Graphically, you can expect similar quality to the other Square-Enix titles released so far on the DS. Just like Children of Mana, the 2D illustrations are simply beautiful and once again, the game features several short Anime style movies in between chapters. Units are presented by lively 2D sprites which are also often used in the non-Anime scenes besides the battles and maps are modelled in 3D which a look better than FFIII.


Square-Enix game graphics remain as good as ever.
Once again, there is no voice acting but the music is fairly good. Just like the interface, the music actually reminds me of Magical Vacation which isnt surprising considering HoM was developed by the same developer, Brownie Brown. Unlike some other RPGs such as the Final Fantasy series however, there wasnt any memorable tunes that clung to me.

Seiken Densetsu: Heroes of Mana is a fun new experience in the Mana series but sadly, bad AI and path finding really drags down the gameplay. As a so called RTS, there isnt much strategy to it because for the most part of the game, its a straight forward process of producing one type of fighting units and then ramming them into your enemies while your Charisma heroes do the rest. Nevertheless, the excellent presentation helps make up for its flaws.

Import Friendly?

Very import friendly because you dont have to pay attention to dialogue unlike RPGs. All you have to do is fight through stage after stage doing everything there is to do on the maps while, keeping your heroes alive. Just hold B to speed through the dialogue. You can also wait for the English version which has just been announced

Pros

• Simple RTS gameplay.
  
• Beautiful illustrations.
  
• Good blend of 2D and 3D graphics in battle.
  
• Smooth controls.
  
• Graded battles for replayability.

Cons

• Bad AI means your units like to stand and do nothing.
  
• Bad path finding.
  
• Feels a bit too slow.
  
• Wi-Fi is only for ranking, no online versus.