The incredible Shulk
I understand why many overlooked Xenoblade Chronicles. After a 2011 launch in Europe, this massive JRPG first appeared to be skipping America despite having a full English translation. Then, when it finally did come to the US in 2012, positive buzz couldnt make up for a limited release for a nearly dead console like the Wii. If you regret missing this open-world adventure, western players will finally have a real chance to experience on the New 3DS this April. And after playing the remake, I think its worth a second (or is it third?) look.
With the added power of the New 3DS upgrade, the portable can handle the huge landscapes and fast-paced combat that Xenoblade traffics in. Just as before, you play as scientist/warrior Shulk, the wielder of the magical blade Monado taking humanitys side in a battle of man versus machine. The free-flowing approach to combat takes a cue from MMORPGs, with attack cooldowns that mimic turn-based flow while still feeling active. And Xenoblade still offers a ton of customizability, from weapons, to clothes, to how you build relationships within your party. The 3D version seems to keep everything from the Wii game intact in the transfer to a smaller screen.
As for the New 3DS features, it has strong visuals compared to other games on the Nintendo portable, though Im unsure if itll ultimately look as good as it did on the Wii. Additionally, controlling the camera with the new circle pad is a much-needed accessory for exploring Xenoblade's vast landscapes. Good that Nintendo is making use of all these features, because apparently the remake cant be done on the old 3DS model, as Xenoblade Chronicles 3D is the first game that only works on the New 3DS. Unfortunately, that could keep the game from reaching all but the most hardcore of fans - but if this is the only way for Xenoblade to get another chance, its a hell of a lot better than nothing.
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