8.2 for Lost Odyssey IGN(us)

[Dodece]

My thoughts on the subject.

First I applaud IGN for placing a little more emphasis on how the game plays rather then on what are basically western hangups about the genre as a whole. Nice to see that the reviewers know where a gamers priorities lie. I may not forgive a games flaws in other areas, but my reaction will be more favorable as long as how the game plays when I am hitting buttons is engaging.

Second a archetypal story line out of Japan? That was a rhetorical question by the way. While I applaud the notion that the genre needs to deviate more from this formula. I am a realist, and I can't fault any developer for playing it safe as it were. That said the flare with which it is done, or a unique theme might make it more palatable. Perhaps I am unique but being an avid anime buff I have grown accustomed to the fact that formulas seem to be a hard thing to get away from so you might as well except that they are going to be.

Third I would say the review is balanced given the reviewers preference, and belief that most 360 owners prefer real time Role Playing Games. That said he did a reasonable job of setting aside his feelings on the subject, and placing himself in the position of someone who would like this type of game. That said I suppose you have some room to curve for your preference.

I would say based on the review that it is a very solid JRPG that does a few things very well, has some technical difficulties, and has a standard story line. That said its hard to overlook its position in the landscape. There have been damn few JRPGs this generation, and while the 360 has more then most this one looks to fill a stylistic void. You probably should pick up the title. The lasting appeal should make that an easy choice if you enjoy the genre.

Nice to finally get a professional review to work from. Not that my fellow gamers are incompetent in any way. They just have a stake in the outcome. When you pay sixty dollars for something you want it to be good. On the opposite end when its everything you don't like you can go the completely opposite direction and thrash it more then necessary. The professional reviewer has no real vested interest in the game beyond preconceived notions, and there isn't much that can be done about that.