Live A Live (Japan) [En by Aeon Genesis v2.0Deluxe] ROM

Originally a Japan-exclusive RPG, Live-A-Live features 8 separate scenarios starring a Caveman, a Robot, a Psychic, a Cowboy, a Wrestler, a Ninja, a Kung Fu Master, and a hidden bonus chapter, as well as a final chapter. Each scenario (except for the bonus chapter) have been designed by various manga artists, and the music is composed by none other than Yoko Shimomura, which leaves the game looking and sounding fantastic. Each scenario has its own separate stories and styles, and they eventually come together in the final chapter. The brilliance of this title is that while it is one RPG system, each scenario has a few unique mechanics that sets them apart from the others. For example, the Ninja chapter is a stealth-oriented chapter, while the Wrestler chapter is nothing but fights, in homage to games like Street Fighter. The stories are not particularly original, but they are well written and enjoyable, and the characters are likable and engaging. The main downside is that the game is very, very short for an RPG; each chapter can usually be completed in under an hour (slightly more, if you try grinding), but Square made the brief experience as enjoyable as possible.

I highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys Square's RPGs, especially fans of Chrono Trigger. The game may be short, but it's definitely worth playing.