Xenoblade Chronicles X Review: A Sci-Fi RPG Adventure Worth Exploring
Xenoblade Chronicles X Review: A Unique Xenoblade Experience
Xenoblade Chronicles X stands apart from the mainline Xenoblade series, making it an excellent entry point for newcomers. While you don’t need to play previous games to enjoy this one, experienced players will appreciate the familiar gameplay systems and intricate mechanics that Monolith Soft is known for. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a first-timer, Xenoblade Chronicles X offers an expansive and rewarding RPG experience.
Stunning Visuals and Expansive World
The graphics in Xenoblade Chronicles X are simply breathtaking. The open world of Mira is vibrant and packed with diverse biomes, from lush forests to desolate wastelands. Each region is crafted with meticulous detail, making exploration feel immersive and exciting. The mechs, known as Skells, are beautifully designed and animated, adding an extra layer of visual appeal when navigating the vast landscapes. Whether you’re exploring on foot or flying through the skies in your Skell, the world feels alive and awe-inspiring.
Deep and Satisfying Gameplay
The gameplay in Xenoblade Chronicles X can feel overwhelming at first due to its complexity, but once you grasp the systems, it becomes incredibly rewarding. The combat system combines real-time action with strategic commands, requiring you to master positioning, cooldowns, and team synergy. Piloting Skells adds another dimension, allowing for high-speed movement and thrilling aerial battles. Unlocking and customizing your Skell gives you a sense of power and freedom that makes traversing Mira an absolute joy.
A Story Full of Surprises
At first glance, the story seems straightforward — humanity seeking refuge on an alien planet after Earth’s destruction. However, as the narrative unfolds, unexpected twists and deeper mysteries keep you engaged. Monolith Soft excels at crafting narratives that evolve beyond initial expectations, and Xenoblade Chronicles X is no exception. The plot is filled with intrigue, making you question the true nature of the world and your mission.
Exceptional Music and Sound Design
As expected from Monolith Soft, the soundtrack in Xenoblade Chronicles X is top-notch. The music blends orchestral themes with electronic beats, perfectly complementing the sci-fi setting. Each track enhances the atmosphere, whether you’re exploring the vast terrain or engaging in intense battles. The sound design is equally impressive, adding realism to the futuristic world and making the gameplay experience more immersive.
High Production Values and Quality of Life Improvements
The production values of Xenoblade Chronicles X are remarkably high. From the detailed character models to the intricate environments, the game maintains a polished and professional presentation throughout. Additionally, this version introduces several quality-of-life improvements over the original Wii U release, making the overall experience smoother and more accessible.
Massive Content and Online Play
If you’re looking for a game that offers hundreds of hours of content, Xenoblade Chronicles X won’t disappoint. There’s an abundance of side quests, exploration opportunities, and secrets to uncover. For those who enjoy multiplayer, the game also offers online features, allowing you to tackle challenging missions and explore Mira with other players, adding another layer of depth to an already rich experience.
Drawbacks to Consider
While Xenoblade Chronicles X excels in many areas, it’s not without its flaws:
Lengthy Conversations: Dialogue can be lengthy and occasionally drag on, but fortunately, you have the option to skip them if you prefer to get back to the action.
Complex Systems Can Be Overwhelming: The game introduces multiple systems that can take a while to master. More action-oriented players might find the learning curve steep and may lose patience before fully appreciating the depth of the gameplay.
Challenging 100% Completion: For completionists, achieving 100% can be a daunting and time-consuming task, requiring dedication and persistence.
Final Verdict: A Must-Play for RPG Fans
Xenoblade Chronicles X offers a rich and immersive experience that blends deep gameplay mechanics, a surprising storyline, and high production values. The addition of Skells and online play makes the game even more appealing for fans of open-world RPGs. While it may not be for everyone due to its complexity and lengthy narrative segments, those who invest the time will be rewarded with one of the most ambitious and satisfying RPG experiences available. With all its strengths and a few minor flaws, Xenoblade Chronicles X easily earns its place as a must-play title.
Final Score: 9.2
Check out Nintendo’s official website for the game.
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