Fire Emblem: Awakening - Nintendo 3DS

The best part about this game is the amount of content it contains, from the ability to create an avatar, the ability to marry and have a child to even being able to include character from previous games in the franchise to use in your army (through paid DLC). Graphics: standard 3D models. They contain lots of detail which is great when you change classes and you get to see your new and shiny unit all decked out in cool clothing. The backgrounds and environments are stunning as well. Story: Full of twists and shocking moments that will leave a huge impression, especially for characters that you got to know and like. Sound: The sound effects and voice clips are great and well acted but the music is phenomenal! You will definitely find many tracks that you will love. Gameplay: Standard Fire Emblem fare, take a turn for your entire team then the enemy does the same. Leveling up as a class gets you abilities that you can keep even when changing classes. Some might not like the fact that the magic trinity is absent in this installment. Magic tomes still exist of course, they just don't have an advantage of disadvantage over other magic. The grid based maps are easy to navigate anf the over-world map can let you go to easier areas to fight enemy armies for easy experience. Shops are in the world map as well. Streetpasses nets you player created teams to battle or buy from. There's online battling but the only co-op feature is local wireless.

This game was my first purchase for the 3dsxl and I must say it does not dissapoint. The story is rich and the graphics are vibrant. The casual mode is a nice fail-safe to keep your army alive. Moreover, you will want all of your party members alive if you're like me because of the way their relationships develop, which makes you genuinely care about the outcome of each battle. The visceral battle system cut scenes are a nice way of letting you see the action up close, but can be skipped if you're short on time or if you've seen them already. Streetpass multiplayer is a fun addition to collect, trade, and battle other peoples squads. Overall, this is a brilliant game and a must play. It is the first game in a while to make me cry, so it is that good.

I haven't been a Nintendo fan for a long time, not since the days of the N64 and Gameboy Advance. So I was not interested in anything Nintendo because I've felt they have stayed away from what has made them truly great. Now I'm back on the Nintendo bandwagon because of fire emblem, this game has an impressive story with well thought out characters fully fleshed out in a grand universe. I was truly amazed how much Nintendo was able to fit in this portable game, from the cut scenes to the level of detail in the animation to amazing sound and music score which are all first class. If you're a fan of Japanese strategy RPG's then do yourself a favor and pick this up, you won't regret it.

Fire Emblem Awakening is a fantastic strategy game that is aimed at both casual and hardcore gamers. The storyline will keep you on edge making you wondering what will happen next. The gameplay is challenging but not so hard that you want to rip your hair out. The game looks and also sounds beautiful. Anybody wanting to try out the Fire Emblem series, or strategy RPG's in general should start with Fire Emblem Awakening. 9.5/10.

This game has it all. Tactics that will keep you thinking and you punish you for careless mistakes. A gripping story with plenty of twists. Your soldiers can have conversations, have a relationship, and even have children, who can also fight alongside you! This game is packed with missions that will keep you going for hours and free DLC to even add more to a game with already much to do. This is definitely one of the best games to own on the 3DS. I highly suggest you pick this one up, especially if you like tactical RPGs.

Fire Emblem Awakening is closest to Advance Wars in terms of gameplay - both are SRPGs for Nintendo handhelds. As Advance Wars is currently not on 3DS, I chose to purchase Fire Emblem as a temporary holdover - 60 hours later, I'm still playing it. The game has tons of replay value and is very beginner friendly to those new to SRPGs. The new "casual mode" allows units to be resurrected after they are lost on the field of battle (previous titles made a character's death permanent). Purists can still play Classic difficulty mode. The game has loads of DLC for purchase afterward, though I haven't bought any yet. I will probably pick it up to make an already phenomenal game better. Overall, Fire Emblem is an easy purchase if one is a fan of Advance Wars (both series are developed by the same studio as well). If you are an SRPG veteran, or a newbie looking to find a good starting SRPG, Fire Emblem Awakening is the first place one should look for on the 3DS.

A must have for 3DS owners. Very challenging, immersive storyline and good replay value.

Fire Emblem is a long running strategy RPG that is known for its difficulty. Awakening has introduced new modes for people of all skill levels to enjoy the series. This is a great game with fun combat, an interesting story, and awesome cut scenes. It is a great game for people new to the series and will provide many hours of gameplay.