There are half a dozen Lunar titles out there, from the original Sega CD Silver Star Story, to versions for the Playstation, GBA and Nintendo DS. The latest release, however—the PSP’s Lunar: Silver Star Harmony—holds the trump card for story and graphics.

Graphics and Sound

Return to the original storyline of Lunar: Silver Star Story, with a new prologue and side stories for the Four Heroes and Vile Tribe. Graphics are updated to stand on par with Crimson Gem Saga and Mimana: Iyar Chronicle, delivering a colorful world that’s attractive to old school and new players alike.

While the graphics are not on the cutting edge of technology, the sprite-based world matches the upbeat, happy-go-lucky music that defines the Lunar genre. Couple this with lovable characters and excellent dialogue, and you have an RPG that’s best in its class.

Characters and Story

The Lunar series hails its success in humorous characters and intriguing plots. The stories are engaging, the characters are memorable, and the love stories are unmatched. And even though I’ve stressed the uplifting theme in the series, there’s a serious side to Lunar: Silver Star Harmony that’ll keep you on your toes.

As an added bonus, I’ve never gone long without laughing at dialogue hidden in an unsuspecting villager or bookshelf. Exploring every crevice of the Lunar: Silver Star Harmony world only enhances the lighthearted experience.

The Battle System

The battle system isn’t the most challenging thing in the world, although there’s a unique approach to character movement, and gauges for special maneuvers. Character voiceovers in the battles are also top-notch, just as high of quality as the animation sequences.

Bosses never make it to the realm of multiple-attempts-difficult, but there are some with strategies that are obvious in their stances or coloration.

Don’t expect breaking a sweat. But don’t think you’ll get bored, either.

The Verdict

Whether you’re a newcomer to the Lunar series, or you’re revisiting a beloved and treasured world, there’s something to be said for Lunar: Silver Star Harmony. If you’re after a classic RPG, remade from the ground up, fire on your PSP and give this new Lunar a try!