This is a very good mini-version of Shining Force for the Mega Drive. Some elements of the original game were taken out, while others were added in; in all, it is not as long or involving as the original 16-bit game, but it is still quite enjoyable. Shining Force Gaiden is presented as a sequel to Shining Force. The game is not as difficult as the original, and can probably be played quite easily even by non-Japanese speakers, as long as they figure out the menus. Changes: No more town interaction No more mini-map No more item icons Less ease in control and viewing characters Less graphic detail Better character portraits Monks now equip weapons (gloves) After changing classes, ability scores no longer decrease Experience points no longer reset to zero when gaining levels New classes New spells New monsters Secret Characters: There are two secret characters in the game, and they are pretty difficult to find unless you are actively looking for them, and have a good idea where they are. I won't tell you who they are, but I'll give you some hints: Battle 12: Search around the little pond. Battle 19: Look for the three trees. For a more detailed description of this game, more hints, and tons of spoilers, visit the Shining Force Gaiden Character Guide. If you haven't played the game yet, don't visit! Play the game through first. Unless, of course, you plan never to play the game. Yes! I have played through the game already! The Shining Force Gaiden Character Guide This site created by Kuruma, 2001. Return to Kurumaland