Koei JRPG conceived by Yasumi Matsuno (Vagrant Story). Opoona, young Cosmo Guardian, lands with his family on a peaceful spherical planet where work is mandatory. Light narrative RPG, minimalist turn-based combat, exploration of four spherical cities. Soothing art direction, unique utopian atmosphere, unexpected social gameplay. Strange and unique, like nothing else. Discovery pick for off-the-beaten-path JRPG.
Your verdict
Category
RPG1 player7+
Description
RPG by ArtePiazza and Koei, Europe September 2008. Alien child Opoona crash-lands on Planet Landroll and must find his family by completing missions and mastering ball-shaped magical arts. Combat system based on Nunchuk-only aiming and throwing, town and dungeon exploration, career choices and journey narrative. Original RPG with unique control mechanics.
Original Japanese version of the ArtePiazza RPG, the first strike of a Koei title that stayed niche across all three regions. The NTSC-J copy keeps the original presentation and voices before adaptation, and benefits from the aura of a studio founded by Dragon Quest alumni. Desirability rests on its status as the Japanese source of a singular console RPG, sought by enthusiasts of confidential Japanese Wii productions.
Is Opoona still worth playing in 2026?
An atypical RPG from ArtePiazza, Opoona follows a small creature stranded on a futuristic planet, in an adventure blending exploration, regulated daily life and combat with the analog stick. The original concept of a society to rebuild, the gentle science fiction world and the energy throwing mechanic make it a singular, endearing proposition. The slow pace and the loosely signposted contemplative side disorient. A niche RPG for fans of original experiences and the curious about unconventional Japanese productions.
