Overview
Build an army. Fight evil. Shining Force adapted tactical RPG gameplay for Sega’s console, offering grid-based battles with up to twelve party members against the forces of Darksol. Between battles, players explored towns, recruited characters, and managed equipment. Sega’s answer to Fire Emblem found its own devoted audience.
Fast facts
- Developer: Sonic! Software Planning (Camelot).
- Publisher: Sega.
- Genre: Tactical RPG.
- Party size: Up to 12 in battle.
Battle system
| Element |
Implementation |
| Grid movement |
Turn-based positioning |
| Attack range |
Weapon-dependent |
| Terrain |
Movement/defence effects |
| Experience |
Individual character growth |
Character recruitment
| Method |
Location |
| Story joins |
Automatic recruitment |
| Hidden characters |
Secret locations |
| Dialogue choices |
Conversation triggers |
| Total roster |
30+ characters |
Character classes
| Class |
Role |
| Warrior |
Melee combat |
| Knight |
Mounted, mobile |
| Archer |
Ranged attacks |
| Mage |
Offensive magic |
| Healer |
Support spells |
| Birdman |
Flying unit |
| System |
Effect |
| Level 10+ |
Promotion available |
| Upgraded class |
Enhanced stats, abilities |
| Timing |
Strategic choice |
Exploration
| Between battles |
Activities |
| Town exploration |
NPCs, shops |
| Equipment |
Weapon/armour upgrades |
| Headquarters |
Party management |
| Story progression |
Narrative advancement |
Shining series
| Title |
Year |
Platform |
| Shining in the Darkness |
1991 |
Mega Drive |
| Shining Force |
1992 |
Mega Drive |
| Shining Force II |
1993 |
Mega Drive |
| Shining Force CD |
1994 |
Mega CD |
Fire Emblem comparison
| Aspect |
Shining Force |
Fire Emblem |
| Death |
Revivable |
Permanent (classic) |
| Exploration |
Town wandering |
Map-based |
| Tone |
Lighter |
Often darker |
See also