LogFAQs > #976269603

Phantasy Star IV is an all time favorite. Peak 16 bit RPG, especially in terms of its storytelling (those manga cut scenes!) and visual textures. Absolutely spoiled me, in those departments, when I first played it as a youngster, and only a few times afterwards (the Lunar: Complete games, Skies of Arcadia) gave me a similar sustained high. The gameplay isn't revolutionary, but it's peak old school turn based shit - much better polished than, say, your Lufias and Breaths of Fire. Not insanely difficult but capable of kicking your ass if you're not prepared, and sometimes even if you are.

Hell, I love the soundtrack too - janky ass Genesis music at its peak. I remember waking up one Friday morning on a snow day, popping the game in, and letting Motavia Town play for like 30 minutes while I made everyone breakfast, and now I associate waking up and seeing snow with the desert town music of a 30 year old video game. I'm pretty biased obviously but I'm sure Phantasy Star IV could beat up your dad.

I like Star Ocean 2 also, and not so much Star Ocean 3 (though I might play it again if there were a well polished remake, hint hint), and never played any of the others.