Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Review
- Matthew Rondina
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 3 days ago
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition delivers an expansive world and dynamic combat, offering an immersive RPG experience on the Nintendo Switch.
Originally released on the Wii U in 2015, Xenoblade Chronicles X was a hidden gem many might have missed. Now, with a definitive edition featuring enhanced graphics, refined mechanics, and additional content returning on the Nintendo Switch, it's back to claim the spotlight in 2025. The game’s premise—a desperate race for survival after Earth’s destruction and the colonization of Mira—is just as interesting today as it was back in 2015. Every corner of the planet is filled with secrets waiting to be uncovered and interesting landmarks to be explored. Let’s return to Mira to discover what’s new in my full review.
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Details
Platform(s): Nintendo Switch
Reviewed on: Nintendo Switch
Developer: Monolith Soft
Publisher: Nintendo
Genre: Action RPG
Available game modes: Single-player, Online Multiplayer
ESRB Rating: T for Teen
A Tale of Survival and Discovery
After Earth falls to intergalactic crossfire, what’s left of humanity flees and finds refuge on the alien planet Mira. As a member of the BLADE organization, your mission is to explore this uncharted world, establish “New Los Angeles,” and ensure the survival of the human race. You play as a “silent protagonist” who comes off as a blank slate. This allows you to project yourself onto the character more, but it’s also a bit of a double-edged sword thematically.
"This allows you to project yourself onto the character more, but it’s also a bit of a double-edged sword thematically."
Big emotional moments in the plot don’t hit as hard, especially with a character that doesn’t have a backstory or a deeper connection to the world. While the overarching narrative might not win any Pulitzer Prizes, the side stories and character interactions genuinely shine. The main plotline is enough to move along the gameplay, but you’ll want to go off the beaten path with the stellar side missions. I found myself invested in my team's personal tales, each adding layers to the game's plot and gameplay.
Gameplay: A Mix of Strategy and Action
The upgraded version of Xenoblade Chronicles X offers a blend of real-time combat with strategic elements. The Arts system allows for various attack and support moves, encouraging experimentation and tactical planning. I particularly enjoyed the Overdrive mechanic, which, when activated, accelerates cooldowns and amplifies damage output. Mastering this felt akin to finding the perfect rhythm in a dance, and when executed correctly, it's incredibly satisfying.
"Mastering this felt akin to finding the perfect rhythm in a dance, and when executed correctly, it's incredibly satisfying."
As you progress in the game, you’ll also unlock a powerful giant robot called a Skell that you control. These mechs drastically change combat dynamics, allowing you to take on larger enemies and traverse the vast open world more easily. Customizable and upgradeable, Skells add a layer of depth to both exploration and battle, giving you the option to explore on foot or in your Skell.
Graphics and Performance: Mira in High Definition
Overall, developer Monolith Soft was able to squeeze quite a bit out of the aging Switch hardware. Mira's diverse landscapes, from lush jungles to arid deserts, are rendered with impressive detail. The enhanced textures and improved character models breathe new life into the game.
"Mira's diverse landscapes, from lush jungles to arid deserts, are rendered with impressive detail."
Performance-wise, the game maintains a steady 30 frames per second, with only occasional dips during particularly chaotic scenes. While not groundbreaking, these enhancements make for a smoother and more immersive experience over the Wii U version.
Final Thoughts on Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition is a testament to Monolith Soft's ambition and creativity. The expansive world of Mira offers countless hours of exploration, and the refined combat mechanics provide greater depth. While it has its quirks—particularly with Skell controls and some weaker plot points—the overall experience is undeniably great. For newcomers, it's an opportunity to experience a cult classic in its best form. For veterans, it's a nostalgic trip with enough enhancements to warrant a return.
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition PROS
+Expansive and immersive world ripe for exploration
+Engaging combat system with strategic depth
+Enhanced visuals breathe new life into the game
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition CONS
-Skell controls feel sluggish and less intuitive
-Soundtrack can be inconsistent and occasionally intrusive
-Main narrative lacks the emotional depth of side stories
Overall Assessment of Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition
Gameplay: 9/10
Sound: 7.5/10
Lasting appeal / Replayability: 8.5/10
Overall Rating: 34/40 = 85%
Nintendo provided a copy of the game to conduct this review.
About the Author - Matthew "Dapper Tux" Rondina
Matthew has been involved in all things gaming since the 8-bit era. He is a video game and tech industry veteran who has been passionate about technology and gaming for over 20 years. In addition to being the Managing Editor of dappertux.com, he has bylines with Best Buy, Cineplex Entertainment, Mobile Syrup and Walmart. Follow Matthew’s gaming + tech adventures on multiple social platforms with the handle @dapper_tux via X, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, and join in on the fun!
dappertux.com uses affiliate links to provide a way for this website to earn advertising income. The blog may earn a referral commission on purchases made via these links.
Comments