Square Enix's most-elusive JRPG is finally getting more accessible

The cast of Live A Live stare into the distance

The cast of Live A Live stare into the distance

Square Enix is bringing its spruced-up version of cult classic JRPG Live a Live to PS4, PS5, and PC next month. The developer announced the news in a blog post on its website, also sharing that a demo for those platforms will be released later today. You’ll get to play three of the game’s seven main story chapters.

If you like what you play, that progress can be carried over to the full game if you decide to pick it up on April 27. Considering that the original was released for the Super Famicom back in 1994 and stayed local to Japan until the remake launched on the Nintendo Switch with an English translation last year, it’s heartening to see a beloved JRPG become available to those who haven’t been able to get their hands on it. Until last year, I was one of them.

Live A Live was considered novel when it was released in 1994 as it contains numerous, smaller stories that each feature unique mechanics until everything intertwines into one for a grand finale. Combat, meanwhile, features the turn-based battling you’d expect from the time, with an added layer of strategy in that positioning on the field of play influences who you can hit or be hit by. The JRPG was also released during a hot streak for Square – that being before the Enix part was later added following a company merger – coming after Final Fantasy 6 and before Chrono Trigger.

In fact, Live a Live director Takashi Tokita also served as a director on the latter. There’s plenty to Live A Live that makes it a good time, then, though its lack of availability over the past 28 years ensured its status as a poorly kept secret among hardcore JRPG fans until news broke of a remake. So, what are you getting with the remake?

The core of Live A Live is very much intact, though the most striking difference is the HD-2D visual style made popular by Octopath Traveller – a modern JRPG that borrows some ideas from how Live A Live handles multiple stories. You’ve also got a rearranged soundtrack supervised by original composer Yoko Shimomura. A Nintendo Switch release last year brought the game to hordes of fans curious to see what the fuss was about, though barriers remained to those without the portable console.

With Live A Live due to release for PS4, PS5, and Steam on April 27, those barriers are only becoming fewer.

Game-breaking Legend of Dragoon bugs recently ruined that classic JRPG’s return, let’s hope Live A Live fares better.

Tags:

brother-2-brother listed on couponmatrix.ukburger-king-1 listed on couponmatrix.uketsy listed on couponmatrix.ukjura-watches listed on couponmatrix.ukmedia-storehouse listed on couponmatrix.ukskinny-tan listed on couponmatrix.uk
brother-2-brother listed on couponmatrix.ukWelcome to Brother2Brother, the one-stop for all men's clothing and fashion. Whatever your style, Brother2Brother provide exceptional quality, durability and fashion to rock your style, and with your Brother2Brother discount code, you can love looking and feeling great for less. Whether you need a suit, casual wear, beachwear, or a new bag or wallet, Brother2Brother has everything you need to dress to impress. With top designers and brands in one place, you need not look anywhere else.
burger-king-1 listed on couponmatrix.ukCurb those hunger pangs with Burger King. As the creators of the legendary Whopper, Burger King are no strangers to top quality fast food - using the finest fresh ingredients, preparing every sandwich to order and flame-grilling burgers are just some of the ways Burger King sets itself apart. Make the most of a Burger King voucher from us to save on your next order - whether you’re craving a cheeseburger or want to indulge with a tasty sundae, you can treat yourself for less with Burger King!
etsy listed on couponmatrix.ukEtsy is the home of lovingly handcrafted and one-of-a-kind items. Independent creators from across the globe use Etsy as a virtual marketplace to share their vintage and handmade products. With your Etsy discount code you can save on thousands of unique and customisable items. If you’re planning a party or wedding, you’ll want to check out their section dedicated to making amazing memories. From stylish clothing and jewellery to home decor and furniture, there’s something for everyone.
jura-watches listed on couponmatrix.ukAs the UK's largest online luxury watch shop, Jura Watches set a precedent for both variety and quality. Downsize a designer price tag with a Jura Watches discount code from Groupon and walk away with a stellar saving on the likes of Armani, Hugo Boss and Swarovski. So if you need to replace a broken strap, want to upgrade to a smart device or simply looking for a shiny replacement for your old wristwatch, surprise yourself with the savings available at Jura.
media-storehouse listed on couponmatrix.ukDiscover Media Storehouse – your one-stop destination for high-quality prints, canvases, and merchandise featuring iconic images from around the world. At Media Storehouse, they believe that art should be accessible to all, which is why they offer an extensive collection of photographs, illustrations, and artworks to suit every taste and style. From stunning landscapes to captivating sports moments and historical landmarks, the curated selection caters to art enthusiasts, collectors, and interior decorators alike. And here's the art lover's secret – unlock exclusive savings with a Media Storehouse discount code, making it even easier to adorn your walls with timeless masterpieces. Join us in celebrating the beauty of visual storytelling, and let Media Storehouse transform your space into a gallery of inspiration.
skinny-tan listed on couponmatrix.ukGet natural, streak-free skin that looks good and smells like tropical coconuts with Skinny Tan. Created by women, for women, Skinny Tan wants to make sure everyone has a great tan from home without any harsh chemicals or difficult application. Use your Skinny Tan discount code to save on affordable and high quality tanning products for your face and body, or suncare and accessories. Get beautiful skin every time with the long-lasting, even fade from Skinny Tan.