SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered completes the Frontier series of remasters onto modern platforms, but beyond sharing its namesake and a few other nods and easter eggs to its predecessor, the game can be fully enjoyed without prior knowledge of the series.
SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered is a bit of an odd duck in that it doesn’t follow the usual conventions of a JRPG title. Instead, the game uses a storybook approach that allows the player to jump between different stories within the grander narrative of SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered. In one instance, you might be following in the footsteps of your missing father, looking for clues in a seedy bar, while in the next, you’re a royal trying to adjust to a new life after leaving your kingdom behind.
Thankfully, the whiplash from jumping between narratives is never too jarring — instead adding to the charm of SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered. Conversely, the game does stumble somewhat in properly explaining all of its mechanics, including leaving opportunities for missable content, such as optional digger characters and story beats, which might be an issue for those wanting to experience the game without a guide.
“Starting up SaGa Frontiers 2 Remastered for the first time will prompt new players with the option to play the classic version of the game or a new version…”
On the topic of storybooks, SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered features gorgeous hand-drawn backgrounds, which come to life on modern platforms thanks to its 16:9 widescreen presentation. The use of pre-rendered backgrounds isn’t anything new, particularly from the original PlayStation era, but instead of 3D-looking environments, which are typical of the era, SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered opts to use more traditional-looking art reminiscent of a children’s picture book, which gives the game a rather unique and charming identity.
Combat in SaGa Frontiers 2 is a turn-based affair. Still, unlike other JRPGs, the game heavily relies on resource management and party order while also placing a greater emphasis on weapon levelling, which contributes to a satisfying gameplay loop. Additionally, there are instances in the game when the party is fragmented, which can dramatically change the look and feel of a battle, shifting from the use of overworld sprites in battles to larger and significantly more detailed renders, particularly during one-on-one duels.
“SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered features gorgeous hand-drawn backgrounds, which come to life on modern platforms thanks to its 16:9 widescreen presentation.”
Starting up SaGa Frontiers 2 Remastered for the first time will prompt new players with the option to play the classic version of the game or a new version, which seamlessly integrates new characters, endings and scenes into the base experience. One of the more interesting editions to the experience, at least early on, is the inclusion of the once Japanese-exclusive digging mini-games, which relied on the use of the PocketStation accessory (similar to the Dreamcast VMU), is now baked into SaGa Frontiers 2 Remastered, allowing players to generate extra chips and tools.
Additionally, the inclusion of the parameter inheritance system makes unlocking some of the late-game characters a faster overall process, cutting through the grind. More minor changes include updated UI elements and an overall cleaner presentation that does a good job of hiding its retro roots. If there is anything to really complain about in SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered, it’s that the title can feel somewhat obtuse, made worse by unclear objectives and maps that lack distinctive pathing, with everything sort of just blending together in a mess of pretty but confusing watercoloured backgrounds.
Outside of a few stumbles, SaGa Frontier 2 Remastered is a solid remaster that brings with it new content and meaningful changes that elevate it above its original release.
