Valkyrie Profile

{
"short": "Valkyrie Profile is a 1999 action role-playing game drawing from Norse mythology, following the valkyrie Lenneth as she gathers heroes. It features unique combat and a compelling story, earning critical acclaim.",
"long": "## Introduction\n\n*Valkyrie Profile*, released in 1999, is a role-playing video game that blends action and fantasy elements, drawing inspiration from Norse mythology. Developed by tri-Ace and published by Square Enix, the game centers around the valkyrie Lenneth as she journeys through Midgard, collecting the souls of fallen heroes. These souls are then used as either einherjar or companions for the approaching Ragnarok, the pivotal battle determining the fate of all creation. The game's unique gameplay mechanics and compelling narrative have earned it a dedicated following.\n\n## Development & Release\n\n*Valkyrie Profile* was developed by tri-Ace and published by Enix, later Square Enix, and was first released on December 22, 1999, for the PlayStation. The game's soundtrack was composed by Motoi Sakuraba. The original release was followed by enhanced ports, including *Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth* for the PlayStation Portable, and subsequent releases for Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5. The game's success led to further entries in the series, solidifying its place in the RPG genre.\n\n## Gameplay & Content\n\nThe core gameplay of *Valkyrie Profile* involves a combination of side-scrolling exploration, turn-based combat, and strategic party management. Players control Lenneth and her recruited einherjar, exploring environments and engaging in battles against various monsters. The game features a deep combat system with action-oriented elements and a focus on chain attacks. Players must carefully manage their party, utilizing the unique skills of each einherjar to overcome challenges. The game's story unfolds through a series of chapters, with a narrative that delves into the past lives of the einherjar and Lenneth's own origins. According to HowLongToBeat, completionists can expect around 61.3 hours to fully experience the game.\n\n## Critical Reception\n\n*Valkyrie Profile* has received positive reviews from critics. GamingTrend stated, \"Valkyrie Profile uses the conventions of a dungeon crawler to highlight an aspect of games, and really humanity itself, that often goes understated.\" Try Hard Guides gave the game a perfect score, calling it \"a fantastic game for the right audience.\" PSX Brasil highlighted that \"Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth is one of the most important classic JRPGs in history, even if it is less well known than other titles in the genre.\" The game's unique blend of gameplay mechanics and narrative has resonated with players, contributing to its "Mighty" OpenCritic tier.\n"
}