Shining Force II 1993

Released: October 1, 1993
Genres: Role-playing (RPG) · Strategy · Turn-based strategy (TBS)
Platforms: Linux · Wii · Sega Mega Drive/Genesis · PC · Mac
Developer: Camelot Software Planning
More info: Wikipedia IGDB

Where to buy

In a collection: Sega Genesis Classics

Steam Nintendo PlayStation Xbox

Sega Mega Drive and Genesis Classics

Steam
Physical: Search on Amazon

Affiliate links: GOG, Fanatical, Green Man Gaming, ININ Games and Amazon

Is it still worth playing?

Sonic! Software Planning's 1993 tactical role playing game for the Genesis, in which Bowie leads the Shining Force after a magic seal is broken and the demon king Zeon is released. The party travels across the continent of Parmecia to gather allies, obtain the Force Sword and seal Zeon again. Outside combat you explore towns, talk to people and manage your party. Each unit has a class that determines its usable weapons and spells, and units gain levels from battles. At level 20 a unit can promote to a stronger class, and some characters have two possible promotions, one of which needs a hidden item. Battles are turn based on a square grid, and you win by defeating all enemies or the enemy commander. A lost battle only sends you back to town and one hidden item changes some promotions, so it stays forgiving and worth exploring today.