The Xenoblade Chronicles Series Thread: Definitive Edition (All Spoilers in Tags)

[LipeJJ]

RolStoppable said:

LipeJJ said:

I would really like advice from the Xenoblade community. I’ve never played a Xenoblade game before, and I don’t understand how the battle system works, but I’m into JRPGs and was always curious about the series. Plus, I haven’t played a JRPG since FFXV, which was a mess imo (a lot of highs and lows, never knew what to think of it).

My question is: Do you think I would like XC2? Is it a good place to start? Is it hard to get into the game and combat system (I hated Octopath Travelever based on the demo because it felt overly complicated)?

If you consider OT overly complicated, then Xenoblade games aren't for you. They are infamous for having several layers of systems and despite an abundance of tutorials they aren't easy to understand, because the amount of information you need to remember is overwhelming. Of course the people who get a hang of everything will tell you that Xenoblade games are awesome, and they are, but you better be prepared to have patience and a willingness to repeatedly ask other people about the combat options you have. The common JRPG method to simply outgrind the enemies that give you trouble isn't really an option in the Xenoblade games.

The combat systems in Xenoblade games are a mixture of real time and turn-based battles, so there are dozens of numbers popping up every second and you don't get a pause to plan anything. You have to adjust on the fly and be ready for it.

Like Wyrdness said, XC2 goes easy on you initially (the first 10-15 hours). However, afterwards the kids gloves are off and you absolutely need to know what you are doing. XC2 has a great story and offers a lot of freedom, so it's certainly worth playing. But if you aren't willing to overcome one or the other frustrating setback in video games, you better stay clear of Xenoblade games.

EDIT: Only the short chapter 1 (~2 hours long I'd say) is linear. From chapter 2 onwards, you have a wealth of options in exploring big plains, doing sidequests or simply following the story. By the way, there are no penalties for dying other than returning to the last travel point you passed and all enemies respawning. You get to keep all the EXP, gold etc. that you collected up until your failure.

I don't have a problem with complex gameplay mechanics, if the game is good I'll eat that gladly. My views are basically what @Jumpin said (regarding Octopath Travelever). After reading responses and watching some gameplays, I decided to give it a go after I finish Kirby. Should be a fun ride, and I'll need help from you and other experienced players too.