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Seiken Densetsu Series
The Seiken Densetsu series is a fantasy based action/RPG series by Squaresoft Square Enix. In NA, the series is more commonly known as the Mana series. As expected from an RPG inspired action game, characters gain experience & levels; learn new abilities; equip weapons & armor; and all that other good stuff. The world in this series is supported by a magical tree known as the Mana Tree. Typically, the storylines revolve around saving this tree in some way or another. The art style in these games are beautiful, rich in color, and leaning on the 'cutesy' cartoony side. The magic & ability system is centered around magical spirits for each element of nature, including light and darkness. As an action game, the soundtracks are lively with varied beats and drums.
This series is well known among RPG fans and is well respected. Some titles are passionate most-favorites for many. The majority of fans agree that the Seiken Densetsu series was best during the 16-bit era, and began to decline in quality since.
Release Date:
June 8, 1991
/
November 1, 1991
1993
Platform:
Game Boy
Score:
3/5 
Final Fantasy Adventure
One of the first action/RPGs for the original 8-bit Game Boy (and the first real one worth playing)! In Japan it was known as Seiken Densetsu. They slapped the Final Fantasy name in the English release to make more $$$. Thwart the Dark Lord of Glaive (Shadow Knight in the Japanese version) and his sorcerer assistant Julius Vandole from destroying the Tree of Mana and dooming their world. You can equip a variety of special weapons. Companions assist you in battle.
*This is a dual shrine with Sword of Mana (GBA)
Release Date:
August 6, 1993
/ October 3, 1993
November 24, 1994
Platform:
Super Nintendo
Score:
4/5 
Secret of Mana
The sequel to Final Fantasy Adventure, Secret of Mana's intense popularity opened everyone's eyes to the potential of mixing RPG elements into an action game. The game's characters are a young swordsman, a magical Sprite girl, and a woman looking for her lost. Stop the evil Empire from unsealing the Mana seeds and conquering the world! Each character can equip a variety of special Mana powered weapons. The Sprite and girl can cast powerful magic to assist you in battle (Sprite's my favorite). Best of all, you can play the game with three players simultaneously!
Release Date:
September 30, 1995
2000 (fan translated)
Platform:
Super Nintendo
Score: 4/5
Seiken Densetsu 3
Due to the wild popularity of Secret of Mana, the sequel (which would've been called Secret of Mana 2 if officially released) was translated to English by fans for fans. The game offers loads of replay value by offering 6 characters to choose from, each with their own story arc. Choose one character as the lead and two to support you. You must draw the Sword of Mana from the Mana Tree and thwart the evil ambitions of the war mongering kingdoms! The best feature of this game is the in-depth job class system that allows your character to learn a variety of abilities and spells.
Release Date:
August 29, 2003
/ December 1, 2003
March 18, 2004
Platform:
Game Boy Advance
Score:
2/5 
Sword of Mana
This is the Game Boy Advance remake of Final Fantasy Adventure! The gameplay, features, and art style was adapted from Legend of Mana on the PlayStation 1. The general storyline is retained from the original. There are much more characters and dialogue. You still have a companion character fighting alongside of you. The layout of the world, towns, and dungeons were completely remade, creating an entirely new game.
*This is a dual shrine with Final Fantasy Adventure (Game Boy)