Growlanser

_Growlanser_ is a fantasy SRPG (strategy role-playing game), and the first in
the Growlanser series of games.

The main character is Carmaine, an orphan raised by the palace royal magician,
Sandra. Prophesied as an infant to become either “the darkness to destroy the
world” or “the light which saves it”, Sandra carefully watches over him and
never allows him to leave Rolandia’s capital city, Rosaria, or have any
contact with the outside world. However, throughout his childhood Carmaine
experiences strange and vivid dreams of people and places he knows nothing
about. When at last he becomes old enough, Sandra tells him it is time to go
out and explore beyond the city gates. Accompanied by Tippi, his tiny fairy-
like companion, he leaves the city to discover his destiny.

The game has a complex storyline with branching paths. During his travels
Carmaine will discover different lands and peoples. Among them are the
Growsians, humans who can wield ancient magic, and the Featherians, a winged
race of people. As the story progresses, Carmaine discovers that there are
conspiratorial enemies seeking to cause trouble for the land and people.

Carmaine’s personality, stats and skills are determined by answering questions
at the beginning of the game. Eventually other characters can join Carmine’s
party, some whose recruitment requires fulfilling certain conditions. Romance
elements are possible with some party members.

Combat between enemies and the large party of controllable characters is a
mixture of real-time and turn-based styles. Strategic battles occupy the
entire location; depending upon where the battle occurs, non-party members
nearby (such as townspeople, soldiers etc.) may help the party by joining in.