Tales of Hearts R Reviews
A competent, if unspectacular, RPG for your Vita
After six years of pleading, North American players finally get Tales of Hearts—previously a Japan-only gem in Bandai Namco’s flagship RPG series. The wait was undeniably worth it, since this entry features some of the best storytelling, characterization, and pacing in the franchise—though the combat doesn’t make the smoothest of transitions from the DS version. Those who never played the original Japanese release won’t know what they’re missing, of course, but it’s frustrating that this undeniably excellent game isn’t quite all it could’ve been on the PS Vita.
Tales of Hearts R is a fantastic addition to the diverse Tales of franchise. I found myself engrossed in the story of the characters as I followed them. I laughed with them, and I had my heart strings tugged on once or twice. I took on epic battles with them, and I struck down evil with amazing magical fortitude. I enjoyed all of the hours I sunk into Tales of Hearts R, and would highly recommend it to anyone looking to begin with the Tales Of franchise.
If you just want to scratch the JRPG itch while on the go, this is your game.
Forget about graphic fidelity, and find a strong narrative and character development alongside a universal combat system that Tales of Hearts R can only deliver to the PlayStation Vita.
A great fit in any Vita library that would benefit from an excellent JRPG.
Tales of Hearts R has some fun moments wrapped in a solid battle system, but it’s far from the best Tales adventure
Aside from some outdated appearance issues, JRPG cliches, and forgettable music, there isn’t anything terribly wrong with this game. The characters are charming, exploring is satisfying, the action is fast and engaging… this may not be the title that gets the Vita flying off of store shelves, but Tales of Hearts R is definitely worth adding to a pre-existing library. I may be one of the few still really happy with my PSP’s titles, but I’m growing quite fond of my PSP’s bigger little brother now.
Tales of Hearts R is a straightforward RPG with a heart of gold.
I must say I loved Hearts R. The game is made with the Vita in mind, and is a great Tales experience. If you’re a fan of the Tales games, I would heavily recommend Hearts R—it’s a fantastic game. If you aren’t so much of a Tales fan, the game is still possibly one of the best (if not the best) JRPGs on Vita we have out here so far … but I may be a bit biased as the Tales series is my favorite JRPG.
If you've never tried a Tales game before, then this is a great way to introduce yourself to the franchise. The story is a little lackluster, but the interesting use of emotions and the colourful cast more than makeup for it. The battle system is fast, fun, painfully addictive and lets you feel like you're kicking a whole lot of ass. Tales of Hearts R is a fantastic addition to the PlayStation Vita's library, bringing a solid 40+ hour experience, that is worth both your time and your money.