Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis

Tactics Ogre: The Knight of Lodis (GBA, 2001 JP/2002 NA): Tactical RPG prequel to Tactics Ogre developed by Quest Corporation. Published by Nintendo in Japan (June 21, 2001) and Atlus USA in North America (May 7, 2002).

Follows Lodis knight Alphonse Loeher investigating political intrigue on island of Ovis, ultimately defecting against his country's oppression. Features grid-based class system with up to 32 units. Characters defined by three stats (strength, intelligence, agility), alignment (chaotic to lawful), and elemental affinity. Initial party classes determined by player's opening questionnaire responses. Multiple story branches and endings based on player choices. Composers Hitoshi Sakimoto and Masaharu Iwata returned from previous Ogre Battle entries—Iwata found GBA hardware challenging.

Development began when Quest heard about GBA hardware, aiming to create portable Tactics Ogre successor with more approachable narrative while maintaining series' mature storytelling. Art balanced cute deformed character aesthetic with series' established dark visual style. Strong Japanese launch—sold 150,000+ first week, topped sales charts, reached 284,000-340,000 units (2001's top 40). Re-released as budget title February 2006. Promoted with live-action subway commercial in Japan. Generated manga anthologies and strategy guides.

Generally positive reviews praised graphics, deep character customization, branching storyline, and tactical gameplay. Critics noted patience required for lengthy enemy turns. Final project by Quest Corporation before Square acquisition—development team restructured as Square Product Development Division 4, creating Final Fantasy Tactics Advance (2003) as first Square project. Last new Ogre Battle series entry to date.