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Phantasy Star Series
The Phantasy Star series is a fantasy/sci-fi based traditional RPG series by Sega. Some might say it was Sega's answer to Final Fantasy, but the original Phantasy Star on the Sega Master System came out first! Phantasy Star has everything you'd expect from an RPG. What makes it stand out is the influence of science fiction among traditional fantasy. In the varied world of Phantasy Star you have wizards, half breeds, cyborgs, swords, plasma cannons, planetary travel, and more! As you can imagine, your battle party consists of an interesting selection of characters. Fighters learn skills (as in special attacks) and magic users use techniques (as in magic). Techniques are given eccentric names like Foi, Wat and Tsu.
This series is semi popular among RPG fans. Part 4 is the one everyone remembers while parts 1-3 are often forgotten. It can't be helped since the NES and SNES were so much more popular. It's a shame because this is a great series. Phantasy Star 1 in particular was ahead of its time with its gorgeous graphics and FM sound. (I don't have it shrined but I respect its feats.)
Release Date:
March 21, 1989
/
February, 1990
November 30, 1990
Platform:
Sega Genesis
Score:
3/5 
Phantasy Star II
The first Phantasy Star on the Genesis! Phantasy Star 2 is known for its long, tedious dungeons. It's an endless sea of stairways and corners that all look the same. Few can resist the temptation of looking to (my) maps for help. However that doesn't mean the game is terrible. It's for the RPG fan who wants a real challenge! One interesting feature of this game is that you can change party members at any time. And you need to because the usefulness of their abilities differs depending on the stage of the game you're in.
Release Date:
December 17, 1993
/ February 1995
December 8, 1995
Platform:
Sega Genesis
Score:
5/5 
Phantasy Star IV:
The End of the Millennium
The story takes place 1,000 years after Phantasy Star 2. Two bounty hunters stumble upon a plot by an evil magician named Zio. Soon they realize that Zio is merely the vanguard to a much greater evil! Phantasy Star 4 utilizes a very original comic book like system of illustrating the story. The battle system adds new features such as pre programmed attacks and combo attacks. The game often tricks you into thinking you're fighting a final battle, but you're not.