Go 'Wild' With 'Alter Code: F'

"Wild Arms Alter Code: F" -- a retelling of the original story -- hasn't lost its anime design. (Agetec)

Eight years ago when "Wild Arms" came out for the original PlayStation, gamers were amazed at not just the anime-heavy world but also the interesting mix between fantasy magic and Western-like firearms. Over the years the series has spawned four sequels. And now, it is time to return to the beginning.

"Alter Code: F" is a retelling of the original story and should enthrall players who missed characters Rudy Roughknight, Jack Van Burace and Cecilia Lynne Adlehyde -- and this time we really get to know them.

It takes place on Filgaia, which is dying from an ecological disaster after a war. Dusty wild west towns abound along with small pockets of civilized societies. The land in between is populated by monsters and beasts. The three heroes must embark on a quest to prevent the metal demons, who caused the war, from returning.

There is a heavy emphasis on puzzles in "Wild Arms." Dungeons can be navigated only by using each characters' special abilities. When combat starts, you are dropped into a turn-based interface in which you can plan the attacks of each of your party. Combat is a huge part of the game, but there is a way to escape many minor battles without penalty -- a nice function that wasn't in the original.

The remade world is more realistic looking this time, though no less beautiful. But fans of anime should not fret, because in addition to long anime cutscenes, "Wild Arms" ships with an episode of the "Wild Arms" television series along with other goodies.

You get your money's worth -- the game took about 40 hours to complete.

-- John Breeden II

Wild Arms Alter Code: F Teen, PS2 ($50) Agetec