If you're looking for a solid RPG on the PS2, then be sure to check out this game. The unique battle system that mimics a chess board may seem slow and dull, but becomes very fun very fast. Rather than running around mashing buttons and hacking up hordes of enemies, the player tries to maneuver their gladiator into a position to attack and chooses from a wide variety of options. What makes this system better is that bonuses are given to those in a tactically better position to attack, such as on top of a box. This adds much more strategy to the game and can ensure a higher level of difficulty. Another great part about this game is that you have your choice between two main characters in the beginning, but have the opportunity to develop a whole team of gladiators. In most cases, the main character can be surpassed by other teammates. There is an abundance of gladiator types to choose from and you can customize their appearance and skills. In addition, Gladius offers an intriguing plot that offers twists and turns. With four areas to explore, the game itself takes countless hours to finish and offers great replay value. On the downside, if you beat the game and save it, you can't continue roaming around and fighting with your team. The only other weakness of the game is the sound. All too often I found myself annoyed by the lack of heart-pounding music. This said, the game is still a masterpiece and should be part of any gamer's collection.
Gladius is a pseudo-RPG released by LucasArts in late 2003 that, while critically and popularly acclaimed, just didn't do so well on the sales front; think Okami, Beyond Good and Evil, or Psychonaughts. This is a shame,... Read Full Review
I'm not much of a strategist and I've never completed a full-blown RPG like the Final Fantasy games. Those facts are discouraging yet didn't keep me from purchasing this game. And, with a detailed tutorial-like intro to ... Read Full Review
