Unlike any of
the previous Final Fantasy games, FFVIII's characters cannot learn magic through
"normal" methods. The game doesn't contain any magic shops where you can learn
magic from teachers, nor are there any Materia orbs to give magical abilities. In FFVIII,
characters obtain magic through the "Draw" command in the menu during the battle
screen. Draw allows that character to "absorb" magical knowledge from the
targeted enemy. This can then be used instantly as a quick attack, or it can be saved and
stored for a later use. Instant use after Draw may result in a less powerful, but much
quicker attack, while storing will increase the power, but usually takes a long time.
Storing magic eventually allows the character to stock it into a library, and permanently
learn the spell, so you don't need to use Draw for that spell again. Sound's pretty easy
huh? Getting any spell you want from the enemy?
Well, I highly doubt it will
be that simple. The different level enemies will definitely have stronger magic powers,
and it will be much harder for you to Draw it from them. You may require special items, or
a certain Guardian Force to absorb it. Another special feature about Draw: There are no
more treasure chests in the game. Since Final Fantasy 1 to FFVII, treasure chests have
been used to get equipment. Well, no longer. Instead of chests, there are now "Draw
Points" which are contained in colored orbs. Draw Points add towards your characters
stats, like Max HP or Max MP. Draw points are completely random, even with saved games. If
you get a certain amount of Draw Points that you are not happy with, you can then reload
the game to get either more or less. |
