A game that deserves a franchise
The story is one that involves a non-speaking main-character, which I could see as the only real donwside of the story, but it really isn't even noticed. I am not really a fan of story summeries in reviews, Golden Sun should be noted for have a strong story but not getting bogged down in it.
Graphics-wise it is quite beautiful whether you are roaming the world or doing combat against a variety of enemies is is quite nice to look at, especially when you get to unleash some of the more powerful attacks and summons.
The combat and gameplay is where the game really shines. You wonder the world, traveling from town to town, similar to many other RPGs such a those in the FF series. Outside of towns you will have random encounters with enemies where you will have your squad of people, usually 4, on one side and the enemy force on the other. You will then take turns attacking with weapons, magic or using special creatures that you will find along you way called Djinn, that increase your stats and can be used as a special attack and then summoned when combine with other Djinn. While I won't explain this nice feature, just know it quite thrilling to summon some of the more powerful creatures on your foes.
As you roam the world, at certain points or in certain locations, puzzles will need to be solved. These are never overly hard, and will call on you wits as well as the magics that you group possess, and will be quite a fun part of the game.
While this is just a shorter review, know that Golden Sun carries a powerful message as it breaks in the RPG market and start a new franchise.