[4] If the player selects the right type of pixie, it deals some damage to the enemies and increases the amount of gold and experience points earned from the encounter.

[4] Towns can be explored freely without encountering battles, and include buildings where the player can purchase new armor and weapons, save their game, and have their party recover from injuries and illness.

From here the story follows the three unwitting heroes as they fight to stop the revival of the legendary 1,000 year kingdom, which would return the world to an age of darkness.

His father's death compels Julian to seek revenge against Galm, which sets into motion his involvement in the events of Shining Force III.

[11] In a 2009 interview, producer Hiroyuki Takahashi commented: "Until [Shining] Wisdom, the idea had been simply to develop a story that would attract a broad range of users.

[13][14] Though critical reactions to Shining the Holy Ark varied widely, nearly every review concluded with a strong recommendation to buy the game.

Next Generation summarized, "Boasting some sharp, innovative graphics and interesting gameplay elements that haven't been widely used in traditional, turn-based RPGs, SHA truly shines.

"[6] Trent Ward, reviewing for GameSpot, summed up that "There's nothing in Shining the Holy Ark that RPG fans haven't seen in one form or another before, but it does put them all together nicely.

"[21] GamePro wrote "Shining the Holy Ark's hypnotic gameplay, supernatural story line, and spellbinding fun will pleasantly entrance you.

"[23] GamePro commented that the "crisp, colorful sprites combine with creepy creatures and eye-catching spells to deliver a visually appealing adventure.

While Leadbetter, Sushi-X of EGM, and GamePro all commented positively on it,[6][18][30] Ward said it was generic and predictable, with the only saving grace being the solid English translation.

[18][30] Ward still had an overall positive impression of the combat, and asserted that "The game is well balanced and provides a fighting challenge without making it impossible to win scenarios.