Valkyria Chronicles [Archive]

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Wraith

10-02-2008, 08:01 PM

http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/picture.php?albumid=7&pictureid=67

Valkyria Chronicles is an RPG from Sega for the Playstation 3 that mixes turn-based strategy with real-time action elements. The game launched April 24, 2008, in Japan, and released on October 31 in Europe and November 4 in North America.

Artbook:

English version of artbook (not yet officially announced):

Valkyria Chronicles: Design Archive
Release Date: February 1, 2011
Pages: 400
Publisher: Udon Entertainment
ISBN-10: 1926778162
ISBN-13: 978-1926778167

Preorder:

Amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1926778162/)
Amazon.co.uk (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Valkyria-Chronicles-Design-Archive-Sega/dp/1926778162/)

Original (Japanese) version:

Senjou no Valkyria Development Artworks
Release Date: January 20, 2010
Pages: 400
Format: A4
Publisher: Enterbrain
ISBN-10: 404726301X
ISBN-13: 978-4047263017

Preorder:

Play-Asia.com (http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-lz-49-en-15-valkyria-70-3ohm-43-7y.html)
Amazon.co.jp (http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/404726301X)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/th_valkyria_artbook_small.jpg (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/album.php?albumid=7&pictureid=437) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/th_o0800035510351801240.jpg (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/album.php?albumid=7&pictureid=439) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/th_o0800065010351805016.jpg (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/album.php?albumid=7&pictureid=440) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/th_o0800087810351804017.jpg (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/album.php?albumid=7&pictureid=441) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/th_o0800137010351806263.jpg (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/album.php?albumid=7&pictureid=442)

More artbook pics:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/th_o0480064010377797769.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/?action=view&current=o0480064010377797769.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/th_o0600080010377798361.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/?action=view&current=o0600080010377798361.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/th_o0500067810377802102.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/?action=view&current=o0500067810377802102.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/th_o0768102410377799713.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/?action=view&current=o0768102410377799713.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/th_o0308060010377803020.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/?action=view&current=o0308060010377803020.jpg)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/th_o0700059910377804791.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/?action=view&current=o0700059910377804791.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/th_o0800064010377805786.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/?action=view&current=o0800064010377805786.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/th_o0700051210377803804.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/?action=view&current=o0700051210377803804.jpg) http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/th_o0480070010377806995.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/artbook/?action=view&current=o0480070010377806995.jpg)

Reviews:

11-25-2008 - GameTrailers (http://www.gametrailers.com/gamereview.php?id=5515) - 9.1/10
11-25-2008 - Gamespot (http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/senjounovalkyria/review.html) - 8.5/10
11-18-2008 - Destructoid (http://www.destructoid.com/destructoid-review-valkyria-chronicles-111783.phtml) - 8.5/10
11-17-2008 - PS3 Fanboy (http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2008/11/17/ps3-fanboy-review-valkyria-chronicles/) - 9.0/10
11-17-2008 - Ars Technica (http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2008/11/no-edits-review-valkyria-chronicles-is-the-years-sleeper-hit.ars) - Verdict: Buy
11-13-2008 - Play (UK) (http://www.play-mag.co.uk/ps3/games/valkyria_chronicles/valkyria_chronicles.html) - 82%
11-04-2008 - GameSpy (http://ps3.gamespy.com/playstation-3/battle-field-valkyrie/927063p1.html) - 4.5/5
11-01-2008 - 1up (http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3171060&p=37) - A-
11-01-2008 - Console Monster (http://www.consolemonster.com/review.php?id=0000001296) - 85%
10-31-2008 - Level 7 (Swedish) (http://www.level7.nu/texter/read.php?id=180319) - 8/10
10-30-2008 - Wonderwall Web (http://wonderwallweb.com/article-511-Valkyria-Chronicles.html) - 8.9/10
10-30-2008 - MeriStation (Spanish) (http://www.meristation.com/v3/des_analisis.php?pic=GEN&id=cw4908d590a4cb9&idj=cw469cc641b922b&&iframe=1) - 8.5/10
10-30-2008 - The Sixth Axis (http://www.thesixthaxis.com/2008/10/30/review-valkyria-chronicles/) - 8/10
10-29-2008 - IGN (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/925/925395p1.html) - 9/10
10-29-2008 - IGN AU (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/925/925384p1.html) - 9.1/10
10-24-2008 - Eurogamer (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=265469) - 8/10
10-24-2008 - Gameplayer (http://gameplayer.com.au/gp_documents/Valkyria-Chronicles-Review.aspx) - 8.5/10
December 2008 issue - games(TM) - 9/10
December 2008 issue - Playstation Official Magazine (UK) - 8/10
December 2008 issue - PSM3 Magazine (UK) (http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=204499) - 8.5/10
December 2008 issue - Playstation: The Official Magazine (US) - 4.5/5
Game Informer (http://gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/CED69D54-FA7A-478E-B90D-4E8C5794106D.htm) - 8.5/10

Valkyria Chronicles on Metacritic (http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps3/valkyriachronicles)
Valkyria Chronicles Reviews list on Gamespot (http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/senjounovalkyria/review.html?mode=web)

Awards & Nominations:

1UP 2008 Readers' Choice Awards (http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3172295)

Winner: Best Multi-Genre Game
Winner: Best Strategy Game
Runner Up (3rd): Best Novel Art Style (Winner: LittleBigPlanet)
Runner Up (3rd): PS3 Game of the Year (Winner: Metal Gear Solid 4)
Nominee: Game of the Year (Winner: Metal Gear Solid 4)

Eurogamer Readers' Top 50 Games of 2008 (http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/eurogamer-readers-top-50-games-of-2008-article) (#24)
Gamasutra's Best of 2008: Top 10 Games Of The Year (http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=21377) (#9 of 10)
GamePro: The Best Games of 2008 You've Never Played (http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/208376/the-best-games-of-2008-youve-never-played/) (#14 of 16)
GameSpot's Best Games of 2008 (http://www.gamespot.com/best-of/)

Editor's Choice Winner: Best Graphics, Artistic (http://www.gamespot.com/best-of/special-achievement/index.html?page=5)

GameSpy Game of the Year 2008 Awards (http://goty.gamespy.com/2008/index.html)

PS3 Top 10 (http://goty.gamespy.com/2008/ps3/6.html) (#6 of 10)
Winner: PS3 Strategy Game of the Year (http://goty.gamespy.com/2008/ps3/12.html)
Winner: Best Original Soundtrack (http://goty.gamespy.com/2008/special/4.html)
Nominee: PS3 Gamers' Choice Award (http://goty.gamespy.com/2008/gamerschoice/3.html) (Winner: Metal Gear Solid 4)

Gametrailers Game of the Year Awards 2008 (http://www.gametrailers.com/game/10618.html)

Nominee: Best Story (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/43911.html) (Winner: Grand Theft Auto IV)
Nominee: Best Role-Playing Game (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/43842.html) (Winner: Fallout 3)
Nominee: Best New Franchise (http://www.gametrailers.com/player/43902.html) (Winner: LittleBigPlanet)

IGN Best of 2008 Awards (http://bestof.ign.com/2008/)

Winner: PS3: Best Strategy Game (http://bestof.ign.com/2008/ps3/10.html)
Nominee: PS3: Best Artistic Design (http://bestof.ign.com/2008/ps3/12.html) (Winner: LittleBigPlanet)
Nominee: PS3: Best Original Score (http://bestof.ign.com/2008/ps3/13.html) (Winner: Eternal Sonata)
Nominee: PS3: Best Voice Acting (http://bestof.ign.com/2008/ps3/15.html) (Winner: Grand Theft Auto IV)
Nominee: PS3: Best Story (http://bestof.ign.com/2008/ps3/16.html) (Winner: Grand Theft Auto IV)
Nominee: PS3: Best New IP (http://bestof.ign.com/2008/ps3/23.html) (Winner: LittleBigPlanet)
Nominee: Overall: Best Strategy Game (http://bestof.ign.com/2008/overall/10.html) (Winner: Sins of a Solar Empire)

Kotaku's 2008 Games of the Year Awards (http://kotaku.com/5122222/kotakus-2008-games-of-the-year-awards)

Runner Up: Best Art (Winner: Metal Gear Solid 4)

RPGFan Games of 2008 (http://www.rpgfan.com/features/go2008/index.html)

Winner: PlayStation 3 RPG of the Year
Winner: Strategy RPG of the Year: Console
3x Editors' Picks

X-Play Best of 2008 (http://g4tv.com/xplay/articles/65779/XPlay_Best_of_2008_Awards.html#bestof2008)

Nominee: Best Strategy Game (http://g4tv.com/xplay/articles/65786/XPlay_Best_of_2008_Best_Strategy_Game.html#bestof2 008) (Winner: Sins of a Solar Empire)

Destructoid Top 50 Videogames of the Decade (http://www.destructoid.com/the-top-50-videogames-of-the-decade-10-1--155591.phtml) (#8 of 50)
IGN The Top 25 PlayStation 3 Games: Complete (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/106/1060027p3.html) (#23 of 35)

News:

03-16-2009 - Sega America Blog: Valkyria Chronicles DLC announced, and Twitter hints explained! (http://blogs.sega.com/usa/2009/03/16/valkyria-chronicles-dlc-announced-and-twitter-hints-explained/)
03-16-2009 - 1up: Sega Confirms Valkryia Chronicles DLC for Spring (http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3173285)
03-16-2009 - CVG: Valkyria Chronicles DLC revealed (http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=210845)
03-16-2009 - Eurogamer: Three Valkyria DLC packs this spring (http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/three-valkyria-dlc-packs-this-spring)
12-28-2008 - Turning The Spigot - The Obscure Game Awareness Column - Week 32 (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/blog.php?b=589)
11-12-2008 - Siliconera: Valkyria Chronicles Getting An Anime (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/11/12/valkyria-chronicles-getting-an-anime/)
11-05-2008 - Ars Technica: Valkyria Chronicles DLC moves out next year in the US (http://arstechnica.com/gaming/news/2008/11/new-valkyria-chronicles-move-out-next-year.ars)
11-04-2008 - Siliconera: Extra Valkyria Chronicles Episodes With Edie And Selvaria Coming Next Year (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/11/04/extra-valkyria-chronicles-episodes-with-edie-and-selvaria-coming-next-year/)
11-04-2008 - Playstation.Blog: SEGA’s Valkyria Chronicles Shipping Out Today, DLC on the way! (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/11/04/segas-valkyria-chronicles-shipping-out-today-dlc-on-the-way/)
10-09-2008 - CoG: Valkyria Chronicles Demo Now Available on PSN (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showthread.php?t=844)
10-02-2008 - Eurogamer: Valkyria Chronicles date pushed forward (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=249693)
09-29-2008 - Siliconera: Valkyria Chronicles DLC Lets You Be The Evil Empire (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/09/29/valkyria-chronicles-dlc-lets-you-be-the-evil-empire/)
09-26-2008 - Siliconera: Valkyria Chronicles Demo Coming To PSN In Two Weeks (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/09/26/valkyria-chronicles-demo-coming-to-psn-in-two-weeks/)
09-22-2008 - Siliconera: Sega’s Public San Francisco Valkyria Chronicles Shindig (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/09/22/segas-public-san-francisco-valkyria-chronicles-shindig/)
09-22-2008 - PlayStation.Blog: Go Hands-on with Valkyria Chronicles this week! (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/09/22/go-hands-on-with-valkyria-chronicles-this-week/)
08-16-2008 - 1up: Valkyria Chronicles Hitting North America Nov. 11 (http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3169386)
08-14-2008 - Siliconera: Valkyria Chronicles comes out in November with voiceover options (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/08/14/valkyria-chronicles-comes-out-in-november-with-voiceover-options/)
06-30-2008 - Siliconera: Valkyria Chronicles extended with new episodes (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/06/30/valkyria-chronicles-extended-with-new-episodes/)
06-29-2008 - RPG Land: Sega Of America not touching Valkyria Chronicles glitch (http://rpgland.com/valkyria-chronicles/sega-of-america-not-touching-valkyria-chronicles-glitch/)
04-14-2008 - IGN AU: Optional Hard Disk Install For Valkyria Chronicles (http://au.ps3.ign.com/articles/866/866232p1.html)

Previews, Import Reviews & Interviews:

10-08-2008 - Ars Technica: Sony Holiday Event: Valkyria Chronicles hands on (http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2008/10/08/sony-holiday-event-valkyria-chronicles-hands-on)
10-04-2008 - IGN: Valkyria Chronicles Extended Hands-on (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/915/915915p1.html)
10-03-2008 - Eurogamer: Valkyria Chronicles Hands On (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=250971)
10-02-2008 - RPG Land: Review (http://rpgland.com/games/reviews/valkyria-chronicles/)
09-30-2008 - IGN: Valkyria Chronicles PlayStation 3 Interview (http://media.ps3.ign.com/media/950/950634/vids_1.html)
09-26-2008 - 1up: Interview: An in-depth chat with Valkyria producer Ryutaro Nonaka (http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3170197)
08-30-2008 - RPGamer: PAX 2008 Impressions (http://www.rpgamer.com/event/pax2008/valkyriaamn.html)
07-28-2008 - GameSpot Video: Comic-Con 2008: Valkyria Chronicles Demo (http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/senjounovalkyria/video/6195043/comic-con-2008-valkyria-chronicles-demo)
07-21-2008 - Destructoid: E3 08: Valkyria Chronicles hands-on (http://www.destructoid.com/e3-08-valkyria-chronicles-hands-on-96309.phtml)
07-19-2008 - WorthPlaying: PS3 Preview - Valkyria Chronicles (http://www.worthplaying.com/article.php?sid=53960)
07-18-2008 - PlayStation.Blog: Live Demo: Valkyria Chronicles, PS3 exclusive SRPG (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/07/18/live-demo-valkyria-chronicles-ps3-exclusive-srpg/)
07-17-2008 - GameSpot: E3 2008: Valkyria Chronicles Hands-On (http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/senjounovalkyria/news.html?sid=6194669)
07-10-2008 - PLAY Magazine (UK): Valkyria Chronicles Preview (http://www.play-mag.co.uk/ps3/games/valkyria_chronicles/valkyria_chronicles.html)
06-22-2008 - RPGFan: Valkyria Chronicles import review (http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/Valkyria_Chronicles/index.html)
06-09-2008 - GamesRadar: Valkyria Chronicles - import review (http://www.gamesradar.com/ps3/valkyria-chronicles/preview/valkyria-chronicles-import-review/a-2008060994238915079/g-20080226105514375052)
05-16-2008 - GameSpot: Valkyria Chronicles Impressions (http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/senjounovalkyria/news.html?sid=6191150&mode=recent)
05-16-2008 - GameSpy: Valkyria Chronicles Preview (http://ps3.gamespy.com/playstation-3/battle-field-valkyrie/874729p1.html)
05-16-2008 - GamesRadar: Valkyria Chronicles - first look (http://www.gamesradar.com/ps3/valkyria-chronicles/preview/valkyria-chronicles-first-look/a-2008051514642917090/g-20080226105514375052)
05-16-2008 - IGN: Valkyria Chronicles Eyes On (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/874/874123p1.html)
05-15-2008 - Siliconera: Valkyria Chronicles: Forever Remembered (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/05/15/valkyria-chronicles-forever-remembered/)
05-09-2008 - 1UP Show: Valkyria Chronicles (http://www.gamevideos.com/video/id/18756)
05-09-2008 - 1up: Valkyria Chronicles Preview (http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3167758)
05-06-2008 - IGN AU: Valkyria Chronicles Import Impressions (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/871/871809p1.html)
05-03-2008 - Siliconera: Update: Prefacing Valkyria Chronicles (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/05/03/prefacing-valkyria-chronicles/)

Links:

Official Site (Japan) (http://valkyria.jp/)
Official Site (US) (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/)
Sega of America Game Page (http://www.sega.com/games/?g=284)
Wikipedia (English) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valkyria_Chronicles)
Wikipedia (Japanese) (http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%88%A6%E5%A0%B4%E3%81%AE%E3%83%B4%E3%82%A1%E3%8 3%AB%E3%82%AD%E3%83%A5%E3%83%AA%E3%82%A2), Google Translation (http://translate.google.com/translate?u=http%3A%2F%2Fja.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2 F%25E6%2588%25A6%25E5%25A0%25B4%25E3%2581%25AE%25E 3%2583%25B4%25E3%2582%25A1%25E3%2583%25AB%25E3%258 2%25AD%25E3%2583%25A5%25E3%2583%25AA%25E3%2582%25A 2&langpair=ja%7Cen&hl=en&ie=UTF-8)
ValkyriaTribune Twitter feed (http://twitter.com/ValkyriaTribune)

original post:I intend to add more content here, but for now, some NEWS:

According to Eurogamer (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=249693), the release date for Valkyria Chronicles has been moved up from November 14 to October 31. No confirmation yet on whether the North American release date, currently scheduled for November 11, will be following suit.

Wraith

10-02-2008, 08:03 PM

http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/picture.php?albumid=7&pictureid=75

Image Galleries:

Screenshots & Artwork (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/album.php?albumid=7)

Character Profiles (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/album.php?albumid=9)

Odds & Ends (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/album.php?albumid=10)

Image Links:

Screenshots @ Official Site (US) (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/media.html)

Wallpaper @ Official Site (US) (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/downloads.html)

Wallpaper & PS3 Themes @ Official Site (JP) (http://valkyria.jp/kabegami.html)

Avatars @ Official Site (US) (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/avatars.html)

Images @ GameKyo (JeuxFrance) (http://www.gamekyo.com/element6001_game_valkyria-chronicles.html)

Images @ GameSpy (http://media.ps3.gamespy.com/media/950/950634/imgs_1.html)

Images @ IGN (http://media.ps3.ign.com/media/950/950634/imgs_1.html)

Screenshots also from GAME Watch (http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/game/)

Wraith

10-02-2008, 08:03 PM

Videos:

08-20-2008 - Leipzig Games Convention 2008 Trailer (1:00):

38737

08-15-2008 - E3 2008 Trailer (1:11):

38378

03-17-2008 - Japanese Promo Trailer (7:47):

31982

Video Links:

Videos @ GameTrailers (http://www.gametrailers.com/game/5515.html)
Videos @ Official Site (US) (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/videos.html)
Videos @ Official Site (JP) (http://valkyria.jp/movie.html)
Videos @ IGN (http://media.ps3.ign.com/media/950/950634/vids_1.html)
Videos @ GameSpot (http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/rpg/senjounovalkyria/videos.html)

EWolfmanD

10-02-2008, 10:02 PM

Thanks for the thread! I can't wait for this game. For now, I'll just have to click through all the links again. :D

Vyzov

10-03-2008, 09:57 AM

I really want a PS3 price drop before this comes out. I think this may be something I buy without having a console ot play it on, just so I can find it whenever I do pick up a PS3.

Gorvi

10-03-2008, 10:06 AM

Wraith

10-03-2008, 10:19 AM

I have a feeling I'll be trying to track down the soundtrack for the game soon after purchasing it. I really love Hitoshi Sakimoto's other soundtracks (Vagrant Story, Breath of Fire: Dragon Quarter, Final Fantasy Tacitcs, etc...)I got it from Play Asia some months back. I don't really know Sakimoto's previous work, but I'd say it's worth getting.

Actually, I forget which I heard first, but I thought the music in one of the trailers for FFT A2 sounded sort of like the Valkyria soundtrack, and sure enough, Sakimoto did the soundtrack for that game too.

Tayaya

10-03-2008, 12:36 PM

DO WANT this game. I'm not happy to see it bumped up though... I'm so tapped out for October.

DiBiddilyBop

10-03-2008, 12:41 PM

I want this, but I just don't think I'll have time with everything else that's landing. I mean, I only have about 20 hours into Disgaea 3, so there are at least 10,000 more hours left to put into that before I've done everything, and with LBP and Far Cry 2 coming soon... plus The Witcher still to dive into... too many games.

pheriannath

10-03-2008, 12:42 PM

I want this game... a lot.

Gorvi

10-03-2008, 12:45 PM

DO WANT this game. I'm not happy to see it bumped up though... I'm so tapped out for October.
I think it only got bumped in Europe, I'm pretty sure it's still November 11th in the US.

Tayaya

10-03-2008, 03:22 PM

I think it only got bumped in Europe, I'm pretty sure it's still November 11th in the US.

Oh. Right... I thought I read elsewhere that it got bumped here too, but that could just be the crazy talking.

Did anyone play this at PAX? It was there but I didn't notice it until it was too late to play it.

IIntrude

10-03-2008, 04:49 PM

Cannot wait!!!! The setting, the art style, the controls, everything seems to be fresh and new. Really looking forward to this.

Xerxes

10-03-2008, 07:39 PM

I will get this game and sit it on my shelf. Hell yeah!

I still don't get the hype, but I like the quality. So I'll be following y'all in, but I can't decide if I like it until I play it.

Wraith

10-03-2008, 09:41 PM

Eurogamer has a new Hands On preview (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=250971).As well as being absolutely beautiful, the game sounds great too. The soundtrack is instantly reminiscent of genre classic Final Fantasy Tactics - unsurprisingly, since Hitoshi Sakimoto composed the music for both. On a similar note, Valkyria Chronicles' development team has significant overlap with the team that made Skies of Arcadia, and there are cameo appearances from a couple of Skies characters in your party roster.

Turn-based strategy is never going to be everyone's cup of tea, but Valkyria Chronicles' healthy dose of third-person control might be just the thing to attract newcomers to the genre - while old hands can rest assured that beneath the gorgeous exterior beats the heart of a great turn-based game. We're looking forward to getting our teeth more deeply into this one, especially to find out how the battle system develops and whether the cut-scenes ease off as you progress. We'll let you know how we got on with the finished game in our review later this month.Emphasis, mine.

danhoo

10-04-2008, 12:23 AM

After playing this for a short bit at the San Francisco pre-launch event, I'm pretty excited for this one. There's definitely a very interesting real-time tactical aspect to it.

I'm happy to hear that the sound is good, because I couldn't hear a damned thing at the Metreon event. Some idiot was cranking Michael Jackson songs over the loudspeaker in the store.

Wraith (or anyone) -- would you be interested in a high-res photo of the game cover I got at the event?

EWolfmanD

10-04-2008, 01:00 AM

I'm always interested in more images of Valkyria Chronicles. :D

danhoo

10-04-2008, 12:18 PM

Quick scan of cover:

http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq200/dsyu/vc_cover.jpg

Wraith

10-07-2008, 07:36 PM

Nice scan, dan. How much time did you get with the demo? I suppose they were shuffling people through kinda quick.

IGN has an Extended Hands-On preview (http://ps3.ign.com/articles/915/915915p1.html).But the real surprise came from how involved the gameplay of Valkyria Chronicles can really be. Originally, I was under the impression that the strategy elements of the game would take a backseat to the RPG and action elements, considering how you can't really build/manage units during battle and there weren't many unit types to consider. But after examining several battles in Valkyria Chronicles, including some of the later story engagements, I've realized that strategy is a tremendous portion of the experience. Each character class performs radically different in combat situations and your environment is just as crucial to consider.And ultimately, Valkyria Chronicles is just plain old fun. I love watching the story segments, but having full control over the strategy of the battle and then being able to control individual units from a third-person perspective is a great system. There are countless ways to approach every confrontation and with such great systems supporting the package as a whole, I'd say PS3 owners should be pretty excited about Valkyria Chronicles when it gets released on the 11th of November.

Wraith

10-07-2008, 07:50 PM

Also, there's an official U.S. site available. http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/

They've got info on the game (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/info.html), battle system (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/battle.html), characters (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/characters.html), a few wallpapers (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/downloads.html) (see the JP site for more) and a new Alicia/scout class video (http://www.sega.com/valkyria/us/videos.html).

Alicia Melchiott Scout Class Trailer (0:51)

40924

danhoo

10-07-2008, 09:54 PM

Nice scan, dan. How much time did you get with the demo? I suppose they were shuffling people through kinda quick.

Thanks Wraith. I probably got less than ten minutes total, as there were a fair number of people there. That said, the event itself went on for a couple hours and I couldn't stay for the whole thing, so there was probably plenty of opportunity later.

Definitely looking forward to Nov 11th!

IIntrude

10-07-2008, 10:00 PM

Hey dan, with the time you spent with it how would you say the open-endness of the battles is? Is there lots of room to maneuver, options for different strats, or is the typically 1 way the battles play out?

danhoo

10-07-2008, 11:33 PM

Hey IIntrude -- I'd definitely say there's options for different strategies during a battle. For example, in the battle I tried (a small skirmish on a hill, with a river off one side), I could have moved one of my guys down a longer path to do some flanking. I opted not to do that and basically won the battle in a much more brute force fashion, but there were various other ways I could have done things.

I believe I also ran into some environmental gotchas (one of my chars seemed to be moving slower through some tall grass), so had I known about that in advance, I probably would have taken her along a different path.

In retrospect, parts of it reminded me a little of Advance Wars, in that I had a relatively open battlefield with various strategic points, and it was up to me to decide where to go and when, and with whom. The pace, of course, is a bit different, with the enemy shooting at you while you're in range and what-not, but the devs clearly designed the game with the strategy fan in mind. I watched someone else play through another battle with tanks and ground units, and he ended up losing because he was really trying to play it like a straight-up action game and lost his tank (and his advantage) early on.

OrigamiPanther

10-08-2008, 08:43 AM

Did anyone play this at PAX? It was there but I didn't notice it until it was too late to play it.

This was one of the few games I did play at PAX and agree with what danhoo posted about the game. After I was done, I watched one guy take his "Lancer" character (heavy damage/anti-tank type unit) run up to a soldier and completely obliterate him. While it was cool to watch, the flipside was that the Lancer lost all but a 1/4 of the character's life because the enemy soldier was shooting at him the whole time and was killed the next turn. So use of cover and LOS definitely plays a big factor.

Gorvi

10-09-2008, 10:28 AM

FYI: The demo is up on the EU PSN, no region locking. I'm about to dig in now. :)

EDIT: Ok, I need this game now. So awesome.

Wraith

10-13-2008, 01:32 PM

I thought the demo was pretty good at showing off the gameplay. Didn't really give us much story, aside from what you see in the opening movie.

I played through the Campaign part of the demo five times (ran through the Tutorial once). The first three times, I just tried killing off all the enemy units, then going for the flag. The fourth time, I figured I'd just have the scouts make a rush for the flag, but ended up getting some units killed (but then medevaced) in the process. The fifth time, I was a bit more careful about taking out powerful enemy units and keeping scouts out of the way of shocktroopers and lancers, and got the flag on the second turn with no deaths, earning a B ranking instead of a C.

Now I wonder if I could make it in the first turn by alternating between the same 2 or 3 units on the path to the flag. Maybe taking two scouts and one shocktrooper. Though the decreased range for additional moves in the same turn keeps this from being an easy tactic. Really the tank and lancer aren't as big of a concern if you're not in close range of them at the end of your turn; it's really the shocktroopers you need to stay away from, and take out the scouts without getting hit too much.

You learn pretty quick that the only time you should be stationary is if you're totally out of harm's way, or in targeting mode (where you only get hit by counterattacks, if you don't take out the enemy you're targeting). Run from your starting position to where you want to shoot from, bring up targeting mode as soon as you're there and take your shot, then run to cover, if you're not already there.

Norse

10-13-2008, 01:45 PM

Am I the only one disappointed by the graphics in the demo? It's not my kinda game, so I wouldn't buy it anyway, but I wanted to try the demo because I've been impressed by the visuals displayed in trailers. I haven't seen this much jaggies since PS1 and it totally negates the potentially cool art style. Does the PS3 upscale poorly from 720p to 1080p? Maybe the awesome Wipeout HD gfx have spoiled me :)

Wraith

10-13-2008, 02:09 PM

I wonder if it's actually "jaggies", like we're used to from the PS1 & 2, or if it's a result of how the sketchy/illustration style graphics scale. Things up close look fine, but things further away get a bit "jaggy," for lack of a better term.

I hate to pass judgment without seeing some of the cutscenes in-game (which there really wasn't much of in the demo)... I think the graphics are good, but they lean more towards style than technical perfection.

National Kato

10-13-2008, 02:27 PM

FYI: The demo is up on the EU PSN, no region locking. I'm about to dig in now. :)

I know someone asked this earlier, but I must've missed the answer: how the hell do you download something from the EU store if you're in the US?

danhoo

10-13-2008, 02:27 PM

You learn pretty quick that the only time you should be stationary is if you're totally out of harm's way, or in targeting mode (where you only get hit by counterattacks, if you don't take out the enemy you're targeting). Run from your starting position to where you want to shoot from, bring up targeting mode as soon as you're there and take your shot, then run to cover, if you're not already there.

Very true. When I first saw enemies shooting at me, and watched my lifebar slowly get chipped away at, my first thought was that I had somehow ended my turn and done something wrong. Then I just ran for cover. Quickly.

Should make for some fairly interesting think-on-your-feet moments during heated battles.

Gorvi

10-13-2008, 02:31 PM

I know someone asked this earlier, but I must've missed the answer: how the hell do you download something from the EU store if you're in the US?
Simple, easy to swallow instructions. (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showpost.php?p=19550&postcount=18) ;)

Spigot

10-13-2008, 02:32 PM

I can't wait for this game but I'd kind of rather it stay at the Nov. 11 release date. October is already stupidly busy for me as it is and the last thing I really need is a new SRPG...

That said, this was the game I was looking forward to the most before Little Big Planet charmed my socks off a week or two ago, but second to LBP is not a bad place to be in.

National Kato

10-13-2008, 02:55 PM

Simple, easy to swallow instructions. (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showpost.php?p=19550&postcount=18) ;)

Where would I be without ya, Gorvi? *sniff* :p

Xerxes

10-13-2008, 05:11 PM

Very true. When I first saw enemies shooting at me, and watched my lifebar slowly get chipped away at, my first thought was that I had somehow ended my turn and done something wrong. Then I just ran for cover. Quickly.

Should make for some fairly interesting think-on-your-feet moments during heated battles.

Sounds neat.

Zagrash

10-13-2008, 06:02 PM

Simple, easy to swallow instructions. (http://www.colonyofgamers.com/cogforums/showpost.php?p=19550&postcount=18) ;)

Where would I be without ya, Gorvi? *sniff* :p

I thank you as well, I have a feeling my PS3 is about to be saying "Bollocks," and "bloody hell" and whatnot in the very near future. I continue to be horrendously excited about this game. (only 22 posts to go! woo!)

Gorvi

10-13-2008, 06:02 PM

Where would I be without ya, Gorvi? *sniff* :p
I do my best. :)

cepwin

10-13-2008, 08:51 PM

I played the demo and it wasn't bad. However, I have a lot left on Lost Odyssey and Oblivion. Not to mention Fallout 3 is also dropping..a bit more interesting to my taste (but again, that's my taste.)

Wraith

10-13-2008, 10:33 PM

Was able to get A ranking without too much trouble, finishing before enemy's first turn. Used Rosie, Alicia, and Wavy (1x shocktrooper, 2x scouts). Only took out enemy units on the way to the flag. If you can't finish an enemy in one attack, consider a well-placed grenade.

Zagrash

10-13-2008, 11:05 PM

After playing through the demo a few times, I'm officially even more excited about this freaking game. I think I got a B ranking on the tutorial, and a D ranking both times I played through the Skirmish mode, but I don't even care because it's just put together very well, and looks absolutely gorgeous. I already figured I'd be getting this on day one, and now that's a no-brainer. I'm also a huge nerd for Tactical games like this, and with the hints of Skies of Arcadia, I'm just plain sold.

cepwin

10-14-2008, 05:45 PM

Hummm...with everyone enjoying the demo so much I'll have to take another look at it..looks like people are really psyched up for this game.

jeffbax

10-14-2008, 06:08 PM

The demo is up? Off I go :)

Wraith

10-20-2008, 11:09 AM

The first review score is out, from Playstation: The Official Magazine. They gave it a 4.5 out of 5 in their Dec. 2008 issue. It looks like it was their highest rated game (http://www.ga-forum.com/showpost.php?p=13264427&postcount=18) for the month, edging out Midnight Club: LA and NBA 2K9 which both got 4 out of 5.

Metacritic (http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps3/valkyriachronicles)

(The other review listed there, from RPG Fan, is an import review from a few months back.)

Wraith

10-20-2008, 12:09 PM

Amazon's running a promotion (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0016C3260) where if you preorder Valkyria chronicles, they'll give you a $10 credit for a future video game purchase on Amazon. (Sort of like the LittleBigPlanet promotion, though that was a general Amazon gift card.) They've also changed the listed release date from November 11 to November 4, though the preorder promotion says it runs through November 10.

OldJadedGamer

10-20-2008, 01:46 PM

Wraith

10-20-2008, 02:30 PM

They are doing this for a lot of games. I got a $10 card back on both Gears 2 and COD5.I actually just canceled my preorder with another retailer and preordered this and LBP from Amazon (both listed for Nov. 4). I was able to upgrade to 1-day shipping and still be ahead after the credits/gift cards. (I buy from them often enough, I know I'll use them.)

Wraith

10-20-2008, 03:12 PM

Here's a Flickr photo set (http://www.flickr.com/photos/segaamerica/sets/72157607618315131/) with pictures from the Metreon pre-launch event.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3168/2942568928_30196cb947.jpg?v=0

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3167/2942568756_7680901fe9.jpg?v=0

danhoo

10-20-2008, 09:09 PM

Wish I had won one of those posters.

LiquidRain

10-21-2008, 02:37 PM

I want this game so bad I'm tempted to just buy a PS3 for it and hope that there are other games on the system I might like.

Wraith

10-21-2008, 03:08 PM

Destructoid (http://www.destructoid.com/valkria-chronicles-characters-trailers-and-fast-food-hats-welkin-and-alicia-108605.phtml) has the English character profile video for Welkin. The video isn't up yet on the official U.S. site or Gametrailers.

Now Gametrailers has it:

41836

Wraith

10-22-2008, 03:50 PM

Eurogamer has a video (http://www.eurogamer.net/tv_video.php?playlist_id=16259) for the second Japanese DLC pack (which lets you play as the bad guys).

Gorvi

10-23-2008, 01:39 PM

The demo comes out today for everyone who didn't feel like making an EU account.

National Kato

10-23-2008, 01:46 PM

The demo comes out today for everyone who didn't feel like making an EU account.

Thanks, Gorvi! You're always my PS3 reminder! *bow*

Wraith

10-28-2008, 11:49 AM

More reviews on Metacritic: (http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps3/valkyriachronicles)

Eurogamer (http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=265469) - 8/10

I haven't read through the whole review yet. They did have a few complaints (enemy/ally AI, some inconsistencies in the damage model and cover system) that keep a really good game from being truly excellent.This shortlist of fairly fundamental flaws is sadly just enough to prevent the game from reaching the upper echelons of greatness. It's absolutely stunning, visually speaking, with a lovely sketchy watercolour Miyazaki style that looks breathtaking in HD. The music, by Final Fantasy Tactics composer Hitoshi Sakimoto, is of a similarly high standard, alternating between martial urgency and plaintive themes with confident grace. The story is witty and well told, while the characters are memorable and blessed with surprisingly good voice acting. There's so much to praise that it feels churlish to dwell on the negatives, yet there they are - and they're so inextricably linked to the core of the gameplay that they can't help but tarnish an otherwise wonderful game.

Make no mistake, Valkyria Chronicles is a really, really, really good tactical RPG, and fans of the genre should pick it up without delay, but beneath the inviting exterior and thoughtfully designed battle system lies a game with a few too many clunky inconsistencies which directly impact the strategic heart of the experience.

Gameplayer (http://gameplayer.com.au/gp_documents/Valkyria-Chronicles-Review.aspx) - 8.5/10

This is a niche product. It has an anime look, and a novel-like pace. Yet the biggest difference from your run-of-the-mill WWII shooter is that you have to think very carefully about what you are doing. The combat system is straightforward, yet merciless. You will make mistakes, and you will be forced to learn from them. But if you're into this sort of thing, you will get your rocks off — and that's what matters.

Spigot

10-28-2008, 01:39 PM

I tried the demo out today and absolutely loved it. The game still looks smashing and I loved the way it plays like a combination of SRPG and 3rd Person shooter.

Can't wait.

Gorvi

10-28-2008, 01:52 PM

I'm torn. I'm getting R2 next week and I've got LBP that I'm absolutely loving right now. I was going to give this game a couple of weeks before buying it, but damn if it doesn't have a strong draw.

OldJadedGamer

10-28-2008, 02:01 PM

I'm torn. I'm getting R2 next week and I've got LBP that I'm absolutely loving right now. I was going to give this game a couple of weeks before buying it, but damn if it doesn't have a strong draw.

I'm super torn. There are a lot of games I want but after the demo, this may shoot to the top of the list. It was one of the reasons I wanted to get a PS3 this year. I really don't know what to do. I HATE how all the great games come out at once. It's bullshit.

Gorvi

10-28-2008, 03:07 PM

I'm super torn. There are a lot of games I want but after the demo, this may shoot to the top of the list. It was one of the reasons I wanted to get a PS3 this year. I really don't know what to do. I HATE how all the great games come out at once. It's bullshit.
The thing that makes me think I will pick it up sooner rather than later is that it's unlike absolutely anything else that's coming out this Fall.

AliasRomanian

10-28-2008, 04:58 PM

Oh man I can't believe I missed the metreon release party for this!!!

OldJadedGamer

10-28-2008, 05:39 PM

The thing that makes me think I will pick it up sooner rather than later is that it's unlike absolutely anything else that's coming out this Fall.

Being the online social gamer that I am, I caved and got LBP instead of VC. I figured as a single player only game, I can always get it later and it will be the same experience. I really want this game though. Wish it would have come out in summer.

Spigot

10-29-2008, 06:36 AM

This game is still slated for mid November over here, right?

Gorvi

10-29-2008, 07:00 AM

This game is still slated for mid November over here, right?
It's out in 2 weeks. :)

Spigot

10-29-2008, 07:56 AM

It's out in 2 weeks. :)So mid-November then... :)

That's good. It gives me a couple of weeks to breath and let my bank account recover.

Cavalier

10-29-2008, 09:39 AM

It's out on Friday here, and my copy has already shipped :)

Not sure when I'm going to play it though, Fallout 3 also turns up tomorrow and I still have Fable 2 to play.

jeffbax

10-29-2008, 09:11 PM

IGN gave it a 9. I'm definitely picking it up regardless of reviews though.

Cavalier

10-30-2008, 06:12 AM

It just turned up, not sure if it's optional or not (as it's a separate option on the start screen), but it installs to the hard drive.

Gorvi

10-30-2008, 06:59 AM

It just turned up, not sure if it's optional or not (as it's a separate option on the start screen), but it installs to the hard drive.
From what I've read, it's an optional install.

Xydarc

10-30-2008, 12:32 PM

After LBP, this is my most wanted PS3 game this fall/winter. I'm definitely picking this up day 1 or 2, depending on the checking account.

It finally took LBP to pull me away from the demo.

Wraith

10-30-2008, 01:25 PM

I updated the info posts. Added reviews. Added links to U.S. site wallpapers, avatars, and videos.

IGN AU's review was a 9.1/10. The Sixth Axis (which I hadn't heard of before, but they're on Metacritic) gave it an 8/10.

And yes, the hard drive install is optional. From the IGN review:To make matters even better, Valkyria Chronicles also has great loading times, especially after the optional install (which takes a little over nine minutes) and you can opt to listen to the original Japanese language track, which I always appreciate.

Xydarc

10-30-2008, 02:11 PM

The Japanese voice track is in there? That's awesome. Nothing against American voice talent, but the Japanese just sound better.

Thanks for the updates Wraith.:)

National Kato

10-30-2008, 02:36 PM

I like that I'll finally have more than MGS4 on my shelf for the PS3. With LBP and Valkyria, the 'little black console that could' will feel like a member of the family! :D

LiquidRain

10-30-2008, 07:06 PM

You're all a bunch of PS3 owning pricks for being able to play this game. :( I'd have pre-ordered too if I knew it'd fetch me an art book, but it's probably too late now in order to also grab the art book.

Blue

10-30-2008, 11:22 PM

Finally got around to playing the demo today out of pure curiosity and I'm a little sad that I did because now I have ANOTHER game that I need to pick up on top of everything else I already wanted. I absolutely love the feel of the game and have played through the demo a handful of times already just to see what all I can do with it. Such an interesting game and the art style of wonderful.

RandoM51

10-31-2008, 04:53 AM

For IGN to give a game like this that high of a score it is/must be probably very good.

Wraith

10-31-2008, 09:46 AM

For the release of Phantasy Star Zero (DS) in Japan, Sega's offering guest weapon trading cards (weapons from other Sega games) as a preorder bonus. (You scan a card to get the weapon in-game, I guess?) One of the guest weapons is Selvaria's sword from Valkyria Chronicles:

http://www.gpara.com/files/contents/c_l1225397894_0.jpg

Phantasy Star Zero Crosses Over With Other Sega Games (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/10/30/phantasy-star-zero-crosses-over-with-other-sega-games/) (Siliconera)

Xydarc

10-31-2008, 12:11 PM

I've gotta stop watching videos of this game. It merely increases the hunger for it.

Wraith

10-31-2008, 05:42 PM

A couple more reviews on Metacritic from sites I haven't heard of.

WonderwallWeb (http://wonderwallweb.com/article-511-Valkyria-Chronicles.html) rates it 8.9/10.
MeriStation (http://www.meristation.com/v3/des_analisis.php?pic=GEN&id=cw4908d590a4cb9&idj=cw469cc641b922b&&iframe=1) rates it 8.5/10 (Muy Bueno).

Also, there's an English character/class trailer for Rosie/shocktrooper:

42177

Gorvi

11-02-2008, 03:32 PM

Spigot

11-02-2008, 03:35 PM

GameStop now has the game set as coming out on Tuesday (http://www.gamestop.com/Catalog/ProductDetails.aspx?product_id=4058). Fuck me, I'm buying 2 games in one day for the second time in two weeks. It's a good thing the only other thing I'm buying all year is Persona 4, or else my wife would kill me.What? NO! It can't come out for another week. I just can't handle it this week!

That said, it's pretty much Valkyria, Chrono Trigger and Persona 4 for me for the rest of the year. Phew.

Xydarc

11-02-2008, 03:57 PM

Gorvi

11-02-2008, 04:03 PM

No Eternal Poison?
Nah. Maybe next year, but I don't even know much about the game. It used to be that almost any Atlus release would get my undivided attention, but they've released so much garbage over the past few years that I almost expect most of the games they publish to be bad to mediocre, with the good games being the exception. If EP is good, though, I'll have to give it some attention sooner rather than later. Their limited print runs mostly haven't changed.

Spigot

11-02-2008, 06:52 PM

Nah. Maybe next year, but I don't even know much about the game. It used to be that almost any Atlus release would get my undivided attention, but they've released so much garbage over the past few years that I almost expect most of the games they publish to be bad to mediocre, with the good games being the exception. If EP is good, though, I'll have to give it some attention sooner rather than later. Their limited print runs mostly haven't changed.I haven't seen anything about Eternal Poison that really has me jazzed. It looks mildy interesting but it also looks a lot like stuff Atlus has already rammed down our throats a million times.

And the art style just doesn't sit well with me.

Persona 4, on the other hand... Can Not Wait.

Wraith

11-02-2008, 10:57 PM

A few more reviews posted, including an A- from 1up (http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3171060&p=37).

A couple complaints, like dumb enemy AI and some overly-long cutscenes, but they seem pleased with the game:This is, without question, the best tactics game on the PS3 -- and it's one of the best games on PS3, period.

Spigot

11-03-2008, 07:18 AM

A couple complaints, like dumb enemy AI and some overly-long cutscenes, but they seem pleased with the game:As a fan of Xenosaga, I can only say that THERE ARE NO SUCH THING AS OVERLY-LONG CUTSCENES!

Only boring ones.

Gorvi

11-03-2008, 07:21 AM

As a fan of Xenosaga, I can only say that THERE ARE NO SUCH THING AS OVERLY-LONG CUTSCENES!

Only boring ones.
Hey, now, don't you go slammin' Xenosaga, them's fightin' words round these parts. ;)

Spigot

11-03-2008, 07:24 AM

Hey, now, don't you go slammin' Xenosaga, them's fightin' words round these parts. ;)I wasn't slamming Xenosaga!

I was just saying that I'm one of those people who just rolls my eyes whenever I see complaints about long cutscenes. I've sat through 45 minute cutscenes in Xenosaga and MGS4 and been riveted. I've been wishing for a skip button in other games after 10 seconds.

It's a matter of whether they're interesting cutscenes or not. Length doesn't matter.

Gorvi

11-03-2008, 07:29 AM

I wasn't slamming Xenosaga!

I was just saying that I'm one of those people who just rolls my eyes whenever I see complaints about long cutscenes. I've sat through 45 minute cutscenes in Xenosaga and MGS4 and been riveted. I've been wishing for a skip button in other games after 10 seconds.

It's a matter of whether they're interesting cutscenes or not. Length doesn't matter.
Ah, ok, forgiven. :p

And yeah, as long as the cutscenes are good (and pausable) I have no problem. And as long as you can't accidentally skip them by pressing a button. I hate that.

Spigot

11-03-2008, 08:13 AM

Ah, ok, forgiven. :p

And yeah, as long as the cutscenes are good (and pausable) I have no problem. And as long as you can't accidentally skip them by pressing a button. I hate that.Aye. I usually press Start during one of the first cutscenes so I know for sure whether I can pause a cutscene or not. I have almost the same kind of loathing for accidentally skipping cutscenes that most have for unskippable cutscenes.

Gorvi

11-04-2008, 03:33 PM

National Kato

11-04-2008, 03:40 PM

I've sat through 45 minute cutscenes in Xenosaga and MGS4 and been riveted. I've been wishing for a skip button in other games after 10 seconds.

Yes, this. I was concerned about the MGS4 cutscene length until I began experiencing them. Some are on par with the best action films I've seen.

Now, that last cutscene with the wedding? Okay, that one had me yawning. :)

IIntrude

11-04-2008, 03:45 PM

Amazon says it is shipping soon!

Wraith

11-04-2008, 03:46 PM

Good news, everyone! We will be getting the DLC that Japan got starting next year. (http://blog.us.playstation.com/2008/11/04/segas-valkyria-chronicles-shipping-out-today-dlc-on-the-way/) :)

I'll have the game tonight, though I probably won't be starting it til the weekend.Oh wait, I promised you an announcement, right? I wouldn’t let you guys down. You might have read that the Japanese folks got an extra mission and an Extra Hard skirmish mode as downloadable content.

It’s my sincere and distinct pleasure to let you know that we’re bringing those two content packs over to the US and European shores early next year. We did this to support all the fans of the game and make sure that everyone can get all the enjoyment out of the game. We hope you enjoy it!I hope that means they're bringing the hard mode and both DLC episodes (Edie's side story (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/06/30/valkyria-chronicles-extended-with-new-episodes/), Attack With Selvaria (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/09/29/valkyria-chronicles-dlc-lets-you-be-the-evil-empire/)) released for Japan so far.

And I'll be getting my copy once Amazon ships it. The release date they had was Nov. 4, and now it says it'll be in stock on Nov. 6. I've got upgraded shipping, but haven't gotten a shipping confirmation e-mail yet. Hopefully it ships Wednesday or Thursday.

Spigot

11-04-2008, 05:14 PM

On the one hand, it would be great if I got a call that this was in tomorrow. On the other hand, I'm just starting to sink my teeth into Fallout 3 and need another big game like I need a hole in my head. That said, I've been super excited for this game for at least 6 months to a year (I forget when the first screens were posted back in the day) but man, did they have to release it right now?

Gorvi

11-04-2008, 05:30 PM

Bah, just picked up R2, they said it wouldn't be in til tomorrow. Oh well, I'll grab it on Friday, I guess.

Mashidar

11-04-2008, 08:27 PM

I hope to have gamefly send me a copy tommorow, then I'll just buy it from them. I don't doubt that I'll enjoy the game, because not only do I love the art style, but I loved the Demo a great deal.

Inspector Fowler

11-04-2008, 08:32 PM

Aaaaggghh. I want to download the demo but there is another "system update" for my PS3. How often do they need to do this?

I had totally forgotten about this game until I saw the thread, thanks guys!! :)

Wraith

11-04-2008, 08:54 PM

A few more reviews:

Playstation Official Magazine (UK) - 8/10
PSM3 Magazine (UK) - 85/100
Game Informer (http://gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/CED69D54-FA7A-478E-B90D-4E8C5794106D.htm) - 8.5/10

Wraith

11-05-2008, 10:15 AM

GameSpy (http://ps3.gamespy.com/playstation-3/battle-field-valkyrie/927063p1.html): 4.5/5

They find a few problems with the combat system (some objects in the field can't be used for cover, the right-stick is a bit touchy for precision shots, for example), but give high marks to the soundtrack, characters, story, visuals.What makes the storytelling in Valkyria Chronicles so powerful are the characters. These are soldiers with human sides to them, each with hopes and dreams for a better future when the fighting is done. Some of the characters are deeply flawed, riddled with self-doubt or tainted by racism towards the dark-haired Darcsen people. In between battles, you'll get to know a lot about the main characters in militia Squad 7, who are fleshed out in such a way as to become far more than the sum of their attributes and weaponry.

...

Valkyria Chronicles is a powerful reason for role-playing gamers to spend the next few weeks on the PlayStation 3. Having seen the game in action some time ago, we expected something visually stunning, but we were impressed by the strength of the game's storyline and gameplay. It's easily one of the best looking games we've played this year, but thankfully there's plenty of strategic depth and engrossing gameplay to back it up.

Spigot

11-05-2008, 10:16 AM

Damn it, EB. Call me and tell me my copy is in!

Purple Santa

11-05-2008, 12:43 PM

Damn you Spigot and Gorvi. I may have to get this game during my winter break...I was swearing off console RPGs...damn you both :)

Spigot

11-05-2008, 05:09 PM

Damn you Spigot and Gorvi. I may have to get this game during my winter break...I was swearing off console RPGs...damn you both :)Well, it's a tactical RPG with illusions of 3rd person shooterness. It's not yet another run of the mill JRPG.

Zagrash

11-05-2008, 08:56 PM

Purple Santa

11-05-2008, 09:14 PM

Well, it's a tactical RPG with illusions of 3rd person shooterness. It's not yet another run of the mill JRPG.

Well you and Gorvi were looking real hard at this game. How could I not be curious...cause usually you guys recommend good stuff. And damn you again...you did it again...so now another game for my long winter break to play. I loved your summary on it though...looks awesome...damn Canadian/Floridians :D

Inspector Fowler

11-05-2008, 09:53 PM

Aaaaghh! I didn't even get through the tutorial before I knew I would be hooked on this game. Why do I even bother trying these crack-like tactical games? I just know how it will all end up for me - heartbreak. Well, not really. But I love the art style and the play control is actually fluid and fun, not tedious.

This went from an, "I dunno" to a must purchase for me.

Gorvi

11-06-2008, 03:00 AM

Damn you Spigot and Gorvi. I may have to get this game during my winter break...I was swearing off console RPGs...damn you both :)
Oh, no, Wraith deserves all the credit on this one, he's been pimpin' it for months now. :)

Spigot

11-06-2008, 06:44 AM

Oh, no, Wraith deserves all the credit on this one, he's been pimpin' it for months now. :)Aye, though I have no problem shouldering some of the load as this has easily been the game I've been most excited for this fall.

My shop didn't have it in yet when I called around 7pm last night. I hope it'll be in today.

Xydarc

11-06-2008, 12:57 PM

Impressions?

Spigot

11-06-2008, 01:12 PM

Impressions?78sSn3E_Vvc

Oh... of the GAME!

I haven't received my call yet. I'll swing by the shop anyway when I go out later today. They'd better get it in.

Wraith

11-06-2008, 01:31 PM

My copy got delivered this morning, after I left for work. I'll start in on it when I get home.

For those who've started playing, are you using the English or Japanese voices? I haven't really seen anyone complain about the English voices in the reviews released so far, and some reviews had good things to say about them, so I'll probably go with English voices first, and try the Japanese voices later on.

And definitely inverted Y-axis for camera and aiming. It was a pain trying to play the demo when I hadn't made those changes before entering the level.

National Kato

11-06-2008, 01:35 PM

I didn't preorder this because, well...do you really think I'll have trouble getting a copy? It's kind of a niche title, no? :)

I'll stop by after work today to see if it's in. But man, I already have a stack of games to play and this only makes it worse. I truly hope...hopehopehope...that there's a drought of releases come this winter.

Wraith

11-06-2008, 01:50 PM

Oh, it's definitely niche. Not quite as niche as, say, Disgaea, but more niche than your standard JRPG.

I preordered because it's just easier for me to get games that way. (Not really much in the way of game stores around here.) And gamestop mentioned something about an artbook for preorders, but the wording kinda made it seem like all preorders got it. Mine's from Amazon, so I'll see if it has anything or not.

Actually, I just checked Gamestop's website, and it's Not Available Online. They must have gotten a decent number of preorders.

Spigot

11-06-2008, 01:59 PM

I'll likely start with the English voices until they make me want to stick a pencil in my ear. Hopefully that won't happen.

Wraith

11-06-2008, 02:06 PM

Gorvi

11-06-2008, 02:11 PM

Heads up for anyone who hasn't gotten it yet. Apparently Circuit City will have the game for $44.99, for the week starting Sunday (Nov. 9th). CAG link (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=202327&highlight=valkyria%20chronicles) (registration required).
That is freaking sweet. I'm stuck going to a wedding on Saturday night so I wouldn't get a chance to play it until Sunday. Awesome. :)

Spigot

11-06-2008, 03:38 PM

Well, there was no sign of it at my EB (or the Wal Mart across the street) this afternoon. I did find out that they had a trade 2, spend $10 on any new release game, so I'm essentially getting the game for $10 out of my pocket. Woo.

Part of me hopes it'll show up tonight (they do get late shipments at times) but they seemed pretty much occupied with the Gears 2 launch, so we'll see. I just hope it comes in this week.

menage

11-06-2008, 03:40 PM

I'm picking this up as soon as I finish Disgaea 3, which should be March 2011 at this rate.

Spigot

11-06-2008, 03:41 PM

I'm picking this up as soon as I finish Disgaea 3, which should be March 2011 at this rate.The upside of it NOT coming in tonight is that I can probably finish off the last couple chapters of Dead Space. I need to finish a game before my backlog gets even larger.

National Kato

11-06-2008, 03:43 PM

Just called my local GameStop and they have it in stock...so I'll pick up on way home. :D

IIntrude

11-06-2008, 04:39 PM

Installing now, and soon will be playing. Pretty menus so far.

Spigot

11-06-2008, 07:25 PM

Well, 15 minutes until the shop closes... looks like I won't be getting the game until tomorrow.

Sigh.

Zagrash

11-06-2008, 08:14 PM

I am completely & totally retarded for this game. I've played through the first 2 chapters, and while I'm pretty sure I got a D-rank on both of the main missions, I didn't even care. I can't wait to really get into the story, and meet more of the players, although it's still cool to see the interaction between Welkin and Alicia.

The English language track is actually quite good, I've come to expect crappy English voiceacting from most games, but this has been a pleasant surprise. Here's hoping it stays that way!

Xerxes

11-06-2008, 10:31 PM

The upside of it NOT coming in tonight is that I can probably finish off the last couple chapters of Dead Space. I need to finish a game before my backlog gets even larger.

My backlog eats your backlog for lunch.

IIntrude

11-06-2008, 11:43 PM

Well, honestly I was kinda worried about the game after the 1st mission or two. HOWEVER...now I really like this game, I have a full squad and larger maps to fight on. I am enjoying the story and the art is simply beautiful.

Spigot

11-07-2008, 12:47 AM

That's good to hear Zagrash. For a game that is flying under a lot of radars, Sega seems to be really backing Valkyria. I just finished up Dead Space, so my copy had better arrive tomorrow or I'll be grumpy this weekend with only LBP, Fallout 3, PA: Ep 2 and many, many other games to play :)

Wraith

11-07-2008, 02:46 AM

As for cutscenes, there doesn't seem to be a way to pause them. But they are broken up into segments, and you can go back and replay them any time. (Start = skip, apparently, though I didn't try it on any cutscenes I hadn't already viewed.) So if you're at a cutscene and really need to step away, you can skip it (or let it run), and then just re-play it when you're back. None of the cutscene segments I've seen so far have been overly long, though you do get several of them in between battles.

Gorvi

11-07-2008, 03:16 AM

My backlog eats your backlog for lunch.
My backlog would devour and absorb yours into it. Seriously, it's a thing of legends.

IIntrude

11-07-2008, 06:59 AM

I really like how they did the cutscenes, the small clips in the book are a really good alternative to long but pauseable clips. I like the overall feel of the book too. How they layed it out encouraged me to complete entire pages or chapters before putting the game down. It made me want to keep turning the pages to find out what happened next.

Spigot

11-07-2008, 07:08 AM

My backlog would devour and absorb yours into it. Seriously, it's a thing of legends.Bah. I probably have a bigger backlog on my PS3 than your and Xerxes' backlog combined!

Which is to say, I'm a sad, sad man. Esp. when I think about the fact that I don't have Valkyria Chronicles yet. Sob.

Gorvi

11-07-2008, 07:14 AM

Bah. I probably have a bigger backlog on my PS3 than your and Xerxes' backlog combined!

Which is to say, I'm a sad, sad man. Esp. when I think about the fact that I don't have Valkyria Chronicles yet. Sob.
I sense a list war coming...... ;)

Spigot

11-07-2008, 07:20 AM

I sense a list war coming...... ;)Bah. I've traded in more games this year than Xerxes has owned IN HIS LIFE!

And making a list would take away from valuable gaming time... or time spent talking about how making a list would take away from my gaming time.

Xydarc

11-07-2008, 09:03 AM

Heads up for anyone who hasn't gotten it yet. Apparently Circuit City will have the game for $44.99, for the week starting Sunday (Nov. 9th). CAG link (http://www.cheapassgamer.com/forums/showthread.php?t=202327&highlight=valkyria%20chronicles) (registration required).
Sweet! Looks like I'll be picking it up on Sunday before the Steelers play.:D

National Kato

11-07-2008, 10:08 AM

I've only played up to the second small conflict and I can already see how much fun this will be. I'm hoping to put more time in this weekend, but damn there are so many games I'm currently playing my girlfriend is going to hate me.

Evil Avnovice

11-07-2008, 01:17 PM

I managed to get my copy. While I missed out on my GameStop pre-order from Ala Moana Center, I lucked out and managed to get the game over at the one by WindWard Mall at Kaneohe (Thank you, dentist appointment!).

I'm on the second chapter. The CANVAS graphics are very beautiful, even if Valkryia Chronicles only outputs to 720 progressive. When I return home from work this afternoon, I'll sink some more time into it. And I'll have a week or so to play more of Valkyria Chronicles before Dawn of the New World comes out. :D

Spigot

11-07-2008, 01:26 PM

I was thinking I'd have a weekend of Valkyrialessness as my EB STILL didn't have the game in as of about 1pm today and weren't expecting any more shipments until Monday.

I decided to pop across the parking lot and see if Wal-Mart had any copies in and what do you know? They had TWO! So not only do I now have a copy of Valkyria to play (yay), I was able to use the paid-off preorder amount from Valkyria to secure myself a copy of Gears 2.

Of course, I likely won't get a chance to play the game until late tonight, but this means I don't have to wait until 11pm on Monday to play.

Evil Avnovice

11-07-2008, 01:42 PM

I didn't expcet to get my pre-order copy because my dentist appointment clashed with my normal time of hitting GameStop at 11am. When I remembered the appointment was at WindWard Mall, it had hit me then that I could go to the GameStop there and snatch a copy.

I was also banking on the fact that Valkyria Chronicles wasn't a "high profile" game, so I shouldn't have had trouble getting it. :)

Spigot

11-07-2008, 03:07 PM

I was also banking on the fact that Valkyria Chronicles wasn't a "high profile" game, so I shouldn't have had trouble getting it. :)My only problem is that a lot of the time, that means a store gets 2 copies and if they're gone, they're gone for good. At least, that's the way it is for me when it's something I actively resist.

Variable Gear

11-07-2008, 03:42 PM

I didn't expcet to get my pre-order copy because my dentist appointment clashed with my normal time of hitting GameStop at 11am...
Wait, how many times do you go to GameStop during an average week?

Wraith

11-08-2008, 10:02 AM

Another pricing heads up: Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Valkyria-Chronicles-Playstation-3/dp/B0016C3260/) (click for CoG referral) now has it for $49.99.

Anyone who preordered LittleBigPlanet from Amazon, you might have your $10 gift card by now too... (I got my e-mail with gift card code a couple days ago.)

Purple Santa

11-08-2008, 12:47 PM

My backlog would devour and absorb yours into it. Seriously, it's a thing of legends.
I think you wrote that list over at EvAv once...and I thought it was quite...long...
Wait, how many times do you go to GameStop during an average week?
I don't think its measured in days. How many times PER day maybe, per week...:p

Well my pittance "backlog" compared to the rest has now VC on it. I'm going to buy it I think just to support Sega actually producing something something like this...

Spigot

11-08-2008, 01:20 PM

Good for you, Purple Santa. It's well worth investing in.

OldJadedGamer

11-08-2008, 01:54 PM

I almost bought this because of the Amazon deal but then learned that there are no trophies so I'll wait for a patch before I pick this one up. I'm in no hurry right now since it's only a single player game.

Evil Avnovice

11-08-2008, 02:06 PM

Wait, how many times do you go to GameStop during an average week?

To re-correct myself:

I normally frequent a GameStop at Ala Moana Center [Honolulu]. My dentist appointment this past Thursday was at WindWard Mall [Kaneohe] As I wasn't able to go to Ala Moana Center, I remember that there was a GameStop at the WindWard Mall as well when I had to head there for my appointment.

And to answer your initial question, I go there every Thursday if there's something on my list. I guess without naming the cities, that must have been a little confusing as to what I was talking about with my previous post. :o

Evil Avnovice

11-08-2008, 02:14 PM

On-topic:

I have my headquarters, and I like how the game handles its units. When you level up or acquire an upgrade, it's evenly distributed throughout your whole squad, without having to worry about select units hogging all the good stuff. :)

Variable Gear

11-08-2008, 02:35 PM

To re-correct myself:

I normally frequent a GameStop at Ala Moana Center [Honolulu]. My dentist appointment this past Thursday was at WindWard Mall [Kaneohe] As I wasn't able to go to Ala Moana Center, I remember that there was a GameStop at the WindWard Mall as well when I had to head there for my appointment.

And to answer your initial question, I go there every Thursday if there's something on my list. I guess without naming the cities, that must have been a little confusing as to what I was talking about with my previous post. :o
Thanks for answering my ridiculous question. And, don't worry, I have a similar GameStop that I frequent.

EWolfmanD

11-08-2008, 05:58 PM

I wasn't expecting this to arrive until next week, but I had the pleasant surprise of it showing up today. I've been looking forward to this game for months. :D

I'm only in chapter 3 so far, but I'm loving everything about the game. It's definitely living up to my expectations (although I already knew that from enjoying the demo). I think it's going to consume all my time for the next few days. :p

I also got the artbook from my pre-order, but I haven't looked at it much yet except for glancing at the first few pages. I didn't want to risk spoiling anything.

Xydarc

11-09-2008, 04:47 PM

Fuck you, Circuit City. You put VC @ $44.99 in your Sunday circular, but don't have any copies in your store? Won't arrive until Tuesday? Augh!

Ah well, more LBP then.

Spigot

11-09-2008, 07:54 PM

Wraith

11-10-2008, 01:57 AM

Minor spoiler, for the English voice acting, in case you want to be surprised by it:

Seven Jay Blum (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=4832) does the voice of Zaka. Spike from Cowboy Bebop, being probably his most well-known role. (I'm not seeing any official listing, but it has to be him.)

Radi Yaeger sounds like he might be voiced by Patrick Seitz (http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/encyclopedia/people.php?id=7108), but I'm not as sure on that one yet.

The only English cast listed on Wikipedia are Dave Wittenberg (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Wittenberg) (Mullin from Last Exile) and Kari Wahlgren (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kari_Wahlgren) (Haruko from FLCL, Lavi from Last Exile) as Elet. I hadn't recognized her voice, but yeah, it does sound like her.

I just finished chapter 11 about a half hour ago. There have been a couple missions where I just barely got a win (and a couple I had to re-try once or twice). There was one mission I had pretty much figured I'd have to just start over, as I'd wasted a bunch of turns on the wrong tactic, but I finished it with my very last CP before the enemy would have achieved its victory condition.

Some of the squad members I'm using most often are:

Alicia
Dallas
Rosie
Cherry
Largo
Vyse
Aika
Marina
Edy

EWolfmanD

11-10-2008, 04:14 AM

I was able to get to chapter 3 in my flu-addled state today and I'm already excited about the way the game handles class leveling and weapon upgrades. It means I could possibly use my entire squad instead of only having 5 uber characters come the endgame.

Hope you feel better soon!

Yeah, I really like the leveling systen. For one mission, I used almost all Lancers and for another one I used almost all Shocktroopers, based upon the mission objectives and what forces the enemy had. Doing that would basically be impossible in most other games since I never level up the extra people of a certain class except for my main, core group of favorites. It's nice being able to switch in and use new people easily.

Spigot

11-10-2008, 08:58 AM

I also wanted to mention that the English dub is actually pretty good now that I've played it a bit more. I recind my previous grumpiness about how they sounded.

Wraith

11-10-2008, 10:54 AM

Just for the heck of it, I searched Metacritic for games published by Sega, since 2003, ordered by highest rating first. Valkyria Chronicles is so far Sega's 5th highest-rated game in the last 6 years, with the sports titles filtered out, 20th if they're included. Now, it's still a new release, and that score will probably fluctuate as straggling reviews come out (I still haven't seen a Gamespot review). But I think it's pretty safe to say - one of Sega's best games in years.

1. PS2: Virtua Fighter 4: Evolution (2003) 93
7. Xbox: Panzer Dragoon Orta (2003) 90
13. Xbox 360: Virtua Fighter 5 (2007) 89
16. PC: Medieval II: Total War (2006) 88
20. PS3: Valkyria Chronicles (2008) 87
25. GBA: Astro Boy: Omega Factor (2004) 85
27. PS3: Virtua Fighter 5 (2007) 85
28. PC: Medieval II: Total War Kingdoms (2007) 85
29. GameCube: Skies of Arcadia Legends (2003) 84
31. GBA: Sonic Advance 2 (2003) 83
33. Xbox: Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II (2003) 83
35. GBA: Gunstar Super Heroes (2005) 83
36. DS: Bleach: The Blade of Fate (2007) 83
37. PSP: Crush (2007) 83
38. DS: Bleach: Dark Souls (2008) 83
40. PC: Rome: Total War - Barbarian Invasion (2005) 82
41. DS: Sonic Rush (2005) 82
42. PSP: OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast (2006) 82
43. PSP: SEGA Genesis Collection (2006) 82
44. PS2: SEGA Genesis Collection (2006) 82
46. PS3: Condemned 2: Bloodshot (2008) 82
47. Xbox 360: Sonic the Hedgehog 2 (2007) 82
48. Xbox: Super Monkey Ball Deluxe (2005) 81
49. Xbox 360: Condemned: Criminal Origins (2005) 81
50. PS2: OutRun 2006: Coast 2 Coast (2006) 81

And in case anyone was wondering, the original Skies of Arcadia (DC) from 2000 has a score of 93.

Spigot

11-10-2008, 11:01 AM

Wraith = Shill :)

Wraith

11-10-2008, 11:06 AM

Wraith = Shill :)Maybe. :D

But with all Sega hate in the last few years, it's nice to see them release a quality title like this.

Spigot

11-10-2008, 11:09 AM

Maybe. :D

But with all Sega hate in the last few years, it's nice to see them release a quality title like this.No kidding.

It's like they took all of the quality that has been lacking from pretty much any Sonic game since the launch of the 360 and poured it into Valkyria.

EWolfmanD

11-10-2008, 11:47 AM

No kidding.

It's like they took all of the quality that has been lacking from pretty much any Sonic game since the launch of the 360 and poured it into Valkyria.

That's ok with me. :D

Gorvi

11-10-2008, 02:34 PM

Picked it up this morning, so I should be starting some time in the next few days. I just finished R2, but I have a feeling I'll be jumping into some coop before making VC my main gaming fix for the next little while.

Zagrash

11-10-2008, 02:38 PM

I just finished chapter 11 about a half hour ago. There have been a couple missions where I just barely got a win (and a couple I had to re-try once or twice). There was one mission I had pretty much figured I'd have to just start over, as I'd wasted a bunch of turns on the wrong tactic, but I finished it with my very last CP before the enemy would have achieved its victory condition.

Some of the squad members I'm using most often are:

Alicia
Dallas
Rosie
Cherry
Largo
Vyse
Aika
Marina
Edy

I'm only through chapter 6 myself, but I've been going slow on the story because I don't want it to end. Plus I've been hitting skirmish pretty hard. I know its basically the equivalent of grinding, but I don't care because its so damn fun! I'm at lunch and using my phone so ill probably screw up names, but my main squad goes something like this:

Scouts
Alicia
Noce

Shock
Rosie
Hannes
Vyse

Lancer
Largo
Jann (what can I say, he cracks me up)

Sniper
Oscar
Cezarne

Lately I've been running with one scout & 2 Snipers. I am still hopelessly retarded for this game

RandoM51

11-10-2008, 03:15 PM

I need to get around to picking this up.

Wraith

11-10-2008, 07:05 PM

For anyone who was, like me, wondering what was in the Gamestop artbook preorder bonus, someone has scans up on Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/32078510@N05/sets/72157608667345492/).

LiquidRain

11-10-2008, 10:08 PM

Pretty good for a pre-order bonus!

Spigot

11-10-2008, 10:40 PM

I also like the fact that each of your unit has a name, personality and voice. No more generic forces!

Xerxes

11-11-2008, 01:03 AM

I also like the fact that each of your unit has a name, personality and voice. No more generic forces!

I like generic forces. Naming a plain unit John beats La Hire any day. :p

Spigot

11-11-2008, 06:18 AM

I like generic forces. Naming a plain unit John beats La Hire any day. :pHey, you leave Le Hire alone!

Wraith

11-12-2008, 10:45 AM

Valkyria Chronicles Getting An Anime (http://www.siliconera.com/2008/11/12/valkyria-chronicles-getting-an-anime/) (Siliconera)We’re going to be seeing a lot more of Valkyria Chronicles. Well, Japan is going to be seeing a lot more of Valkyria Chronicles. Sega is partnering with A-1 Pictures to create a televised Valkyria Chronicles animated series (http://www.valkyria-anime.com/) set to come out next spring. I hope A-1 keeps the watercolor look that made Valkyria Chronicles stand out.

A-1 Pictures previous’ work includes Persona: Trinity Soul and Kuroshitsuji which is currently broadcasting on TBS. No, not the TBS that endlessly plays reruns of Family Guy, I mean Tokyo Broadcasting System in Japan. No word if anyone is going to license this internationally, but anime has seen a downward spiral in North America with Cartoon Network pulling many shows off the air.

Gorvi

11-13-2008, 06:59 AM

I made the mistake of starting this last night. Hot damn, it's going to take a lot to pull me away from this game now. I'm really surprised how good the English voice cast is, at least in the very beginning of the game (I only made it to the point where you actually enlist and fill out your squad). Anyone know how long the game is?

Spigot

11-13-2008, 07:07 AM

I've heard it clocks in at 8-10 hours.

Seriously though, I doubt it will be over any time soon. Skirmish mode alone will add many extra hours, I'm sure.

And again, the english dub really grew on me during my playtime this weekend. I rescind whatever disparaging remarks I made about it earlier.

Now to finish off Gears 2 so I can get back to working on VC.

Gorvi

11-13-2008, 07:59 AM

I've heard it clocks in at 8-10 hours.
The one thing I've seen said 40-45 hours. I hope what I heard was the more accurate estimate. ;)

Wraith

11-13-2008, 08:20 AM

The estimates I've read were 30 hours, I think. I've passed 30 hours, and am not done yet. Haven't done too many skirmishes, haven't read much of the Glossary tab. (I've also read the hours calculation on save files includes time you've just let the game idle, so... I've got a little extra time in there, but not a huge amount.)

And New Game+ mode adds to the replayability too.

As for the 8-10 hours estimate? Maybe that's reasonable if you skip cutscenes, fly through every mission, and don't waste much time in the Headquarters tab.

Wraith

11-13-2008, 10:16 AM

I've got to not start playing this game late on a weeknight. If I finish a chapter, I want to at least watch the cutscenes of the next one. If I watch the cutscenes, I want to play the mission. Then I want to just finish the cutscenes for the end of the chapter. And then it's 3am.

National Kato

11-13-2008, 10:40 AM

Xydarc

11-13-2008, 10:41 AM

Damn you Circuit City. I should be playing this gem right now.

Gorvi

11-13-2008, 10:42 AM

I just finished my tutorial on the HQ and picked my 20-member squad. Choosing members was a bit daunting when you have to pick 20 - and I understand I can change them whenever I want - but just that change in scale from the limited early missions has me eager to play more. Tutorials are nice, but I'm hoping the game really opens up now.
Yeah, that's exactly where I stopped.

Here's what I'm wondering: is there any real consequence with who you pick? As in, am I going to miss story elements if I choose to use one character over another? Or does it just matter with how they relate to eachother in battle, where some get along better than others?

National Kato

11-13-2008, 10:45 AM

Here's what I'm wondering: is there any real consequence with who you pick? As in, am I going to miss story elements if I choose to use one character over another? Or does it just matter with how they relate to eachother in battle, where some get along better than others?

Good question. I didn't notice until after I'd chosen about 12 people that some of the 'personality traits' will come into play depending on squad makeup (i.e. prefers women, prefers grass, prefers trenches, etc.). I had failed to read the descriptions on them and will likely have to reevaluate my choices when the battles are laid out.

Wraith

11-13-2008, 10:56 AM

Yeah, that's exactly where I stopped.

Here's what I'm wondering: is there any real consequence with who you pick? As in, am I going to miss story elements if I choose to use one character over another? Or does it just matter with how they relate to eachother in battle, where some get along better than others?For the former, no. I don't think who you have in your roster affects the story at all. Largo, Rosie, Alicia... storyline characters can't be removed from your squad. Sometimes they'll be required for a mission, but not always. (I think they do give you a CP when they're selected for a mission.)

For the latter, yes. Some characters get along better with others (characters they like are listed in their profile) and this can lead to temporary bonuses when the characters are in proximity. I usually try to play Vyse and Aika together, as each likes the other. There are some characters that dislike others (either individuals, classes, or Darcsens), which is listed in their Potentials. Some characters have the Lone Wolf potential, and don't like being around other characters.

As for picking a squad, I tried to get a number of characters that like each other, and have fewer negative Potentials (dislikes, allergies, bad back, etc.). I think I ended up going with 5 scouts, 5 shocktroopers, 3 lancers, 3 engineers, 3 snipers, and Welkin as scout/tank commander makes 20.

Gorvi

11-13-2008, 10:59 AM

Cool, that's about the setup I threw together last night. How can you tell if a character is a Darcsen? Is it just the characters with black hair or is there something else?

Wraith

11-13-2008, 11:03 AM

Cool, that's about the setup I threw together last night. How can you tell if a character is a Darcsen? Is it just the characters with black hair or is there something else?I think all Darcsens have dark blue hair, like Isara's. I know one of my Engineers is Darcsen. There's at least one character with black hair that's a Darcsen Hater, so I figured it must be just dark blue.

Spigot

11-13-2008, 06:38 PM

Maybe he hates himself...

I was kidding on the 8-10 hour estimate. Can you imagine? Yeesh.

I'm hoping for a game that is short enough to hold my interest and long enough to make me feel like I've squeezed every last drop out of it. How many hours that may encompass doesn't really matter, unless it's upwards of 150, in which case I'm screwed.

Wraith

11-13-2008, 07:09 PM

One thing about character selection... I did read somewhere that to get some characters to show up in the list of available recruits, you need to play as certain characters in certain situations. It sounds like this only applies for a handful of non-story characters. The specifics are in a FAQ on GameFAQs, though I haven't read it myself. Beyond those few, the order in which characters become available seems to be random. (Check back at HQ after completing a chapter.)

Either way, I didn't have to do anything special to get Vyse or Aika, so I'm not real concerned about unlocking those other characters. Maybe on another playthrough.

Xydarc

11-13-2008, 07:28 PM

Wraith

11-13-2008, 08:24 PM

Wait...Vyse? From Skies of Arcadia?Yup (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/evav/valkyria_vyse01.jpg). Vyse and Aika can be recruited to your squad. Fina's there as the medic, but non-playable.

Zagrash

11-13-2008, 08:38 PM

Yup (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v298/wraithakamrak/valkyria/evav/valkyria_vyse01.jpg). Vyse and Aika can be recruited to your squad. Fina's there as the medic, but non-playable.

damn, I totally never saw her as "Fina" but that makes a lot of sense, and there are definite similarities...holy crap, would they just make Skies of Arcadia 2 already?

LiquidRain

11-13-2008, 09:44 PM

We wish. :(

Spigot

11-14-2008, 09:54 AM

Is it just me, or does Cam Clarke do the voice of Faldio?

Also, the music sounds very much like it was done by the same guys who did Final Fantasy Tactics' music. A lot of the rifs and motifs are the same.

Just made it to the mid-way point in Chapter 4. Holy crap, does this game ever offer up a lot to do, both in the missions and just in terms of extra stuff. I'm someone who gobbles up fake encyclopedia entries in games, so between the glossaries and news reports, I'm going to spend more time reading than playing...

And that's awesome!

Wraith

11-14-2008, 10:06 AM

Is it just me, or does Cam Clarke do the voice of Faldio?Could be. I guess I don't really know his voice (though I'm sure I've heard it in a few games). I haven't seen a complete list of voice credits for the game. Hopefully they have on in the credits.

* Scratch that, they do have entries on Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valkyria_Chronicles#Characters) now, at least. They list Faldio as Robin Atkin Downes. Rosie was also the voice of FFX's Yuna.
Also, the music sounds very much like it was done by the same guys who did Final Fantasy Tactics' music. A lot of the rifs and motifs are the same. Hitoshi Sakimoto (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hitoshi_Sakimoto)

FF Tactics
FF Tactics Advance
FF Tactics A2
FFXII
FFXII Revenant Wings
GrimGrimoire
Odin Sphere
Radiant Silvergun
Tactics Ogre
Vagrant Story
Valkyria Chronicles

among others.

Just made it to the mid-way point in Chapter 4. Holy crap, does this game ever offer up a lot to do, both in the missions and just in terms of extra stuff. I'm someone who gobbles up fake encyclopedia entries in games, so between the glossaries and news reports, I'm going to spend more time reading than playing...

And that's awesome!I'm not usually real into that stuff (reading encyclopedia-like entries), but I do like reading the Personnel records, which get added to as the game progresses.

Xydarc

11-14-2008, 12:39 PM

Could be. I guess I don't really know his voice (though I'm sure I've heard it in a few games). I haven't seen a complete list of voice credits for the game. Hopefully they have on in the credits.

* Scratch that, they do have entries on Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Valkyria_Chronicles#Characters) now, at least. They list Faldio as Robin Atkin Downes. Rosie was also the voice of FFX's Yuna.
Hitoshi Sakimoto (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hitoshi_Sakimoto)

FF Tactics
FF Tactics Advance
FF Tactics A2
FFXII
FFXII Revenant Wings
GrimGrimoire
Odin Sphere
Radiant Silvergun
Tactics Ogre
Vagrant Story
Valkyria Chronicles

among others.

I'm not usually real into that stuff (reading encyclopedia-like entries), but I do like reading the Personnel records, which get added to as the game progresses.
Oh man, no wonder the soundtrack is so good.

Spigot

11-14-2008, 06:01 PM

Do I have good ears or what?

Cam Clarke is the guy who, most famously, does Liquid Snake's voice (and Leonardo's voice in the original TMNT cartoon). I see Robin Downes does Travis Touchdown's voice from No More Heroes (amongst many others) and both he and Cam Clarke have nasally voices. I knew I recognized Faldio's voice from somewhere...

And I see Fred Tasciatore is doing the voice for Largo. He's just awesome. Great line up of voice talent from what I saw of the list. Hmmm... and the lead did the voice for Kakashi in Naruto (and Hitler in Operation Darkness). Nifty.

Wraith

11-17-2008, 12:46 PM

Some good press from Tycho (http://www.penny-arcade.com/2008/11/17/):- Valkyria Chronicles is very, very simply one of the best games this year. We've been starved for a worthy tactical experience on the next-gen consoles, waiting for the install bases on this equipment to reach the point where more subtle maneuvers make sense. This game practically defines the Playstation 3 hardware for me, now: you don't get the sense that it's part of some calculated portfolio, engineered to snare elusive demographics. It's just classic from the moment you pick up the controller, with strategy gameplay that feels modern without being compromised for a general audience. I've already recommended the demo, and I'll do so again - it would be a cataclysm if this game doesn't get its due. I could write a thousand words every day for a week on either the design or the art. It's an index of our progress as a species that you can get both on the same disc.

Zagrash

11-17-2008, 06:18 PM

Some good press from Tycho (http://www.penny-arcade.com/2008/11/17/):

That's awesome! If even a handfull of the people that read Penny Arcade pick this up and enjoy it based on his recommendation, that bodes well for the rest of us that are already enjoying it.

I keep blathering on like an idiot about this game, and granted, I don't have anywhere near the audience that Tycho has, but that hasn't stopped me from babbling nearly endlessly about how much fun this game is

danhoo

11-17-2008, 09:42 PM

This game makes me a happy panda

c0m3d14n

11-21-2008, 07:44 AM

just a quick question, the interview content for the book you can buy is that just fluff? or does it do something usefull down the road

Spigot

11-21-2008, 08:14 AM

Zagrash

11-21-2008, 08:42 PM

just a quick question, the interview content for the book you can buy is that just fluff? or does it do something usefull down the road

It opens up new episodes that, from what I've seen so far, are just cutscenes/dialogues. I like it because it fleshes out the characters and world even more, but I'm not sure if you'll eventually get missions out of them or not.

I've gotten one that opened up a new mission too, it's the one for Largo. The first few were all cutscenes, which made me a bit leery about spending money on them, but the one for Largo opened up a new mission, that actually gave a good amount of money & experience.

Spigot

11-21-2008, 09:21 PM

I've gotten one that opened up a new mission too, it's the one for Largo. The first few were all cutscenes, which made me a bit leery about spending money on them, but the one for Largo opened up a new mission, that actually gave a good amount of money & experience.Is money really a big issue in this game? I'd assume that doing skirmishes would help in that department, so I haven't even thought twice about having to drop cash on the newspaper scoops.

Of course, I haven't done any skirmishes yet, so what do I know?

Zagrash

11-21-2008, 10:00 PM

Is money really a big issue in this game? I'd assume that doing skirmishes would help in that department, so I haven't even thought twice about having to drop cash on the newspaper scoops.

Of course, I haven't done any skirmishes yet, so what do I know?

it's really not...I've been hitting the skirmishes pretty hard, and I'm sitting at up around 150k in gold right now. I spend the Exp almost as soon as I get it, so that hasn't piled up quite so much, but Largo's mission gave around 10-12k Exp

c0m3d14n

11-22-2008, 04:49 AM

good to know, thanks ;)

National Kato

11-23-2008, 02:45 PM

Zagrash

11-23-2008, 03:11 PM

Last night I encountered the first of, hopefully, many unique missions:

The introduction of the Batomys.

I'm struggling to beat the second half of it when the reinforcements arrive, but it's been a lot of fun and a good variation on gameplay.

I haven't been able to beat those reinforcements yet either, I also haven't quite been able to run away quite fast enough when the reinforcements arrive, so I've been running through skirmishes to try and level up some more.

I still REALLY hope that Selvaria doesn't stay on the bad guy's side the whole time, she would be a welcome addition to Squad 7...I'm not holding my breath though

Wraith

11-23-2008, 07:08 PM

Yeah, Mission 7. This was one of the first missions that I started doing a whole bunch of in-battle saves. I actually beat the mission on my first try, but I think it was with a D-rank, and I lost one of my squad members permanently.

I had two of my lancers behind this rock formation right at the last curve in the tank's path. When Selvaria showed up, she took them both out. I tried getting an engineer over to them, but she mowed down the Engineer too. I'd forgotten about the death-after-three turns rule, and both of the lancers died. But Largo was one of them, and he just retreats instead of dying permanently. My remaining lancer just barely managed to take out the last radiator before Selvaria could wipe out too many more of my squad, and the Batomys wasn't too many turns from reaching my camp.

The lancers & tank had a lot of misses when trying to take out those turrets.

Gorvi

11-25-2008, 07:23 AM

This is now the "main" game I'm playing at home, so it's going to get a lot more play. I sat down at 9:30 last night intending on playing for an hour or so, next thing I know my wife is tapping me on the shoulder telling me to come to bed because it was 1 AM. :o

I just finished chapter 4 I think (out in the woods) and now I need to start 5. I'll probably do a few skirmishes to level up my snipers a bit more, they're really coming in handy.

EWolfmanD

11-25-2008, 08:46 AM

I really like using snipers too, but sometimes it feels almost like cheating. On some levels, using two snipers along with an engineer to resupply, you can almost take out the whole other side on the first turn. :p

It's also really easy to get into the game, so expect to continue losing track of time. :D

Spigot

11-25-2008, 08:52 AM

Oh, I never thought of using the engineer to resupply the snipers.

Hmm...

And yeah, the snipers are awesome. Just wait till you get to the desert level, Gorvi. They are godly on that map.

Gorvi

11-25-2008, 08:59 AM

Oh, I never thought of using the engineer to resupply the snipers.

Hmm...

And yeah, the snipers are awesome. Just wait till you get to the desert level, Gorvi. They are godly on that map.
Nice, that's the one I'm on next. :) I just need to remember to switch out for squad members who excel in a desert environment, since I had all the nature people for the last mission.

National Kato

11-25-2008, 09:15 AM

So what the hell is the key to getting better ratings on your battles? I've consistently succeeded in winning these fights with at least half of the turns to spare and no deaths/retreats from my squad. All I ever get is C and D ratings?!

EWolfmanD

11-25-2008, 09:24 AM

From what I've read, the ratings are based only on how fast you complete the mission and doesn't have anything to do with the number of deaths or anything else. I was reading a guide on how to get "S" ranks, and for the first few missions at least, you have to finish them in one or two turns. I'm not sure what would be an A or B, but I usually get a C or D also, and that's finishing in 5 to 7 turns often.

I decided to stop caring about the ratings though after the person's guide mainly had things like running a scout directly to the flag and avoiding all the enemies. I wish they had used a different system to determine the ratings since I would have liked to have something to work towards improving besides just using cheap tactics like avoiding all the gameplay, but it's a minor complaint about an amazing game. Now I just try to dominate the enemy as much as possible and ignore the ratings they give me. :p

Wraith

11-25-2008, 09:29 AM

I've read that in the Japanese game, the top rank was "S", but in other versions, it's "A". So I wouldn't go crazy trying for an "S" rank in a North American copy of the game. :D

As to whether or not it's worth chasing higher rankings - getting a "C" instead of "D" means double the base exp and money rewarded (excluding extras like the points for killing enemy aces, tanks, etc.). If you get a "D", you only get that base plus extras.

c0m3d14n

11-25-2008, 09:34 AM

fewer turns = better rating
look at gamefaqs for a guide to s rating mission description (which was removed from the non japanese releases afaik)
i got one a rating i think, till now, in the mission where you have to rescue the princess from the armored car , which i did in 2 turns

edit: too late ;)

danhoo

11-25-2008, 03:06 PM

Wraith

11-25-2008, 03:29 PM

I've been reading that people are getting A ranks by doing "scout rushes" (for levels that require capturing a base, etc). A properly leveled-up Alicia plus appropriate commands apparently becomes a super-fast death-dealing machine.

I concur with EWolfmanD that this is a pretty lame way to play the game.That probably works in some situations, and I suppose it's easier if you have Scouts leveled a lot higher than your other units.

But in general, a Scout is going to have a bit harder time with turrets/tank machine guns (your Shocktroopers and Lancers can absorb more fire) and dealing with Scouts and Shocktroopers behind sandbags. If a Scout is close enough to use a grenade to take out the enemy's sandbags, they're close enough to get shot at. (At least with grenades, the enemy doesn't get an uninterrupted counterattack, so if you're out of their field of vision, you can grenade them and run while taking minimal enemy fire.)

It's nice that there's the incentive to complete missions with a higher rank, but it's not required to advance.

EWolfmanD

11-25-2008, 05:22 PM

It's nice that there's the incentive to complete missions with a higher rank, but it's not required to advance.

I know it's not required to advance, but I like to have something to work towards improving. I want to see how my actual strategies and tactics are ranked, and not just if I can run a scout around all the enemies or whatever the tactic for a specific mission is. I'll have to read that guide some more to see what the fastest way of completing some of the harder missions are and if it's the same sort of thing.

As I said before, it's just a minor complaint. A very, very minor complaint about a game I absolutely love. :p I wish they had used some other system to calculate the rankings which resulted in normal gameplay being ranked instead of tactics tuned specifically for finishing as fast as possible. I usually try to kill every Imperial on the map because I don't think a good Gallian would leave any Imp scum in their homeland, and that tends to slow things down a little. :p

It doesn't detract anything from the game for me or my enjoyment, but it also means I basically ignore the rankings as any sort of indicator. I'll settle for my Cs if it means the enemy is crushed under Squad 7's tank treads. :D

c0m3d14n

11-26-2008, 04:54 AM

I concur with EWolfmanD that this is a pretty lame way to play the game.

i find it lame too, it actually turns me off a bit. orders can make scouts killing machines
def up is good against tanks and yesterday i killed a tank with 2 shots from a scout rifle in the radiator with the 3 point order for more attackpower against armored vehicles

also in this mission i acutally only used the tank and 2 scouts actively, the rest (6) was just trying to catch up till i decided to finish the mission with the 2 scouts/tank

not to say VC is a bad game, but somehow it lacks tactical depth
sadly i will always compare every game like this to FFT and till now not one has come close :( HAMEDO!

Spigot

11-26-2008, 07:30 AM

I'm happy to let FFT sit on its own plinth in the gaming garden in my soul. I finally finished that beast after 10 years of struggle and tears and I don't want another game to do what it did. Riff on it, sure, but playing through it this past year while playing a variety of other tactical RPGs really showed how a lot of things in FFT are relics of old game design and arbitrarily ramp up the difficulty.

That said, doing stupid stuff like skirmishing till your Scouts can take out a tank with one hit is lame to the nth degree.

Gorvi

11-26-2008, 07:46 AM

GameTrailers review (9.1):

43160

I think that sums things up pretty nicely, at least from what I can tell with what I've played of the game.

c0m3d14n

11-26-2008, 09:05 AM

That said, doing stupid stuff like skirmishing till your Scouts can take out a tank with one hit is lame to the nth degree.

thats not necessary, i am on mission 10 i think and my scouts are lvl 9, shocktroopers, lancers and snipers lvl 8 and engineers lvl 7
i only played 1 or 2 skirmishes... but with orders scouts, or any other class, are killingmachines
but scouts have the most actionpoints so they win ;)

i played conventionally till the last mission, also seldom using orders, mostly getting c ranks, but now i have seen how easy it can be with scouts and that bugs me
i usually like it when the game rewards me for intelligent use of game mechanics, and gives me a few tactical choices that are difficult to pull of but very rewarding
that one tactic is so unbalanced in VC and that the most rewarding way to finish a mission is to do it fast and dont care who dies (not permanently) is a bit demotivating

Variable Gear

11-27-2008, 05:59 PM

Stupid Question: Is there a Japanese voice option?

c0m3d14n

11-27-2008, 06:02 PM

judging from the gametrailers review further up yes, but i havent looked myself

Wraith

11-27-2008, 06:02 PM

Stupid Question: Is there a Japanese voice option?Yes! You can have English or Japanese audio.

Variable Gear

11-27-2008, 06:08 PM

Yes! You can have English or Japanese audio.
Cool. When I get a PS3, I'll definitely pick up Valkyria Chronicles.

Spigot

11-27-2008, 07:21 PM

Yeah. And as someone who can be a bit of a snob and default to Japanese, I have to say that I'm quite impressed with the English voices. It was worth the time it took for them to localize it if it meant they got voice actors of this caliber. It's not the best English VO I've ever heard, but it's definately skewing to the good side of the spectrum with some voices being great and none being grating (so far...)

EWolfmanD

11-27-2008, 10:42 PM

I really like the English voices too. I had planned on playing the game in Japanese, but after starting the game in English and hearing how good the voices sounded, I stuck with that. Of course I did have to switch over to Japanese to rewatch the first Maximilian scene I saw because I'm a huge Fukuyama Jun fan. :p Whenever I get around to playing the game again, I'll probably play it in Japanese because I remember there being a few other voice actors/actresses that I liked that Wraith listed back in the EvAv thread, but I don't remember who they were now.

Zagrash

12-21-2008, 12:59 PM

It's been entirely too long since anybody has talked about how fantastic this game is. The story and character development are top-notch, and I really just want to keep playing. I'm getting ready for the first battle in chapter 15 right now, and before that I was finally able to unlock a good portion of the extra reports. They really give you a better glimpse at the characters (and give some excellent cash & experience).

I really can't say enough good things about this game. I agree that using a "scout rush" is pretty cheap, but if that's how some people choose to play, that doesn't really mean you HAVE to play that way. I also like to take out all of the enemies in the level before capturing a base for the extra cash/experience, using my snipers whenever possible (they're practically god-like)

Gorvi

12-21-2008, 01:20 PM

I'm on Chapter 11, I just haven't played in a few days. Great game, though, I need to get back to it.

Spigot

12-21-2008, 01:27 PM

I'm at about Chapter 8 or so but I haven't played for a couple of weeks. My wife and kids are heading out of town for Christmas (I have to stay home and work until the 26th) so I fully intend to sink some more time into this game and Persona 4. WoO!

danhoo

12-21-2008, 01:31 PM

Spigot

12-21-2008, 01:35 PM

Zagrash speaks the truth. This game rocks. The way it changes the style/pace of a typical turn-based strategy game is really unique, but more importantly, really fun. The story and characters are excellent, the presentation is pretty, and the level variety is better than I expected. It's a AAA title that deserves better sales and marketing than it's gotten.Just the sheer amount of information included IN THE GAME for those of us who are lore junkies is amazing.

Unfortunately, it came out during the fall rush and with very little marketing. It would be nice if it found some longer legs as people who get PS3's start to buy it to fill the void in the spring :)

Zagrash

12-21-2008, 02:29 PM

I'm on Chapter 11, I just haven't played in a few days. Great game, though, I need to get back to it.

I'm at about Chapter 8 or so but I haven't played for a couple of weeks. My wife and kids are heading out of town for Christmas (I have to stay home and work until the 26th) so I fully intend to sink some more time into this game and Persona 4. WoO!

I really can't wait for everybody to start getting farther along in the game, there are some really cool moments that I will not spoil for you all, but as with the rest of the game, truly excellent.

Gorvi

12-21-2008, 02:45 PM

Spigot

12-21-2008, 02:54 PM

Sounds like I should put it up as a Turning The Spigot game :)

Gorvi

12-21-2008, 02:55 PM

Sounds like I should put it up as a Turning The Spigot game :)
It fits, just wait about 3 years. ;)

Or is there no time limit on those? :p

Spigot

12-21-2008, 02:58 PM

Oh, there's no time limit. I think that selling only 33K units qualifies it as an obscure game. I think I might just do it for next week's TTS!

OldJadedGamer

12-21-2008, 04:03 PM

I have a week and a half off next week and my buddy bought this game and beat it so I may borrow it from him over my break and play it.

Zagrash

12-21-2008, 04:48 PM

Oh, there's no time limit. I think that selling only 33K units qualifies it as an obscure game. I think I might just do it for next week's TTS!

Hey, if it gets a few more CoGer's to play the game, it would absolutely be worth it! I know I blabber on like an idiot about this game to my friends, so if it gets even a few more worth of mouth sales that's a good thing.

Zagrash

12-21-2008, 04:53 PM

I really can't wait for everybody to start getting farther along in the game, there are some really cool moments that I will not spoil for you all, but as with the rest of the game, truly excellent.

Oh, there have been some great moments already. The game is just so damn unique, it's one of those games that'll be talked about for a long time as an under appreciated classic.

Oh just wait...gaah, I just finished the first part of chapter 15, and I already can't wait to see how the second part plays out. I figure I should probably take a break though, because other than Friday when I had people over, I've done little else besides play this game all weekend

Wraitheist

12-21-2008, 07:00 PM

Between this game, MGS4, Uncharted, and Little Big Planet, I really wish I had the money to drop on a PS3 right now.

Virtual Machine

12-22-2008, 08:45 AM

Finally managed to sit down with the demo this past week.

Add my voice to the chorus. I hope this ends up under my tree this year.

Wraith

12-22-2008, 05:23 PM

Zagrash

12-22-2008, 08:43 PM

Last night, I finished up Ch. 14, all of 15, and a couple reports.

On the second Ch. 15 mission:

I ended up wasting far too many turns due to getting mowed down by Selvaria, one of the stationary gatling guns, and picked off by snipers. And then medevac-ing everyone who got taken out. A better tactic probably would have been to use the Order to raise everyone's defense, and make sure everyone's out of line of sight from Selvaria and the snipers. And there may have been more chances to use Isara's smoke grenades; I keep forgetting about those.

I also wasted a few turns at the end, after I'd taken all camps and only Selvaria was left. I had a scout get Selvaria's attention, then hit her with a tank shell from the Edelweiss when her back was turned. But the tank shell only takes away about 1/6th of her health with each shot, and eventually she healed herself again. On the 19th turn, I ended up having the scout distract her, then had Edy (shocktrooper, equipped with a short-range/high-power machine gun) approach slowly. Edy alone took her down with about 95% of her health remaining (the Scout had a shot or two connect). But, it probably was a good thing I had the tank there, as the machine gun kept Selvaria pinned down in one spot, during those last few enemy turns.

So I finished on turn 19, and had "lost" the Shamrock during the battle, but no permanent deaths (and of course Zaka just retreats rather than dying permanently.) At one point, I had 5 enemy lancers perform pretty much the same move, running from the nearest camp and taking a shot at the Shamrock, and they all ended their turn in the same spot. But they hadn't killed it yet; I had the Shamrock drive right up and mow down all 5 with its flame thrower.

I got a D ranking, but had gotten an A on the first part of Ch. 5, which I finished on turn 6.

The report Flower of the Battlefield is giving me a hard time:

I think that's the name of it. Welkin's report. In the mission, you have to prevent enemies from reaching a refugee camp - either hold them off for 8 turns or take out all enemies. But you've only got the Edelweiss plus 4 units, and no base camp to request reinforcements from. And the enemy's got 4 tanks and over a dozen troops. The Edelweiss seems too vulnerable to use much (especially if I don't have an engineer to keep fixing it up), and enemy snipers are a problem for units staying in camp. Sitting out in the grass seems to leave things too open. And a sniper or lancer on my side obviously doesn't intercept any approaching units during enemy turns. I failed the mission twice so far.

I ended up playing from about 6:30pm to 2:30 am last night. I'm sitting at about 36-37 hours on my most recent save.

I was wondering when you were going to stop back in =) I just finished chapter 15 myself, and a few things that helped out considerably...

use your tanks to block your troop's movement, going from the starting point to the stairs is near impossible without tanks blocking the way absorbing Selvaria's shots. And like you mentioned, the smoke grenades are a HUGE plus...those got me up the stairs to take out the snipers on either side. As for Selvaria herself, the smoke grenades work wonders there as well...just shoot them right next to her, and you can stroll right up next to her and use flamethrowers, which knock the hell out of her, and she just stands there and takes it.

I thought I was going to have trouble with Welkin's report too, but it didn't end up being anywhere near as bad as I thought...I'll put some things that helped me out below

I used a squad of Rosie, Largo, Aika, and Vyse. Once again, flamethrowers are your best friend in this mission, you can have Rosie and Vyse run around and take out all of the lancers hiding in the grass, and I was able to take out the tanks pretty quickly by hiding Largo in the grass, and as soon as the tank strolls by, shooting it's radiator for a one shot kill. I was able to take out the medium and ace tank unit with Largo, and I just drove the Edelweiss right around the large tank, and took a pot shot at the radiator from about 10 feet away. As for cleaning up the rest of the troops, as long as you're hiding in the grass at the end of your turn, the snipers do only minimal damage, and you can take them out easily with the mortar on the Edelweiss.

It probably also helps that I've done skirmish battles like crazy, because all of my classes are level 14 or 15, and I think at my last save, I was up to about 57 hours

Thanasimos

12-22-2008, 08:55 PM

One of my friends has a PS3. I'm thinking to get this for him for Christmas, and then playing it.

Wraith

12-23-2008, 12:29 AM

I thought I was going to have trouble with Welkin's report too, but it didn't end up being anywhere near as bad as I thought...I'll put some things that helped me out below

I used a squad of Rosie, Largo, Aika, and Vyse. Once again, flamethrowers are your best friend in this mission, you can have Rosie and Vyse run around and take out all of the lancers hiding in the grass, and I was able to take out the tanks pretty quickly by hiding Largo in the grass, and as soon as the tank strolls by, shooting it's radiator for a one shot kill. I was able to take out the medium and ace tank unit with Largo, and I just drove the Edelweiss right around the large tank, and took a pot shot at the radiator from about 10 feet away. As for cleaning up the rest of the troops, as long as you're hiding in the grass at the end of your turn, the snipers do only minimal damage, and you can take them out easily with the mortar on the Edelweiss.

It probably also helps that I've done skirmish battles like crazy, because all of my classes are level 14 or 15, and I think at my last save, I was up to about 57 hoursMy units are currently level 12 & 13, and I haven't done hardly any skirmishes yet. (I think mainly because I want to keep going with the story, but I know doing skirmishes will get me some nice xp.) Played some more tonight, finishing Chapter 16 and starting 17.

I did end up finishing that report:But I only had Largo and the Edelweiss left at the end.

I used... Rosie, Largo, Vyse, and Jane (so 1 lancer, 3 shocktroopers). Largo's good at taking out tanks if he can get behind them, but clearing out the other troops so he can get in position took more work. I barely used the tank, as it seems to be a soft target with all those tanks & lancers out there. I think I finished with only two enemy snipers remaining, way out at the far ends of the map.

Zagrash

12-23-2008, 07:34 AM

My units are currently level 12 & 13, and I haven't done hardly any skirmishes yet. (I think mainly because I want to keep going with the story, but I know doing skirmishes will get me some nice xp.)

I think the main reason that I've done so many skirmishes (aside from the fact that this game is like crack to me) is that I just don't want the story to end yet, I've been enjoying it so much, but still want to play the game, so the skirmishes are the perfect way to keep it all going just a little bit longer. I was churning through the story missions over the weekend, and am obviously excited to see how it all ends, so I'll probably finish it up over the weekend or something. If nothing else, it's sorta fun to take your high level characters and go back through the early skirmishes. Even on normal I can play through the first skirmish and beat it before the enemy gets a turn (and that's with killing all of the enemies first, no scout rush)

menage

12-24-2008, 07:51 AM

Just spotted that there's an anime in the works for this, it's a series as well. I need to play this game at some point. January it will be.

http://www.valkyria-anime.com/

Spigot

12-24-2008, 09:52 AM

Yeah, I remember hearing something about the anime. I'll be all over that if it's up to the standards of the game (wow... it's not usual to hear that).

Gorvi

12-26-2008, 08:23 AM

Ok, I just finished Chapters 11 and 12 yesterday.....

Spoilers:
So the opening of Chapter 11 hinted at the fact that you could get your classes up to Elite status, so of course I had to go back and do that for at least my Shocktroopers. Sadly, I didn't seem to need the Flamethrower much at all, but it did come in handy in a few situations. I love how it doesn't matter if someone's in cover when you use it, it always bugs me shooting someone who's behind cover in the head witha regular gun from 3 feet away only for it to do next to no damage simply because they're behind cover.

Anyway, man, I did not see Isara's death coming. At all. That has to be one of the most well handled deaths in a game I've seen since maybe Jeanne d'Arc. It's sudden and unexpected, and damn is it ever sad. I've gotta say, it choked me up a bit. The song that Rosie sings afterwards only expands on that.

So, now I'm seeing that it's allueded to that Alicia is a Valkyria? That could bring around some interesting events, it makes me wonder if that's expanded on in Chapter 13. I know I can see at the end of 13 that she's in the crosshairs of an enemy after the battle, they'd better not kill her off.

I can't wait to get more time with the game tonight and this weekend, I really want to see what happens. It is bugging me, though, that the intro has what seems to be a spoiler in it, what with the fact that you see that big train thing crashing through the walls at the capital.

Wraith

12-26-2008, 09:33 AM

Ok, I just finished Chapters 11 and 12 yesterday.....

Spoilers:
*snip*

I can't wait to get more time with the game tonight and this weekend, I really want to see what happens. It is bugging me, though, that the intro has what seems to be a spoiler in it, what with the fact that you see that big train thing crashing through the walls at the capital.

Like you said, the flamethrower is great for hitting enemies behind cover. Also if you've got two or more enemy units in close proximity, you can probably take them both/all out.

And I really liked Isara. She wasn't what I expected (I thought she was going to be the typical mousy little sister character, but she wasn't). And Rosie's VA did a good job on the song. It's a little different than the Japanese version (or at least the one on the soundtrack), but I think it did justice to that scene. And doing a translation from Japanese to English is probably a lot harder when it's music & lyrics, rather than regular dialog.

Xydarc

12-26-2008, 08:00 PM

I'm late to the party, I know, but I could use some assistance with the "bridgehead" mission. It's chapter 4, I believe.

Gorvi

12-26-2008, 11:36 PM

I'm late to the party, I know, but I could use some assistance with the "bridgehead" mission. It's chapter 4, I believe.
Crap, I can't even remember what that was. Chapter 4...... any more details?

Anyway, I just watched all the cutscenes leading up to the battle for Chapter 14 and.....
I saw it coming from a mile away, it's even painfully obvious who "sniped" her, but HOLY SHIT GO ALICIA! Man, was that ever a satisfying cutscene. I'd do the battle now but it's gotten pretty late and I need some sleep at least. I really can't wait to see how things play out.

Xydarc

12-27-2008, 12:22 AM

Crap, I can't even remember what that was. Chapter 4...... any more details?

Anyway, I just watched all the cutscenes leading up to the battle for Chapter 14 and.....
I saw it coming from a mile away, it's even painfully obvious who "sniped" her, but HOLY SHIT GO ALICIA! Man, was that ever a satisfying cutscene. I'd do the battle now but it's gotten pretty late and I need some sleep at least. I really can't wait to see how things play out.
You have to capture an enemy camp before reinforcements come across the bridge. You have 11 turns to complete it. I get bogged down after the enemy reinforcements arrive and can't get a unit to capture the base in time.

Zagrash

12-27-2008, 02:56 AM

You have to capture an enemy camp before reinforcements come across the bridge. You have 11 turns to complete it. I get bogged down after the enemy reinforcements arrive and can't get a unit to capture the base in time.

that was quite some time ago...I know i got through it before the reinforcements arrived, but it was definitely close. I seem to remember running 2 shocktroopers, 2 scouts, and Largo around taking the checkpoint and killing the troops on my way to the control booth while keeping my sniper near the tower at the base camp. Would have been a lot easier with flamethrowers, or even some decent aim =)

Xydarc

12-27-2008, 10:10 AM

Gorvi

12-27-2008, 11:53 AM

Thanks Zagrash.

Well, it took me 8 turns, but I finished it. However, in looking at a FAQ, instead of chapter 5, I should have had a sub-chapter, but I didn't get one. It's the sub-chapter about Largo's "vegetable passion." How do I unlock it?
That's one of the extra episodes you get from paying the newspaper writer (her name escapes me) for her book. I'd say do that as often as possible, when they're available, some include extra battles, but all have some pretty good extra story to them.

Also, don't forget to visit the graveyard from time to time to "buy" additional orders from the old soldier there.

Xydarc

12-28-2008, 01:07 AM

I've been doing a few skirmishes to save up exp for the old guy in the cemetary.

I love this game.

Zagrash

12-28-2008, 12:31 PM

I've been doing a few skirmishes to save up exp for the old guy in the cemetary.

I love this game.

Ditto...I'm sitting right before the last two battles of the game, but I'm still doing skirmish battles (gotta get all my guys to level 20 =)