The GBA games also have great character development in their stories. In 'Advance Wars', you see how the different commanders grow and adapt as they face various military situations. Their backstories and relationships with each other add depth to the overall story of the wars they are fighting.
Many GBA games have unique settings for their stories. For example, 'Metroid Fusion'. Samus is in a space station filled with dangerous creatures. The isolation and the mystery of what's going on in the station create a really tense and engaging story. The way the story unfolds as Samus discovers more about the station and the threats within it is masterfully done.
Well, for one, they are often very immersive. Take 'Pokémon Ruby/Sapphire'. The story of becoming a Pokémon master, exploring the Hoenn region, and dealing with the threat of Team Magma/Aqua is simple yet captivating. It draws you in with its colorful world and the goal of collecting all the Pokémon.
The story in Pokémon Emerald is great because it expands on the existing Ruby and Sapphire storylines. It has a more complex plot involving the Legendary Pokémon Groudon and Kyogre. The addition of Rayquaza to balance out their powers adds an extra layer of intrigue. There are also more side quests and interactions that tie into the main story, making it a more immersive experience.
The historical context. Medieval times are full of interesting elements like knights, castles, and feudal systems. Indie games can take these and create unique stories. For example, a game might focus on a knight's quest for honor in a corrupt kingdom, which is a classic yet always engaging theme.
The plot twists are often what make these stories stand out. Take 'Mass Effect' for instance. There are many points where your choices lead to unexpected outcomes that completely change the direction of the story. Also, the themes explored in these games contribute to their greatness. In 'Horizon Zero Dawn', the themes of technology, nature, and humanity's past mistakes are intertwined in the story, making it thought - provoking. And the emotional impact can't be ignored. 'Uncharted 4' makes you feel for Nathan Drake as he goes through his final adventure, and that emotional connection keeps you hooked on the story.
With 'Animal Crossing: New Leaf', it's the sense of discovery and personalization. You start with an empty plot of land and build it into a bustling town. The interactions with the villagers, who each have their own quirks, and the events that occur throughout the year, like holidays and festivals, create a unique and constantly evolving story. It's a story that you are in control of, and that makes it special.
Take 'Alan Wake' for example. The blend of psychological horror, mystery, and a writer's struggle with his own creation in the story is really engaging. The way the story unfolds as you progress through the levels, with the environment changing and the threats evolving, is very well - done. 'Shadow of the Colossus' has a simple yet profound story. Your quest to slay the colossi to bring back a girl is full of emotion. The desolate world and the colossal creatures you face create a sense of isolation and purpose that makes the story truly memorable. And 'Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic' has a great story because it lets you be a part of the Star Wars universe in a different era, with choices that can lead you to the light or dark side of the Force.
Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow. The story is set in Dracula's castle. The main character, Soma Cruz, has to explore the castle, fight demons, and figure out his connection to Dracula. It's a great adventure with a dark and mysterious story.
The themes in Zelda games are also very appealing. Themes of heroism, friendship, and the fight against evil are common. But they are presented in different ways in each game. For example, in some games, it's about saving the world from a great evil, while in others, it might be more about self - discovery for Link. These themes give the stories meaning and make them more than just simple tales of action and adventure.
The unique blend of themes makes the stories great. In 'Disgaea 4: A Promise Unforgotten', there are themes of loyalty, friendship, and the struggle between good and evil. These themes are presented in a way that is both accessible and thought - provoking. The stories also don't shy away from being a bit dark at times, which adds an extra layer of complexity to the otherwise light - hearted and comical overall tone of the games.
Final Fantasy Tactics Advance has a remarkable story. It's set in a world where a young boy named Marche is transported to a magical realm. The story delves into themes like friendship, power, and the consequences of one's actions. The political intrigue and the battle for control within the game world make the story really captivating.
Another great one is 'Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones'. It has a complex story of war, loyalty, and sacrifice. You follow different characters' stories as they fight for their kingdoms. The story has many twists and turns that keep you hooked throughout the game.