About this game
Released in 2003, Tales of Symphonia became the breakout RPG of the GameCube era — introducing many Western players to the Tales series for the first time. Its cel-shaded art style, real-time skit system for character interaction, and fast-paced Linear Motion Battle System distinguished it from turn-based contemporaries. With a sweeping story about two worlds bound together by a cruel cycle, it spent 40 to 60 hours asking players to question who the real villains were.
Key Features
Real-time Linear Motion Battle System with up to four players in co-op, over-world travel between two parallel worlds, a skit system with fully voiced character conversations, titles system rewarding exploration and gameplay style, and a cooking system. The game runs 40-60 hours for a complete playthrough.
The Story Behind
Tales of Symphonia was a watershed moment for the Tales series in the West. Previous entries had seen limited Western releases; Symphonia became the first to achieve mainstream recognition. Released when the GameCube was seen as the 'underdog' console, it became one of the strongest arguments for owning the hardware.
Tricks & Tales
Tales of Symphonia was bundled with a special 'Symphonic Green' GameCube console in Japan. The game's North American release came on two discs — a rarity for GameCube — due to the volume of content. Composer Motoi Sakuraba handled the darker Tethe'alla world tracks, while Shinji Tamura composed the warmer Sylvarant ones.
Collector's Guide
Available in our shop
Hand-cleaned and tested units shipped worldwide from Toyohashi, Japan. HP direct purchase exclusive: we include a printed shop owner's note card with every order.
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