Ok Un biased input here.
You need to play
Lunar SCD
Lunar 2 SCD
to understand the L1 remake for PSX (Since it adds stuff from Lunar 2)
Then you needed to play ALL of them to even understand the lunar 2 for PSX =P
I mean PSX added some nice plot and made Pentigulia understandable (Its origin) HOWEVER they REALLY kiddie versioned it which pissed me off. Also Lunar 2 for PSX they CUT so much! I mean I LOVED the sub plots, it showed the lands and magic... then they took it away =(
Scd version is for hardcore gamers, Random battles, "useless" items, same with spells. I mean I LOVED all the spells. In Lunar 2 I liked the power up system!
Also YES you "can" beat Lunar in a weekend, HOWEVER Randon H, ENJOY the game first time around and you second... talk to everyone, explore the world... after 2 times around.. it wont hold it no more... Ive played Lunar MANY times find new things or people.. however the MAIN idea is lost... I know all the maps, I KNOW what weapons to use etc. Why I liked PSX to start NEW plans and ideas etc. After you beat Lunar 1 Play Lunar 2... then worry about SCD. It will be fun! Then if you liked lunar for SCD, Try VAY. Its a "underrated" game that shouldnt be.... its a fun rpg and good plot!
Sorry if I type so much but as you see this is one thing that sparks me....