Tales of Xillia (PS3)

Hey it's Sunday and it's time for a review!

Tales of Xillia!

The Tales series is my absolute favorite JRPG series and I was super excited when it came over to the United States. I bought it the day it came out!

Tales of Xillia is different from prior Tales games. There are two main characters to choose from. Depending on who you choose, the story will start out slightly different and it will slightly effect what happens in the middle of the game. The two characters are Jude Mathis and Milla Maxwell. These two embark on a journey to save Rieze Maxia from weapons that threaten to drain all of its mana.They meet new friends that help them with their journey.

This games stands out in many other ways asides from the two story lines. For one, the graphics are definitely the strongest out of any other Tales game. It makes exploring the towns and dungeons enjoyable. The anime cut scenes are also beautiful as well. The fighting system in this game has also improved. In Xillia, there is a new mood called Linear Motion Battle System. With these, players are able to link to another fighter in mid battle.Once linked the two characters moved are synced together, meaning they are able to create high combos and strategies that will help during many battles.

Of course, there are some drawbacks to this game, as with any. Of one, it is the typical JRPG style: level up, dungeons, repetitive battles. Not only that, but there is the dialogue that sometimes lacks. If you aren't bothered by any of these things then this game is for you, but to others, it may become monotonous. There are a few things that may turn players off from the game.

 This guy.

Then these two.

Basically, a few of the teammates can be annoying as heck. That doesn't mean they are useless as players; however, players may grow tired of some of their actions. Alvin is a mercenary, meaning he only listens to himself. What happens with him will soon be obvious and players might become tired of how his strategies.
On the other hand; Elise and Teepo are characters who may bother the player, especially the living doll Teepo. There is nothing wrong with comic relief in games, but sometimes it may go a little too far.

Overall, Tales of Xillia is enjoyable to play. The storyline can capture players and make them want to complete the game. Not only that, but the multi-player means friends can join the adventure as well. The result of this game wasn't surprising in the least. After all, Bandai Namco rarely lets fans down.

Rating: 8 out of 10