Description

"Langrisser III" is a tactical role-playing game developed by NCS Masaya and released for the Sega Saturn in 1996. It is the third installment in the critically acclaimed "Langrisser" series, known for its intricate strategic gameplay and branching story paths. Unlike its predecessors, which used a traditional square-grid system, "Langrisser III" introduced a unique real-time strategy element where battles take place on free-roaming maps without fixed grids. This shift aimed to provide a more dynamic combat experience. The game is set in a fantasy world, where players control a young knight named Diehärte who must summon allies, fight enemy forces, and make key decisions that will determine the fate of the kingdom of Larcuss.

"Langrisser III" serves as a prequel to the earlier games in the series, hence it provides detailed backgrounds about the origin of the legendary sword "Langrisser" and its antagonist sword, "Alhazard." The game's plot and character interactions evolve through a complex narrative, where player choices significantly impact the story's direction and endings. The game utilizes an enhanced class system, where characters can be upgraded into different specializations based on player preference, adding a deep level of customization and replayability. Although initially only released in Japan, the game's innovative approach to tactical RPG mechanics and its compelling narrative contributed to its cult status among fans and paved the way for future titles in the series, including adaptations and sequels in various formats.