Valkyria Chronicles

 PlayStation 3
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 504 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 438 out of 504
  2. Mixed: 33 out of 504
  3. Negative: 33 out of 504
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  1. SAMA
    Nov 14, 2009
    10
    This is one game I keep coming back to for more. Charming story, lovable characters (even the secondary ones, such as Jane and Walter), and overall tragically beautiful setup. I'd think that everybody who had any intention of getting it would have done so by now, but if you haven't and you have a PS3, you'd do well to get it.
  2. DanielA
    Nov 8, 2009
    10
    A very good designed game. Lots of game time and fun gameing experiance!
  3. AndrewC.
    Nov 13, 2008
    10
    The last game I gave a 10 was a mistake. I reviewed it too early, in the first excitement of a new game, and it didn't hold up to my expectations. So I waited on this one, clocking around 40 hours of gameplay (with a few spent away from the TV taking care of kids), and now I can give this one a 10 in (almost) good conscience. A 9.5 or 9.6 is closer. There are minor annoyances, which The last game I gave a 10 was a mistake. I reviewed it too early, in the first excitement of a new game, and it didn't hold up to my expectations. So I waited on this one, clocking around 40 hours of gameplay (with a few spent away from the TV taking care of kids), and now I can give this one a 10 in (almost) good conscience. A 9.5 or 9.6 is closer. There are minor annoyances, which the professional reviewers have documented well, but they don't bother me much and are easy to work around if you accept that this IS a strategy RPG and so is operating according to (somewhat arbitrary) rules. The story has been described as "sappy," but I admit, the story has engaged me enough that I've thought "That's sweet" on multiple occasions, and "That sucks! You can't do that!" on one in particular. Combat has kept me more engaged and excited than any SRPG I've played, and I go out of my way to get a medic to my downed soldiers--I can't stand leaving them there. One battle in particular had me thinking, "This is too easy," only to have me scrambling to avoid being wiped out the next turn. Overall, one of the most satisfying gaming experiences I've had.… Expand
  4. WayneL.
    Dec 3, 2008
    10
    I' am a harsh voter when it comes to rating games. So far the only other 10 I would give out is MGS4. Many reviewers can explain this with better words then I, but don't be mistaken this is a game you have to be moronic to miss. Gamplay - 10 I had no clue about this game until i played the early release of the demo from qore. When i first saw the initial opening scenes i thought I' am a harsh voter when it comes to rating games. So far the only other 10 I would give out is MGS4. Many reviewers can explain this with better words then I, but don't be mistaken this is a game you have to be moronic to miss. Gamplay - 10 I had no clue about this game until i played the early release of the demo from qore. When i first saw the initial opening scenes i thought it was a really nice art style (well get more into that later) however I didn't think it would be good for playing. I couldn't be more wrong. Gameplay has the hugest step i have seen in the SPRG genre. You look up from a top down view much like a risk board, however when selecting your character it zooms in like google maps. When you control you character is the most refreshing thing. It controls like a third person shooter, however your movement it limited by action points. When your movement bar depletes or when you move your character where you want them you can choose to attack or another action like healing. If you attack you actually control where you shoot and go into a fps mode or reticules appear depending on the character class. Story - 10 While i don't want to ruin the story lets just say it's really wonderful. You play as a small country in between 2 warring nations and one of the nations wants your land for your massive amount of resources, then lets just say snowball effect. Your "grunts" are not just standard rent a cops as each one of them has an attitude. All 100 of them, which makes you want to protect them even more. Sound - 8 For JRPGS voice acting has always been a probem unless your game pertains the name final fantasy. While there still may be some issues and funky voices it is much much better then its hundreds of other JRPGS. The music is good but reused often. Graphics - 9 While the graphics are not ground breaking they are amazing in its artistic style. Everything is done as if water colored and on a canvas. The only problem i have is no characters have lips. Not a huge problem just something you notice after a while. Replay Value - 10 The main quest offers around 40 hours of gameplay if you rush through every cutscene. As said before wonderful story. Not only this there are sidequests to partake and you can redo battles to try and get a better score. Also DLC content is coming where you can play on the imperial side soon. Overall - 10 If you average it all out....it doesn't come to 10 however the gameplay is so wonderful that it sort of overpowers other factors in the game. Basicly if i could give it more then a 10 in this area I would.… Expand
  5. ArkonBlade
    Aug 17, 2010
    10
    A stratagy RPG with a new updated combat system that works amazingly well... SIGHN ME UP!!! wow SEGA is back to making good games again House of the dead 4 , MadWorld and now this . if you are stratagy RPG fan this is a must buy . this is the closest thing it seems we are gona get to a new shining force game that doesnt suck from sega (shining force 1-3 amazing shinign force ex and neoA stratagy RPG with a new updated combat system that works amazingly well... SIGHN ME UP!!! wow SEGA is back to making good games again House of the dead 4 , MadWorld and now this . if you are stratagy RPG fan this is a must buy . this is the closest thing it seems we are gona get to a new shining force game that doesnt suck from sega (shining force 1-3 amazing shinign force ex and neo HORRID!) this is what id want a updated SRPG to look like .im not a huge fan of cell shaded graphice but if you are gona make a anime style SRPG then the graphics fit perfectly . the EXP and LVL up system wroks perfectly so you never have to worry about charicters getting to far ahead of others with its new exp distrabution set up . you decide who gets what exp . the story takes about 20-30 hours to complete depending on if you do every thing or just try to fly through the game which meets my standers for gameplay time to beat. i only wish they added trophys to this because this is the kinda game id want to 100% . the story is very entertaining the voice acting is pretty good if you like anime style voice acting which i do. about the only bad thing isn the enimy AI now it has a few moments where it just does really stupid things almost like its trying to give you the win . i dont know if this was a attempt at sega to try to make the game more accesable to newer gamers or they just screwed up. a diffuculty system woulda been nice for more VET gamers of this style of game . other then that i love every thing els about this game . Stratagy RPG's are a rare game to get released and to see this game hit the ps3 from sega makes me smile. i can only hope this pushed sega to make a new shining force game.… Expand
  6. hanzzN
    Oct 25, 2009
    10
    Great SRPG game. Very good graphics style, and very nice soundtrack. And gameplay is very good. Must have Ps3 game.
  7. JamesT.
    Nov 16, 2008
    10
    This game is fantastic. An outstanding blend of strategic thinking, 3rd Person Action, Role Playing, and storytelling. The characters are so engaging that you can't help but fall in love with them as they struggle to defend their country. The graphics are innovative and beautiful, and the music is one of the best soundtracks I've heard since Chronotrigger!! Seriously, if you This game is fantastic. An outstanding blend of strategic thinking, 3rd Person Action, Role Playing, and storytelling. The characters are so engaging that you can't help but fall in love with them as they struggle to defend their country. The graphics are innovative and beautiful, and the music is one of the best soundtracks I've heard since Chronotrigger!! Seriously, if you have a PS3 get this game immediately, and if you don't have a PS3, then this game is the reason to buy one.… Expand
  8. Kelly
    Dec 14, 2008
    10
    The best game I've played all year. They've managed to blend real-time and turn-based action, a nice story, delightful characters and a fanstic imagining of World War 2 into the most engaging game I've played in ages. Only the most heartless of gamers could play through Valkyria Chronicles and not get attached to their squad. Little character traits, story details and The best game I've played all year. They've managed to blend real-time and turn-based action, a nice story, delightful characters and a fanstic imagining of World War 2 into the most engaging game I've played in ages. Only the most heartless of gamers could play through Valkyria Chronicles and not get attached to their squad. Little character traits, story details and moments of heroism will make you care when a squad member is permanently killed, assuming you have any empathy at all. Not many games can manage that feat and this one does it with a charming style that really sets it apart from the current hyperrealistic brown and grey world of one-dimensional characters that make up so many current games. Play the demo, if that doesn't convince you, nothing can.… Expand
  9. michaelk
    Oct 21, 2009
    10
    this is not only one of my favourite games on the ps3 but one of my favourite games of all time everything from the slick presantation and beautiful art style to the deap story and charactures is fantastic the stratagy needed to compleat a mission with an a rank is solid and you really need to learn how to use each class to its full advantage this is an amazing turn based rpg and is this is not only one of my favourite games on the ps3 but one of my favourite games of all time everything from the slick presantation and beautiful art style to the deap story and charactures is fantastic the stratagy needed to compleat a mission with an a rank is solid and you really need to learn how to use each class to its full advantage this is an amazing turn based rpg and is already developing a cult status if u haven't played it already than jump in for one of the best games to come out of japan in ages… Expand
  10. RyanH.
    Nov 26, 2008
    10
    Amazing story, amazing graphics, and an innovative and challenging battle system - I had impossibly high expectations for this game, and Sega met them - i'm hoping that they get more involved in making new RPGs... maybe we can get a new Skies of Arcadia done in this graphic style?
  11. thedarkorb
    Oct 7, 2010
    9
    While it's not perfect Valkyria Chronicles is certainly nothing less then a fantastic game. The excellent story is very character focused which draws you into the world and creates attachment to and empathy for the main cast. The visuals are absolutely gorgeous (especially if your fond of anime/manga) and the score is enjoyable as well. The combat looks complicated at first but is easy toWhile it's not perfect Valkyria Chronicles is certainly nothing less then a fantastic game. The excellent story is very character focused which draws you into the world and creates attachment to and empathy for the main cast. The visuals are absolutely gorgeous (especially if your fond of anime/manga) and the score is enjoyable as well. The combat looks complicated at first but is easy to learn and leads to great battle sequences. There are some minor camera issues when your in tight quarters, and an element of chance comes into play during combat that can be frustrating at times but these minor faults are nothing considering the quality of every aspect of this game.… Expand
  12. theshonen8899
    Oct 26, 2010
    10
    My favorite game since Persona 3, this game is unbelievable. An extraordinary and revolutionary battle system combined with an absolutely beautiful story, this game is not to be missed by any JRPG fan at all.
  13. zzrryll
    Dec 23, 2011
    9
    Sega has, historically, made some of the best lighthearted JRPGs. While growing up I was a huge fan of the Phantasy Star series of games, and have always lamented the fact that that specific portion of the genre seems to have disappeared after the creation of PS IV.

    This game is, by my estimation, the closest thing to a true SMS/Genesis Phantasy Star game that we're going to get in this    Sega has, historically, made some of the best lighthearted JRPGs. While growing up I was a huge fan of the Phantasy Star series of games, and have always lamented the fact that that specific portion of the genre seems to have disappeared after the creation of PS IV.

    This game is, by my estimation, the closest thing to a true SMS/Genesis Phantasy Star game that we're going to get in this console generation, in the best way possible. This game tells the tale of a group of normal folks, thrust into a world conflict, and their struggle to overcome an invasion of their peaceful country. It is well written, the combat is well paced, and overall it is one of the best games I've played on PS3. After completing it the first time I started it over again, with the new game + option, and went through the effort of obtaining all of the hidden weapons, and companions possible. When you add in the DLC and all of the optional missions and challenges this game can easily occupy you for a few months. All in all it is an amazing effort from the Sega team, and is personally one of my favorite PS3 games. It's just a shame that the sequels were all PSP games, aimed at a less mature audience.    … Expand
  14. timeparadox
    Mar 16, 2012
    9
    Beautifully innovative game gives players something to keep coming back to. The battle system is something reminiscent of tabletop roleplaying games like Warhammer 40k, but not over-complicated. Challenging and engaging, this game has it all! Even if anime-style graphics are a turn-off, I'd encourage anyone to at least rent this game, or play the demo. This game is, if nothing else, ONE OF A KIND!
  15. TuesdayS
    Apr 6, 2009
    10
    Excellent game to merge together the JRPG style with strategic combat. It took me hours and hours to beat some of the maps, and I LOVE when any game is difficult enough to make me exercise my brain, but still achievable. The art style is favored by myself (and I LOVE the anime that just recently began airing in Japan). This game will be a crown jewel on my shelf for years to come.
  16. n/an/a
    May 30, 2009
    8
    Good strategy game with RPG elemts, an elaborate story and fine visual content. It misses a ten because of technical problems like wrong collision detection and perspective and an inconsistent menu system which for instance lets you save in chapter mode but not load.
  17. AndyM.
    Jul 3, 2009
    9
    Very fast paced SRPG, and has a brilliant storyline. A definite must have for any RPG fan on the PS3. Would have given this game a 10 but I did notice some inconsistent game mechanics, other than that, this game is flawless.
  18. GiampaoloC.
    Jan 2, 2009
    9
    Valkyria Chronicles is the game I've been waiting since Final Fantasy Tactics. It manages to change the usual sRPG gameplay in an innovative and clever way, creating an unique and definitely satisfying game experience. Add to this an incredible graphic quality, an intriguing story and a few good characters and you get a masterpiece. The only thing that prevented this game from Valkyria Chronicles is the game I've been waiting since Final Fantasy Tactics. It manages to change the usual sRPG gameplay in an innovative and clever way, creating an unique and definitely satisfying game experience. Add to this an incredible graphic quality, an intriguing story and a few good characters and you get a masterpiece. The only thing that prevented this game from getting a 10 is the not-so-perfect AI. But still, I would highly recommend this game to any RPG fan out there.… Expand
  19. Komino
    Jan 8, 2009
    9
    An excellently presented strategy game that has a genuinely interesting and touching story that is enhanced buy the cell shaded / watercolour look of the graphics. The game is very well paced, opening up it's options and advanced techniques gradually over the course of the game. Also worth mentioning is the overall length of the experience. I finished the game clocking up 55 hours of An excellently presented strategy game that has a genuinely interesting and touching story that is enhanced buy the cell shaded / watercolour look of the graphics. The game is very well paced, opening up it's options and advanced techniques gradually over the course of the game. Also worth mentioning is the overall length of the experience. I finished the game clocking up 55 hours of gameplay, which was unexpected. I would say that the only downside is that the enemy AI can feel a little scripted, but it doesn't take away from the overall experience. It's definitely worth a purchase.… Expand
  20. JohnMartin
    Nov 10, 2008
    10
    This is old school SEGA goodness wrapped up in Next gen technology. The SRPG mechanics underlying the game are brilliant, this is one of the most satisfying SRPGs I've ever played (up there with the Disgaea series). The interplay between the classes, giving real value to just spotting your enemies vs. sending in your biggest gun and shooting, the importance of using the terrain, itsThis is old school SEGA goodness wrapped up in Next gen technology. The SRPG mechanics underlying the game are brilliant, this is one of the most satisfying SRPGs I've ever played (up there with the Disgaea series). The interplay between the classes, giving real value to just spotting your enemies vs. sending in your biggest gun and shooting, the importance of using the terrain, its all a very thorough wargame.

    And on top of that, the cast of characters is truly charming. Your team just bleeds likeable personality all over the place! You will come to care for your favorites very much, and stress over sending them into harms way. The added tension of being able to permanently lose characters if they get incapacitated and are not rescued by a medic makes every turn feel meaningful.

    The story is somewhat over the top, but engrossing. Its hard not to feel for the plight of these Gallerian soldiers torn from their peaceful life and thrown into war.

    The only real thorn I found in this wonderful game was the mascot which I felt was totally unnecessary and merely got in the way of the otherwise moving interactions between the main characters (why must all these games stick a stupidly cutesy mascot in there? The only ones that ever worked were prinnies, because you can blow them up :) ).

    This game will be a classic, remembered in fond tones by the RPG veterans of tomorrow, as they tell the newbie masses how great gaming used to be 'back in the day'. The only reasons not to buy this would be: i) not into RPGs/SRPGs, ii) hate the anime aesthetic, iii) can't overlook one stupidly cutesy mascot.

    This is really brilliant stuff!    … Expand
  21. PhilLarson
    Nov 12, 2008
    10
    This is one of the most original, well-thought out games this generation. The combination of the brilliant game mechanics and the excellent storyline tell a lot about how much work Sega has put into this. They even used throwbacks to Skies of Arcadia, which is another one of my favourite games.

    Baseline is, buy this game.
  22. [Anonymous]
    Nov 4, 2008
    9
    Great game for anyone that loves strategy, anime, turnbased gameplay and a fantastic story! The only downside is that skirmish mode levels dont have random enemy placement and the AI seems kind of scripted. This would definatly have given this game even more replayabiliy.
  23. MartinH.
    Nov 5, 2008
    10
    This is without a doubt the best spin on the tactical RPG genre i've played in the last 10 years, since Dragon Force back on the SEGA Saturn. Recommended highly to fans of the Fire Emblem, Final Fantasy Tactics and Tactics Ogre series'.
  24. Z9000
    Dec 4, 2008
    10
    This game has nothing to do with Ring of Red or Spectrum Warriors... If there is any game out there that this one draws influence from, it's Jagged Alliance, which just shipped it's new itteration called Hired Guns: The Jagged Edge (Shipped yesterday). This game kept me glued to the TV for 5 days, and even after finishing it, haunts me to go play it some more (After you finish This game has nothing to do with Ring of Red or Spectrum Warriors... If there is any game out there that this one draws influence from, it's Jagged Alliance, which just shipped it's new itteration called Hired Guns: The Jagged Edge (Shipped yesterday). This game kept me glued to the TV for 5 days, and even after finishing it, haunts me to go play it some more (After you finish the game, it makes a Clear! save game and you keep going with your stats and gear aquired). I am over 40 years old, and for any game to woo me with game play in this day and age, is saying a hell of a lot. If you can get over the obligitory cutsey flying pig, this game is pure win. Strategy turn based on the console done right. The only improvement I would make would be to randomize troop placements on the skirmish maps so they get a new face every go through. Vyse from Skies of Arcadia (Dreamcast) is playable character as well. If you are looking for rich, deep, replayable turn based strategy with some rpg elements and unique soldier back story/personalities, this game is a must buy.… Expand
  25. HaroldJ.
    Dec 5, 2008
    9
    Real immersive gameplay, involving at once strategy on the field, gripping action, characters and weapons management, and long and epic battles. Story is a bit cliched, but battles are numerous and optional skirmishes a great way to develop the story and characters. Lot of replay value, with a new game + option, different difficulty modes, and rankings to improve. Unfortunately, no trophy Real immersive gameplay, involving at once strategy on the field, gripping action, characters and weapons management, and long and epic battles. Story is a bit cliched, but battles are numerous and optional skirmishes a great way to develop the story and characters. Lot of replay value, with a new game + option, different difficulty modes, and rankings to improve. Unfortunately, no trophy support, no multiplayer either (online skirmishes would have been fun), and the story prevent it to be an absolute blast. Anyway, gameplay wise it is a masterpiece, engaging and rich, supported by great and unique visuals. A really worthy exclusive to the PS3 catalogue.… Expand
  26. AP
    Jan 18, 2009
    9
    This game is awesome. I'm so sad i didn't get it when it came out. Impressive Presentation & Truly quite Addictive. Upgrading and replaying skirmishes to upgrade my soldiers and tank is a really neat and great way for those who are new to S/Rpgs, by letting you keep the EXP and Credits when you replay and practice skirmishes. Definitely My favourite S/Rpg to date & one of my topThis game is awesome. I'm so sad i didn't get it when it came out. Impressive Presentation & Truly quite Addictive. Upgrading and replaying skirmishes to upgrade my soldiers and tank is a really neat and great way for those who are new to S/Rpgs, by letting you keep the EXP and Credits when you replay and practice skirmishes. Definitely My favourite S/Rpg to date & one of my top 5 ps3 games.… Expand
  27. JPCorp
    Feb 14, 2009
    10
    Simply the best game I played in 2008. It's unique, and definitely not your average shooter/gore action game. It doesn't rely on violence to deliver the meaning of fun to the players. As a lot of people say, if you have PS3, have a slight tendency to either strategy or RPG games, and don't have Valkyria, you have done yourself a disservice.
  28. VamsiV
    Mar 18, 2009
    9
    The game presents itself well. It has unique game play, an interesting storyline, and beautiful graphics. However, it fails to maintain the tension in the story by breaking up each scene into tiny fragments which make it hard to follow the story. Also, unlike most Action games, this relies on its rare game play and story to keep the user interested. With all things considered, Sega did an The game presents itself well. It has unique game play, an interesting storyline, and beautiful graphics. However, it fails to maintain the tension in the story by breaking up each scene into tiny fragments which make it hard to follow the story. Also, unlike most Action games, this relies on its rare game play and story to keep the user interested. With all things considered, Sega did an excellent job.… Expand
  29. Piskin100
    Aug 22, 2009
    10
    Innovative and deep. One of the best reasons to own a PS3.
  30. Tom
    Nov 22, 2008
    9
    Best game released this year, maybe with exception of MGS4, though Id still prefer this one. Graphics and music are gorgeous, story is well written, characters are just lovely, gameplay feels great and also very fresh and th whole thing is very well polished. With about 40 hrs of gameplay, you just cant go wrong with this one.
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Awards & Rankings

16
#16 Best PS3 Game of 2008
14
#14 Most Discussed PS3 Game of 2008
5
#5 Most Shared PS3 Game of 2008

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 60 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 59 out of 60
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 60
  3. Negative: 0 out of 60
  1. RPG Fan
    95
    Valkyria Chronicles shatters all strategy RPG conventions.
    Read full review
  2. Playstation: The Official Magazine (US)
    90
    The story is a real hoot. [Dec 2008, p.78]
  3. Eurogamer
    80
    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.
    Read full review
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