Role-playing enthusiasts might reject this game because there is only one "dungeon" and one town. I was a bit skeptical myself when I first picked up the game, but the truth is that Shining In The Darkness has far more depth to it than many "full world" RPGs that I've played. There are multiple quests to accomplish in the Labyrinth, and there are a variety of distinct areas. Just when you think you've begun to master the dungeon, something new is thrown at you. While a game such as Phantasy Star II is longer, more complicated, and may have a "better" story; Shining In The Darkness is just as satisfying as any of its 16-bit competition. Personally, I think it holds up well even today.

Shining In The Darkness is satisfying because it provides a solid challenge. There are multiple mysteries to solve, items to puzzle over, and secrets waiting to be discovered. There are even a few things I'm still scratching my head about. Even though the game has just the one area to explore, the Labyrinth won't bore you.

A major reason why are the denizens of the Labyrinth. Shining In The Darkness is full of interesting, and deadly, creatures. Most of your enemies seem to appear out of thin air (typical RPG "random" monsters), but what gives the Labyrinth its charm are the odd creatures that make a grand entrance -- sneaking around corners, bouncing down corridors, or springing up from puddles of water. If your party starts to run low on health and magic, you may find yourself paranoid about every step you take, treasure box you see, and corner you turn. Let's just hope you remembered to bring that Angel Feather . . .

However, the "random" monsters can leave you frustrated. A weak point in the game is the "encounter" function. There are times when it seems like you can walk forever without running into a single creature, while at other times there is literally a battle at every step. This element needed some balancing. While it's only a minor gripe for me, those who are easily annoyed with this part of the RPG experience might be turned off by Shining In The Darkness.

Another strong point in the game is the magic. The battles get tough, but luckily your two sidekicks, Pyra and Milo, learn some powerful magic. While the spells themselves are fairly standard, they are effective and visually spectacular. I'm not fond of magic (I'm a hacker), but I found myself using spells frequently just to watch them. OK, I will admit that I got out of some sticky situations with a little help from a spell or two.

You also won't be disappointed if, like me, you're more inclined to brute force. There are plenty of great weapons and equipment to buy in the shops and find in the Labyrinth's treasure chests. The real fun starts when you begin forging new items from mithril ore and dark blocks. It's up to you to decide what to make for your party, and to figure out what these special items can do! It's always nice to play an RPG that allows you to experiment.

But an RPG isn't just about killing and exploring, there is also the story. Shining In The Darkness starts with a typical "save the princess" theme and evolves into just another "save the world from the evil guy" plot. What rescues the game from being boring are the wonderful NPCs and the flair with which the story is executed. The world of Shining In The Darkness is alive with interesting and colorful characters. Individual scenes are entertaining, and sometimes even charming. You won't mind that the story is unoriginal because you'll be having too much fun.

Other factors are also well done. Despite being repetitive, the music is appropriate and easy on your ears. The menu system is simple and functional, although it can get old having to reopen it for every single task. Otherwise, there just isn't anything to really complain about, keeping in mind the era in which the game was made. It looks great and plays well.

It's the quality that Climax put into Shining In The Darkness that really, well, shines through. While the game may have a few rough spots, they pale in comparison to everything that is simply brilliant and nearly perfect. For its time (the early 90s) its easily one of the few great RPGs. Even for today it still comes down to one thing, and one thing only -- is a game fun? Shining In The Darkness is, now or then.