Shining Force is a classic tactical RPG series that lets players build teams of unique characters to battle evil forces. Each game in the series offers different heroes with special abilities, strengths, and weaknesses.
Finding the right mix of fighters, mages, healers, and other classes can make battles much easier and more enjoyable.
Creating a balanced team is the most important part of Shining Force gameplay. Players should consider character movement range, attack power, defense capabilities, and special abilities.
The best teams usually include a mix of front-line fighters, ranged attackers, and support units that can heal or buff allies.
We’ve spent countless hours replaying these games to determine which characters make the strongest team formations.
When building your Shining Force team, pay attention to promotion paths, stat growth, and equipment options. Characters who start weak might become powerhouses after promotion, while others may fall behind despite early strength.
We’ve tested various team combinations across multiple playthroughs to identify the most effective character selections for conquering the toughest battles.
Contents
Best Shining Force Teams
We’ve put together a complete list of the best Shining Force teams to help you dominate this classic tactical RPG.
Building the right team balance is key to overcoming the toughest battles in the game. These team compositions offer the perfect mix of attacking power, healing abilities, and magical support for any playstyle.
Crystal Power Guide
This educational DVD offers a comprehensive introduction to crystal healing that beginners will find accessible while still providing enough depth for those already familiar with crystal work.
Pros
- Clear, easy-to-understand explanations
- Beautiful crystal footage
- Practical applications shown
Cons
- Limited advanced techniques
- Some dated production quality
- Not interactive like modern learning platforms
We recently watched “The Power of Crystals” and found it to be a solid starting point for anyone curious about crystal healing. The production breaks down complex spiritual concepts into digestible segments that won’t overwhelm newcomers.
The narration moves at a comfortable pace, allowing viewers to absorb the information without feeling rushed.
The footage of various crystals is truly spectacular. Close-up shots reveal the intricate details and formations that make each stone unique. We appreciated how the video connects specific crystals to their traditional uses, making it easy to remember which stones might be helpful for different situations.
The practical demonstrations were particularly valuable. Instead of just talking about crystal grids or meditation techniques, the presenters actually show you how to set them up and use them. This hands-on approach makes the content much more useful than simple explanations would be.
Perfect for crystal beginners who prefer visual learning over reading books!
While we enjoyed the content, we did notice the production style feels somewhat dated compared to today’s polished educational videos. The English subtitles help with following along, but the audio quality occasionally varies. For complete beginners, this isn’t a problem, but those seeking advanced techniques might want additional resources.
Despite these minor drawbacks, we found ourselves referring back to this DVD for refreshers on basic crystal properties and setups. It covers a surprising amount of ground in its runtime, touching on healing properties, chakra associations, and cleansing methods that work well for getting started with crystal work.
Vimy Underground Documentary
This compelling World War I documentary offers a fresh perspective on the famous Battle of Vimy Ridge through excellent storytelling and historical footage.
Pros
- Engaging historical storytelling
- High-quality production value
- Multiple audio options including dialogue boost
Cons
- Some complex military tactics might be hard to follow
- Limited supplemental materials
- Pacing slows in middle sections
We recently watched “Vimy Underground” and were immediately drawn into this fascinating documentary about one of World War I’s most significant battles. Director Victor Kushmaniuk does an excellent job bringing to life the underground tunnels and strategy behind the Canadian victory at Vimy Ridge.
The film features Ted Biggs alongside other experts who explain complex military maneuvers in ways that most viewers can understand. We appreciated how the documentary balances technical details with human stories. The producers clearly did their research, presenting archival footage alongside modern analysis.
Audio quality is outstanding, and we found the dialogue boost options particularly helpful when watching in a noisy environment. The subtitles are accurate and easy to follow. This attention to accessibility shows the care put into the film’s release.
Viewing Tip: The English Dialogue Boost options are perfect for hearing important details when watching in busier environments.
The documentary runs at a good length, though we noticed some sections in the middle could have been tightened up. Still, the film maintains interest throughout by connecting the tunneling strategy to the ultimate success of the mission.
For history buffs or anyone interested in World War I, this documentary provides valuable insights into a battle that helped shape Canadian national identity. We found ourselves discussing the film long after it ended, which speaks to its impact.
Frozen Surface
This Chinese crime thriller offers a gripping narrative with stellar performances that make it worth watching despite some pacing issues.
Pros
- Exceptional acting from Chen Jianbin and Hu Jun
- Compelling storyline with unexpected twists
- High-quality cinematography
Cons
- No subtitles available for non-Chinese speakers
- Contains violence and coarse language
- Slow pacing in some sections
We recently binged Frozen Surface and were immediately drawn into its tense atmosphere. The show follows a complex criminal investigation that unfolds in a small town.
Chen Jianbin delivers an outstanding performance as the lead detective, bringing depth to his character that keeps you invested throughout the series.
The cinematography deserves special mention. Cold, stark landscapes mirror the show’s themes perfectly. We found ourselves pausing occasionally just to appreciate certain shots. The lighting techniques create a constant feeling of unease that complements the storyline.
One challenge worth noting is the lack of subtitles. For viewers who don’t understand Chinese, this makes the show inaccessible. We had a team member who speaks the language help us understand key plot points.
The content advisory isn’t just a formality – the violence depicted is quite intense at times, and there’s frequent smoking and strong language throughout.
Director Zang Xichuan has created something that feels authentic rather than glamorized. The pacing might feel slow to viewers accustomed to fast-moving Western crime shows, but we found the deliberate storytelling allowed for deeper character development.
The supporting cast, including Deng Jiajia, rounds out the ensemble nicely. Their performances add layers to what could have been a standard crime drama. We particularly enjoyed the morally complex characters who avoid simple hero-villain classifications.
If you enjoy crime thrillers that make you think and don’t mind the language barrier, Frozen Surface offers a rewarding viewing experience. Just be prepared for its unflinching approach to difficult subject matter.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best Shining Force team can be tricky. We’ve put together some tips to help you build a winning squad for this classic tactical RPG.
Balance is Key
Every good team needs a mix of different character types. Don’t just pick fighters!
Always include at least one healer, two fighters, and a ranged attacker in your core team.
Consider Movement Range
Characters with higher movement can reach enemies faster and control the battlefield better. Flying units can cross difficult terrain easily.
Look at Promotion Options
Some characters become much stronger after promotion while others don’t improve as much. Check what classes they’ll become before investing in them.
| Character Type | Early Game Value | Late Game Value |
| Knights/Warriors | High | Medium |
| Mages | Low | Very High |
| Healers | Medium | High |
Stat Growth Patterns
Pay attention to how stats grow as characters level up. Some have better growth in attack, others in defense or speed.
We recommend looking at a character’s starting stats and growth potential. This helps predict how useful they’ll be throughout the game.
Ability to Use Items
Characters who can use a variety of weapons and items are more flexible in combat. This versatility can be a game-changer in tough battles.