Ephemeral Fantasia

 PlayStation 2
  • Publisher: Konami
  • Release Date: Jul 9, 2001
User Score
7.1

Mixed or average reviews- based on 42 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 26 out of 42
  2. Mixed: 7 out of 42
  3. Negative: 9 out of 42
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  1. Cuat
    Jan 12, 2018
    8
    I loved the crap out of this game. Nobody ever talks about it and its understandable. The worst thing about the game is its progression, and that's easily fixed by a walk-through, which I understand wasn't around back in the day.

    But this is the future. I wanted to write this review for so long, and I hope the modern audience can appreciate a game that has so many well executed features    I loved the crap out of this game. Nobody ever talks about it and its understandable. The worst thing about the game is its progression, and that's easily fixed by a walk-through, which I understand wasn't around back in the day.

    But this is the future. I wanted to write this review for so long, and I hope the modern audience can appreciate a game that has so many well executed features that most modern rpg's fail to pull off.

    Its a guitar element that I sometimes go back to just to play the melodies. The sweet, crisp melodies.

    Its got an active battle style with multiple ways to fight. To elaborate further, you can level up specific attacks and moves with different characters. Heck, Mouse can become a one man army if you train up his sword skills enough!

    its got a story I got so invested in that even back in the day with no walk-through I was motivated to high hell to finish. That sad princess activated the hero in me and I said I would save her no matter the cost!

    The characters are not placeholders, they all have stories. Opinions, they even chip in dialogue wise!

    I could go on and on about the pet features, the unlocking characters features, the many mini games you can play, the heartwarming cut-scenes, the tragic ones also, and one of the best villains I've ever matched blades with.

    This game is not for the faint of heart. If you're looking for a quick junk food RPG, this is not for you. It will keep you busy for weeks, maybe even months if you love grinding for stuff. (I am a Weekend warrior.) But if you want an RPG that leaves you with a deep sense of fulfillment when finished, a tear in your eye, this rare and underrated gem is for you. Don't rush it, you won't want it to end once you fall in love with the game.    … Expand
  2. pianotm
    Nov 11, 2014
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is one of those games that starts slow but gets better as you play it, which itself is an indicator of bad game design, but not necessarily sure sign. The pacing is slow, but the story is gripping and even a little disturbing from the very beginning. Even if you think the game isn't good in the beginning, there's enough to keep you in it. Combat mechanics are a bit cumbersome but not as bad as some I've seen. The battlers are a bit cheesy. There's a lot of frustration in this game centered on the fact that through most of it, you simply don't know what you're supposed to do. It become clear pretty quickly that the "benevolent" ruler of the island isn't a very nice guy and generally enjoys the terrible power he wields over his unsuspecting populace, using that power to force them to live the same week over and over again, like the movie Groundhog's Day, but with an evil overlord making it miserable and extending it to five days. Hey, he can't be all bad. At least he's making them repeat a festival for the rest of eternity instead of something boring or catastrophic. The writing is superb. The evil overlord, Xelpherpolis is portrayed perfectly, seeming truly benevolent with dark and sinister overtones belying his true evil nature.

    The problem with this game: IT DOES NOT TELL TELL YOU WHAT TO DO. Unlike other major productions such as Breath of Fire, Atelier, and Final Fantasy, this game doesn't hold your hand. Except for a few control tutorials, you have to explore and figure things out for yourself. This game is designed to challenge you. Instead of NPCs telling you where to go and what to do and obvious events, you have to find little clues that aren't obvious. This game requires some significant detective work and nothing demonstrates this better than the mission to rescue Rummy from the time loop, in which you have to prevent her from attempting to kill Lorellani, Xelpherpolis' future wife.

    Game mechanics aren't good, but they're not bad either. They can be annoying but aren't seriously detrimental. Once you've rescued one or two playable characters, you start to understand the story and really get into the game.

    All of the minor problems coupled with the slow starting, complex story make this game a bit misunderstood and under-appreciated. It's far from perfect, and a game like this is always going to have problems, but those who have the patience and enjoy exploration will find a real jewel in this game. Those who can't act without being directed need not apply.    … Expand
  3. KaceyA.
    Aug 30, 2001
    9
    I don't know what is going on with all these people on all these sites. They are all giving this game a bad rap already! I think it is mostly because they expect this game to be more along the lines of being Final Fantasy-ish. Well, I don't like that attitude at all. This game strives to be different from the norm, and they've done it. Sure...the graphics are a bit lacking, I don't know what is going on with all these people on all these sites. They are all giving this game a bad rap already! I think it is mostly because they expect this game to be more along the lines of being Final Fantasy-ish. Well, I don't like that attitude at all. This game strives to be different from the norm, and they've done it. Sure...the graphics are a bit lacking, but that doesn't keep it from being a great game. And people who complain about it being "too non-linear" or "too hard to figure out," have only played games like "Final Fantasy" (which are also great games) and expect everything in all the other RPGs they play to be the same. Well, sorry to say, but most of the people with an attitude like that toward any game aren't TRUE gamers. Well, then, other than the graphics lacking A LITTLE, this is a great game, and that's that.… Expand
  4. Neocryothan
    Oct 18, 2007
    9
    Ep is a great game in a unique way. You actually have to TRY A LITTLE BIT to get some characters to join you. Yes I agree it's no FF but you are all holding the game to It's standards. If it was just like FF It wouldn't be called ephemeral fantasia now would it? And don't complain about the graphics. RPG's are about the story and depth of it's characters and Ep is a great game in a unique way. You actually have to TRY A LITTLE BIT to get some characters to join you. Yes I agree it's no FF but you are all holding the game to It's standards. If it was just like FF It wouldn't be called ephemeral fantasia now would it? And don't complain about the graphics. RPG's are about the story and depth of it's characters and the surroundings, not OH LOOK!!! YOU CAN SEE THE LEAVES ON THAT TREE THERE!! If you wanted a game with amazing graphics and don't care about story for crying out loud play a racing game. Also about the "repetitiveness" people seem to complain about. What is a sport game really? Just a bunch of guys playing with their balls for hours on end.… Expand
  5. EphemeralFantasiaFan
    Nov 3, 2001
    10
    This game is so cool, and although people say the graphics aren't that great...I thought they were excellent! The characters are so cute and 3D! The game has a great story, but I have to admit it is hard, I wish I could find a better walkthrough! Plus nobody wants Mouse and Rummy to get together as much as I do!
  6. Denki
    Jan 15, 2002
    9
    An excellent game, the mini-games are so good, The anime-style graphics are great and Rummy Rules! :)
  7. Mouse'sApprentice
    Jan 3, 2002
    10
    The story line rocks... the expansive environment is cool... the concept of the player being able to perform songs & fight RPG battles is neat... but I can't find the bar either!
  8. AndrewA.
    Sep 17, 2003
    9
    I love this game. It may be a bit complex, but when you begin to understand, it'll fit like a glove. (Kinda like Rummy in her uniform. Heh, heh, heh.) Anyway, the only thing I hate about the game is the fact that no one has a clue how to get Mouse and Rummy together in the ending. But I won't give up! I'll keep on searching! But in the meantime, I just write down a few I love this game. It may be a bit complex, but when you begin to understand, it'll fit like a glove. (Kinda like Rummy in her uniform. Heh, heh, heh.) Anyway, the only thing I hate about the game is the fact that no one has a clue how to get Mouse and Rummy together in the ending. But I won't give up! I'll keep on searching! But in the meantime, I just write down a few fanfics based on this game. With me as the hero. Why? BECAUSE I CAN!!!!! Besides, I lo----ve Rummy!! Not just because of her figure. I'm beyond that. Her smile while she blushes is so cute, and her "Emerald Eyes" would make some of the guys wonder what it would be like to marry her! I know I do.… Expand
  9. Chusha
    Jun 9, 2004
    9
    While many have gotten used to FF style games Ephemeral Fantasia is just enough out of the FF style to make it unique and challenging. The characters are well designed and fit well into the story. And I'm sure we all wanted to see a drinking game with Rummy.
  10. A.D.I.
    Sep 13, 2006
    10
    No matter how many games have come out since Ephemeral Fantasia, I've been coming back to play the Musician in the Island of Paradise. I really say that they should have continued to making a second, perhaps a bit more advanced than it's first game. I'd like to see maybe even the prequil that makes Mouse, Beak, and Fang the legendary Golden Trio.
  11. MichaelQ.
    Oct 13, 2001
    9
    I don't see why everyone hates this game!! The graphics, which I will admit, could be better, they still are really good! And people say there is no storyline? It had better than most.
  12. Aylee
    Nov 9, 2001
    10
    This is just about the best game I've ever played! (After the Suikoden series that is... ^.^) It confused me a bit at first as the wedding grew nearer, cause I had no idea about the loop at the time... Anywayz, it's just a really great game!! I'm trying to get Rummy at the moment and am having a bit of trouble... Anyways.... yeah.... ^.^
  13. JennyL.
    Dec 27, 2001
    10
    I simply love the game, I thought everything was perfect but my brother says the game sucks and has bad sound and graphics. I'm having trouble just finding bar! So if anyone knows please email me where it is. I LOVE THE GAME! Wish me good luck and I'll wish you good luck! (and DO NOT listen to those untrue gamers they don't know nothing about games)
  14. ConfusedGamer
    Sep 3, 2001
    10
    I like it when I can't beat a game in a week, but I would like to beat it before I die. Is there a walkthrough or must I repeat the horror of five days for eternity?? (Ed: Try the CCC strategy guide)
  15. WilliamM.
    Jan 12, 2002
    9
    My hats of to Konami although its bad reviews I have to give the game credit. It is one of the hardest if not the hardest games i've ever played. Can somebody please tell me how to fix the lift to get to woodcutters village I just can't get there.
  16. GaryR.
    Jan 14, 2002
    10
    The graphics could be better, however the concept of the game is superb. The idea of time looping makes the game ace. PS The bar is on the screen east of the city center near the bottom of the screen. Big building with entrance facing north. PPS to fix the lift in the woodcutters village you need to talk to the guy to the west of the lift .Then go to where you can upgrade Mouse's The graphics could be better, however the concept of the game is superb. The idea of time looping makes the game ace. PS The bar is on the screen east of the city center near the bottom of the screen. Big building with entrance facing north. PPS to fix the lift in the woodcutters village you need to talk to the guy to the west of the lift .Then go to where you can upgrade Mouse's weapon pay 1000g and then go back and talk to the guy again.… Expand
  17. Seien
    Feb 1, 2002
    8
    It's a pretty good game. I haven't played it that much though. *sighs* I'm trying to find the inn keepers daughter. ^__^ but being able to play the music is cool, even if I didn't have a clue how to at first.
  18. DavidR.
    Oct 17, 2001
    9
    I thought the game was a lot of fun and different than the usual RPG's.
  19. Fang'sGirl
    Nov 10, 2002
    10
    After going through a myriad of negative and, in my opinion, unfair reviews, I'm about ready to support those who have had the patience and will to actually play through the first loop. It seems like everyone who's reviewed badly hasn't a clue about what they're doing, and have decided to blame their own lack of patience on the game's non-linear nature. For those After going through a myriad of negative and, in my opinion, unfair reviews, I'm about ready to support those who have had the patience and will to actually play through the first loop. It seems like everyone who's reviewed badly hasn't a clue about what they're doing, and have decided to blame their own lack of patience on the game's non-linear nature. For those who are actually willing to play through and who are intelligent enough to find a walkthrough first, this is one game that you shouldn't miss. With its original nature and lovable characters (...Beak... Fang...) it's one of the most challenging and fullfilling pieces of video games I've ever played. Do yourself a favour and get a walkthrough if you think it's all that bad.… Expand
  20. TreyT.
    Aug 25, 2003
    10
    This game is amazingly great.In my opinion,people who are smart and get a Walkthrough and have patience will love this game. Those who aren't as fortunate as to get a walkthrough will miss out on a great deal of a game.One of the best RPG's i've ever played!!Without a walkthrough for this game,you're missing out on the "hidden diamond" of this game.
  21. JohnW.
    Jan 29, 2006
    10
    I don't know what everyone's problem with this game is. I pity the people who think graphiscs make it bad. Graphics don't matter when it comes to good games. This game has many diverse features such as an interesting battle and technique system, a whole island with tons of characters and things to explore, many allies with differrent features, a music sub-part I don't know what everyone's problem with this game is. I pity the people who think graphiscs make it bad. Graphics don't matter when it comes to good games. This game has many diverse features such as an interesting battle and technique system, a whole island with tons of characters and things to explore, many allies with differrent features, a music sub-part that'sactually kind of fun, and so much more. As for how pain-stackingly hard it can be because of how big it is, an online of official guide can take care of the junctures of what to do and where to go. It's simply an awesome game.… Expand
  22. Kengo19
    Aug 27, 2021
    8
    This is one of those games you either love it or you don't. There's not really in between. I for one love this game.
  23. KefkeWren
    Sep 18, 2020
    10
    Ephemeral Fantasia is practically my test for whether someone has good taste in games or not.

    First of all, I'll be straight with one thing - this game is not for the faint of heart. You will get out of it what you put into it. It doesn't hold your hand, and it expects you to make a little effort. Engage with the game world, pay attention, and get invested, or it will leave you behind.    Ephemeral Fantasia is practically my test for whether someone has good taste in games or not.

    First of all, I'll be straight with one thing - this game is not for the faint of heart. You will get out of it what you put into it. It doesn't hold your hand, and it expects you to make a little effort. Engage with the game world, pay attention, and get invested, or it will leave you behind.

    If you do get invested, though? You'll find a complex story full of twists and surprises waiting for you. You'll find an engaging battle system that shapes itself to your play style through evolving skills and a "catch up" mechanic for less leveled characters that I've never seen in any other game. You'll find secrets, interwoven stories, and a world where your investment in it is rewarded.

    You can't just coast by in Ephemeral Fantasia. It is 100% true that it won't just tell you what to do next. That's because the game is open-ended. Over the repeating "Groundhog's Day" week of the story, you can do things in whatever way you want. Want to take a week to grind? You can do that. Want to spend a week learning the map? You can do that. Want to learn a particular NPC's schedule, so you know what they'll be doing at any given time on each day? You can and you should. Each additional party member you can recruit has to first be broken out of the cycle, made to remember what happened on previous loops, and the only way to do that is by learning about them, then using that knowledge to open their eyes.

    On top of all that, the game has multiple endings and characters you can miss completely depending on what you do. Despite the looping nature of time, it's a game where your actions have consequences and your choices matter.

    Of course, it's not a game without faults. Which begs the question, why am I rating it a 10? Simply put, for every fault I can list, there is a counterpoint for why I wouldn't let it affect my rating. It was originally made for the Dreamcast, and it has Dreamcast graphics. I don't hold that against it, because I love the Dreamcast and would never fault a port for being a port, even if the original was unreleased. The navigation and knowing what to do when can be confusing, but I don't consider those faults because it's an intended part of the game - as I've stated throughout this review, the game wants you to learn things by investigating, and make decisions for yourself. The last thing I could bring up is the songs you'll have to play throughout the game. On a regular Playstation 2 controller, some of these can be quite difficult to play. However, there are a few saving graces here. First, that the game lets you practice songs whenever you like. Second, that missing a song will rarely keep you from progressing the game. Third, the game supports a guitar controller in the second port, which will make things easier (I'm not sure if it HAS to be a Konami guitar controller or not). Lastly, and most importantly, if you really struggle with the minigame, there are some cheat codes available online that can make the difficulty trivial (as well as some for more of a challenge).

    All in all, Ephemeral Fantasia is a great game, but it's cute anime style can keep people from realizing that it's also a game that expects you to "git gut".    … Expand

Awards & Rankings

27
#27 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2001
29
#29 Most Shared PS2 Game of 2001

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
48

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 16 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 16
  3. Negative: 7 out of 16
  1. Gaming Age
    67
    The few folks with the patience needed to understand the game's design goals and unusual approach will find a game with a lot of depth and a truly offbeat adventure. Those who abhor repetition and like their quests spelled out for them should stay away.
    Read full review
  2. Into Liquid Sky
    75
    A throwback to the way RPGs used to be made before polygons. With anime-style characters and a firm story and gameplay, this game should be enjoyable for anyone who can get past the graphical weaknesses.
    Read full review
  3. PSX Nation
    60
    Despite the possibilty of too much repetition or worklike feeling, EF brings the first true traditional RPG to the PS2. The story is interesting, the mini-games unique, the characters vivid and the locations fascinating.
    Read full review
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