Fullmetal Alchemist: Stray Rondo is a role-playing game developed for the Game Boy Advance and published by Bandai. Released exclusively in Japan, it is the first of two Fullmetal Alchemist games for the platform, preceding its sequel, “Sonata of Memories.” The game draws heavily from the beloved anime and manga series, featuring iconic characters Edward and Alphonse Elric. Gameplay Mechanics “Stray Rondo” utilizes a turn-based battle system that integrates unique card mechanics for performing alchemy, a core element of the Fullmetal Alchemist series. Players can choose from four main actions during battles: Attack: Basic physical attacks against enemies. Alchemy: Using alchemical cards to perform a variety of magical attacks or effects. Items: Utilizing consumable items for healing or buffs. Handbook (Ed’s case) or Special Moves (Al’s case): Ed accesses alchemical recipes in his handbook, while Al uses special combat techniques. The alchemy cards are central to gameplay, featuring three types of numbers: Mass (left side): Influences the physical properties of the alchemy performed. Value (right side): Affects the potency and effectiveness of the alchemical reaction. Roman numeral: Indicates the number of times a card has been combined (up to four times), enhancing its effects. Players can collect and combine cards to create powerful alchemical moves. Edward has 50 distinct alchemical abilities in four categories: Metal, Nature, Stone, and Darkness. Successfully using and recording all 200 moves in Ed’s notebook unlocks special content, enhancing replay value. Plot Overview The narrative of “Stray Rondo” is closely tied to the early events of the Fullmetal Alchemist storyline. The game begins with a tragic backdrop where the young Elric brothers attempt a forbidden Human Transmutation to revive their deceased mother. The failed ritual costs Alphonse his body and Edward his limbs, setting them on a quest for the Philosopher’s Stone to regain what they lost. The storyline quickly moves to their encounter with the false prophet Cornello, and the subsequent discovery that the Philosopher’s Stone he possessed was fake. Their journey back to Central is interrupted by a train hijacking led by a group under the command of a Bald look-alike. During this ordeal, they rescue Corniche Royce, a young woman with healing alchemical abilities, who is on her way to take the State Alchemy Exam. Characters: “Fullmetal Alchemist: Stray Rondo” introduces players to a rich cast of characters from the beloved “Fullmetal Alchemist” universe, skillfully blending the original manga and anime elements with unique game-specific additions. Developed for the Game Boy Advance, this game features both beloved series regulars and new faces, each with distinct roles and abilities. Playable Characters Edward Elric: Known as the “Fullmetal Alchemist,” Edward is the youngest state alchemist in history. Despite his traumatic past, he maintains a strong and compassionate demeanor, especially towards his brother, Alphonse. Edward’s journey revolves around his quest to find the Philosopher’s Stone and restore what he and his brother lost. Alphonse Elric: After losing his body during a forbidden alchemical ritual, Alphonse’s soul is bound to a suit of armor by Edward. His physical form may be gone, but his protective and understanding nature makes him an invaluable companion on their journey. Roy Mustang: The ambitious “Flame Alchemist” known for his ability to manipulate fire with a snap of his fingers. As a colonel in the Amestrian military, Roy is both a strategic leader and a mentor to those under his command. Alex Louis Armstrong: The “Strong Arm Alchemist” combines immense physical strength with deep emotional sensitivity. Born into a prestigious family, Armstrong serves as a major in the military, using his alchemical abilities to uphold family honor. Riza Hawkeye: A first lieutenant and the indispensable right-hand woman to Colonel Mustang. Known for her sharpshooting skills, Riza is calm and collected, often acting as both protector and confidant to Mustang. Corniche R. Royce: A newcomer to the world outside her home, Corniche is a medical alchemist aiming to become a state alchemist. Her journey to Central City is driven by a desire to help others, reflecting her naive yet quick-witted nature. Aston Martins: Known as the “Thunder Alchemist,” Aston is a lieutenant colonel renowned for his prowess in battle and a personal interest in the Samurai code. Despite his occasional womanizing tendencies, he remains a competent and cool-headed alchemist. Non-Playable Characters Maes Hughes: A lieutenant colonel beloved for his devotion to his family and his keen investigative skills. Hughes’s ordinary appearance masks a brilliant strategic mind. Jean Havoc: A second lieutenant in the military, known for his easygoing attitude and reliability. His habitual smoking and lighthearted demeanor make him a favored figure among his peers. Lust: A mysterious and immortal being with deadly powers, including transforming claws. She is driven by a secret “plan” and is prepared to use her ruthlessness to achieve her objectives. Gluttony: Another enigmatic figure, Gluttony’s insatiable appetite is his defining trait, capable of consuming almost anything in his path. Despite his formidable abilities, he retains a childlike demeanor. Lincor, Randy Rover, and Cate Rham: These characters add depth to the game’s world, each with their backstory and motivations intertwined with the main narrative. Lincor’s mastery of chimera alchemy, Randy’s loyalty stemming from his rescue, and Cate’s tragic upbringing and unique doll alchemy bring additional layers to the game’s story.