The Grandia HD Collection introduces players to two beloved adventures from the Grandia series – Grandia and Grandia II. Originally released on platforms like the Saturn, PS1, Dreamcast, and PS2, these classics have been remastered and now make their way to the PlayStation 4, much to the delight of fans who have been eagerly anticipating this release thanks to community requests and the efforts of GungHo Online Entertainment.

Grandia

While Grandia may not have had the same level of recognition as Final Fantasy during its release, it quickly became a standout title in the JRPG genre. The story follows Justin, a young adventurer who sets out to uncover the secrets of a lost civilization while following in his father’s footsteps. What sets Grandia apart is its engaging storyline and unique gameplay mechanics, making it a standout title in the JRPG genre.

The game features 2D animated sprites on three-dimensional maps, with a fully rotational camera that adds depth to exploration. Battles are a highlight of Grandia, with a unique IP bar system that allows for strategic gameplay and engaging combat encounters. The game also includes voice acting, adding to the overall charm of the adventure.

Grandia offers a rich story experience with minimal optional content, making it a focused and immersive journey that clocks in at over 40 hours of gameplay.

Grandia II

Grandia II continues the legacy of the series with a new story, cast of characters, and improved gameplay mechanics. Players follow Ryudo, a mercenary tasked with escorting a songstress named Elena on a journey to defeat the darkness threatening the world.

Gameplay in Grandia II remains similar to its predecessor, with enhanced graphics and updated mechanics. The addition of mana eggs as an equipable item and new currencies for skill progression add depth to the combat system.

The Grandia HD Collection brings together these two classic games with updated visuals and trophy support, offering hours of gameplay across both titles. While there are no significant quality of life improvements, the games retain their charm and engaging gameplay.

For fans looking to revisit these timeless classics or newcomers eager to experience them for the first time, the Grandia HD Collection on PlayStation 4 is a worthwhile investment that delivers hours of entertainment.

A PlayStation 4 Review Code was provided by GungHo Online Entertainment America