The first Arc the Lad entry, a Japanese tactical JRPG that laid the foundations for the trilogy. Engaging scenario and solid tactical combat system. Short but rich in narrative content, introducing characters that develop further in the sequel.
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Category
Tactics1 player12+
Description
First entry of the cult Japanese tactical RPG series, in which young Arc confronts demonic forces. Tactics by G-craft and Sony Computer Entertainment, released in 1995 in Japan. Turn-based grid combat in isometric view, colorful sprites, opening chapter of an epic saga, deliberately short runtime. Original Japanese edition.
Complete: box, manual and disc/cart very clean. Lightly handled.
Q1 damagedQ6 completeQ10 new
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Collector interest
The first link in SCEI's SRPG saga, kept Japanese at launch and built as a short but dense introduction to a world meant to expand. Its deliberate brevity and prologue role give it entry-point value for anyone wanting the series complete in its original form. A 1995 local run never reissued at scale, whose value tracks the belated Western recognition of Japanese tactical RPGs.
Is Arc the Lad still worth playing in 2026?
Arc the Lad is the first entry of the series, a Japanese strategic JRPG that laid the trilogy's foundations. Engaging scenario and solid tactical combat make Working Designs' title a short but narratively dense game. Anime art direction and Masahiro Andoh's score are remarkable for PS1. A genuinely interesting detour today.
