Shining Force: The Legacy of Great Intention

Shining Force: The Legacy of Great Intention is a tactical role-playing game developed by Sonic! Software Planning and published by Sega for the Sega Genesis in 1992.

In the game, you take on the role of Bowie, a young warrior tasked with assembling and leading the Shining Force against the tyrannical Granseal Empire and the resurfaced demon, Darksol. Between battles, you navigate towns, speak with villagers for clues, and purchase new weapons and armor for your growing roster of allies. The story unfolds as you journey across the continent of Rune to gather your army and confront the invading forces.

Combat takes place on a turn-based, grid-like map. You select a unit, move it across the grid within its movement range, and then choose an action, typically attacking an enemy. Different units have different stats, movement ranges, and attack types. For instance, a birdman might fly over obstacles, while a brute could deal heavy damage up close. You can also cast spells, which consume MP, or use items. After all your units and enemy units have acted, the turn ends.

A key aspect of Shining Force: The Legacy of Great Intention involves character progression. As your units gain experience from battles, they level up and can eventually be promoted to more powerful classes. For example, a basic Swordsman might become a Paladin or a Gladiator, gaining new abilities or improved stats. The game features a large cast of potential recruits, each with their own strengths and weaknesses, allowing for varied army compositions.