This is one of my absolute favorite JRPGs of all time and the Definitive Edition is the perfect way to experience it. From the moment the prologue ends this game goes full steam ahead and never lets up for 40 incredible hours.
The story is a masterclass in JRPG storytelling with twist after twist that recontextualizes everything you thought you knew. Watching Shulk’s journey from wanting simple revenge to understanding the true nature of his world is phenomenal. Every party member gets their moment to shine and the way their stories interweave creates this perfect narrative tapestry. The voice acting sells every emotional beat perfectly and some of those screams and battle cries are permanently etched in my memory.
Combat is exactly what I wanted coming from years of playing MMOs especially FF14. The real-time system where you’re managing positioning and cooldowns while chaining arts together feels so natural. Building up that party gauge for chain attacks and seeing those damage numbers explode never gets old. Each character plays completely differently and swapping between them keeps combat fresh throughout. The vision system where you see and can change the future is genius and adds this strategic layer that makes boss fights incredible.
The world design is breathtaking even with the older graphics showing through the remake. Standing on the Bionis’ leg and looking out at the Mechonis in the distance gives you this sense of scale that few games match. Every area feels massive and begs to be explored with secrets hidden everywhere. The day/night cycle and weather changes make these environments feel alive and the music shifts to match perfectly.
Speaking of music, the soundtrack is absolutely god-tier. Gaur Plain, Engage the Enemy, You Will Know Our Names, every single track is a masterpiece. I still listen to this soundtrack regularly and it never gets old. The way the music swells during emotional moments or kicks into high gear during battles elevates every scene.
Future Connected is a nice epilogue that gives Melia the focus she deserves and sets up connections to the rest of the series. The new Ponspector system is fun and the story provides good closure while opening new questions.
The Definitive Edition improvements make this the only way to play. Updated character models look great even if environments show their age a bit. The quality of life improvements like quest tracking and cosmetic armor options are game changers. Being able to play this masterpiece handheld on Switch is a blessing.
This game consumed my life for those 40 hours and I loved every second. The perfect blend of story, characters, gameplay, and music that defines what a JRPG should be. An absolute must-play.