Among the gems of the PlayStation era, Tales of Destiny 2—known in Japan as Tales of Eternia—stands as a brilliant example of storytelling, character depth, and gameplay innovation. Released in 2000 by Namco, this installment in the Tales series captures the essence of a grand JRPG adventure, with a richly crafted world, a dynamic battle system, and a cast of characters you’ll never forget. Whether you’re a veteran of the franchise or a newcomer, Tales of Eternia is a journey worth taking even today.
A Detailed Look at the Enigmatic Story
The story begins in the tranquil village of Rasheans, where we meet Reid Hershel, a laid-back hunter with an unassuming life. Things take a turn when a mysterious girl named Meredy crashes near the village, speaking an incomprehensible language and carrying a dire warning about the Orbus Barrier—a magical shield separating two worlds, Inferia and Celestia.
Soon, Reid, alongside his childhood friends Farah Oersted and Keele Zeibel, is swept into a conflict of cosmic proportions. The barrier between the two worlds is destabilizing, threatening the very existence of both realms. As the group works to decipher Meredy’s warnings and prevent the destruction of the universe, they uncover secrets about themselves, the nature of the worlds, and the power of understanding and unity.
The dual-world mechanic is a thematic and literal highlight of the game. Inferia and Celestia are distinct yet interconnected, each with its own cultures, challenges, and breathtaking landscapes. The story’s pace keeps you invested with its emotional twists, moments of levity, and thought-provoking themes about coexistence and the consequences of division.
Innovative Combat: The Linear Motion Battle System
Tales of Eternia features the beloved Linear Motion Battle System (LMBS), which allows for fast-paced, real-time battles with a side-scrolling perspective. Players directly control one character while issuing commands to others, creating a fluid, action-oriented combat experience.
The game introduces Magic Circles, which add a layer of strategy to battles. When a spell is cast, a magic circle appears on the battlefield, and its placement can influence the tide of combat. Timing and positioning are key to maximizing damage and exploiting enemy weaknesses.
Customization also shines through the Craymel System, a unique magic system where players bond elemental spirits called Craymels to characters, unlocking a wide array of spells and abilities. This offers endless combinations, allowing players to adapt to different combat scenarios and playstyles.
Meet the Unforgettable Cast
Tales of Eternia boasts a rich cast of characters, each with their own quirks, backstories, and growth arcs:
- Reid Hershel: The easygoing protagonist who prefers hunting and cooking to heroics. Reid’s growth from reluctant adventurer to resolute leader is central to the story.
- Farah Oersted: A strong-willed martial artist with an unshakable sense of justice. Farah serves as the moral compass of the group, always encouraging unity and action.
- Keele Zeibel: A scholarly mage obsessed with uncovering the mysteries of the Craymel Artes. Keele’s initial arrogance gives way to a deeper understanding of friendship and teamwork.
- Meredy: The enigmatic girl from Celestia who speaks the strange Melnics language. Her cheerful demeanor and determination to save her world make her an endearing and pivotal character.
- Chat: A feisty pirate with a love for treasure and adventure. Her nautical skills and sassy attitude add levity and excitement to the group dynamic.
- Max: A brash yet loyal marksman from Celestia who’s always ready for a fight. Max’s straightforward approach contrasts well with the complexities of the story.
Why Tales of Eternia Is Still Worth Playing Today
1. A Masterpiece of Storytelling
The dual-world narrative and deeply personal character arcs make for an unforgettable story. Themes of understanding, unity, and the strength of bonds resonate just as strongly today.
2. Fluid and Engaging Combat
The Linear Motion Battle System offers action-packed gameplay that feels ahead of its time. The Craymel System’s depth ensures every battle is a strategic and satisfying challenge.
3. Gorgeous Visuals and Music
From lush forests to celestial landscapes, the hand-drawn visuals are timelessly beautiful. The soundtrack by Motoi Sakuraba is equally mesmerizing, perfectly capturing the game’s epic and emotional tone.
4. Endearing Characters
The relatable struggles and growth of Reid, Farah, Keele, and the rest of the cast ensure they’ll stay in your heart long after the credits roll.
5. A Nostalgic Yet Fresh Experience
Whether you’re revisiting the PS1 original or exploring it for the first time via emulation or fan translations, Tales of Eternia offers a perfect blend of nostalgia and timeless charm.
Tales of Eternia is more than a game—it’s an experience that captures the magic of JRPGs at their finest. Its rich story, innovative gameplay, and unforgettable characters make it a standout in the Tales series and a must-play for RPG fans.
So, grab your sword, gather your party, and set out on an adventure that bridges worlds. Tales of Eternia awaits—and its tale is as enchanting now as it was over two decades ago.
