Growlanser: Wayfarer of Time

 PSP
  • Publisher: Atlus
  • Release Date: Jul 31, 2012
Metascore
67

Mixed or average reviews - based on 14 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 9 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
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  1. GameCritics
    Sep 18, 2012
    70
    Issues aside, it's hard to discount the feeling of nostalgia that permeates Growlanser: Wayfarer of Time. Gamers like me, who experienced the golden age of the JRPG firsthand, will undoubtedly enjoy this title despite the occasional misstep.
  2. RPGamer
    Aug 25, 2012
    70
    Those prepared to battle through the tough times will find much to like from Growlanser: Wayfarer of Time, but a good number of players are likely to be chased off by some of the more frustrating parts. For me the enjoyable story and cast were more than enough to outweigh those sections where it felt like the PSP might go flying soon and it is a game worthy of serious consideration for those who enjoy the more story and text-heavy RPGs, even if those frustrating gameplay sections prevent a universal recommendation. On a whole it was an experience I would be happy to volunteer for again.
  3. Destructoid
    Aug 1, 2012
    70
    While it sometimes loses focus, and at other time frustrates, Growlanser: Wayfarer of Time is an engaging, rewarding PSP SRPG. But, again, give it some time. There's a big world, a solid story with crazy plot twists, some great key battles and hours of gameplay to be found here. You'll just have to work through a couple of hours of dull and limited introductory play first.
  5. Gaming Nexus
    Sep 18, 2012
    65
    The battle system in Growlanser: Wayfarer of Time isn't really at fault here, it's the numbers game behind it that seems to be rigged in the computer's favor that makes playing this game a chore. The slow story pacing will also require a lot of patience from prospective gamers.
  6. Machinima
    Sep 10, 2012
    60
    A unique blend of turn based and real time battles is squandered on bland battles and a pacing that is far too slow.
  7. Games Radar
    Aug 22, 2012
    60
    Even with its limitations, Wayfarer of Time is consistently engaging throughout its lengthy gameplay.
  8. GameSpot
    Aug 2, 2012
    60
    Growlanser: Wayfarer of Time weaves a complex and captivating tale, but the combat doesn't pull its weight.
  9. Playstation: The Official Magazine (US)
    Aug 28, 2012
    50
    This PSP edition has a lot of extra content compared to the PS2 original, though, so fans of the series might want to give it a shot regardless. [Oct 2012, p.85]
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  10. Game Revolution
    Aug 13, 2012
    50
    It's worth some time to play through if you enjoy a more tactical battle system than you're likely to find in a more well-known franchise, but unless that's enough to hold your attention, methinks you're going to be disappointed with this latest Growlanser.

Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best PSP Game of 2012
3
#3 Most Discussed PSP Game of 2012
3
#3 Most Shared PSP Game of 2012

User Reviews

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User Score
8.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 76 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 60 out of 76
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 76
  3. Negative: 11 out of 76
  1. frantisek
    Jul 31, 2012
    10
    Growlanser Wayfarer of Time is the last English entry into one of the most original jrpg franchises you will ever be able to play: its deepGrowlanser Wayfarer of Time is the last English entry into one of the most original jrpg franchises you will ever be able to play: its deep plot focuses on politics, war, famine and the mystery surrounding the angels and their struggle against humankind. While the story is indeed well written and really enjoyable and the characters are some of the best seen in the last years, the real greatness of this game is its battle system, a fantastic mix of real time battles, tactical combat and traditional explorations that will satisfy every kind of jrpg fan. With tons of choices during dialogues, you will be able to play the game countless times and witness different events, ranging from some characters' deaths or survival to one of the three main plots to over 40 possible endings. This game is probably the best Japanese RPG on PSP alongside the Trails in the Sky series, and it's a great swan song for this platform's rpg lineup.… Full Review »
  2. Valens
    Jul 31, 2012
    10
    Being a fan of the PlayStation 2 Growlanser games, I preordered WoT and got it some days before the official release date... since then, IBeing a fan of the PlayStation 2 Growlanser games, I preordered WoT and got it some days before the official release date... since then, I have spent almost thirty hours on the game, and I have enjoyed it immensely. The mix between rts, rpg and Satoshi Urushihara's art direction is wonderful, and the choices you make during the game have a deep impact upon the storyline's progression. The story, yeah - it has to be the best I have seen in a rpg in a long time, and other developers should look at it when trying to write up a war drama. I cannot thank Atlus enough for localizing this masterpiece.… Full Review »
  3. rempel
    Aug 1, 2012
    10
    growlancer is truly a fantastic game, every psp owner should buy it and enjoy one of the greatest experiences the j-rpg genre has providedgrowlancer is truly a fantastic game, every psp owner should buy it and enjoy one of the greatest experiences the j-rpg genre has provided this year. the battles are a fresh take on strategy combat, and are so enjoyable and deep you won't be able to drop the game till your battery runs out, just like me. Urushiara's art may not be for everyone, but it surely adds another layer of uniqueness to the game, helping it to stand out even more.… Full Review »
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