Two years ago, Japan heard word of the release of Tri-Ace's Star Ocean: Till the End of Time, the third in the epic Star Ocean series. And in Spring of 2003, the vision became reality.

Stateside fans of the role-playing genre were captivated, and eagerly awaited a North American version of the title. Enix USA promised these hungry gamers a localization later in the year, but the April merger between Squaresoft and Enix jeopardized such a prospect. It would seem for a while that importing was the only option should one desire to experience what, for a time, only Japanese gamers could.

It was not until early 2004 when Square Enix gave word that a domestic release was, again, being planned that hopes would reignite. And come E3, that hope became confirmed reality with a set release date announced.

And now that the moment has finally come for North American gamers to discover what is contained within the third installment in the Star Ocean series, might it end up that all the time spent eagerly awaiting such a moment has been for naught? Editor Stephen Harris has the answer to this concern.

To read his full review, simply click on the link found below.

• Star Ocean: Till the End of Time Review