Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance

 GameCube
User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 282 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 258 out of 282
  2. Mixed: 17 out of 282
  3. Negative: 7 out of 282
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  1. MikeG.
    Nov 10, 2005
    10
    My favorite FE game out of the three so far. There's no greater satisfaction than fully leveling several characters and watching them own the map :)
  2. TheKnife
    Oct 20, 2005
    10
    Except for a lack of music or effects during dialogue this is a great game. some reviewers seem to be put off by the difficulty, but I think blaming the graphics is weak. they are, obviously, a huge step up from the GBA (not quite Tales of Symphonia, but nice) and of course the gameplay is the same. it is a sequel. I would be pissed if they turned it into battallion wars or another TalesExcept for a lack of music or effects during dialogue this is a great game. some reviewers seem to be put off by the difficulty, but I think blaming the graphics is weak. they are, obviously, a huge step up from the GBA (not quite Tales of Symphonia, but nice) and of course the gameplay is the same. it is a sequel. I would be pissed if they turned it into battallion wars or another Tales game. I play this for mind-bending strategy, and the rendered cutscenes are quite spectacular.… Expand
  3. CloudS.
    Mar 13, 2006
    10
    This was the best fire emblem title yet, with stunning graphics, this game was soo cool.
  4. AGuy
    Apr 15, 2006
    10
    worth every penny you spend one of the best games ever.
  5. BrianS.
    Apr 5, 2007
    10
    The great storyline and superb art make up for the graphics as always.
  6. ParishH.
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    I am a huge fan of the fireemblem series and from my opinion after playing this game i can only say wow! Intelligent games has realy outdone themselves.
  7. SeanS.
    Apr 12, 2006
    10
    Out of all 9 Fire Emblem games, this is one of, if not the best. PoR has what it undoubtedly the best story of any game in the series, and quite possibly the best story ever told in ANY video game. With it's huge cast of fully-realized characters, incredible story, intuitive, yet deep gameplay, and epic soundtrack, PoR is not only one of the best games on the Cube, but one of the Out of all 9 Fire Emblem games, this is one of, if not the best. PoR has what it undoubtedly the best story of any game in the series, and quite possibly the best story ever told in ANY video game. With it's huge cast of fully-realized characters, incredible story, intuitive, yet deep gameplay, and epic soundtrack, PoR is not only one of the best games on the Cube, but one of the best games ever.… Expand
  8. BobM.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    This game gives you a challenge at every corner. the guiding wind level was HARD not to die, give equal amount of experience and defend the base. it is a very challenging game.
  9. KevinB.
    Jan 3, 2007
    10
    Easily the most addicting game since Animal Crossing. I'm currently working on my 5th time through and plan to do it many more times. A must have for any Gamecube owner.
  10. GamerLlama
    Sep 22, 2007
    10
    I've played all three Fire Emblems that are out in English, and I have to say this is my favorite one. I can't see why people complain about bad graphics. Yes, the enemy minions are obviously recycled models, yes the maps are slightly dull when you're viewing them bird's eye view. But the cut scenes are beautiful and 2D artwork is extremely colorful and well detailed. I've played all three Fire Emblems that are out in English, and I have to say this is my favorite one. I can't see why people complain about bad graphics. Yes, the enemy minions are obviously recycled models, yes the maps are slightly dull when you're viewing them bird's eye view. But the cut scenes are beautiful and 2D artwork is extremely colorful and well detailed. True, if characters die they're gone forever. Which I learned the hard way. As frustrating it is when a character dies, it also forces you to not only think about completing the level but also for the long term as well. Some levels can be easily beaten at the cost of losing a valuable character which might help you out in another level; so you're forced to decide whether the sacrifice is worth avoiding the harder way. There were a couple of improvements from the Gameboy games here. The first is the merchant convoy that comes around level 8. No longer will you have to worry about being forced to chuck good items because your character can't hold any more--the merchants will now carry your items for you. No longer will you have to make a risky manuver to visit a shop/armory in the middle of the battlefield--the merchant handle this too. Secret shops are gone, but your character will promote automatically after level 20 anyway and Master Seals can give almost any promotable character an early promotion. Thieves can steal unequipped weapons too--and these weapons no longer have to be ones that would be dropped anyway. Support conversations are now held between battles. Which is nice, because you can actually relax and enjoy them and not stress about wasting valuable turns for social iteraction. The laguz--people that can change into animals to fight, are also a great addition. The story line is engaging and filled with plot twists that will keep you engaged long after you've beaten the game 20 times over like I have. Every level is an important to the plot of the story--you are not sent on pointless missions that are included just to drag out the game. The game takes a long time to beat but nothing is a waste of time. Unless you're not a fan of the turn based system. But frankly, the game is addicting enough without button mashing. It also makes the game more fun for the non hardcore gamers out there who just want to sit down and enjoy a game without having to train their reflexes.… Expand
  11. PeterH.
    Nov 22, 2005
    10
    this is the best strategy game ive ever played. ive never had to work so hard to complete a level.
  12. AlexK.
    Oct 17, 2005
    10
    Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance is definitely one of the best games I've ever plain. The sound, gameplay, and story are perfectly executed. If your a fan of Fire Emblem games, then this game will not disappoint. If you are new to the series it is a great place to start due to the difficulty selection. This game will keep you playing for hours.
  13. AricS.
    Jan 12, 2006
    10
    I think it was awsome i being a big fire emblem fanbut i think they could change it a little so it is not like the gameboy version.
  14. MiveyS.
    Dec 14, 2006
    10
    It couldn't get any better than this I have every one of the games I would kill someone who insulted fire emblem.
  15. EricaP.
    Jun 28, 2006
    10
    I am addicted to this game. I like the fact that after I beat it, I wanted to do it again and again, and each time is different depending on which characters you choose to level up. My only problem with it is with the Paladin horses...their front legs bend the wrong way... but other than that this is my favourite game.
  16. GregD.
    Jul 29, 2007
    10
    FE: POR provided me with a solid 60 hours of gameplay and a more then fun experience while playing it. The storyline makes you feel as if you are actually involved in the game. The graphics may not take full advantage of the Gamecubes capabillities but the fun gamplay more then makes up for it.
  17. JakenB.
    Dec 26, 2005
    10
    The BEST Game Out Of The Three. The Graphics, The Characters , And Did I mention The GRAPHICS. This Game Is SUPERB.
  18. aspentitan
    Dec 31, 2016
    10
    I think unless you are a hater you have to give this game either a 9 or a 10. I'm definitely not saying this game is mind-blowing but this 2005 game sells for double its release price used for a reason. This is one well crafted game with lots of effort put into the game to be a solid experience. So many games are rushed to market with glitches or balancing flaws. This one is a warm storyI think unless you are a hater you have to give this game either a 9 or a 10. I'm definitely not saying this game is mind-blowing but this 2005 game sells for double its release price used for a reason. This is one well crafted game with lots of effort put into the game to be a solid experience. So many games are rushed to market with glitches or balancing flaws. This one is a warm story and rpg with lots of variety and player choice and absolutely no flaws in the software. No matter which style you choose to go with balance, fairness and challenge is always there. The thing that stands out to me about this game is it is obvious it was not made as a money grab. Even at the end of the game you get cinematics which properly finish up the experience making you glad you purchased this game as a keeper.… Expand
  19. SomeKindaWizard
    Jan 11, 2011
    10
    i loved all three gba games, and at first i hated this game due to the slow and uninspired battle animations. after giving it a second chance 5 years after its release i actually really like the game. the animations are still poor, so i turned them off which speeds the game up and makes it more enjoyable in most situations, although ikes aether animation is sweet! i found th game just asi loved all three gba games, and at first i hated this game due to the slow and uninspired battle animations. after giving it a second chance 5 years after its release i actually really like the game. the animations are still poor, so i turned them off which speeds the game up and makes it more enjoyable in most situations, although ikes aether animation is sweet! i found th game just as good as the other three ive played, although i didnt particularly like the addition of animal units, they dont evolve and are just abit boring in comparison to human units, so i didnt really use them. overall a really nice game, and worth the expensive price now adays, i payed £30 for it, and i dont regret it :)… Expand
  20. currer_bell
    Nov 1, 2015
    10
    Best Fire Emblem game ever, and I've played them all (well those released in North America...) It's even better than Awakening in my opinion. The preparation parts between fights never been more fun than on Path of Radiance, especially the distribution of extra Xp between your characters. And of Course, the story is insanely great, the overall game is polished and deep.

    It's sad that    Best Fire Emblem game ever, and I've played them all (well those released in North America...) It's even better than Awakening in my opinion. The preparation parts between fights never been more fun than on Path of Radiance, especially the distribution of extra Xp between your characters. And of Course, the story is insanely great, the overall game is polished and deep.

    It's sad that every Top10 Game Cube games seem to pass over Path of Radiance's greatness. In my Top 10, This game is on top of them all.    … Expand
  21. sangdrako
    Nov 10, 2011
    10
    Awesome, but mainly trying to balance out the stupid 0/10 for not being a handheld. The game reintroduces aspects from sacred war (abilities). The maps are great. The characters are very lovable.
  22. VonSeux
    Dec 17, 2013
    10
    The best Fire Emblem yet, mostly due to characters. The team felt very united and charismatic. Level design is superb and the challange will make you think harder not to loose that beloved unit. Some improvements were made on later games, but this one raised the bar way up from both GBA games.
  23. IGNsus
    Mar 25, 2014
    10
    Great game, great series.

    If you like Awakening, Path of Radiance offers a richer, deeper experience. The map design is far superior to Awakening, and the story is a lot less contrived.

    Give it a chance.
  24. SnivySomnia
    Oct 21, 2012
    10
    My personal favorite for reasons I cannot comprehend. Maybe I just like the Gamecube, maybe it's what it added to the franchise, Ike, or the story. But regardless, this is a FE game your gaming library isn't complete without.
  25. Ydun79
    Feb 11, 2019
    10
    Such memorable characters, such enjoyable combat. Years later I still remember most of it. A classic!
  26. WheelzFourReelz
    Dec 30, 2014
    10
    Fire Emblem: Path of Radiance is a tough, frustrating, and unforgiving game that keeps having me go back to it because of how fun and engrossing the gameplay, characters and story are. This truly is a masterpiece.
  27. Sworddancer
    Apr 13, 2016
    10
    This game made a huge impression on me and was my first Fire Emblem experience.
    So no matter how much I have loved many Fire Emblem games after this - my first love will always have a special place in my heart.
    If you can only play 5 turn based strategy JRPG´s in your life - make sure this is one of them!
  28. weskergamer
    Aug 20, 2020
    10
    I played Radiant Dawn 5 years ago and since that moment i've always wanted it to play Path of Radiance but thanks to emulation problems i was never able to finish it. But today i did and i can say that it can perfectly be the best one of the series, but i still believe that RD is a bit better. Still this game is almost perfect, the story is so great and it have one if not the best cast ofI played Radiant Dawn 5 years ago and since that moment i've always wanted it to play Path of Radiance but thanks to emulation problems i was never able to finish it. But today i did and i can say that it can perfectly be the best one of the series, but i still believe that RD is a bit better. Still this game is almost perfect, the story is so great and it have one if not the best cast of characters in the franchise. Is very dificult to play it since you can only play it on emulator unless you want to spend $100 for it but i can say it was worth every minute.… Expand
  29. Glaba24
    May 5, 2017
    10
    Certainly one of, if not the very best game in the franchise. Having a much more in-depth story than the most recent entries and the ones on the GBA, it balances out the journey/adventure, with simplified but interesting politics, and explores themes such as discrimination, racism, revenge, and more. With very well-written characters, a world that feels alive due to it's info.Certainly one of, if not the very best game in the franchise. Having a much more in-depth story than the most recent entries and the ones on the GBA, it balances out the journey/adventure, with simplified but interesting politics, and explores themes such as discrimination, racism, revenge, and more. With very well-written characters, a world that feels alive due to it's info. conversations, and an amazing story to drive it, it truly gives off the impression of an epic, especially if you play the sequel: Radiant Dawn. It's gameplay is good and fair, starting off easy and slowly increasing the difficult by reasonable increments per level. It is certainly a more sophisticated game than FE7 or the newer Awakening and Fates and can make as a great entry point into the franchise for beginners. While the graphics are not amazing, they get the job done and combat is still entertaining to watch. The soundtrack however, is to die for. A full orchestra with elegant strings, boisterous brass instruments, and simply superb composition, it'll feel like being in an excellent movie. A must-play for anyone passionate to the franchise that hasn't already and a great beginning for those who want to get into it.… Expand
  30. Sunshadow87
    Jun 4, 2020
    10
    El paso a las 3D de la saga. Este FE es una joya que introduce nuevas mecánicas (como los personajes aprendices con 2 cambios de clase, nuevas clases medio animales...), y un nuevo universo y mapa político que se aleja de la historia de otros FE. Tanto la historia, como los personajes, como las batallas son geniales. Su dificultad aumenta muy progresivamente, resultando un reto las últimasEl paso a las 3D de la saga. Este FE es una joya que introduce nuevas mecánicas (como los personajes aprendices con 2 cambios de clase, nuevas clases medio animales...), y un nuevo universo y mapa político que se aleja de la historia de otros FE. Tanto la historia, como los personajes, como las batallas son geniales. Su dificultad aumenta muy progresivamente, resultando un reto las últimas batallas, pero con una dificultad general media y no inaccesible para los nuevos.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

6
#6 Best GameCube Game of 2005
3
#3 Most Discussed GameCube Game of 2005
8
#8 Most Shared GameCube Game of 2005

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
85

Generally favorable reviews - based on 42 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 38 out of 42
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 42
  3. Negative: 0 out of 42
  1. Games Radar
    80
    While the presentation and lack of innovation may not wow you, you'll be sucked in by just how well judged every element of the gameplay is.
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  2. Eurogamer
    80
    It starts off brilliant, then erodes your enthusiasm over time.
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  3. Thunderbolt
    80
    Sure, this game is nowhere near as difficult as its SNES and GBA predecessors, but it still requires all the strategy and thought required to make it great.
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