Coded Soul

Coded Soul is a 2008 fantasy action role-playing game developed by Gaia and Japan Studio for the PlayStation Portable.

The game was re-released digitally on June 20, 2023 as an emulated classic for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.

Gameplay
Gameplay in Coded Soul revolves around Jay's exploration of the randomly generated dungeons of Idea. You're limited in the amount of time you can spend in the world, with your time limit replenished only by reaching key check points. Along the way, you face off against beasts using an action-oriented battle system. The game also has the Okada staples like a weapon and item synthesis system and a "Karma" system through which you make your monsters learn new skills.

Plot
An army has been conducting research into Monolith Gate, the door to the world of ‘Idea’. That door is controlled by Gale, a young boy who gives Jay, a soldier special power to travel to the other side to save his girlfriend, May. The special power grants the ability to control monsters by sucking up their souls. Once you've defeated a foe, you can make them into your ally for use during future battles. You can take up to two monsters with you on your treks into Idea, selecting from eventually over 100 beasts.