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FANTASIAN Neo Dimension

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension
Item: FANTASIAN Neo Dimension
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresRPG, Anime and JRPG, Single Player

AvailableDec 5, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PC

DeveloperMistwalker

Overview

The father of Final Fantasy, Hironobu Sakaguchi, and renowned composer Nobuo Uematsu return to deliver an original RPG story. Experience an enhanced version of FANTASIAN, initially released for Apple Arcade in 2021, with brand-new features, including English and Japanese voiceovers and an additional difficulty option. In FANTASIAN Neo Dimension, assume the role of Leo, as he journeys to recover his memories and solve the mystery of a strange mechanical infection destroying his world.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension impresses with its engaging narrative and character-driven storytelling, earning praise for its nostalgic homage to classic JRPGs and well-crafted side quests. Critics celebrate the rich character dynamics and emotional stakes, yet many highlight the story's reliance on clichés and familiar tropes, leading to uneven pacing and predictability. While it charms with its nostalgic feel, the game ultimately struggles with originality, leaving some players satisfied and others craving deeper innovation.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

53%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension has garnered a range of positive feedback from various critics, highlighting its engaging narrative and character-driven approach. Many reviewers, such as Digital Chumps and Player 2, commend the game for its intriguing journey and well-designed side quests, which contribute to an immersive experience. Critics like Inverse and Noisy Pixel praise the character development and emotional stakes, noting that the interactions between Leo and his companions create a rich tapestry of storytelling. The game’s homage to classic JRPG elements, particularly its nostalgic themes of amnesia and adventure, resonates well with players, as seen in the opinions of Hobby Consolas and Nintendo Insider, who appreciate the charming cast and the narrative's ability to evoke fond memories of earlier titles. Conversely, several reviewers point out significant shortcomings in the story, particularly its reliance on clichés and familiar tropes. Critics such as TheXboxHub and RPG Fan express disappointment over the narrative's lack of originality, describing it as uninspired and derivative, often feeling like a rehash of classic Final Fantasy storylines. Issues with pacing and character depth are also highlighted, with GamingTrend and Digital Trends noting that the uneven pacing detracts from the main plot, while IGN Brasil mentions that the characters lack memorability. Additionally, some critics, like SpazioGames and Eurogamer, emphasize that despite the engaging premise, the execution often falls short, leading to a narrative that feels predictable and lacking in substance. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while FANTASIAN Neo Dimension offers a charming and nostalgic experience, it is hindered by its reliance on established tropes and uneven storytelling. Many reviewers appreciate the emotional depth and character interactions, as highlighted by Digital Chumps and Player 2, but also recognize the narrative's shortcomings, as noted by critics like TheXboxHub and RPG Fan. The game appears to strike a balance between engaging storytelling and familiar RPG conventions, leaving some players satisfied while others seek more innovation and depth in the narrative.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension impresses with its innovative turn-based combat and strategic Dimengeon mechanics, earning praise for immersive handcrafted dioramas and engaging side quests. Critics commend its dynamic character skills, but note issues like grinding, awkward controls post-mobile transition, and vague progression lacking a skill tree. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a fresh and enjoyable experience for JRPG fans, blending depth with engaging gameplay.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its innovative turn-based combat system and unique mechanics. Reviewers such as Digital Trends and TheXboxHub praised the strategic elements introduced by the Dimengeon mechanic, which allows players to manage random encounters effectively. The game features a Conditional Turn-Based Battle system that adds depth to combat, as noted by But Why Tho? and CGMagazine. Critics also appreciated the exploration of handcrafted dioramas, which enhances immersion and visual appeal, with Gameliner emphasizing the rewarding side quests that complement the overall gameplay experience. The variety of character skills and tactical attack directions, as highlighted by Digital Chumps and Player 2, contribute to a dynamic combat environment that keeps players engaged. However, despite the many strengths, several reviewers pointed out notable weaknesses in the gameplay. Some critics, including GameOver.gr and GamingTrend, mentioned balance issues that can lead to excessive grinding, particularly in the latter stages of the game. This sentiment was echoed by PlayStation Universe, who noted that the game becomes grindy as players progress, requiring significant leveling up. Additionally, the transition from mobile to console has resulted in some awkward control schemes, as observed by Digital Trends and TheXboxHub, which detracts from the overall experience. Critics like IGN Brasil also raised concerns about vague progression and a lack of a skill tree, which can lead to confusion regarding character development. Overall, the consensus among critics is that FANTASIAN Neo Dimension offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience, particularly for fans of turn-based RPGs. The innovative mechanics, such as the Dimengeon system and strategic attack trajectories, have been well-received, with many reviewers praising the depth and engagement of the combat. While there are criticisms regarding balance, control issues, and some repetitiveness, the majority of critics, including RPG Fan and Checkpoint Gaming, agree that the game successfully delivers a fresh take on traditional JRPG elements, making it a worthwhile experience for players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension wows critics with its stunning graphics and artistic brilliance, utilizing real dioramas that evoke classic RPG nostalgia. Reviewers rave about its immersive environments and retro charm, especially on high-end consoles. However, some note a lack of detail in character models and occasional blurriness in backgrounds, leading to mixed feelings about visual consistency. Overall, it’s a visual triumph with room for improvement in character design.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

35%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension have garnered a largely positive reception among critics, who have praised the game for its stunning presentation and unique artistic direction. Many reviewers, including Digital Trends and CGMagazine, highlighted the use of real-life dioramas that have been meticulously scanned into the game, resulting in breathtaking environments that evoke nostalgia for classic RPGs, particularly the PS1 era. Critics like Digital Chumps and Gameliner noted that the game features beautifully crafted dioramas that create a visually immersive experience, with environments that are both detailed and artistically compelling. The fixed camera angles, as mentioned by Digital Trends and Player 2, contribute to a retro flair that enhances the overall aesthetic, making the game visually striking, especially on powerful platforms like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. For instance, while the diorama environments are praised, reviewers such as Worth Playing and GamingTrend observed that character models sometimes appear simplistic or reminiscent of mobile games, which detracts from the overall visual coherence. Additionally, several critics, including IGN Adria and GameSpew, mentioned issues with blurriness and lack of sharpness in certain backgrounds, particularly when viewed on larger screens or in 4K resolution. This indicates that while the environmental design is strong, the character textures and some graphical elements may not meet the same high standards, leading to a somewhat inconsistent visual experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that FANTASIAN Neo Dimension excels in its graphics and visual design, with a majority praising the innovative use of handcrafted dioramas and the nostalgic aesthetic that resonates with fans of classic RPGs. Critics like Digital Chumps and Hobby Consolas emphasized the game's artistic vision and immersive environments, affirming that the visual design is a standout feature. However, the mixed feedback regarding character models and occasional graphical inconsistencies suggests that while the game is visually impressive, there is room for improvement. In summary, FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is celebrated for its unique and beautiful visual style, capturing the essence of classic RPGs while also facing some challenges in character design and graphical fidelity.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension’s sound design and music, led by Nobuo Uematsu, have garnered wide acclaim for their emotional depth and immersive quality, especially in key scenes and battles. Critics laud the nostalgic inclusion of classic Final Fantasy tracks, enhancing the experience for fans. However, some feel Uematsu's new compositions lack the standout brilliance of his earlier works, with critiques pointing to generic battle themes that fall flat. Overall, while there are mixed opinions on originality, the soundtrack and sound design are celebrated as vital components that enrich the game's atmosphere and narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

87%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

13%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension have received an overwhelmingly positive reception from critics, with many praising the exceptional work of renowned composer Nobuo Uematsu. Reviewers such as Digital Trends and TheXboxHub highlighted the fantastic soundtrack that enhances emotional scenes and boss battles, creating a deeply immersive experience. The ability to customize the soundtrack by incorporating classic Final Fantasy music has been noted as a nostalgic touch that resonates with fans, as seen in the opinions of critics like GameSpew and GamingTrend. Critics also appreciated the quality of the voice acting, which adds depth to the characters and narrative, enhancing the overall audio experience, as noted by Digital Chumps and Noisy Pixel. However, not all opinions were uniformly positive. Some critics, like GameOver.gr and GamersRD, felt that while Uematsu's music was characteristic, it lacked the standout quality of his previous works, describing it as more generic or lackluster. Critics such as Hobby Consolas pointed out that the original battle melodies did not leave a lasting impression, suggesting that the option to switch to Final Fantasy soundtracks underscored the weaknesses in FANTASIAN's original compositions. This sentiment was echoed by Nintendo Insider, who felt that the battle themes were lacking compared to the environmental and cutscene tracks, indicating a missed opportunity for stronger musical integration. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension are strong elements of the game, with the majority praising Uematsu's contributions and the nostalgic options available to players. Critics like IGN Brasil and Push Square emphasized the emotional depth and nostalgia evoked by the soundtrack, while others highlighted the overall quality of the audio experience. Despite some criticisms regarding the originality and memorability of specific tracks, the prevailing sentiment is that the music and sound design significantly enhance the game's atmosphere and narrative, making it a noteworthy aspect of the overall experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is widely praised for enhancing emotional depth and storytelling, with critics noting strong performances that boost immersion. However, some reviewers find it lacks standout quality and note the absence of Spanish translation limits accessibility. Overall, it’s seen as a valuable asset to the game's narrative, despite minor criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

61%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in FANTASIAN Neo Dimension has garnered a largely positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers noted that the inclusion of voice acting, available in both English and Japanese, significantly enhances the emotional weight of the narrative and overall storytelling experience. For instance, Digital Trends emphasized that the voice acting adds emotional depth to the story, while IGN Adria highlighted how it enriches the narrative through animations and optional scenes. Critics like Digital Chumps and GameSpew praised the performances for bringing characters to life and enhancing player immersion, suggesting that the voice acting contributes positively to character interactions and the overall gaming experience. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting in FANTASIAN Neo Dimension. A few reviewers, such as Hobby Consolas and Impulsegamer, pointed out that while the voice acting is solid, it does not stand out as a particularly remarkable feature of the game. My Nintendo News echoed this sentiment by stating that while the voice work brings dialogue to life, it can sometimes feel flat. Additionally, GamersRD mentioned the lack of a Spanish translation, which could limit accessibility for a broader audience. This indicates that while the voice acting is generally well-received, it may not reach the heights of excellence some players might expect. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is a strong asset that enhances the game's narrative and character development. Most reviewers agree that the performances are well-executed and contribute positively to the gaming experience, with critics like Nintendo Insider and New Game Network specifically noting the high quality of the voice work. Despite some reservations about the standout nature of the performances and the lack of additional language translations, the majority view the voice acting as a valuable component that enriches the game's storytelling and emotional engagement.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension performs well on Xbox Series X and PC, with stable gameplay and some accessibility improvements. The PS5 version has minor control issues, while the Nintendo Switch suffers from significant loading times and performance stutters. Despite its mobile origins causing some awkward controls and glitches, most critics agree the game maintains overall stability across platforms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

10%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

87%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with some positive aspects noted by critics. On the Xbox Series X, both Digital Trends and TheXboxHub acknowledged that the game translates well to consoles, maintaining a stable performance without major issues. The PS5 version also received favorable remarks, with IGN Adria noting that the game runs well despite minor issues related to its mobile origins. Critics like GameSpew and Gameliner highlighted enhancements that improve accessibility, and even though there are some loading screen issues, the overall experience remains stable. On PC, reviewers such as New Game Network and RPG Site praised the game for its strong performance, reporting no significant technical issues and smooth gameplay across various setups. Conversely, the negatives for each platform reveal several recurring issues. On Xbox Series X, Digital Trends pointed out awkward controls stemming from the game's mobile origins, particularly during camera shifts. For the PS5, multiple critics, including Digital Chumps and IGN Brasil, noted frustrations with control responsiveness during camera transitions, which can hinder gameplay. Additionally, PlaySense mentioned visual glitches and camera control issues that detract from the experience. The Nintendo Switch version faced the most criticism, with reviewers like Eurogamer and IGN France highlighting significant loading times and performance stutters that disrupt gameplay. Critics also noted navigation issues and the lack of a console-specific interface, which contributed to a frustrating experience for players on this platform. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while FANTASIAN Neo Dimension performs well on Xbox Series X and PC, the PS5 version has some minor control issues that may affect gameplay. However, the Nintendo Switch version appears to struggle the most, with frequent loading times and performance inconsistencies noted by multiple reviewers, including Nintendo Insider and Vandal. Despite these challenges, many critics agree that the game retains a stable performance across platforms, with enhancements that make it more accessible, particularly on consoles. Yet, the remnants of its mobile origins remain a common theme, impacting the overall gameplay experience across all platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension boasts impressive replay value with over 25 hours of gameplay, a New Game Plus feature, and an innovative Dimengeon system that enhances strategic battles. Critics praise its nostalgic charm and varied difficulty levels. However, concerns arise over repetitive enemy encounters, a simplistic main story, and lackluster side quests, which may hinder replay motivation. Overall, while the game has engaging features, its replay appeal is mixed due to these drawbacks.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of FANTASIAN Neo Dimension highlight several positive aspects that contribute to its appeal. Many reviewers appreciate the game's length, with TheXboxHub noting a playtime exceeding 25 hours for a single playthrough, while Hobby Consolas mentions up to 100 hours for completionists. The inclusion of a New Game Plus feature, as pointed out by Gameliner, allows players to revisit the game with enhanced character customization and strategic planning, which can enrich the experience. Additionally, the innovative Dimengeon system, highlighted by Impulsegamer and Checkpoint Gaming, provides players with the flexibility to engage in battles at their convenience, making grinding less tedious and adding layers of replayability. Critics also mention the nostalgic appeal and various difficulty options, which can cater to both casual players and those seeking a challenge. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's replay value. Several reviewers, including GameOver.gr and GameSpew, express concerns about the repetitive nature of enemy encounters and the simplicity of the main story, which may limit the incentive for players to replay the game. PlaySense also points out that while the game encourages exploration, the side quests tend to be lackluster, which could further detract from replayability. Additionally, GameSpew emphasizes that the clichéd story may not motivate players to experience the game again. The uneven character development mentioned by Digital Trends could also pose a barrier for some players looking for a more balanced replay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that FANTASIAN Neo Dimension offers a mixed bag of replay value. While many features, such as the New Game Plus option, Dimengeon system, and various difficulty levels, provide opportunities for replayability, there are significant concerns regarding the game's repetitive elements and lack of depth in the main story. Critics like SpazioGames and Vandal acknowledge that while the game has nostalgic appeal for fans of traditional JRPGs, the inconsistent difficulty and basic additions in later parts of the game may deter players from multiple playthroughs. Thus, while FANTASIAN Neo Dimension has several engaging aspects, its replay value may be limited for some players.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

76%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

24%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment towards FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its nostalgic appeal and engaging gameplay. Reviewers like CGMagazine and But Why Tho? highlight the game as a "gift to JRPG fans" and one of the best RPGs of the year, respectively. The game's stunning visuals, captivating art direction, and rich audio experience are frequently mentioned, with Digital Trends noting the revitalization of the original game through enhanced features. Critics also appreciate the unique combat mechanics and emotional storytelling, as emphasized by Impulsegamer and RPG Site, who commend the game for its inventive gameplay and heartwarming themes. Overall, FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is recognized for successfully blending classic JRPG elements with modern gameplay, making it a worthwhile experience for both longtime fans and newcomers to the genre. However, the game is not without its flaws, which several reviewers have pointed out. Common criticisms include pacing issues, awkward controls, and some repetitiveness in gameplay. For instance, Digital Chumps mentions the need for control improvements, while GamingTrend and Push Square note pacing problems and archetypal characters that detract from the overall experience. Critics like IGN Brasil and Hobby Consolas also highlight the lack of innovation in the narrative and the game's mobile origins as potential drawbacks. These issues seem to resonate across multiple platforms, with reviewers from the Nintendo Switch and PC versions echoing similar sentiments regarding technical shortcomings and generic character designs. Despite the criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is a commendable homage to classic JRPGs, offering a rich and enjoyable experience that captures the essence of the genre. Reviewers such as Player 2 and Worth Playing emphasize that the game's strengths outweigh its weaknesses, making it a must-try for fans of older Final Fantasy titles. While some critics express concerns about the game's pacing and character depth, the majority agree that its visual and auditory elements, along with its engaging gameplay, make it a significant title in the modern RPG landscape. Ultimately, FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is celebrated for its nostalgic charm and engaging mechanics, solidifying its place as a standout in the JRPG genre.

TL;DR

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension garners mostly positive reviews, hailed as a nostalgic gem for JRPG fans with stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and emotional storytelling. Critics applaud its blend of classic and modern elements, calling it one of the year's best RPGs. However, it faces criticism for pacing issues, awkward controls, and some gameplay repetitiveness. While detractors note a lack of innovation and generic character designs, the consensus is that its strengths—visuals, audio, and heartwarming themes—far outweigh the flaws, making it a must-play for both veterans and newcomers to the genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

102 reviews found

100

RPG Site

Dec 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fantasian: Neo Dimension is a thoroughly polished RPG with inventive combat, beautiful visuals, and heartwarming themes. The new release addresses technical issues and adds replay value, earning a 10 out of 10.

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100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Dec 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fantasian is a highly nostalgic and authentic retro throwback JRPG with its own identity. Offers a deep, rich JRPG experience with engaging gameplay mechanics and beautiful visual design, despite some technical issues.

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Player 2

PlayStation 5

Dec 10, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fantasian: Neo Dimension is a definitive upgrade of the acclaimed mobile game, successfully translating its charm and mechanics to console and PC, making it a nostalgic journey for players.

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Inverse

Nintendo Switch

Dec 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fantasian Neo Dimension is a defining RPG of modern gaming, appealing to both old and new fans. It offers an enthralling experience that reminds players why they love video games. The game's ambition, storytelling, and combat design make it worth playing.

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Siliconera

Nintendo Switch

Dec 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fantasian Neo Dimension is praised for its engaging story, challenging gameplay, stunning visuals, voice acting, and replay value, making it a standout JRPG that fans of the genre should not miss.

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But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Dec 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Beautiful adventure with emotional story, fun combat mechanics, and incredible atmosphere, one of the best RPGs of the year

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Wccftech

Dec 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is praised for its charming characters, solid combat, beautiful visuals, amazing soundtrack, and voice acting. It stands out as one of the best JRPGs in recent years, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers.

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Noisy Pixel

Nintendo Switch

Dec 4, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Fantasian Neo Dimension is a must-play for RPG fans seeking a modern classic, offering an engrossing narrative, intuitive combat, stellar voice acting, and unique presentation, despite some performance issues and lackluster side content.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Dec 19, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is a must-play for JRPG fans, combining classic elements with unique features, despite some minor flaws. It serves as a great introduction to the genre.

Gameliner

PlayStation 5

Dec 10, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

FANTASIAN Neo Dimension is a captivating JRPG with an interesting story, engaging gameplay, and beautiful visuals, despite some minor control and loading issues.

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