In order for a title to qualify for review under our Elements section it must contain at least 3 major Elements and two minor Elements. Each Elements review will contain a list of the RPG Elements the game contains and a brief description of why the reviewer thought the game had these Elements. *Please note that any review that does not contain these descriptions was written before the Elements section was created*

Major Elements

1. Original Epic Storyline - RPGs contain some sort of grand and epic story that involves the characters and a villian, and usually trying to save the world from destruction or an outside threat.

2. Leveling Up and EXP - Characters recieve Experience Points for defeating enemies, and when they recieve a set amount, they raise a level. This increase in level results in an increase in HP/MP, and ability scores.

3. Equipment/Items- Characters can purchase items like weapons and armor that they can equip on their characters. They can also purchase healing potions and various other items that benefit their characters in battle.

4. Ability Scores- Different kinds of statistics, including Strength, Dexterity, Speed, Defense, Magic Defense, etc.

5. Character Dialogue - RPGs focus heavily on dialogue between not only the main characters but dialogue between sub- characters and even NPCs.

6. Original Characters- Characters are in the story that are totally original- they are not historical, or duplicates of characters from other games or literature.

Minor Elements

1. HP/MP*- Most every video game RPG has a system of Hit Points. Your character takes damage, and when they get to 0, they die. Many RPGs also use Magic Points to cast spells, and when the MP is gone, no more spells may be cast.

2. Original Score- The game has its very own, original soundtrack done by a composer or composing group. Often times popular music groups compose the soundtrack.

3. Skills/Job System/Character Class- Characters are part of a certain character class or Job system. As characters level up, they recieve more abilities in their particular class. We consider this a minor Element as many RPGs no longer use this system, but allow characters to be assigned any skill at any time.

4. Secrets- Most RPGs have secret storylines, plot twists, and items that are not necessary to complete the game, but do color it and add to its replayability.

5. Imaginative Setting- RPGs are usually set in some sort of Fantasy/Sci-Fi/Alternate History setting.

6. Magic- There is some sort of system of magic in the game. Characters learn and cast spells.