Another one of my absolute favorite JRPGs that took me on an emotional journey I wasn’t prepared for. The beginning is a bit weird with the anime tropes and lighter tone but when this game decides to get serious it becomes something truly special.
The story starts off feeling like a typical shonen adventure but gradually reveals layers of depth that rival the first game. Rex and Pyra’s relationship evolves beautifully from simple driver and blade to something much more meaningful. Every party member has their own compelling arc and watching them grow together as a found family is heartwarming. The last 10% of the game is absolutely insane with revelation after revelation that completely reframes everything. That final area and the story beats that happen there left me speechless.
Combat takes the foundation from XC1 and adds so much depth with the blade system. Managing your blade combos and driver arts while building up those elemental orbs for massive chain attacks is incredibly satisfying. Each blade changes how you play and experimenting with different combinations kept battles fresh for 50 hours.
The world of Alrest is gorgeous with each titan having its own distinct identity and culture. Gormott’s rolling plains, Uraya’s bioluminescent stomach, Mor Ardain’s industrial landscape, every area is memorable. The sense of verticality as you explore these living titans is amazing and finding all the hidden areas and secret bosses rewarded exploration.
The blade gacha system is actually fun despite being RNG. Getting a new rare blade with their own quest and story made each pull exciting. The variety in blade designs and personalities adds so much character to the world. Some of the blade quests are genuinely touching and add depth to the lore.
Characters like Nia, Morag, and Zeke are some of the best in any JRPG. Their interactions and banter during gameplay make traveling through Alrest entertaining. The English voice acting gets memed on but honestly it grew on me and gives the game its own charm. Some line deliveries are genuinely fantastic especially during emotional scenes.
The soundtrack is phenomenal as expected from Xenoblade. Counterattack, Roaming the Wastes, and the area themes are all incredible. But it’s the emotional tracks that really shine. The music during key story moments enhances every scene and several tracks made me tear up.
When this game wants to make you feel something it absolutely succeeds. The themes of purpose, mortality, and what it means to be alive are explored brilliantly. By the end I was completely invested in every character’s fate and the finale is one of the most satisfying in any game I’ve played.
50 hours flew by and I immediately wanted more which thankfully Torna provided. This game is special and deserves to be experienced by any JRPG fan.