Xenoblade Chronicles 2, developed by Monolith Soft and published by Nintendo, is an epic action role-playing game that debuted on the Nintendo Switch in December 2017. Known for its expansive world, intricate storyline, and unique battle system, the game quickly became a must-play title for RPG enthusiasts. This review delves into the various aspects that make Xenoblade Chronicles 2 a captivating experience, from its narrative depth to its gameplay mechanics and visual artistry.

Storyline and Characters

At the heart of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is its rich narrative that explores themes of friendship, sacrifice, and destiny. The story follows a young salvager named Rex and his Blade companion, Pyra, as they embark on a quest to find Elysium, a mythical paradise. The world of Alrest, where the game is set, consists of vast oceans and towering Titans, which serve as habitats for various civilizations.

The character development in Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a standout feature. Rex, the protagonist, is portrayed with depth and sincerity, making his journey relatable and compelling. Pyra, along with her alter ego Mythra, adds complexity to the narrative, providing both emotional and narrative weight. The supporting cast, including characters like Nia, Tora, and Zeke, each bring their own unique personalities and backstories, enriching the overall storytelling experience.

Discover more about the game on Nintendo’s official site.

Gameplay Mechanics

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 employs a real-time action combat system that is both intricate and rewarding. Players control Drivers, who are linked to Blades—sentient weapons that grant special abilities. This Driver-Blade system introduces a layer of strategy, as players must carefully select their Blade combinations to exploit enemy weaknesses and enhance their team’s capabilities.

Combat involves chaining together Driver Arts (special attacks) and Blade Arts (abilities granted by Blades) to create devastating combos. The game encourages players to think tactically, as positioning, timing, and team synergy play crucial roles in battle success. As players progress, they unlock new abilities and Blades, adding depth and variety to the combat experience.

Read IGN’s perspective on the game’s combat system.

Exploration and World Design

The world of Alrest is a sprawling, visually stunning landscape that invites exploration. Each Titan features distinct environments, from lush forests to frozen tundras, teeming with diverse wildlife and hidden treasures. The game rewards curiosity, offering numerous side quests and challenges that encourage players to venture off the beaten path.

Navigating the world is facilitated by a fast travel system, allowing players to quickly move between discovered landmarks. This feature is particularly useful given the game’s massive scale. However, the map interface can be somewhat cumbersome, occasionally making navigation less intuitive than desired.

Kotaku’s take on the game’s exploration elements.

Visual and Audio Presentation

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 boasts a vibrant art style that combines anime-inspired character designs with breathtaking landscapes. The attention to detail in both character and environment design is impressive, creating a visually cohesive world that draws players in.

The game’s soundtrack, composed by Yasunori Mitsuda and others, is a masterful blend of orchestral and electronic elements. The music enhances the emotional impact of the narrative and complements the grandeur of the game’s world. Voice acting, available in both English and Japanese, adds another layer of immersion, although the English voice work can occasionally feel uneven.

Explore GameSpot’s review of the game’s visual and audio aspects.

Replayability and Additional Content

One of Xenoblade Chronicles 2’s strengths is its replayability. The game offers a New Game Plus mode, allowing players to restart the game with their current Blades and levels intact. This feature encourages players to experiment with different strategies and explore alternative narrative paths.

Additionally, the game offers a substantial amount of downloadable content (DLC), including the Torna – The Golden Country expansion. This prequel adds a new storyline, characters, and gameplay mechanics, providing further insights into the game’s lore and extending the overall experience.

Learn about the Torna expansion on Polygon.

Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is a testament to the power of storytelling and creativity in the realm of video games. Its combination of a thought-provoking narrative, immersive world design, and dynamic gameplay mechanics make it a standout title on the Nintendo Switch. While not without its flaws, such as occasional performance issues and a steep learning curve, the game’s strengths far outweigh its shortcomings.

For players seeking an RPG that offers depth, emotion, and adventure, Xenoblade Chronicles 2 is an essential journey. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of the series or new to the world of Alrest, this game promises an unforgettable experience that will resonate long after the credits roll.

Check Metacritic for additional reviews and scores.