INSTA10 - First Orders Only

The days when Japan got all the best role-playing games are pretty much behind us. As ever more games that once seemed consigned to Japan-only release make it to Western shores, Square Enix has thrown Final Fantasy Type-0 into the ring with an HD remake of the PSP original.

The game takes place on Orience, a dark world governed by crystals but ravaged by war. The game focuses on Class Zero, a group from an elite military academy in the Vermillion Peristylium region. Using the magic and abilities of these fourteen characters, players must enter the war and attempt to uncover the secrets of its origins.

The action-focused combat will be the big pull for many. It features all the main features players have come to love, including lock-on, magic, physical attacks, dodging and synergy between characters. Each character has their own strengths, and as you play and get to know them combat deepens. Most of the time you'll control three characters, switching between them on the d-pad at will and adjusting tactics accordingly. Every one of your fourteen characters has a role to play, and you'll benefit from mastering them.

There are also some RTS elements thrown in for good measure. They play out on the world map, and you can sway the course of the war by invading towns, redistributing troops and using your own magic.

Devoted fans will also be pleased to know that there's a good 40 hours of gameplay here, and if you want to do everything there is to do that doubles. Plenty to tide everyone over until XV hits...