46 Okunen Monogatari: THE Shinkaron is a top-down, turn-based RPG about evolving from the most pathetic fish to a dinosaur and beyond. Its sequel, E.V.O.: Search for Eden, is perhaps better known to Western audiences, and the two share a similar concept, structure, and sense of humor. But this earlier game has a deeper and more involved plot, blending elements from the Earth’s history with mythology, and speculating a bit into the future.

The battles are quite simple - even slightly less complex than Dragon Quest. But by defeating creatures around you, you gain points you can distribute to four stats. By reaching a certain threshold, you can evolve into an entirely different creature that lived in that era. And this is pretty cool - the evolution tree grows quite expansive as you progress through the Earth’s history.

Recommended for fans of Search for Eden, fans of old-school RPGs, and dinosaur fans in general.

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