Mostly known for its action and side-scroller games, the Game Gear also had its fair selection of RPGs for players to choose from, and many still have a cult following today. As far as video game consoles of that generation go, the Game Gear was praised for its extensive game library and processing power. We‘re going to take a look at the absolute best Sega Game Gear RPGs released. But first, let‘s provide some background on the rise of RPG video games.
The Evolution of RPG Video Games
We saw the birth of tabletop RPGs in the 1970s, with the release of the world-renowned Dungeons & Dragons in 1974, arguably the first modern RPG. This kickstarted the growth of the tabletop RPG industry, with titles such as Tunnels and Trolls, Traveller, and Runequest following shortly after.
Games often required a gamemaster, who was in charge of the setting and rules, and players took on various roles and performed tasks like battling monsters. Characters had attributes like hit points, strength, dexterity, intelligence, and stamina that could be improved. The fantasy setting was the most common and remains popular today.
Role-playing video games emerged in the 1980s, with mainframe games like Akalabeth and Rogue released in 1980. As video games rose in popularity through the 80s and 90s, RPGs saw major innovations – the first with 3D graphics and first-person view, Dungeon Master, arrived in 1987. This style of RPG took off strongly in the 90s.
Introducing the Game Gear
Competing with the Atari Lynx, NEC‘s TurboExpress, and Nintendo‘s Game Boy, Sega released the Game Gear in 1990 in Japan and 1991 in North America. More expensive than the Game Boy but boasting superior graphics and a backlit screen, the Game Gear couldn‘t match the Game Boy‘s sales largely due to its shorter battery life and lack of original games early on. However, many great games were released that were loved by fans.
Now let‘s get into the top RPGs for the underappreciated Game Gear console!
Eternal Legend
While Eternal Legend was only originally released in Japan in 1991, an English translation was made available in May 2020. Eternal Legend was the brainchild of Japan Art Media, and capitalized on the success of Dragon Quest. The story follows Arwyn, a treasure hunter, who battles the Gaura Empire after his mentor‘s death.
Gameplay contains fetch quests where players find key items or NPCs to progress. The turn-based combat uses typical commands like attack, magic, and defend. Monsters can be summoned using items – very useful against bosses.
While not flawless, Eternal Legend is fondly remembered for its varied storytelling, unique monster summoning system, and massive world exploration. It earns a spot as one of the top Game Gear RPGs.
Ax Battler: A Legend of Golden Axe
A spin-off of Golden Axe, Ax Battler mixes RPG and action elements. You play as the strangely named barbarian Ax Battler battling monsters using special moves, swords, and magic to retrieve the Golden Axe from the villain Death Adder.
Gameplay switches between an overhead map view, side-scrolling when conversing with NPCs or battling monsters. While very different from Golden Axe, Ax Battler is well-suited for the Game Gear. Its clever usage of side-scrolling and exploration makes it a fun, quality Game Gear title.
Megami Tensei Gaiden: Last Bible / Revelations: The Demon Slayer
Known as Revelations: The Demon Slayer outside Japan, Last Bible incorporates common Megaten elements like monster summoning and fusion. It differs with its medieval fantasy setting compared to the modern/sci-fi settings of other Megaten titles. You play a boy learning to harness the mysterious Gaia power.
Gameplay uses traditional RPG mechanics like leveling up and learning magic spells. Unlike typical RPGs, recruited monsters can be combined and used in combat – though recruitment is largely random.
Praised for its cool fusion system, graphics, and soundtrack, Last Bible/Demon Slayer is innovative thanks to its unique battle system and cinematic flair. It stands out among Game Gear RPGs.
Shining Force: Sword of Hajya
With gameplay similar to predecessor Shining Force Gaiden, Sword of Hajya has the distinction of being released outside Japan (1994 in the U.S.). Set after Gaiden, the story follows soldier Deanna and friends seeking to regain the powerful Sword of Hajya.
As a tactical RPG, battles take place on grid-like fields. There‘s little exploration outside cutscenes between battles. Players gain experience and can upgrade unit classes.
While not revolutionary graphically, Sword of Hajya shines through its intricate promotion/class system and vast battle tactics combinations, making it hugely innovative as far as Game Gear RPGs go.
Defenders of Oasis
Released in 1992, Defenders of Oasis centers around a prince who must find three holy rings once used by a hero to seal away an evil god. He journeys with Princess Mariam, battling monsters serving the dark Yufurat Empire.
Exploration uses an overhead view while conversing with NPCs. Combat occurs on a separate battle screen. Players earn experience and items as in traditional turn-based RPGs.
Despite no remarkable innovations, Defenders of Oasis is praised for its epic storyline, vivid graphics, and outstanding soundtrack. It utilizes the Game Gear‘s capabilities brilliantly, cementing its status as one of the best RPGs available.
The Sega Game Gear was home to some stellar RPG entries!
Image: Evan-Amos, Public Domain
The Game Gear RPG Legacy
While overshadowed by the Game Boy, the Game Gear was an underrated system with some great RPGs under its belt that are still fondly remembered by fans today. With tactical RPGs like the Shining Force series and innovative titles like Revelations: The Demon Slayer, the Game Gear could hold its own in the RPG arena against any handheld of its time.
For RPG enthusiasts, be sure to check out these classics to experience some of most engrossing portable roleplaying adventures of the 16-bit era!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an RPG video game?
An RPG is a roleplaying game where players take on fictional characters, usually in a fantasy setting. They battle monsters while upgrading the character‘s attributes, abilities, and equipment. Story and turn-based battle tactics are emphasized.
When was the Game Gear released?
The Game Gear launched in 1990 in Japan and 1991 in North America.
What was the first RPG on the Game Gear?
The first Game Gear RPG was Dragon Crystal, which blended RPG elements with roguelike game qualities. It came out alongside the console in 1990.
Which Game Gear RPG is considered the best?
Of all the great RPGs for the Game Gear, Defenders of Oasis is regarded as the cream of the crop. It was the 7th highest selling Game Gear game in its launch month and held a top ten sales rank for months after.
