Vagrant Story Analysis (Ep.1): Opening Scenes | State of the Arc Podcast

[@ResonantArc]

Here's the link to the shmuplations interview I referenced in this episode: shmuplations.com/vagrantstory/ ALSO: Try to play up to the end of the Snowfly forest (the boss fight at the end of that) for the next episode. I don't know if we'll make it that far in the discussion, but that's where I left off for the next episode's preparation.

[@Dzzy123]

You should link that video you did years ago on the game's opening scene on the video.

[@OniLink99999]

Thanks for another great podcast! =D I'm sure you guys would have this already, but with the 3DS eShop closing soon, a Matsuno-developed game called Crimson Shroud will become unavailable soon. I'd never heard of it before, but while it's fairly simple, I've been absolutely loving the writing. Anyway, just thought I'd mention it in case =)

[@Enharmony1625]

Ever since I started watching these podcasts, I've wanted this game to be covered, so I'm really excited for this! One of my favorite games of all time -- an absolutely masterfully crafted game! Thank you for discussing this game!

[@rodrigohartmann9951]

For some reason, I always imagined Ashley was being ironic (instead of bragg-ish) about him being the reinforcements. As in, "nope, I'm all they're willing to throw at this problem".

[@diegosotomiranda4107]

Yep, cause Ashley personality after that scene wasnt cocky or bragging to me, More like cold and focused, and considering how high the stakes are in this game and His loss memory, i doubt he has that "piece of cake" demeanor

[@arcturionblade1077]

Yeah, most people interpret the line as Ashley being badass but I also interpret it as this mission being so secret squirrel and black ops that he's the only one that the VKP higher-ups decided to send into the fray, for whatever reason. And judging by what the intro cut scene has shown, Ashley had many questions and misgivings about this particular operation. His being ironic/sarcastic makes some sense, as he feels that this could well be a suicide mission, with the stark realization that both he and Agent Merlose are considered expendable by their handlers if things go sideways (and things do go sideways via the plot).

[@federiccistratti6373]

Hi! im deeply in love with this game since ever, and never thought this scene this way. It makes ton of sense. Then it occurred to me that the music cue in that moment may have got Ashley pass as cocky. But all and all, and specialy after you go through the second play, it always struck me as a badass and heroically charged finale for the sequence! Damn this game is good...

[@ZakuroTL]

Horribly late, but I just read the Japanese and I definitely think it comes off as more dry and ironic. There’s an ellipsis in the line, so it’s more like, “I am the reinforcements…”

[@v.m.a.d.l.e.6972]

About the smaller story type games, that is one of the reasons of why the "trail" games became popular, because each game is in one region of the world, and they all are related to a main plot that goes through all of them. I wish square enix would use this concept for Ivalice games related to each other.

[@ds90seph]

What it reminds me of, though a shallow comparison, is the MCU in film. While not the most refined films, each smaller title had its own scale (sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn't) but they all built up to a climactic and bombastic final showdown. I agree, I think that concept would work well in Ivalice. The trouble is, how do you get players engaged in smaller conflicts and smaller scale stories without revealing the "Endgame" as it were, in some capacity? How can you capture an audience and keep them captivated for years and years without some sort of established brand, character, or theme? Some grand villain? I think Square have plenty of options, but I doubt they have the balls and the collective wherewithal to put something of that scale together. Here's hoping though!

[@EdreesesPieces]

I personally don't find those games small scale at all. Each game on it's own is small scale, but each game isn't a complete story, you are left on a cliffhanger. The whole Trails in the Sky story is actually 3 games and I dont think it's very small scale when looking at all the 3 games. They may not be as grand scale as a, say, Final Fantasy, but they are still pretty large compared to Vagrant Story which has no more than 10-15 important characters and all takes place in one city.

[@ChristopherCopeland]

Mike has finally completed his transformation into Chad Brown and I’m here for it. Well done, brother. You look great.

[@arianlosstarot6568]

Ty for making this. Vagrant story deserves more spotlight and attention.

[@glebshubin1748]

When I was watching Xenogears podcast, I was like "I wish I could play a video game I've never played before along with your podcasts". Now I have this chance as I never played Vargrant Story before. I hope I will not get frustrated as I heard Vagrant Story is not a casual JRPG. Fingers Crossed! Thank you guys for your podcasts! There're grate!

[@ZachSershon]

Musician here- very adept of Mike to bring up Sakimoto’s challenges with looping “beats” of music in cutscenes, due to the player being able to control when dialogue continues. A very fascinating time to be a VGM composer, when the possibility of film-scoring techniques being used were opening up due to technological advances - but still required tweaks due to the quirks of video games and their interactivity. I think Sakimoto did an amazing job. He’s one of my favorite composers ever, in fact.

[@arcturionblade1077]

The music is one of the highlights of Vagrant Story. So damn atmospheric and moody when it counts, and soulful and light when it needs to be.

[@hian]

Just a small point here: Agent as meaning "deputy, representative" is from all the way back in 1590s. Sense of "spy, secret agent" is attested by 1916. The term "Agent of the crown", for example, has existed for a very long time, and such agents would occasionally be what we today could think of as spies anyways, hence the modern derivative. In this sense, while Risk Breakers being agents in the latter sense is a modern usage of the word, the word still carries with it enough classic context and appropriate meaning to function as a kind of "they could have used it this way" without standing out much imo. Not a critique by any means. Just a info bit.

[@satanasteguarda]

When I was a kid, my mother would hide my psx controller so I wouldn't play outside of my allowed times. I would just turn on the console with some random games to see the openings and demos, that's how I found out back then that Vagrant Story had a huge starting story that was skipable if you didn't know it was there.

[@Kasaaz]

That's strangely adorable and wholesome.

[@Scimarad]

The opening to this game is seared into my brain. It's so incredibly cinematic, especially for the time. Unfortunately my memories of the game itself is that I spent way to much time swapping weapons in the menu.

[@WildMatsu]

That's basically what the game is, yes.

[@CruzifixioOG]

Unfortunately? my favourite part was creating the ultimate Romphaia.

[@genericsavings]

Here’s a radical thought; Maybe the games’ creators wanted to make you experience how a game is made. You wanna create a professional YT vid, you have to deal with menus. You wanna make a good song, you gotta pay attention to all the small details. Photoshop, same deal. What I loved about VS is that it was uncompromising. Admired that. If you really give it a chance, it’s incredible on all fronts. Gameplay, music, visuals, story, etc.

[@kaizakira]

Same although I didn’t mind weapon swapping as much as having multiple enemies on screen casting magic generally slowing the battle pace down due the fact you have to watch the spell animation every time. Vagrant story is a great game but that aspect annoyed me to no end.

[@inellly]

Long time subscriber and lurker of this channel, but had to come out of the shadows to say, steller work on these long form podcasts! Vagrant Story is one of my favourite titles from my childhood and I love the enthusiasm and detail you both go into with this and previous State of the Arcs!! Keep up the great work, I'll be playing along with you all!

[@hickorydickoryhk]

29:46 When you guys discuss the content which had to be cut here, for example the developers wanting to have allies fighting alongside Ashley but being unable to considering where the state of game technology was at the time, it’s always brought me great satisfaction and happiness that Matsuno eventually got to realize such a control scheme when he was given the helm of FFXII. A version of Vagrant Story where we were able to have allies battle alongside us ala the gambit system in FFXII is something which will have to stay restricted to our imaginations, but at least Matsuno was able to make a version of what he envisioned, and in the long run Vagrant Story was probably better served by them not being able to do it, and by it staying a lone wolf kind of story.

[@TomiSomolu]

Exactly!!!

[@KcinTelliam4595]

So glad you’re doing this game. It’s crazy how this is a PS1 title.

[@caquito]

I just started playing this game for the first time this week on my vita. I''m 7 hours into the game (probably 2 hours lost on the workshops). Great timing!

[@leif54]

I am so happy this game is getting the love it deserves. I loved the focused production episodic format, but it is nice to break up the content from a listener perspecitve so I am on the fence. I like em both I suppose. Keep up the good work!

[@gnetomusic]

I remember playing this game when I was about 10. I have really fond memories of it. You guys are doing an awesome job, Resonant Arc is my favorite channel on KZbin.

[@fahimfaysal1753]

When I saw the FFT series, I thought that Vagrant Story would be perfect for this format. And here we are!

[@saedt]

The soundtrack is so chaotic that when you come across pieces like remembrance and truth it cuts so deep, and it ties so well with Ashley’s character and past memories

[@jtyler3196]

So glad you guys finally tackle this one! Can't wait to play along with the podcast! Vagrant Story and all of the Ivalice games are instant favorites from my childhood.

[@TomiSomolu]

After 22 yrs, still my BEST game!

[@samuelrainville9219]

Excellent episode guys! The vagrant story intros is THE climax of technical wizardry around early 3D limitation to give a beautiful motion picture. I could talk forever about vagrant story presentation, Expertly done! As 3D artist, after all those years and I'm still in awe before it , as a gamer, it is still my favorite intro for a fantasy game.

[@Postumeartist]

Development history is my favourite part by far.

[@hickorydickoryhk]

1:04:04 So, one very interesting thing many or most Western players / non-importers at the time wouldn’t know of is that in the Japanese only demo version of this scene which came on the bonus disc with Japanese Legend of Mana, the script and shot order is slightly different. Even though the demo version was Japanese only, the script was in English too, strangely. So, in the demo version, after Ashley says “You were most certainly dead”, Sydney says “So, still think the dead only rise in faerie tales?”. When the completed English version of the game came out, as you guys showed here, before Sydney can answer, Ashley says “Leave the back from the grave stuff to the faerie tales”. Casen felt the line was corny, and to each their own when it comes to opinions on script lines, but people who were fortunate enough to play both the demo version and the final Western version were treated to a different perspective. If you’ve played the demo first, then when you play the full game you anticipate the same response from Sydney. But as though final version Ashley has already experienced the demo version like it were another timeline, he seems to cut Sydney off with prior knowledge of what he was going to say. That interaction between the two versions was just another sign of the heightened intellect that was behind the creation of the game, and it has stuck with me to this day for that reason. It was a fourth wall breaking moment that sadly a lot of fans were deprived of. It boosted the adversarial atmosphere between the two characters and only compelled you more to hunt him down. I think that greater context, which the West was deprived of, should be taken into account when assessing that line. You can see the demo version here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hYXCiWl7l7JkbdU

[@jtyler3196]

The version of Sydney saying "so... still think the dead.... only rise in.... faerie tales?" Is in the main game as well, but it plays in the 2nd intro movie using the in game graphics.

[@hickorydickoryhk]

@@jtyler3196 Really? It’s been too long since I’ve fired it up and let it sit that long. Well, it’s good that they put it there, even though a lot of people would still miss it. Thanks for jogging my memory! Anyway, yeah, it still feels like the in game version Ashley is aware of the previous version and cuts Sydney off before he can say that. I always liked that.

[@SokiHime]

I love these podcasts and I'm so happy that you guys are covering vagrant story I've been setting up a series of D&D adventures heavily inspired by the Ivalice games; and vagrant story is the absolute perfect game for D&D scenarios. Just the setting of Lea Monde is incredible for tabletop gaming I'm looking forward to hearing more of your guys's analysis of this hidden gem

[@jorort01]

I can't believe Vagrant Story won the poll! Even though I voted for another title, I LOVE this game, and I'm glad it's getting an analysis from RA. This is a fantastic book-end to the already well-done retrospective and dissection of Vagrant Story's opening scene videos, Mike. This game had me completely hooked from the moment it spun up in my PS1. I played it over and over for a total of 6 NG+ cycles. Its mechanics and battle system are complex, but not difficult. They feel so rewarding when you've figured out how to progress passed a certain enemy, boss, etc. Like a difficult puzzle challenging you to best it. The story, music, and art direction...God, the art direction! Yoshida is BY FAR my favorite game artist--which is saying a lot. His style is why I love Tactics and FF12 so much! Combine that with Matsuno and Sakimoto and you have a title that strikes all the right notes for me. Far from my favorite game, however, Vagrant Story had a HUGE lasting impact and influence on me. For one, it gave me my online alias that I still use to this day. I also permentantly memorialized the game with a 'Blood Sin' tattoo on my back (not quite as huge as Sydney's). It isn't a perfect title and not the most accessible game, but man oh man it is a great game. This is the first podcast episode where I want to immediately go back for a second listen. Thanks for covering this so well!

[@raffyferrer4257]

So happy you guys gave time to discuss the game's scoring! Not so many games use Lydian mode in their themes because as you've mentioned, the melody does not stick around in your head. But it does however evoke a sense of creeping uncertainty when chords don't resolve in the way we expect them to do, which makes the music in this game quite a big factor in painting the atmosphere of a dead city. By the way, if you're wondering about that weird chant during Ashley and Sydney's first encounter, try listening to Baraka - Kecak. It sounds like a Cambodian monkey chant.

[@genericsavings]

Thanks for bringing attention to this game. Loved this game so much that I got a Bloodsin tattoo(the game’s logo). I explained this to a manga artist, she called me a “weeb”. 🤣

[@robertjackson2700]

I miss this game so much. Thank you for covering this.

[@ds90seph]

I have been waiting for you guys to discuss Vagrant Story and I am so excited that it's finally here! This game is a gem that I discovered late in my life, but one that I fell in love with quickly. I bought the original PS1 copy as well as a guide because I was so enamored, but what I treasure the most is the passion behind this whole project. It's incredibly satisfying to finally hear some in depth discussion with people who care about it just as much as I do, and this analysis has already been rewarding and enthralling. I greatly appreciate the work you guys do, and will be supporting via Patreon from here on out. I also can't wait for Final Fantasy X (the infamous poll loser) as it's another one of my all time favourites. Much love and mad respect! Thanks for all you do!

[@jtyler3196]

Still have my original Brady games guide!

[@cultured-fuel543]

This podcast keeps getting better and better. Keep up the good work, guys!

[@SoulofaSamurai]

Holy cow, Mike cut his hair. It looks good!

[@YuukitheMighty1]

Oh boy, this is gonna be good. I remember renting this game back in the day and I hated it since it was so hard. I replayed it during my freshman year of college and now I think it's a classic

[@velvetimpulse]

Nice haircut Mike! Also lmao at the timer to limit the podcast 😂

[@BBGunsPGH]

Ive been a big fan of the podcasts but have to admit Ive only been watching the first episodes of games I have not played because Im saving them for when I do a playthrough myself! I enjoy watching the development and intro stuff so I always watch those. Going to try to stick around for this one though Ive always been interested in this game.

[@vitoorrr87]

I am loving this series. Great detalied work guys. Well done! 🤩

[@denglongfist4270]

This game does not get as much love as other games. It is a shame that it was released during the end of life cycle for the PSX. I agree with all the comments on this game (lots of time on menus, etc) but the project as a whole is so fantastic I am glad you are covering it. Also, like the new format. Keep up the great work!

[@Null_Experis]

The time period descriptor you're looking for is "Georgian", it's that sweet spot where medieval and modern start to clash. Steam power and simple machines, rapid advancements in technology and especially chemistry, but there is still a place for armor, swords, and crossbows. It's the cusp of the modern age.

[@waldenfall2322]

Excellent production + research + visions & opinions for a unique game. thanks a million. You guys make me to replay the Vagrant Story after 4 years. Also, I cant handle how handsome Mike is.👌👏😍

[@satyasyasatyasya5746]

Love the haircut! ^.^ and videos, of course but ya know, immediate reactions and all that :D

[@payphone86]

Downloaded this one on my vita yesterday! Excited to jump in.

[@genericsavings]

Learn your chains & manage your risk. Don’t combo more than 8 hits. High risk will one shot you if you’re careless.

[@payphone86]

@@genericsavings thanks for the tips! I remember renting this game back when it came out and got stuck because my 13 year old brain couldn’t grasp some of the mechanics. Hoping age and experience helps smooth that out a bit…

[@ChocolatierRob]

The impression I get from the prelude scene in the darkened room is that the three characters around the table are the only ones that are _supposed_ to be there. The reason it seems so cloak and dagger is because the people in the dark are the members of parliament that are wanting to oust Duke Bardorba from his shadowy position of control and are influencing the VKP to make this happen. While there is an official record of the meeting I doubt they are actually recording anything not said by the main three. I really like the font choice for the dialogue, I'd note Casen's dislike of it as personal taste rather than objective criticism. From what is said at the meeting I got the impression that the Crimson Blades are the Cardinal's personal force with the Templars being a separate group that answers to the church as a whole and it _should_ have been the Templars that would have dealt with an incident such as this. The Crimson Blades involvement is seen as unusual not because they did not consult with the VKP but because they were there at all. Merlose is not an experienced field agent (why she is left behind twice) so when she tells Ashley to wait for reinforcements she is simply not fully cognizant of just what kind of thing a riskbreaker is expected to accomplish. Ashley is not bragging, nor is he being ironic, he is being matter of fact. Ashley basically _is_ solid Snake. One Riot, one ranger. The ultimania goes into detail on riskbreakers and how Ashley is on another level even from the rest of them. Mike "And the music crescendos here..." Me "...as we stare unto Ashley's naked buttocks." Mike "It's Sooo Gooood!" I hope you cover costume design as you go further in. Not just for the assorted BDSM costumes worn by the cast but also for the accessory descriptions/types. SPOILER HINTS Re-listening I again have to say that you were being far too heavy handed when talking about future plot twists. You could have brought attention to the family portrait without shouting from the rooftops that there is more to it than the obvious, especially combined with the bit about Joshua being the youngest son. You could also have brought up that the Kildean Rood is significant to the game design (as is obvious just from playing) and that the tattoo links modern Mullenkamp to the opening dancer without stressing that it is further significant to the plot, especially naming it as the Blood Sin. You stopped yourself before going further on that but you should have stopped before saying that phrase. It's like watching the sixth sense with someone pointing out to you how 'no one ever interacts with BW's character and watch out for that because its really important.'

[@goncaloferreira6429]

great contribution as always Rob. Personally i think the other people in the room at the start are Just VKP members, other agents and spies, as shown by the " our Inquisitors!" line. That they remain in the shadows fits the nature of the VKP and highlights Ashley as the main character and top agent.

[@muspell8015]

Dudes, loving the podcasts. Thank you both.

[@Erk1234567]

On the subject of Vagrant Story's soundtrack, something I didn't notice until I added it to my work Playlist is that Rozencrantz has a leitmotif that sounds like a more chaotic version of the theme that plays during flashbacks to Ashley's past. It's also the Lizardman boss theme, but I'm not sure if that's intentional lol. Also, mad props for highlighting Jun Akiyama's work. Really feels like an unsung hero of the company

[@royaltyalign417]

I never played this game, I was never curious about this game, but I love your analysis and great haircut today! Can’t wait to see what this game is really about

[@leonardoraele]

I'm surprised they didn't mentioned how they used shifting face textures to simulate facial expressions. It's so well done.

[@lekaine6017]

Just started the Video. But wanted to say the new Haircut looks good Mike!

[@gameologian7365]

A point on the multiple intro movies for these games. I'm certain that they were designed that way for when game stores would have playable game stations in their stores, they would act as advertisements in-store. I remember seeing these as a kid and would sit in front of one of the stations to see all the different intros as they came on.

[@javi2567]

I don't even play RPGS but these videos are really good.

[@kratoscam05]

Just recently found your guys' vids and channel as i've just started playing Vagrant Story myself. i gotta say, i'm really loving your podcasts! really great stuff. i instantly subscribed and i will for sure be binge watching all of your vids now lol (at least, for the games i've beaten so far). thanks for the amazing content!!

[@hawkerwalks5219]

Playing through all the Mainline FF games before getting to the other games that’s Square made. Can’t wait to get to this one

[@zeromega2414]

One of the best games ever , truly wish that it get remake or something a like .

Can't believe you are doing this for my favorite game! Ty guys! Ps1, snes and GBA are the best rpg eras for me! (I'm 36 years old 🤣 those were my platforms).

[@GracelessTarnished]

Vagrant Story's artstyle and opening are so well done I started the game at least half a dozen times, always doing my best to keep engaged. But the gameplay was so difficult to understand I always quit maybe an hour into the game. The game could have definitely used an extensive tutorial. This unfortunately made Vagrant Story one of the handful of JRPG classics that I never completed. Maybe one day...

[@LoyalToTheMicrobes]

I'ma try this game again just because of y'all. I tried so many times back in the day and just couldn't. Thanks again for the excellent work on my favorite game Xenogears.

[@optimusuk]

As a side, the blending of the pixels on a CRT makes this game look even better than what's shown in the captures here. If playing on emulators a good crt shader\filter definitely aids in seeing the original artistic vision.

[@marcokemper6349]

My absolute favourite Game Cant wait for it to be remastered.

[@sulggothewise]

Since I first played this game I thought of it as the greatest interactive graphic novel of all time.

[@Dzzy123]

I've had Vagrant Story installed on my PS3. Now will be the time to finally try it.

[@ChocolatierRob]

Well the set design for this one looks awesome. Now let's play some Medieval Gear Solid. With the way Casen talks about wanting a smaller scale story I'm wondering about his thoughts on Encanto compared to other Disney movies. A little about the politics here - Valendia is a city-state founded 1,500 years Before the Graylands Incident (BGI) by King Nalzarc the First. For 1,200 years the House Nalzarc continued to rule the kingdom peacefully, until the power shifted to the Regency of Gurunas. Under the regency, Valendia suffered as corrupt politicians of House Gurunas squandered resources and practiced cronyism and nepotism. Other noble houses could only watch helplessly as corruption and misery spread across the kingdom, wishing that rule be returned to House Nalzarc. 36 years BGI, the noble houses banded together, sparking the Valendian Civil War. It is during this war that House Bardorba rose to prominence for helping House Nalzarc and the other noble houses win against House Gurunas 2 years into the war. The government then shifts from despotic monarchy to constitutional monarchy, with the Valendian National Council, or Parliament, formed to assist the King. Valendia was known as the New Valendian Kingdom. House Bardorba became a strong and influential voice in the rulings of the Parliament. The kingdom's capital city is Valnain, an elegant Parisian city where the King's Palace, the Parliament building and the Valendia Knights of the Peace, or VKP, headquarters are located. --- VKP - The Valendia Knights of the Peace, also known by its acronym VKP, is an organization under the direct command of the Valendia National Council, working night and day to keep the peace of the land. The VKP is divided into several groups according to duties performed. In the game, four groups are documented; The Peaceguard - responsible for the safety of the citizenry. The Kingsguard - responsible for the safety of nobles, Inquisitors - tasked for interrogating criminals and investigating crimes. (not mere thumbscrew technicians, these are trained analysis specialists, Merlose herself a a PHD in both criminal and religious psychology) Riskbreakers - Call sign of the Dangerous Criminal Task Force that clamps down on serious crimes that threaten to undermine the security of the state. Riskbreakers conduct their investigations alone, infiltrating and investigating dangerous criminal organisations over long periods of time, which always puts the individuals at great risk. Many lose their lives during their assignments; the survival rate stands at less than 30%. Riskbreakers have the so-called "license to kill" when circumstances demand. The three people seen at the meeting are Grand Steward LeSait (overall head of the VKP), Inquisitor Heldricht (head of the information analysis unit) and Father Caprice (the cardinal's representative in the VKP). I do like how LeSait and Heldricht have an unspoken agreement with each other in the face of Caprice's outburst. I've heard before how VS had around 50% of its content cut but rather than having a desire to see it restored I suspect that I would have liked it a lot less has they not been forced to make such drastic cuts, the story as it currently stands is just so tight that it never _feels_ like there is anything missing. Instead of admiring how well they used the limitations I think that the limitations refined what had to be included. Despite saying that the music of VS cannot be hummed due to its lack of melodies one thing it is excellent at it taking you back into a scene when you hear it. I especially like video game music when it is specific to a scene rather than when it is more generic or often used. The soundtrack of VS can be easily split into 3 categories - battle music, location music, and scene music. While Casen said that he would never listen to this soundtrack independently I would recommend that he try it with just the scene specific pieces before trying to incorporate any of the battle or location pieces. He still may not want to hum it but the scene tracks are just amazing at dropping you back into them. Mike, will you be incorporating the ultimania translations of the plot extras as well as the dev history pieces because there is a wealth of information in those pages, such as this - _Assassin It was late on a rainy evening, precisely one week after the extremist religious cult Müllenkamp staged an attack on the estate of Duke Bardorba. In the trading city of The Graylands, at his secondary residence, a lone visitor begged an audience with the recuperating Duke. Upon showing Agent Riot in, the Chamberlain withdrew. Of what then happened between the two men there was not a single witness. Four and a half hours later, the Chamberlain returned to the rooms to inquire after the situation. Suspicious at the complete lack of sound from within, he entered without waiting for permission. Ashley was nowhere to be seen and the Dukes body, hours dead, lay upon his bed. The Riskbreaker must have found it necessary to assassinate the Duke. Were this incident an extension of his mission, then it had been Ashley's judgment that, for the peace and safety of Valendia, its most revered National Hero needed to die. To do so for such reasons was well within his rights as a Riskbreaker and the VKP would throw all its might into a cover-up. Thus, the entire residence was shut down and sealed off, the VKP fully expecting a report from Ashley inside the hour, informing them of a situation along the lines of their supposition. Twelve hours later, there was no report. There was no Ashley either, VKP Headquarters realizing it could no longer locate its foremost agent. In that instant, the VKPs attitude towards the situation made a sudden about-face. Ashley had gone AWOL. It had become more likely that the Dukes assassination was not for reasons of national security, but for Ashleys own personal reasons. Given that, the now former-Riskbreakers license to kill was rendered null and void. His actions were no longer considered the erasure of a national threat, but the premeditated murder of a high noble and renowned public figure. The VKP immediately assembled and deployed a search-and-capture team. Twenty-four hours after the Dukes demise an official, public announcement labelled Ashley Riot the foremost suspect in the most foul murder of the beloved Duke Aldous Byron Bardorba._ I'm greatly amused that despite how far in the game you said to play up to you've still not reached the actual _start_ of the game yet. That said I am loving how closely you are examining the game. PS. I think you are leaning way too close to spoiler territory with your hints about the tattoo and the painting. This isn't like Xenogears where the pay off to these hints is something easily missed waaay off in the future. Mention that such things exist without pointing massive signs at their significance.

[@kyril98741]

I feel like hearing the dev story first really made the episode more interesting. For example ff8 background story was so crucial for us to know why the dev create the games like that.

[@ResonantArc]

It's still there. It's just brought up at the moments at which it is relevant to the playthrough. It hasn't been removed, just spread out over the course of the entire podcast.

[@ResonantArc]

@@jackbatay4692 Jack, come on. Why do you have to do this? It's fine for people to share their opinions. I asked them to let us know what they thought. Don't be antagonistic.

[@kyril98741]

@@ResonantArc yeah I know that it will still be there but knowing the developer intend or heard how credible they are from the beginning excite me more. I will use ff8 as my example again, hearing that the dev was sick of making ff and want to change formula made me understood why ff8 was so different from the beginning. No hook, light hearted school storyline, unexplained funny scene to defuse heavy mood scene was a why moment for ff fan but I can see why it was made after learning about the dev and their story. I think you can made a separate episode for dev and treat it like a prologue episode like your tips video before starting the games. That way, people that are already like your formula of games discussion could watch it there.

[@gameologian7365]

Good changes with the time limit and spreading out the dev history stuff. Can't wait to hear your thoughts on this banger

[@davidwhitney947]

I am so excited to hear your thoughts on my favorite game of all time. I have the tattoo

[@TheOneBearded]

The set is always on point!

[@maddux1188]

Great first episode guys

[@rugalthreesixteen6812]

Whenever i hear "Cardinal Batistum" I always imagine Dave Bautista AKA Drax of Guardians of the Galaxy coming out dressed in medieval garb yet still with the background music of 'I Walk Alone' by Saliva.

[@jameswestley5643]

This game is a masterpiece that I've always wanted to beat. That weapon crafting system is pretty complex though.

[@matarax]

Thank you for covering this game. It's one of my favorite stories from any medium and I really enjoy your analysis of games.

[@magnamic5614]

This is one of my favorite games of all time. I’ve been hoping for a complete remake for years now. Same with Final Fantasy Tactics.

[@shinangil]

How can a game be this much perfect... I fall in love with it since it was released. And I was lucky enough to play it again last year. I still dream if a remake and just restructure the game as dark souls game.

[@AndrewEvenstar]

I'm excited for this. It's one of the most unique games square ever made. I still own a psx copy. Edit: I'm an hour in and this is amazing!! I'm watching this whole series very closely. I also loved that exact part in the song of the climax of the greylands incident! I wish they would Remake this game with the full content they intended!

[@heyimSkyee]

Love yalls show❤

[@debrucey]

Mike is looking FRESH 😄

[@welldan]

Great haircut Mike! 😍

[@durden6627]

Great game abd content as always. Will see later!

[@Blueshellkyle]

I really like learning the development history tbh

[@whitefluffydog5871]

Dang, Mike, new hairstyle works.

[@annavv7976]

I always thought the compactness of the game is a result of following three unities principle: unities, in drama require a play to have a single action represented as occurring in a single place and within the course of a day. This nod to classical theatre would make a lot of sense especially when considering Shakespearian references found within the story.

[@naheemquattlebaum2267]

I guess we'll be getting FF XII soon to complete the Ivalice Trinity

[@kaizakira]

As someone who is currently playing the Zodiac Age Remaster and enjoying it, I really hope you’re right!

[@zekkyauditore3021]

I think putting all the developer info in the first episode is better, gives it more book vibes that goes well with the format you guys are working with However, this is youtube and you need to keep a captive audience, I religiously watch this channel, so my opinion on the matter may not be valuable On the other hand, regarding Kacen's point about more localized stories, I totally agree. Games like Va-11 Hall-A and stories like Jojo Diamond is Unbreakable are some of my favorites of all time, and all of their events happen in a single bar and town respectively

[@FranklinGervacio]

Haircut Mike is too OP. He will steal yo girl and teach her how to beat Vagrant Story

[@grawlix311]

I loved this game as a teenager and didn’t use a guide to min/max my weapons. I just fused everything together and somehow came out on top haha

[@goncaloferreira6429]

the game simply is not that hard.

[@WaffleMenu]

It would be dope if you got Mr. Smith on as an interviewee!! The dude is active on Twitter and I know it’s not that easy but still.

[@goncaloferreira6429]

21:19 and the conflict between the idea of (european) middle ages and modernity; hian has a great comment below concerning the use of the word agent; the usage of tobacco is thousands of years old and a somewhat common thing in europe from the 16th century on. Likewise tattoing is older than you seem to think. Consider also the example of Leonardo da Vinci and his "modern" inventions.

[@TheChewingGroundsPodcast]

This was amazing! I loved the topics discussed in this podcast. I’m definitely tuning into the next one, keep up the great work!! I just uploaded a new podcast on my channel too!!!

[@VegaNCalleDQuesT]

Yo, both y’all’s hair looks fire! Sexy time skip arc

[@Pinklimo]

This is so amazing! It's such a great game. I wish they would remake the game, the story was extremely good.

[@SokiHime]

Edit: I now understand your guys' dynamic more, I was off-base and presumptive here. Sorry! One thing I want to mention: I've listened through a couple times now, and I may be completely off base here, but sometimes it seems Kayson has something to add and Mike doesn't really open for him: The flow of the talk is good, but if I'm parsing this correctly, I think Kayson's interjections would be totally welcome I appreciate both your guys input

[@Opdi67]

man all the talk about of Elden Ring has really deepened my appreciation for your thorough research into the development history of the games you cover. the vast majority of criticism of this game really exemplifies how misunderstanding the developers' intentions makes for a poor and out-of-touch review.

[@redwolf481]

Personally, I hope you guys go back to doing development in the first episode. You guys are my favorite writing and storytelling for creators podcast. And being able to grab all the knowledge about how these creators create in one episode is always convenient. But I get it for hooking and keeping your audiences attention that going straight to the game and spreading the info along so they stay all the way through may be more beneficial for you

[@SwordsmanOrion]

The discussion of the soundtrack, melodic music vs atmospheric soundtrack, it reminds me of the original PC version of Doom vs. the PS1 version of Doom soundtracks. Very exciting memorable songs vs. spooky scary sounds the entire time you are running down the halls and shooting demons. I enjoy the action with the exciting midi version of metal songs a lot more than trying to make Doom a scary game with the spooky atmospheric sounds. Doom was never at any point supposed to be a scary survival horror game, so it just doesn't work for me at all. But I always seem to be in the minority on that one. I assume because most people played the PS1 version of Doom first.

[@diegosotomiranda4107]

Yep It depends how It blends with the concept and ambient of the game, imo vagrant story work perfect with the atmospheric ost, even the épic fights doenst have punchy themes likenthey would do in final fantasy, It adds with the eerie and gothic vibe, and the fact that the protagonist Is as lost as the player exploring these places

[@saedt]

I wonder if the Gran Kiltias is related to Vagrant Story historically since it’s the same world

[@Kiitepu]

Would someone mind telling me how much they had to play to reach the scene pointed by Mike last time for this episode? I really want to play this game, but the FFT podcast had large portions of the game spread through few episodes meaning longer play sessions per week. ( I love FFT, it is my favorite game.) I must say I enjoyed it more like how it was with Xenogears where we played 3 or 4 hours per week to keep up with the podcast but I understand that fewer episodes is for the good of the channel and I still love it.

[@michaelcoraybrown]

5ish hours, but we don't get that far in this episode. Much of it will be covered next time.

[@Kiitepu]

@@michaelcoraybrown I see. Thank you, Mike! Big fan of you guys.

[@genericsavings]

If you loved FFT for its complexity, VS has the same level; possibly more. It’s just “different”. It’s really up to you. If you accept it, it can be the GOAT. If you don’t, it’s a sh!tty game with good graphics for its time. The genius is that the same philosophy is in the gameplay.

[@Sauvenil]

Speaking of "bow gun"... that's what they call them in Tactics, too.

[@rhulcy]

Do you playthrough on twitch? Would love to watch

[@damian6631]

Mike went from from Edgar style to Sabin style.

[@durden6627]

the absent background music was intentional for this podcast?

[@AceBadguy]

Damn Mike. You are looking so fine with that new haircut.

[@optimusuk]

Regarding the time period, I'd say it's akin to many 100's of years in the future from final fantasy tactics Ivalice. More advanced but still not quite at the industrial revolution level. The difference in the government setup compared to Tactics, parliament, agents etc, no mention of kings\queens, also has parallels with British history.

[@guardianrandy]

Me: Oh good. They got Merlose's name right. *2 seconds later* Me: NOOOOOO. Not Melrose Place.