Ar Tonelico Which to Start With: A Comprehensive Guide
Embarking on a new adventure in the world of Ar Tonelico can be an exhilarating experience. With multiple games in the series, deciding which one to start with can be a daunting task. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, this guide will help you navigate through the options and choose the perfect starting point.
Understanding the Series
Ar Tonelico is a series of Japanese role-playing games (RPGs) known for their unique storytelling, musical elements, and innovative gameplay. The series revolves around the concept of “Tonelico,” a mystical force that binds the world together. Here’s a brief overview of the games in the series:
| Game | Release Year | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Ar Tonelico | 2005 | PlayStation 2 |
| Ar Tonelico 2: buceta no ryori | 2007 | PlayStation 2 |
| Ar Tonelico: The Secret of Ruby | 2008 | PlayStation 2 |
| Ar Tonelico: Beyond the Code | 2010 | PlayStation 3 |
| Ar Tonelico Qs | 2012 | PlayStation Vita |
| Ar Tonelico: Resonance | 2014 | PlayStation 4 |
Now that you have a basic understanding of the series, let’s dive into the details of each game to help you decide which one to start with.
Ar Tonelico (2005)
As the first game in the series, Ar Tonelico sets the stage for the entire franchise. The story follows a young girl named Lina, who discovers she has the power to manipulate Tonelico. The game features a mix of RPG elements, such as turn-based battles and character development, with a unique musical twist. The game’s soundtrack is a standout feature, with many fans considering it one of the best in the series.
Ar Tonelico 2: buceta no ryori (2007)
Ar Tonelico 2 is a prequel to the original game and follows the story of a young boy named Tsubasa. The game delves deeper into the Tonelico mythology and introduces new characters and gameplay mechanics. While the story is compelling, some fans argue that the game’s pacing and difficulty can be a bit off-putting for newcomers.
Ar Tonelico: The Secret of Ruby (2008)
This game is a spin-off from the main series and follows the story of a young girl named Ruby. The game features a more linear narrative and focuses on Ruby’s quest to find her lost memories. The game’s art style and soundtrack are praised by many, but some fans feel that the gameplay lacks the depth of the main series.
Ar Tonelico: Beyond the Code (2010)
Ar Tonelico: Beyond the Code is a sequel to the original game and follows the story of a young girl named Akari. The game introduces new characters and a more complex storyline, while also improving upon the gameplay mechanics of the original. The game’s soundtrack is another highlight, with many fans considering it one of the best in the series.
Ar Tonelico Qs (2012)
Ar Tonelico Qs is a spin-off from the main series and follows the story of a young girl named Q. The game features a more modern art style and a unique gameplay system that combines elements of rhythm and puzzle-solving. While the game is well-received by many, some fans feel that the story and characters are not as engaging as those in the main series.
Ar Tonelico: Resonance (2014)
Ar Tonelico: Resonance is
