Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition cover image

Links

Amazon

Twitch

MONSTER

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition
Item: Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2020

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Anime and JRPG, Drama, Single Player

AvailableMay 29, 2020

PlatformNintendo Switch

DeveloperMonolith Soft

Overview

Discover the origins of Shulk as he and his companions clash against a seemingly-unstoppable mechanical menace. Wield a future-seeing blade, chain together attacks, and carefully position your party members in strategic, real-time combat as you journey across a massive world.

Elsewhere

8.6

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

93%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praise the grandiose and engaging narrative, with relatable characters and surprising twists. Critics such as Daily Star and GameSpew highlight the compelling nature of the story, full of drama and emotional moments. The Digital Fix and Trusted Reviews commend the fantastic storytelling, with significant moments scattered throughout the campaign. The narrative is described as bombastic, dramatic, moving, heartfelt, and tightly written, making it one of the best in the franchise, according to My Nintendo News. On the negative side, some critics mention that the story may seem familiar or juvenile at first, but becomes more enjoyable once accepted, as mentioned by Press Start Australia. GameCrate mentions that while the story is okay, the standout aspects are the characters and the world's atmosphere. Digitally Downloaded points out that the narrative explores themes of conflict between the artificial and the biological, as well as a Nietzschean philosophy of rebelling against 'God', which may not resonate with all players. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the story of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is highly praised. The majority of the critics find the story to be very good, engaging, and charming. The narrative is commended for its emotional depth, likable characters, surprising twists, and the additional content in the form of Future Connected. The story is described as tightly written, fully voiced, and one of the best in the genre. The strength and specificity of the game's vision, as well as its balance of linear storytelling and open-world exploration, are also highlighted. The positive reception from the critics solidifies the notion that the story of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a standout aspect of the game.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics rave about Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition's captivating narrative, praising its emotional depth, likable characters, and surprising twists. Some find the story initially familiar but ultimately enjoyable, while others highlight the exploration of deep themes like conflict and rebellion. Overall, critics agree that the story is a standout feature of the game, with its tightly written, fully voiced, and engaging storytelling setting it apart as one of the best in its genre.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

87%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

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

The majority of the critics praised the gameplay of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, with many highlighting its positive aspects. App Trigger commends the combat system for being simple yet deep, with different characters having unique combat styles and abilities. Digitally Downloaded mentions that the combat system is dynamic and exciting, heavily inspired by MMOs, with a skill bar and cooldowns for key abilities. They also note the addition of the "foresight" feature, which adds depth and strategy to the combat. The combat system is also described as robust and refined by Daily Star, with quality of life improvements that make the adventure more accessible for new players. However, there are a few criticisms regarding the gameplay. KeenGamer mentions that while the battle system is perfect, the frequency of Shulk's visions of the future can be disruptive. My Nintendo News points out the lack of strategic depth in the new chain attack system. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus among the critics is that the gameplay of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is highly enjoyable and well-executed. The gameplay of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition offers a mix of action and RPG sensibilities, with accessible mechanics and helpful tutorials, as noted by Destructoid. GameCrate highlights the hybrid battle system that requires strategy and thoughtful decision-making. The combat and exploration in the game are also praised by Metro GameCentral, with a unique combat system and a huge game world that offers interesting exploration and side quests. The gameplay loop of exploration, combat, quests, and spending time with the party is well-executed, according to Noisy Pixel. In conclusion, the overall sentiment among the critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition. The combat system is highly praised for its depth, accessibility, and strategic elements. The game offers a massive world to explore, with plenty of things to see and do. The improvements made to the gameplay, such as quality of life tweaks and new gameplay elements, are also appreciated. While there are a few minor criticisms, they do not overshadow the overall consensus that the gameplay of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is highly enjoyable and well-crafted.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics rave about Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition gameplay, praising its deep combat system inspired by MMOs, dynamic battles, and robust mechanics with quality of life improvements. Some minor criticisms include disruptions from Shulk's visions and lack of depth in the chain attack system. Overall, the game offers an enjoyable mix of action and RPG elements, with accessible mechanics, strategic decision-making, and vast exploration opportunities, making it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

33%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praised the enhanced visuals, character models, and textures. App Trigger, Daily Star, DarkStation, Digitally Downloaded, GameCrate, Impulsegamer, KeenGamer, Metro GameCentral, Nintendo Enthusiast, Noisy Pixel, Player 2, Press Start Australia, Screen Rant, Slant Magazine, Stevivor, The Digital Fix, The Games Machine, TheSixthAxis, Trusted Reviews, VG247, Video Chums, Wccftech, and ZTGD all commended the graphical improvements in the Definitive Edition. They mentioned vivid colors, impressive character models, and beautifully designed environments. The game's world was described as breathtaking, epic, and immersive, with stunning vistas and locales. The visual upgrade was seen as a major selling point, making the game look more in-line with newer titles and enhancing the overall experience. However, there were some criticisms raised by a few critics. Destructoid, GameSpew, Gameblog.fr, My Nintendo News, and Worth Playing mentioned limitations in resolution, occasional blurriness, rudimentary textures, limited draw distance, and muddy visuals in handheld mode. Some critics, such as Daily Star and Press Start Australia, also noted a lack of environmental detail and dated environments. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment remained positive, with the majority of critics still appreciating the graphical enhancements and improvements. In conclusion, the Graphics and Visual Design of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition received high praise from the majority of critics. The enhanced visuals, character models, and textures were widely commended, with many critics noting the game's stunning landscapes and immersive world. While there were some minor criticisms regarding resolution limitations and occasional graphical imperfections, these were overshadowed by the overall positive consensus. The graphical upgrade was seen as a significant improvement over the original version, bringing the game closer to the visual quality of newer titles and enhancing the overall experience for players.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics overwhelmingly praised the enhanced visuals, character models, and textures in Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, calling the world breathtaking and immersive. While some critics noted minor issues like limited resolution and occasional blurriness in handheld mode, the majority still appreciated the graphical improvements, making the game look more in-line with newer titles and enhancing the overall experience.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

85%

Mixed (50-79)

15%

Negative (0-49)

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

The Sound Design and Music of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition received overwhelmingly positive reviews from the majority of critics. Many critics praised the game's soundtrack, with several describing it as one of the best in any RPG. App Trigger and KeenGamer specifically mentioned the game's exceptional soundtrack, with KeenGamer recommending the Japanese voice acting over the English version. GameCrate and Noisy Pixel highlighted the incredible music, mentioning grand pieces that fit the world and battles, and engaging battle themes featuring electric guitar. The Digital Fix and ZTGD also praised the soundtrack, with The Digital Fix mentioning brilliant jazz-inspired music and ZTGD describing it as a fantastic mix of classical and hard rock. The overall consensus among critics is that the music in Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is exceptional, adding depth and enhancing the overall experience of the game. While the majority of critics had positive opinions about the Sound Design and Music of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, there were a few minor criticisms. Trusted Reviews mentioned that the overly British voice acting may be jarring to some, although it is delivered with enough campy conviction to land its narrative touchstones. Video Chums pointed out that while the voice acting is fantastic and the characters have unique personalities, the voice clips repeat too often. These criticisms, however, were relatively minor and did not significantly impact the overall positive reception of the game's sound design and music. In conclusion, the Sound Design and Music of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition received high praise from the majority of critics. The exceptional soundtrack was a standout feature, with critics describing it as one of the best in any RPG. The music was praised for its grand pieces, engaging battle themes, and a mix of genres such as jazz, classical, and hard rock. While there were some minor criticisms, such as the repetitive voice clips and the jarring nature of the British voice acting to some, these did not detract from the overall positive consensus among critics. Overall, the Sound Design and Music of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition were highly regarded and contributed significantly to the game's immersive and enjoyable experience.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics overwhelmingly praised the Sound Design and Music of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, hailing its exceptional soundtrack as one of the best in any RPG. While some minor criticisms were noted, like repetitive voice clips and overly British voice acting, they didn't dampen the overall positive reception. The music was lauded for its grand pieces, engaging battle themes, and diverse genres like jazz, classical, and hard rock, enhancing the game's immersive experience.

Voice Acting

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

39%

Mixed (50-79)

61%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the voice acting in Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition are quite varied. Several critics, such as Daily Star and Nintendo Enthusiast, praise the English voice cast for its charm and heavily British accents. They believe that the voice acting adds depth and personality to the characters, enhancing the overall experience of the game. Additionally, critics like Destructoid and GameCrate appreciate the returning voice actors and solid performances, with GameCrate specifically mentioning the addition of new voice work for the new epilogue. These positive opinions highlight the successful execution of the voice acting in bringing the characters to life. However, not all critics share the same sentiment. Impulsegamer expresses dissatisfaction with the English voice acting, describing it as terrible. They suggest opting for the Japanese voice pack as an alternative. KeenGamer goes a step further and recommends the Japanese voice acting over the English version. Metro GameCentral also has reservations, stating that the voice-acting is an acquired taste, with some actors sounding like they're voicing a kids' cartoon. These negative opinions indicate that the English voice acting may not resonate with all players and could potentially detract from the overall immersion. Overall, the consensus among the critics leans towards a positive evaluation of the voice acting in Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition. While there are some criticisms and preferences for the Japanese voice acting, the majority of reviewers appreciate the efforts of the English voice cast. The voice acting is commended for adding charm, depth, and weight to the characters and their interactions. The availability of both English and Japanese voice acting options is seen as a positive aspect, allowing players to choose their preferred language. Despite some reservations and personal preferences, the voice acting in Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition generally receives praise and is considered a strong aspect of the game's overall presentation.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics are split on the voice acting in Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition. Some praise the English cast for adding charm and depth to characters, while others find it terrible and recommend the Japanese voice pack instead. Overall, most reviewers appreciate the English voice acting for bringing characters to life, but some suggest that it may not appeal to everyone. The availability of both English and Japanese options gives players choice, with the voice acting generally considered a strong aspect of the game's presentation.

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

38%

Mixed (50-79)

62%

Negative (0-49)

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

In terms of the Technical Performance on the Nintendo Switch, the majority of critics had positive opinions. DarkStation commends the game for running great on the Switch, while GameSpew mentions that there are no distracting framerate drops. Stevivor also praises the smooth performance and barely noticeable loading times. These reviews highlight the overall positive experience of playing Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition on the Nintendo Switch. However, there were some negative aspects mentioned by a few critics. Press Start Australia notes that the game's resolution can be toned down for smooth performance, but this can result in a muddy appearance. TheSixthAxis mentions that the game targets 30fps and mostly achieves it, but the Future Connected epilogue is more prone to frame rate dips. Additionally, VG247 points out that the resolution can vary and drop during busy moments. These criticisms suggest that there are occasional technical issues that impact the overall experience on the Nintendo Switch. Overall, the consensus among critics for the Technical Performance of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition on the Nintendo Switch is generally positive. The game maintains decent performance with no distracting framerate drops, and loading times are minimal. However, there are some minor technical issues such as occasional frame rate dips and varying resolution. Despite these drawbacks, the game runs smoothly and provides an enjoyable experience on the Nintendo Switch.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics mostly praise Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition on Nintendo Switch for great performance with minimal issues like framerate drops. However, some mention occasional resolution problems and frame rate dips, but overall, the game still offers a smooth and enjoyable experience on the console.

Replay Value

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

20%

Negative (0-49)

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

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics highlighted the addition of the epilogue called Future Connected as a major factor that enhances the replayability of the game. App Trigger, Daily Star, GameSpew, Metro GameCentral, Nintendo Enthusiast, Screen Rant, Stevivor, TheGamer, TheSixthAxis, Trusted Reviews, VG247, VGC, Video Chums, and Worth Playing all mentioned the inclusion of Future Connected and its impact on the game's replay value. This new content provides players with something fresh and extends the playtime by 10-25 hours, depending on the critic. The critics also mentioned the optional challenge mode trials, side quests, hidden areas, and side activities that can be discovered upon returning to the game with a more powerful character, adding to the replayability factor. The inclusion of new game modes, such as Casual Mode and Hardcore Mode, and the Fashion Gear feature were also highlighted as additional elements that provide replay value to the game (Nintendo Enthusiast). Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, a few critics did mention some negatives regarding the replay value of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition. Gameblog.fr mentioned the absence of certain features from the previous version, which could potentially impact the replayability for some players. Additionally, Destructoid pointed out that while the game offers a meaty experience with the optional challenge mode trials and the 15-hour epilogue, it may not be enough to entice all players to replay the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition has excellent replay value. The addition of the Future Connected epilogue, along with the optional challenge mode trials, side quests, hidden areas, and side activities, provides players with a substantial amount of new content to explore and enjoy. The critics praised the game for its extended playtime, with some mentioning that it can take around 80 hours to complete the main story and additional content. The inclusion of new game modes and accessibility options, as well as the improvements in visuals and quality-of-life, were also mentioned as factors that contribute to the game's replayability. The overwhelmingly positive reception from the majority of the critics indicates that Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition offers a highly replayable experience for fans of the genre (The Digital Fix, The Games Machine, TheGamer, TheSixthAxis, Video Chums).

TL;DR

replay value

Critics rave about Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition's replay value, praising the new content like the Future Connected epilogue, optional challenges, and hidden areas that add 10-25 extra hours of gameplay. Some critics noted the absence of certain features and questioned if it's enough to entice all players to replay. Overall, the game offers around 80 hours of gameplay, new modes, improved visuals, and quality-of-life features, making it highly replayable for genre fans.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

96%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

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

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from the critics, with the majority considering it a very good game. The positive aspects of the game highlighted by the reviewers include its engaging story, beautiful visuals, improved graphics, delightful audio, and enhanced gameplay mechanics. Critics such as DarkStation and Gameblog.fr praise the game for its great story and improved graphics, with the latter even calling it a masterpiece. The addition of new content, such as the Future Connected story, is also appreciated by Noisy Pixel and Slant Magazine. The game's quality of life improvements, including audiovisual enhancements and additional content, are commended by GameCrate and Worth Playing. The overall sentiment among the critics is that Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition offers a charming and engaging adventure that is a must-play for JRPG fans. While the overall consensus of the critics is highly positive, there are some minor negatives mentioned by a few reviewers. Daily Star and Gameblog.fr mention that the game still retains some dated JRPG design elements, which may not appeal to everyone. Digitally Downloaded expresses some disappointment with missed opportunities to improve certain aspects of the game. Gameblog.fr also mentions concerns about the character redesign and the impression of the game being more casual. However, these negatives are outweighed by the positive aspects of the game mentioned earlier. Overall, the critics' opinions on the overall verdict of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition are overwhelmingly positive. The game is praised as a masterpiece, a restoration masterpiece, and a must-play JRPG. Critics such as Destructoid and The Games Machine consider it a modern classic and a timeless RPG. The game's improvements in gameplay, graphics, and additional content are highlighted as positive aspects by Slant Magazine and The Digital Fix. TheGamer and Trusted Reviews describe it as a triumphant return and a love letter to the franchise. The consensus among the critics is that Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a highly recommended game that offers an exceptional JRPG experience and is a must-have for any fan of the genre.

TL;DR

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a critically acclaimed JRPG masterpiece praised for its engaging story, beautiful visuals, and enhanced gameplay mechanics. Critics laud it as a must-play with new content and quality of life improvements. Some mention minor flaws like dated design elements, but the overwhelmingly positive sentiment is that this game is a modern classic and a love letter to the franchise, offering an exceptional JRPG experience for fans of the genre.

MONSTER

Reviews

142 reviews found

100

Player 2

Nintendo Switch

May 27, 2020

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

Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition revitalizes the classic Wii title and brings it to a new generation with love and care. It is a must-have for any JRPG fan.

Read full review

100

VGC

Nintendo Switch

May 27, 2020

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

The review describes the game as a love letter to one of the best JRPGs of the last 20 years and praises its tweaks and polish. It also mentions that it is the best of Monolith Soft's three Xenoblade games.

Read full review

100

VG247

Nintendo Switch

May 27, 2020

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

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a must-own for any RPG fan with a Switch, offering improvements upon the original game and delivering a solid version of the Wii classic.

100

DarkStation

Nintendo Switch

Jul 15, 2020

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

The review recommends playing Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition, stating that it's a beautiful game with a great story that finally feels like it's found the system it deserves.

100

Noisy Pixel

Nintendo Switch

Jun 14, 2020

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

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition offers the best way to experience this timeless RPG with improvements to graphics, UI, and the battle system. The added Future Connected story content bridges loose story arcs and paves the way for the future of the series.

Read full review

Video Chums

Nintendo Switch

May 27, 2020

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

Xenoblade Chronicles Definitive Edition is one of the greatest video games ever created and the Definitive Edition manages to make it even better.

Read full review

KeenGamer

Nintendo Switch

Jul 10, 2020

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

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition offers a lovable story, perfect gameplay, gorgeous graphics, and exceptional music. The voice acting in Japanese is recommended. However, no information is provided about technical performance or replay value.

Read full review

ZTGD

Nintendo Switch

Jun 24, 2020

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

Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition is a fantastic game with complex combat, rewarding exploration, and a unique story. Highly recommended for both fans of the original and newcomers.

Read full review

App Trigger

Nintendo Switch

Jul 20, 2020

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

The reviewer gives Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition a score of 9.5 out of 10.

Read full review

Worth Playing

Nintendo Switch

Jun 3, 2020

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

The review states that Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition improves upon an already outstanding title and is a wonderful way to experience the game at its best. The score given is 9.5/10.

Read full review