Xenoblade Chronicles Coming to Switch 2

Skells: Transforming Transportation and World Design

A New Dimension of Exploration

One of the most striking innovations in Xenoblade Chronicles X is the introduction of Skells, giant transformable mechs that players unlock mid-game. These Skells are more than just a flashy new way to traverse the world; they fundamentally reshape the experience of exploring Mira.

Before obtaining a Skell, the world feels vast but confined to the ground level. Post-Skell acquisition, however, Mira explodes outwards. Players can now climb sheer cliffs, soar through the sky, and delve into previously inaccessible underwater regions. This newfound verticality adds a whole new dimension to exploration, encouraging players to constantly seek out new paths and vantage points.

Impact on World Design

The Skells’ impact extends beyond simple traversal; they influence the very design of the world itself. Areas are structured with Skell-specific challenges in mind, requiring players to utilize their mech’s unique abilities to overcome obstacles and navigate treacherous terrain. Hidden pathways, sky-high platforms, and submerged areas become accessible only with a Skell, rewarding exploration and incentivizing players to experiment with their mech’s capabilities.

MMO Influences in a JRPG Experience

The MMO-esque Elements of Xenoblade Chronicles X

Xenoblade Chronicles X draws heavily from MMO design principles, creating a JRPG experience that feels surprisingly akin to online worlds. This isn’t just a matter of aesthetics; the game’s structure and gameplay mechanics reflect a deliberate approach to crafting an MMO-like feel within a single-player context.

• Hub Cities: Similar to bustling MMO hubs, Xenoblade Chronicles X features sprawling cities like New Los Angeles that serve as central gathering points for players to interact, complete quests, and access various services.
• Crafting and Itemization: The game features a robust crafting system that allows players to gather materials, synthesize new equipment, and customize their Skells. This deep level of customization is reminiscent of MMOs, where players invest time and effort in fine-tuning their gear and optimizing their build.
• Quest Variety: Xenoblade Chronicles X offers a wide array of quests, ranging from straightforward fetch missions to complex story-driven narratives. This diversity of quest types mirrors the sprawling quest logs often found in MMOs, providing players with a constant stream of objectives to pursue.

Crafting a Deeper World: Quests, Hubs, and Character Progression

The MMO-inspired elements contribute significantly to the depth and immersion of Xenoblade Chronicles X’s world. The vibrant hub cities, teeming with NPCs and diverse activities, foster a sense of community and vibrancy. Quests, both large and small, weave together a rich tapestry of narratives, revealing the history, culture, and conflicts of Mira. Character progression, driven by experience points and skill development, provides players with a tangible sense of growth and accomplishment.

The Legacy of X: How it Shaped Future Xenoblade Entries

While Xenoblade Chronicles X may not have achieved the same mainstream success as its numbered siblings, its influence on the franchise is undeniable. Elements such as the open-world structure, the emphasis on exploration, and the incorporation of MMO-inspired mechanics have carried over into subsequent Xenoblade entries, shaping the series’ evolution and expanding its appeal to a wider audience.

A New Generation of JRPG Fans

Bringing X to the Switch 2: Expanding the Audience

The arrival of Xenoblade Chronicles X on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 presents a unique opportunity to introduce a new generation of JRPG fans to this often-overlooked gem. The Switch 2’s enhanced hardware and improved resolution will undoubtedly elevate the visual fidelity of the game, making Mira even more breathtakingly beautiful. Moreover, the Switch 2’s robust online capabilities could potentially pave the way for future online features or community events, further enhancing the MMO-like experience.

The Impact of Backwards Compatibility: Reliving the Experience

For those who missed out on the original Wii U release, the Switch 2’s backward compatibility is a dream come true. Longtime fans of the series will be able to revisit Xenoblade Chronicles X in all its glory, experiencing the game as it was intended. The Switch 2’s more powerful hardware could even lead to performance improvements and bug fixes, further enhancing the experience for returning players.

Looking Ahead: What X’s Arrival Means for the Franchise’s Future

The inclusion of Xenoblade Chronicles X on the Switch 2 signifies a renewed focus on the franchise’s rich history and a commitment to expanding its reach. By making this often-overlooked entry more accessible, Monolith Soft can introduce a wider audience to the unique blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and MMO-inspired gameplay that defines Xenoblade Chronicles X. This, in turn, could lead to a resurgence in interest in the entire series, paving the way for future entries to build upon the legacy of X.