illusion of Gaia, players will experience the growth journey from an ordinary teenager to a savior. One of the game's biggest features is the character transformation system and hidden content. Below are the key points of a comprehensive guide:

1. Character Forms Introduction and Acquisition Methods:

• Will: Initial form, can use a flute for melee attacks, and has special skills such as "Spin Attack" and "Slide Through Walls."
• Freedan: Obtained through the first transformation in a mysterious ruin, a strength-type character, with a significantly increased attack range and damage, suitable for mid-game battles.
• Shadow: A character that can only be transformed into in the final stage, attacks with energy waves, can penetrate enemies, and is key to fighting the final boss.

2. Hidden Red Jewel Collection:

• There are 50 Red Jewels in the game. Collecting them all allows you to enter the hidden level "Jeweler's Mansion." These Red Jewels are distributed in various towns and ruins, and some require specific conditions to trigger a conversation to obtain them.
• It is recommended that every time you reach a new area, repeatedly talk to all NPCs and explore the corners to avoid missing one-time collection opportunities.
• You can find the "Jeweler Gem" to check the current progress and confirm the number of collected jewels.

3. Combat Skills:

• Different forms are suitable for different enemies: for example, enemies with frequent melee attacks are recommended to use Will or Shadow.
• Pay attention to using invincibility frames to switch transformations and slide to avoid skills during combat.
• Increasing attack power or health after clearing enemies in a room, don't miss it!

4. Key Plot Points:

• Sacrifices and choices will appear in the later stages of the game, and the fate of some NPCs depends on your choices.
• If you want to see the complete ending and hidden boss, be sure to collect all the Red Jewels, and it is recommended to make multiple save files.

5. Tips:

• The game does not have an experience value system, defeating enemies is only used to increase abilities, so don't repeatedly grind monsters meaninglessly.
• The strategy recommends exploring the entire map as much as possible in the first playthrough, and challenging to collect all Red Jewels to achieve the hidden ending in the second playthrough.