The 7th Saga

About

The 7th Saga is a 1993 RPG where seven characters search for seven scattered runes to decide the next world ruler. Players command a cast of varied heroes in turn-based battles filled with elemental counters and status effects. Character growth happens through class changes and equipment swaps. The Western release ramps up difficulty significantly compared to its Japanese predecessor Elnard with tougher enemies and stricter resource management. This version’s reputation for punishing challenge persists in retro gaming circles. Community guides often note its steep learning curve but praise the satisfaction of mastering mechanics. Visual changes like revised character sprites distinguish it from the original. While not a commercial hit at launch, its cult following endures among fans of classic tactical RPGs.

Storyline

The game takes place on a world called Ticondera. Five thousand years before the beginning of the story, a divine being named Saro defeated an evil entity named Gorsia with the power of seven runes. In the years since then, the runes have been scattered across the globe. Lemele (Remeer in the Japanese version), the son of Saro, was born 100 years before the beginning of the game, and became a hero when he defeated the demon Gariso. Now 100 years old, Lemele has become the benevolent and powerful ruler of the world. The seven characters are recruited from various walks of life and corners of the globe by the elderly King Lemele. After 5 years of training at his palace, Lemele dispatches his seven apprentices in a quest for the seven runes. Each rune possesses a great power that can be used by the person who wields it. The one who collects all seven runes will become Lemele's heir. To find the runes, the king gives each character a Crystal Ball to assist them in their search.