Product ReviewsThousand Arms (Sony PlayStation 1, 1999)

An Underrated Atlus Classic

If you've ever wondered where the dating sim aspects of Persona 3 may have been inspired by, look no further. At the time of release in Japan in 1998, Thousand Arms was a revolutionary take on traditional JRPGs by introducing a crafting system, as well as a dating mechanic. The game was developed by the now defunct Red Company, and published by Atlus. It wouldn't be until 2006 with the release of Persona 3 on the PS2 until we would see the return of a similar concept with the introduction of social links, which has now cemented itself as a staple of the series.

Thousand Arms is often overlooked, it's a shame too, but not unexpected given the little exposure it may have had in the states upon release. To anyone interested in playing a retro JRPG filled with charm for the PSOne, I'd highly suggest looking into this one. I'm just glad I can physically own this game outside of emulation. Unfortunately, due to licensing issues, this game will likely never see a digital rerelease on PSN in the future.

My advice would be to track down a preowned copy for a reasonable price, preferably in good condition. I managed to get this in near new condition with the manual and original case intact for 59.99.

I have no regrets about my purchase.Read full review...

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Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: pre-owned | Sold by: general.grievous

Thousand arms

A great rpg/ dating sim by Atlus. I mean that says alot right there. The characters are really interesting where you actually want to read what they say rather than just click through. The story is pretty good better then most. Doesn't stack up to persona 3 or 4 relatable too those though with the dating. Actually one of the most interesting parts imo. This game is a ton of fun and the art design is great.Read full review...

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: pre-owned | Sold by: jaguarfortified

a rare gem

This is the perfect example of a quirky game.
The idea is simple, a young man wants to follow in the footsteps of his father, a legendary Spirit Blacksmith. What this entails is he must find beautiful women and use their love to forge stronger, more powerful weapons. Depending on which woman you use, the sword could be forged with magic, healing spells or just more strength.
That's where the game excels. In order to make the girls fall in love with you, you must date them. Once on the date, they ask you a series of off the wall questions with even more off the wall answers for you to choose. Most of the time, their almost fall of your chair funny. If you're date is successful, you will earn intimacy points that make it possioble for you too learn even stronger spells off the girls. You can also give them gifts if you want, but that's not nearly as fun.

Graphics: 7/10
3D sprites mixed with the occasional cell to make it almost seem like an anime during cutscenes and battle. It's far from the prettiest game, but graphics were never what makes a game.

Story: 6/10
It's basically the same story as most RPG's. The young boy goes through a series of growing up stuff followed by the defeat of the ultimate evil. But the characters, some of the most original I've seen, make the story interesting.

Gameplay: 8/10
Once you figure out how to Blacksmith, the game is incredible. Though not all that deep, the battle mode is fast and interesting. You have one character attacking in the front line, and 2 in the rear, providing support. You can switch them in at any time, provided excellent strategy oppurtunities. Be warned though, the camera is one of the worst of all time.

Fun Factor:10/10
The dating aspect of this game is priceless. I've spent many days just playing the dating parts, and I HAVE a girlfriend! The characters are fun and the battle mode actually makes you want those random battles.

Overall:8/10
Though flawed, it's still one of my favorite RPG's and I've had it for over 6 years now. Highly recommended for anyone sick of realistic or serious RPG's, or just want something they've never seen before.Read full review...

Great Hidden Gem from Atlus

The combination of a unique RPG with Compelling Dating Sim Sections which tie together nicely make for a compelling game that is very fun to play; it is on the easy side though and it doesn't do the best job explaining how dating in the game works.Read full review...

Verified purchase:  Yes | Condition: pre-owned | Sold by: terad0319

Amazing quality, great idea

I have to say that I am quite pleased that there is someone out there who is selling the instruction manuals for games like this. Having to rebuild the case from scratch sure wasn't wasy but the lynchpin was the book and I have to say that I am quite pleased with how everything turned out. I am sure that I will use this seller again if I have any more instruction manual needs!Read full review...

Thousand Arms (Playstation)

This game I would highly recommend to anyone that enjoys Role-Playing Games. It may not have the latest graphics, but the graphics are good, storyline is great and a blast to play. If you don't have it, then get it....you won't be sorry.Read full review...

Thousand Arms (Playstation)

eveything about it this video game iis very entertaining and it also brings back good memories! there are no dislikes about this game, i reallie enjoy this game.

thousand arms review

i love rpg games, and this one is very good
Its about a blacksmith trying to complete the perfect sword to defeat evil.