Sakura Taisen GB2 - Thunderbolt Sakusen (Japan) (GBC)

Sakura Taisen GB2 - Thunderbolt Sakusen is a tactical RPG (SRPG) with adventure elements released for the Game Boy Color. The gameplay is primarily divided into two main phases: the adventure phase and the combat phase.

In the adventure phase, players experience the story through dialogue and events. You will interact with members of the Flower Division, including Sakura Shinguji, Erica Fontaine, and other characters. Your dialogue choices, often simplified from the full LIPS (Live & Interactive Picture System) of the console versions, still influence your relationships with characters and sometimes even their performance in battle. Building good relationships will make your team members stronger in combat. The main goal in this phase is to uncover the plot, learn about the new conspiracy threatening Tokyo, and prepare for upcoming battles.

The combat phase takes place as turn-based tactical battles on a grid-based map. Players control the Flower Division's Koubu (or SPIRICLE Armor) mechs. Each character has unique skills and stats. You need to strategically move your units, utilizing terrain and the special abilities of each Koubu to defeat enemies. Powerful special attacks can be unleashed when the energy gauge is full. Careful planning and coordination between units are key to victory.

The game retains the spirit of the original Sakura Taisen series with its unique blend of engaging storytelling, character development, and exciting tactical battles, all packed into a portable version suitable for the GBC. Your mission is to lead the Flower Division in "Operation Thunderbolt" (Thunderbolt Sakusen) to protect the peace of Japan's capital.