Poll: Box Art Brawl

Hello, friends! We’re back with another edition of Box Art Brawl.

Last week, we featured a pair of charming artworks for Pikmin on GameCube, though the contest was quite one-sided. The classic North American / European version secured a resounding victory, capturing 74% of the votes, while the vibrant Japanese cover managed to snag the remaining 26%. Quite the Bulborb blowout, right?

This time, in honor of its launch on the Nintendo Switch Online Game Boy Advance collection, we’re examining Fire Emblem: The Sacred Stones. This was merely the second installment in the series to arrive in the West back in 2005, demonstrating Intelligent Systems’ expertise in the turn-based tactical gameplay style.

But you’re already aware of this title; it’s currently accessible to NSO + Expansion Pack subscribers!

Today, there are just two covers to select from, with the united North American and European artwork confronting Japan’s design. Let the duel begin…

Be sure to participate in the poll below; but first, let’s examine the box art designs themselves.

North America / Europe

The design common to North America and Europe is probably the one you have seen previously. Erika and Ephraim take center stage, wielding their sword and lance as only the attractive protagonists of the Fire Emblem series can. The background is somewhat softened, revealing a dragon, a massive door and… possibly some flames? The artistic style of the background is nearly a little too indistinct, yet it certainly enhances the character artwork.

Japan

The protagonist artwork aligns closely with the NA / EU version, but the blurred backdrop has been substituted with a map of Magvel, effectively utilizing the horizontal layout of the Japanese GBA cover. It may lack some of the elements from the earlier version, but we find it quite appealing.

Thanks for voting! We look forward to seeing you next time for another round of Box Art Brawl.