What people search:
 | Title : Xenosaga
Author : Namco
Release Date : 20030228
Binding : CD-ROM
Regular Price : $
Amazon.com Price : $37.94
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Editorial Reviews :
The ambitiously named Xenosaga: Episode 1--Der Wille zer Macht is an epic-sized space opera that opens in the outer reaches of the galaxy. The story follows several space-dwelling citizens as they aim to unlock the secrets of the universe. The specifics of those secrets presumably will be revealed over subsequent editions of the Xenosaga series (after all, this is only Episode 1)--but a vital clue is held in the elusive Zohar, a mysterious artifact that is aggressively sought by evil aliens. Without spoiling the plot's surprising twists, let's just say the game's German subtitle 'Der Wille zur Macht' (translated as 'The Will to Power') is a less-than-subtle ode to German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who is considered as one of the precursors of existentialism.
Like many conventional RPG titles, Xenosaga's gameplay balances between exploration and battle modes. The game designers have thankfully spared players from any ill-conceived random battle sequences. Instead, you can concentrate directly on your quest without the repetitious enemy battles.
The designers also did a good job balancing a traditional RPG structure with complex themes. However, the game seems to go out of its way to casually integrate controversial (and frankly creepy) religious imagery into the context of the game. Some may find the game offensive and disturbing; others will likely find it intellectually stimulating.
Namco promises about 80 hours of gaming--but a good portion of that is non-interactive full-motion video. While the stretched-out cutscenes do add considerable depth to the characters, they're often poorly paced and too long--one takes an alarming 30 minutes to unfold! The addition of more background music might have helped to pick up the pacing, since the obligatory soundtrack is strangely absent at some critical plot points.
With impressive animation and unexpected plot points, Xenosaga: Episode 1--Der Wille zer Macht is easily one of the more enjoyable RPG titles to hit the PS2. While this isn't for the happy-go-lucky gaming crowd (see Kingdom Hearts), adult-minded gamers will likely be consumed by the darkness and devious delights offered within this twisted title. --Brett Atwood
Buyer Reviews :
Xenosaga is one of those rare great games that come out once in a blue moon. If you can handle the slow pace, you'll discover one of the best RPGs ever created.
The graphics in Xenosaga are top-notch. They're fully 3D and incredibly smooth. You'll be seeing a lot of cutscenes throughout the game, so it's a good thing the graphics are so good. Along with the graphics, cutscenes will also come with voice acting for the characters. Each has their own distinct voice that fits the character well, and none of them sound as bad and emotionless as Yuna from FFX.
The game itself of course tells a story, or rather, the beginning to a bigger story. The storyline in incredibly deep and complex. All the characters, even the sub-characters, have actual personalities. All their thoughts and feelings and actually believable.
The gameplay itself is very interesting. As you walk along the fields, you can destroy objects to reveal new paths or weaken onscreen enemies. And because you can actually see the enemy on the field before you engage in battle, there's a lot of strategy to be used outside of battle as well. You can sneak pass enemies to avoid battles you don't wish to fight. There's a lot to the battle system too. Unlike most RPGs where you can just hold onto the attack button for every fight, Xenosaga's battles requires much more strategy and thinking. Characters get 4 AP to spend each turn, and you have to decide how to wisely use it. For example, you can use all 4 AP to perform two attacks one turn, or use 2 AP to attack once, have 6 AP to work with next turn. For attacks with guns and cannons, you'll also have to watch your ammo count so you don't run out of attacks. And then, there's the AGWS. You can jump into one of these giant mechs, and there's a whole new fighting style to work with.
The graphics, story, and gameplay should already be enough to draw you in. And to keep you playing, there's also four great minigames, including a TCG-type card game (think Magic or Yugioh) and a 3D fighting game where you control the AGWS. Some even have two-player modes.
Overall, this is one great game you should get your hands on. Don't give up from the slow start, and you'll find yourself playing one of the best RPGs ever created.
(by vampireegg)
Features/Technical Specs :
* Role-playing adventure game
* Full English voice-overs
* 4 mini-games
* In-game database helps players track game information
* For 1 player
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