PixlBit

As I continue with hidden gems throughout BaD I have yet another game I would like to highlight. This time, we're moving to the 16bit era with the SNES. And we're going for the trifecta of games never released in North America. There was an english translation and the game was released in Europe for the PAL region, so luckily we can play the game and understand it. So let's take a look at todays hidden gem... Terranigma.

Terranigma tells the story of Ark, a typical teenager who causes trouble in town. He really sets about causing more trouble than it's worth when he goes about entering the Village Elder's forbidden doorway to the basement and opens up a box. A curse befalls the town and Ark must save the villagers. However this is only the beginning. Ark will continue in his journey as themes of creation, destruction, love, rebirth, and the evolution of life all fall into a wonderfully well crafted tale with lovable characters, treacherous villains, and a vast world to explore.

Terranigma is an action RPG that's similar, yet different from games in the Mana series. You can perform a wide variety of different actions whether standing still, running around dungeons, or even in a rarity for rpgs at the time...jumping. Yes there is a running and jumping mechanic in this game when many rpgs had you control characters slowly walking and trudging through forests, deserts, etc.

As per usual, there is an experience mechanic that increases strength, hp, luck, etc. One of the unusal aspects of this game is the lack of a traditional magic mechanic. It's not necessarily a bad thing however. In Terranigma you'll pick up magic crystals called magicrocks that you can take to the magic shop, turn into magic rings or summon medals. When you use these items they turn back to magic rocks and you can spend it on more powerful rings and spells later on.

It really stands out as a great title in the sea of excellent SNES games. Develeoped by Quintet of Actraiser and Soul Blazer fame, expectations were high. Another great game also needs great music and Terranigma is yet another with a terrific soundtrack.

Since Terranigma was never officially released in America you'd have to find yourself a PAL region style SNES or emulator to play it, but it's well worth the time. A terrific game with a terrific story, combat system, and overall great experience. 

Overall Determination: Play it!