Just so anyone tries to refute the idea that Japanese video game covers are nicer than that of their American counterparts, here’s one more cover to put the argument to rest:

Yup. That’s the cover of the Japanese release of Final Fantasy III, with an astounding piece of artwork from Yoshitaka Amano. Now, compare this with the US release below, whereby the artist only plays a bit part in an otherwise plain white cover:

The good news for collectors is that the Japanese version, which normally sells at exorbitant prices outside of Japan is now available at a bargain price of USD 24.90, at where else but Play-Asia. (click here for details)

I’ve already got a copy of the English version of Final Fantasy III, which I got for dirt cheap so I’m still mulling over buying this.