Fullmetal Alchemist and the Broken Angel

About

Fullmetal Alchemist and the Broken Angel is a PlayStation 2 RPG that mixes turn-based combat with real-time alchemy mechanics. You follow Edward and Alphonse Elric as their train to Central City is ambushed, forcing them to navigate a German-inspired town tangled in military conspiracies and rogue chimeras. The story centers on the Philosopher’s Catalyst, a device that amplifies alchemical power but invites dangerous forces. Battles let you chain attacks with timed commands, while exploration ties directly to the brothers’ struggles with ethics and loss. The game leans heavily on its source material’s themes but adds its own twists to the lore. Crafted with input from Hiromu Arakawa, the game’s script and character designs feel authentically rooted in the series. As the first official Fullmetal Alchemist game, it earns points for ambition despite a rushed 2003 Japanese release and 2005 North American delay. While combat mechanics feel dated by modern standards, the tight narrative and faithful worldbuilding make it a treat for fans. Its cult status persists among series enthusiasts, who appreciate the deep dive into alchemy’s moral gray areas.

Storyline

Taking place between episodes 17 and 18 of the anime, the game begins with the Elric brothers (somewhat unwillingly being escorted by Major Alex Louis Armstrong) heading to Central City via train. While Ed moans, Al consoles, and Armstrong flexes, the train is suddenly attacked by terrorists. The skirmish eventually ends with one destroyed train and the brothers in the town of New Heissgart, looking for a ride to Central. There, they meet a girl named Armony and learn more of the Philosopher's Catalyst, an item nearly as powerful as the Philosopher's Stone itself, but used to increase the efficiency of alchemy. The Philosopher's Catalyst seems to be directly linked with the berserk chimeras running about, the rogue military force, and the gathering of alchemists in the town. The Elrics soon find that their simple mission for a train turns into much more as they learn about the Catalyst and the dark mysteries surrounding it.