The WhatsNext verdict
If you want a long-form JRPG built around spectacular environments, a highly memorable soundtrack, and layered real-time party combat, Xenoblade Chronicles has a lot to offer. Players who dislike MMO-like side content or combat that sometimes feels observational should stick to the main path.
What it does best
Music that makes the journey feel monumental
A vast world built for scenic discovery
Real-time RPG combat with layered party decisions
What might put you off
MMO-style side quests
Combat readability and repetition
Look
Peek inside
The setup
What you are walking into
Xenoblade Chronicles follows Shulk and his band of friends as they search for answers about the mysterious "Monado" sword and defend their homeland from violent robotic creatures known as the Mechon. The game contains an open world design and strongly emphasizes exploration due to the world's large size. The game was very well received by critics, with many citing it as a great example of innovation and improvement in Japanese role-playing video games. The game has spawned a sub-series of the larger "Xeno" series, including Xenoblade Chronicles X (Wii U) and Xenoblade Chronicles 2 (Switch).
Where it lives
Genre
Vibe
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