Eternal Sonata

also for

Eternal Sonata is an original role-playing video game created by tri-Crescendo, one of the developers of Baten Kaitos and Baten...
See Full Description

 
8
very good
 

Game Overview

Eternal Sonata is an original role-playing video game created by tri-Crescendo, one of the developers of Baten Kaitos and Baten...

The Good

Gorgeous visuals look even better on the PlayStation 3, Charming story is populated by an appealing cast, Fantastic soundtrack includes new music, Combination real-time/turn-based combat is flashy and fun.

The Bad

Easy and linear adventure with little exploration, Occasionally erratic framerate.

The Bottom Line

On October 17, 1949, Frederic Chopin, one of the most influential composers for the piano, succumbed to sickness and died at the young age of 39. Three hours prior to that, in the world according to this RPG, Chopin saw a dream of a fairy-tale land populated by people with incurable diseases but also magical powers.

Eternal Sonata takes place in this dream world. Chopin comes into contact with Polka, a young girl who resides with her mother in the village of Tenuto. Polka is near her death, and Chopin, Polka, and her young friend Allegretto as they look for some way to make use of Polka's great powers to help save her. It's a whimsical fantasy, but this RPG designed by developer tri-Crescendo also a complex and combo-based battle system of swords and magic weaponry. In keeping with inspiration, music and story play a big part in Eternal Sonata. Performing the piano numbers that Chopin left to the world is Russian pianist Stanislav Bunin, with musical composition by noted game composer Motoi Sakuraba.

Originally released for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Eternal Sonata arrives on the Playstation 3 system with a wide selection of new game content, and new cut-scenes and features. The game's roster of playable characters expands with the addition of Serenade and Crescendo, and players can now customize the look of members of their party with a variety of new outfits. Players can also enjoy several all-new dungeons, and even experience different endings.

Game Screenshots

Expert Reviews

GameSpot review logo
85/100
score

A year later, this captivating role-playing game is still gorgeous to look at and fun to play.

GameZone review logo
80/100
score

Eternal Sonata is a good RPG, not great, but good and worth the play.

IGN review logo
87/100
score

Although sometimes awkwardly paced and linear, Eternal Sonata is an RPG that everyone should consider checking out, especially for the unique premise and touching music.

Game Features

New PS3 Quests, Battles and Events: Experience new quests, battles and events that will shed new light to the dramatic and evolving storyline compared to the previous version.
New Playable Characters and Costume Changes for the PS3: Now players can play as Crescendo or Serenade and change some of your favorite character's costume to your liking.
Exclusive New Music for the PS3: Listen to newly added Chopin music -- a key element in the environment and story.
Multiple Endings for the PS3: Choose your characters wisely to see where the journey takes you.
Custom-Made for Next-Gen: Enjoy amazing, high-definition, anime style cel-shading and high quality textures to truly deliver an awesome next gen experience.
Innovative Battle System: Battle using a unique, hybrid turn-based/action RPG system that combines free-roam and turn-based action (up to three players during battle).
Strategic Use of Light and Darkness: Adjust your battle strategy in the ongoing struggle between light and darkness. Beware of enemies lurking in the shadows, as their stats -- attacks and potency -- will change, as will their physical form. Lure them out into the light or destroy them within the cloak of darkness. Change your special attacks depending on whether you are in the light or in the dark.
Dramatic and Evolving Storyline: Experience a deeply moving story focusing on the enduring struggle between good and evil all taking place in

Game Specs

Audio/Video
HDTV 720p, In-Game Dolby Digital

Controllers
Dualshock 3 Controller

 

Memory
3248 kb

Modes
Full Mission Co-Op, Full Mission Single-Player, Story

 

Controller Functions

GAMEPLAY CONTROLS

Left Analog Stick
Move

X Button
Talk. Examine. Perform an Action. Advance Text. Confirm. Attack.

Square Button
Use Item

Circle Button
Cancel. Defend.

Triangle Button
Use Special Attack. Display Main Menu. Switch Character Order. Display Sort menu.

L1 Button
Change Tab. Change Page. Select Item.

 

L2 Button
Switch Camera Angle

L3 Button
Skip Action

R1 Button
Change Tab. Change Page. Select Item.

R2 Button
Switch Special Attacks (Hold)

Start Button
Pause Menu. Skip Menu.

 

ESRB Game Ratings

ESRB Rating of "T"
This game is Rated: Teen
Content is most suitable for children ages 13 and up. This game may contain violence, gambling, suggestive themes, crude humor, or some strong language.
Content Descriptors:
Fantasy Violence, Mild Language, Use of Alcohol
 
Game Info
Platform:Sony Playstation 3
Release Date:10/21/2008
Publisher:Namco Bandai
Developer:tri-Crescendo
Genre:RPG
ESRB Rating:T
Gamesite:--
 
Game Quality Ratings
Overall
8
Gameplay
8
Graphics
9
Sound
9
Concept
7.3
Difficulty: Easy/Medium
OVERALL
8/10

Recent Customer Reviews

Dream A Little Dream With Frederic Chopin - Eternal Sonata

Everyone is named after musical instruments or styles. If that's frightening to you, turn away.
Published 998 days ago by awoolcott

Related Accessories

Eternal Sonata for PlayStation 3
Top of Page © 2012 Juggle, LLC
All Rights Reserved
Encyclopedia & Reference Resource