Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne

Role-Playing Console-style RPG

(Also known as "Shin Megami Tensei: Lucifer's Call") Shin Megami Tensei: Nocturne is actually the third game in the series, which first appeared on the Super Famicom. Remakes of the first two titles were recently released in Japan for the PlayStation and Game Boy Advance. While Nocturne continues the series' tradition of a modern-day post-apocalyptic setting, demonic overtones and mature themes, the PlayStation 2 version brings it into the next-generation of gaming with mind-blowing graphics and refinement of the gameplay system. Set in post-apocalyptic Tokyo, the game begins as nearly the entire population of the world is annihilated by a global catastrophe called the Conception. Now, the fate of the entire world lies on the shoulders of one boy, who must battle his way through opposing demonic forces and shape the world to come... or destroy it. Yesterday?s foe is today?s ally. Persuade over 100 different demons to join your party. Some demons may evolve into new forms on their own or fuse them to form even more powerful demons. Customize your character with Magatama, living parasites that grant the host demonic powers! Depending on the choices you make, you'll follow one of several ideologies which will ultimately determine the fate of the entire world! Special guest appearance by Dante, from Capcom's Devil May Cry series. Will he become your most feared enemy or your greatest ally? Over 50 hours of gameplay! [Atlus Software]

Radiata Stories

Role-Playing Console-style RPG

The latest fantasy RPG by tri-Ace, developers of "Valkyrie Profile" and the "Star Ocean" series. An emotional story about the conflict between humans and fairy creatures is complemented by a new gameplay system that draws the player deep into the game. The kingdom of Radiata lies in a world where humans and fairy creatures coexist. It is here that the protagonists, Jack and Ridley, meet for the first time. While Jack seeks to become a knight, Ridley must accept her fate in becoming one. Destinies are realized when a war erupts between the humans and the fairy creatures and threatens to end the world of Radiata. The popular traditional real-time battle system known for its straightforward controls and extravagant presentation has a new element. By forming a "link" attack, the player can execute combos and other moves with all party members joining as one. There are over 150 characters that Jack can recruit throughout his adventure. It is up to the player whether they journey alone or seek out others to journey with. Every playable character is beneficial in some way. [Square Enix]

Shadow Hearts: From the New World

Role-Playing Console-style RPG

The story begins as Johnny Garland, a young, 16-year old detective who lost his father, sister and his memory in an accident, accepts an investigation to track down a criminal suspect who escaped from custody. As he closes in on the suspect, Johnny witnesses a supernatural occurrence - a huge monster appears from a green light known as the "window" and swallows up the criminal. Apparently, a series of horrific incidents similar to this have been plaguing the cities across the nation. Johnny's female counterpart is 21-year-old bounty hunter Shania, a Native American who is searching for these mysterious windows and determined to fight them using her spiritual powers. Together, they travel around the states and are joined by other characters.

.hack//Infection Part 1

Role-Playing Action RPG

A fourteen year old boy named Kite is invited by his schoolmate, Orca, to play the online game The World. While playing the game both Kite and his friend are attacked by an unknown monster. As a result, Orca becomes comatose in the real world. Despite his friend's condition, Kite continues to play The World believing he'll find a way to revive Orca. While playing, Kite accepts Book of Twilight from a mysterious girl in white. Kite is transformed into an outlaw player within the game wielding the very same power responsible for Orca's condition. [Bandai]