Legend of Mana demos revealed?

[06.26.99] » Preliminary reports from Japan solidify four demo titles, including "Chrono Cross."

   Only a day after strong evidence of a Chrono Trigger sequel was uncovered, the latest news from Japan indicates demos of the sequel and several other titles are indeed set to be included with Legend of Mana's release next month. While still unconfirmed, preliminary reports state that the Legend of Mana cover art has appeared on promotional flyers in Japan for several local game shops, with the list of included demos legible on the box's sidebar. The list reads:

   Front Mission 3
   Dewprism
   Chrono Cross
   Autodemo: Vagrant Story

   Dewprism, Square's Musashi-esque action RPG, as long been known as one of the titles on the demo disc, and Front Mission 3 seemed a practical shoo-in. Chrono Cross, of course, has been the reported title to Square's Chrono Trigger sequel. Finally, "autodemo" presumably translates to a video-only movie of a title known as Vagrant Story -- meaning Chrono Cross will be fully playable on the disc, should the report hold true.

   Concrete details on Vagrant Story, previously only rumored, remain sparse. Early descriptions of the title merge a veritable hodgepodge of past titles together into one package: one of Final Fantasy Tactics' producers is rumored to be in charge of the project, while Ogre Battle's illustrator is taking the role of character designer. In addition, gameplay is said to resemble Metal Gear Solid, with battle scenes closely mimicking Parasite Eve's engine.

   Thanks to Nick Rox for assistance.