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An epic story of good vs. evil, brilliant graphics, a great combat system and even a multiplayer vs. mode into a stunning RPG. Golden Sun transpires in a world shared by two immense continents, Angara and Gondowan. Here alchemy rules and rare individuals called Adepts have mastered Psynergy, or the ability to telekinetically move items and attack. As the game begins, two villainous mages hatch a diabolical plot to use four Elemental Stones to wreak unspeakable horror on Angara. And so Isaac and his fellow Adepts embark on a perilous journey to reach the stones first and save the world. [Nintendo]
All critic scores are converted to a 100-point scale. If a critic does not indicate a score, we assign a score based on the general impression given by the text of the review. Learn more... 100
G4 TV
It's the best original (nonport) GBA RPG to date, sporting stellar graphics, above-average sound, and a worthwhile experience (at least 20 hours of gameplay) that should make that next family roadtrip that much more tolerable.
 100
GamePro
A huge, fantastic, creative, and wickedly fun RPG that doesn’t seem to care that it’s “just” on a GBA. It’s easily the best RPG available for the GBA—and may just be the best RPG for any console system this year.
100
Nintendo Power
The beautiful quest is probably the richest, most intricate RPG ever to have hit a handheld. [Nov 2001, p.144]
100
Nintendophiles
With a gripping story, slick battle sequence, superior graphics, and a set of good tunes to boot, Golden Sun is a total package.
97
IGN
The quest is amazingly long, absolutely gorgeous to look at, a joy to listen to.
97
Nintendojo
Whether it be through design, story, or gameplay-– this solid title competes with some of the bigger titles we’ve played on some next generation systems.
95
TotalGames.net
‘brilliant’, ‘fantastic’ and ‘a breathtaking work of genius.'
94
Games Radar UK (Pre-2006)
Like a good book that you won't want to put down. Golden Sun is portable role-playing at its purest. Totally absorbing. [Advance]
93
netjak
I ended up playing it so much that my hands would literally fall asleep. When not even physical discomfort can keep you from playing a game, you know that's a special game indeed.
91
Gamer.tv
Dialogue isn't great, but then, when has RPG dialogue ever been great? The story is good enough to keep you playing, there's lots to see and do - it's a good 'un. If you're an RPG fan then Golden Sun will rock your elf-obsessed world.
91
GameSpy
The best RPG on the market. Its exceptional graphics and gameplay will keep you coming back.
90
GamePen
A highly engrossing story told by a set of very unique characters that come to life with witty and intriguing dialogue. If you’re looking for a game that doesn’t focus too much on pretty cinematics, but rather, interesting plot development and engrossing gameplay then look no further.
90
Armchair Empire
Gorgeous graphics, dazzling audio, a charming storyline and overall appealing game play -- and it all fits neatly inside your pocket!
90
Hot Games
It’s enjoyable, playable, and everything that fans of RPG’s could hope for.
90
Electronic Gaming Monthly
There is so much to Golden Sun that I can't help but fall head over heels for it. Every aspect of the game is soaked through with quality. [Jan 2002, p.233]
90
GMR Magazine
A deep combat engine and brilliant graphics make this the best RPG available on the GBA. [Feb 2003, p.97]
90
Total Video Games
Hard-core RPG fans may feel the game is too derivative, to a certain extent it is, but for the rest of us Golden Sun is both a fantastic game and a nice trip down memory lane.
90
Thunderbolt
As one of the most critical Nintendo fans around, it’s nice to see a game come out for the GBA that’s original, pretty, fun, and doesn’t involve any one of their stupid mascots.
90
Yahoo! Games
If you’re one of those many people who continue to pine for a Square RPG on your favourite Nintendo handheld, then rejoice because your prayers have damn near been answered with this game.
86
GameSpot
Featuring some of the best graphics seen on the system, a rich quest, and classic RPG gameplay, Golden Sun is a throwback to some of the SNES' best.
86
Gamer's Pulse
The crowning glory of Golden Sun lies in its stunning graphics. Great environments, characters, and especially fight scenes.
86
Pocket Games
An instant classic that raises the bar for portable RPGs. The story never comes together, but that's what the sequel's for. [Spring 2002, p.36]
85
GamerWeb Nintendo
Definitely worth the purchase despite a cliché plot, Golden Sun is visually and aurally impressive. A deep game that should offer a bare minimum of 30 hours of gameplay.
85
GameCritics
Works because of the little things—a fact that makes it a refreshing gaming experience in this day and age where everyone seems bent on completely overhauling the basic tenets of what makes a good game.
85
Game Informer
It's an honest-to-God new role-playing game, and I can safely say that Golden Sun rocks.[Jan 2002, p.96]
80
Play Magazine
A hand-drawn RPG incorporating exquisite detail and a blazing new look to battle sequences, it's the best thing to happen to portable role playing perhaps ever. [Feb 2002, p.65]
80
Gamestyle
The story, however, is an area where Golden Sun refuses to go above and beyond the clichéd characters and typical save-the-world plot.
80
eToychest
Golden Sun has a ton of potential, and I'm looking forward to seeing where it goes.
80
All Game Guide
Gameplay seldom strays from long-established RPG convention, but Golden Sun incorporates some of the best elements of classics such as the Final Fantasy, Phantasy Star, and even Legend of Zelda series, in its own distinct and unified style.
Mitchell B. gave it a10: Tyler H. gave it a10: James B. gave it a10: Andrew G. gave it a10: Dylan M. gave it a10: Joey F. gave it a10: Derek B. gave it a10: |
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