Grandia

Grandia is a role-playing video game developed by Game Arts and published by Sony Computer Entertainment. It was originally released for the Sega Saturn in 1997 in Japan and later for the PlayStation in 1999 in North America. The game is set in a fantasy world and follows the adventures of a young boy named Justin, who dreams of becoming an adventurer. Justin discovers an ancient map that leads him to a legendary continent, where he encounters a cast of characters and faces various challenges.

The gameplay in Grandia features a traditional turn-based combat system with a unique twist. The combat screen displays character and enemy icons moving along a timeline, allowing players to strategize their attacks and defenses. Actions taken by characters affect their position on the timeline, influencing the order of turns. The game is also known for its exploration elements, with players traversing diverse environments and solving puzzles.

Grandia received critical acclaim for its engaging storyline, charming characters, and innovative combat system. Its vibrant graphics and memorable soundtrack were also highlighted as strengths. The game was a commercial success and is considered a classic of its genre, often praised for its sense of adventure and optimistic tone. A sequel, Grandia II, was released later, continuing the series with a new story and characters.