Elements in the Mana series are a central plot and gameplay element.
In gameplay, they can be used to exploit weaknesses of enemies.
In the plot, the elements usually have a Mana Spirit to help represent each one, and each Mana Spirit must be found to advance the story.
Types of Elements
Fire
Associated with heat, flame, explosive forces and lava. Salamander represents this element. Opposes Water.
Water
Associated with water and its many forms and phenomena associated, including ice and snow. Undine is the representative spirit of Water. Opposes Fire.
Earth
Associated with the earth and its various contents and phenomena. Gnome manages this element. Opposes Wind.
Wind
Associated with the forces and phenomena of air and wind, and electric forces. Jinn represents Wind. Opposes Earth.
Wood
Associated with the power of nature and life. Dryad associates with this element. Opposes Moon.
Moon/Metal
Associated with the Moon's power, like shapeshifting and lunacy, and in some later installments, inorganic and celestial forces were added, like gravity and nuclear forces. Legend of Mana uses the element of Metal in place of Moon, with Aura taking the place of Luna . Both Moon and Metal oppose Wood.
Light
Associated with the light and sometimes holy power. Wisp represents Light. Opposes Shadow.
Shadow
Associated with darkness and sometimes wicked power. Shade represents Shadow. Opposes Light.