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. 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.
  2. 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
  3. 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.
  4. 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
  5. 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'.
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. DanielA
    Nov 8, 2009
    10
    A very good designed game. Lots of game time and fun gameing experiance!
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. Piskin100
    Aug 22, 2009
    10
    Innovative and deep. One of the best reasons to own a PS3.
  12. 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
  13. 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
  14. MeroAlhammadi
    Oct 26, 2008
    10
    I Played this game it is really awesome. Its kind of an RPG, action and FPS game all in one. It really puts you in the command position and you take responsibility of every soldier in the battle field. The different classes of soldiers and the weapons each can carry add more depth to the game and makes each soul valuable for your success.
  15. 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.
  16. 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
  17. StaticN
    Jan 29, 2009
    10
    Hands down fantastic title. Not once did I feel bored or not challenged enough. Once you get the handle on the mechanics the game is a rewarding experience as you try to solve problems and maneuver to make sure you always have the highest possibility for success.

    From beginning to end this has really been one of the best games I have played in this generation,
  18. JoeT
    Sep 11, 2009
    10
    Simply outstanding in every way top 5 game all time for me.. Epic
  19. TianyuW.
    Nov 25, 2008
    10
    This is one of the most innovative sRPG since Final Fantasy Tactics. Final Fantasy Tactics set the mile stone for sRPG for the fact that it brought this niche genre to the general public in a very good way. Now 10 years later, Valkyria Chronicles revolutionized this genre in its visuals (best of sRPG, and made the big leap forward from 2D/3D into HD graphics), and brought a long due This is one of the most innovative sRPG since Final Fantasy Tactics. Final Fantasy Tactics set the mile stone for sRPG for the fact that it brought this niche genre to the general public in a very good way. Now 10 years later, Valkyria Chronicles revolutionized this genre in its visuals (best of sRPG, and made the big leap forward from 2D/3D into HD graphics), and brought a long due update to sRPG monotonous and draconian battle mechanics.… Expand
  20. 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?
  21. 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
  22. MarcusVH5
    Aug 20, 2010
    10
    The most innovative SRPG I've played...Let's just say that if you are a fan of the genre, this is the PS3's killer app that you can't get anywhere else.
  23. Leonix7791
    Aug 23, 2010
    10
    I just started playing this game few weeks ago and right now i'm in chapter 17.Almost the end i guess,damn i must say this is 1 of the best RPG i have ever played.If you like Strategy and RPG element.Go for this without a doubt.The graphics is unique,the game is hard (not so hard if you know how to play properly and use your brain).Although they are not trophies and online play.The gameI just started playing this game few weeks ago and right now i'm in chapter 17.Almost the end i guess,damn i must say this is 1 of the best RPG i have ever played.If you like Strategy and RPG element.Go for this without a doubt.The graphics is unique,the game is hard (not so hard if you know how to play properly and use your brain).Although they are not trophies and online play.The game itself can drag you for more then 25-30hours !!!!!!!… Expand
  24. 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.
  25. Sieghardt
    Mar 25, 2011
    10
    The main cast of characters are a memorable group with unique personalities and a decent amount of development. The supporting cast is large and varied and each one has a reasonable amount of backstory to them too. Moreover the group as a whole becomes really memorable, as you pick and choose characters that you like and that work well together thanks to the great potential system, theyThe main cast of characters are a memorable group with unique personalities and a decent amount of development. The supporting cast is large and varied and each one has a reasonable amount of backstory to them too. Moreover the group as a whole becomes really memorable, as you pick and choose characters that you like and that work well together thanks to the great potential system, they bond together and will stick in your mind as Squad 7.

    The story itself is very enjoyable, a mix of romance, fantasy, war and racial tensions which draws many parralells with the real conflict of world war 2, overall it's a wonderful breath of fresh air and a much needed break from the myriad flavours of power fantasy.

    The gameplay system is great and really brought the SRPG genre along leaps and bounds. It becomes really enjoyable 1/4 of the way into the game when it starts throwing immense set pieces into the mix.

    The anime artsyle really looks great while at the same time it remains down to earth and not too garish.

    The bottom line is this is a must have game    … Expand
  26. Meanwhile
    Oct 26, 2010
    10
    Without question, my favorite PS3 title ever. All turn-based tactical RPGs should look to this game as the next-gen model. In fact, as I'm writing this review two years after the game's release, I wonder why I have yet to see a single copycat. The only way I could love this game more would be if they were to take the same combat system and use it in a fantasy setting. But it's not justWithout question, my favorite PS3 title ever. All turn-based tactical RPGs should look to this game as the next-gen model. In fact, as I'm writing this review two years after the game's release, I wonder why I have yet to see a single copycat. The only way I could love this game more would be if they were to take the same combat system and use it in a fantasy setting. But it's not just the combat I love -- the characters are realistic and lovable (or hate-able), and the story is absolutely brilliant. There's a song in the middle that makes me bawl my eyes out every time. Everyone should play this game!… Expand
  27. bthoman2
    Nov 16, 2010
    10
    One can only pray they make a sequel for the PS3. An absolute joy to play. If only they took advantage of the board game-ish feel and made a multiplayer aspect...
  28. rossb
    Sep 21, 2011
    10
    This is by far the best SRPG I have ever played. The unique realtime combat system is excellent and the wonderfull art, interesting storyline, well written dialogue and supurb soundtrack create a truely charming atmosphere.
  29. Uncommon
    May 25, 2011
    10
    This is a fantastic game. I picked it up about a year after it came out and wish I got it way back. If you love anime, strategy RPGs, or even just JRPGs you will most likely enjoy this game. Tons of content and a full story that never drags or seems dull. The combat system is the most fun Ive had in a turn based system. Its as close to a video game version of warhammer tabletop. DoThis is a fantastic game. I picked it up about a year after it came out and wish I got it way back. If you love anime, strategy RPGs, or even just JRPGs you will most likely enjoy this game. Tons of content and a full story that never drags or seems dull. The combat system is the most fun Ive had in a turn based system. Its as close to a video game version of warhammer tabletop. Do yourself a favor and check it out.… Expand
  30. AlienSpaceBats
    Apr 14, 2015
    10
    One of my favourite games, and a big part of the reason I bought a PS3 (then they go and make a PC port, sigh). It's JRPG meets XCOM, or SRPG, because that's a thing, apparently. A unique art-style helps the game stand out, and the gameplay is excellent, however I suspect many may be turned off by the assumption that this is weeaboo crud (don't be!)
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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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