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All that and the Kitchen Sink too

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 9 / 10
Date: August 01, 2003
Author: Amazon User

It's a really really fun game, especially if you're old enough to appreciate dark cinematic elements. Personally, I like hearing story and plot/character development, and didn't mind putting up with the long story sequences. The game seems set to run in a cycle:

Fight a bunch of battles (as much as you like, to improve your character), run around a lot talking to people, cinema sequence, back to fight a bunch, rinse, repeat... so for me, (since I play a lot to improve my characters), the cinema sequences were a good break in the gameplay.

Namco seems to have taken everything anyone liked about Final Fantasy and crammed it into one game. As a result, your options may be a bit overwhelming...

Each battle gives you Ether, Skill and Technique points (in varying amounts by the enemy). You use Ether to buy and upgrade your magic spells (or give one character's spells to another character). Skill points let you learn skills from items (like in Final Fantasy 9), Technique Points let you upgrade your stats OR your special attacks. So over the course of 60 hours of gameplay, you might spend several hours sorting out your points and upgrading your characters.

Then there's the AGWSs. They're like the Summons in Final Fantasy; you basically summon the AGWS (a giant mecha) to replace a character in battle. You can spend gobs of cash upgrading your AGWS weapons and armor. Tons of time configuring them and setting them up. I skipped dealing with them pretty much.

Then there's mini-games. If you liked collecting cards in FF8, you can do it again here. There's a card game with "promo" cards hidden throughout the game for it. There's also a casino where you can gamble and win (hint: if it was a real casino on earth, it would be filing for bankruptcy 2 hours after it opened, it's too easy to win money). There's also a "drilling" mini game that's like that "claw" game they have in arcades where you try to move the claw to hit objects and win prizes. You can fight other robots in an AGWS mini-game. Ohh, and you can revisit any completed area to farm it for cash, experience or get stuff you missed.

I've put in at least 80 hours and I haven't even started to play the card game. Exploring and beating everything in the game could take months.

The game has a lot of options to adapt to your play style. If you want to rush through the game without working on character development, you can rely on your AGWS battlemechs to get you through. If you like playing the FF8 card game, you can spend all the time you want doing that instead.

You can analyze the opponents a lot, and customize your attacks and spells to an area, or just power up your characters so you slaughter the enemy no matter what attacks you use. It's up to you. =)

A grand and original kind of game.

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 7 / 7
Date: January 11, 2004
Author: Amazon User

Xenosaga Episode 1: Der Wille Zur Macht is a stunning game, really. While Xenosaga carries on the name "Xeno" as in "Xenogears" do not expect to find a copy of Xenogears in this in anyway.

Xenosaga opens up with an extremely long cutscene (VERY, VERY long!) that introduces a part of the plot. The game then later shifts 4000 years into the future where you'll see your lead character Shion, a scientists on the ship: Encephalon. She begins a simulator with the Android she created: Kos-mos. After she's done with the simulation, her ship comes under attack and the story begins.

Xenosaga takes the battle system of Xenogears and evolves it into something much bigger. You'll string together combos and use points. There's a guage down in the lower right hand corner that shows the battle order (like in Grandia). The pic that's furthest to the left attacks first. It'll show your enemies as well. That's for each round. You then can select to attack and string together combos to deal out some damage. As usual, enemies have certain weaknesses. It isn't just an elemental weakness, but a attack-trait weakness as well (for example some enemes are weak against slash based attacks). The battles can sometimes be long though as the animations aren't exactly fast.

The field is unique as well. Xenosaga eliminates "Random encounters" and now you've got contact based. You can also interact with objects on the field (you can blow some things up). If an enemy spots you it will give chase (and some you just can't outrun no matter how hard you try). So its not bad as far as the field goes.

The graphics on Xenosaga are visually stunning. There are some parts that flash a bit but the 3-D animations and beautiful cutscenes better make up for this. The flashing is minimal and not noticeable to many.

The music stands above all else... when we actually hear it. The game actually opens up a lot like a movie and its even got the dramatic score to go with it. But then there is music that is absent from other parts. When we watch cutscenes sometimes there's no background music at all, and that makes some cutscenes boring and unentertaining to watch. The voice acting is top-notch! And while the game has a lot of cutscenes it greatly helps the character developement.

But that's the problem with Xenosaga. There are several cutscenes that further push the "Videogame-movie" trend. In other words, there are tons of moments where you're watching the game and not playing it. Not only that, but Xenosaga has it BAD! Some cutscenes are just too long. As I said, it opens up like a movie and the cutscene is incredibily long. There are more long cutscenes where that comes from. Your clock will read well over 20 minutes when you actually get to play and roam the field for the first time. But there is good news! You actually CAN skip these cutscenes. If you pause the game you can press triangle and skip them. It's great that the plot can unfold through these cutscenes but the cutscenes are just too long.

Xenosaga also has lots of minigames and sidequests! The mini-games aren't frustrating but they do take some time to get used to because the learning curve for them takes a lot of time.

The game isn't bad but I'm afraid that because the cutscenes are REALLY REALLY REALLY long, I couldn't give it a five. A great game that I'd recommend to any RPGer.

The Good

+Beautiful 3-D graphics!

+Great character developement
+Unique battle system
+Innovative, original and intriguing plot

The Bad
-Incredibly long cutscenes
-No music during cutscenes only makes them seem longer

A very strong title with some minor flaws.

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 12 / 18
Date: March 03, 2003
Author: Amazon User

Well, I have put a solid weekend into Xenosaga (episode one), and I can honestly say that I enjoy this title. I won't comment about the plot, except to say that it is top notch (any spoiling of the surprises would take half the fun of the game), and any RPGer would be sorry to miss it.

However, flaws do come to mind. For example (and this is minor), this game is supposed to take place thousands of years before Xenogears, yet many of the characters which appear there have their roots in this game (e.g. Citan Uzuki obviously descends, over thousands of years , from two characters in this game, and minor characters from Xenogears, such as Vanderkampf, have relatives which look IDENTICAL to their future counterpart). While I'm sure that some gamers think they're cool (whatever) for getting these in-game references, I would prefer more realism (let's face it - how many people in the world, even Asians, can honestly trace their roots back even 1000 years?). I guess it's cute, but whatever.

Also, the graphics are nothing to scream about. In fact, they are reminiscent of Square's much earlier offering, Final Fantasy VIII, and are nowhere near FFX. The characters in cutscenes are static - their hair doesn't move, their clothes don't ruffle, etc. The actual gameplay graphics are OK, however.

Finally, the cut scenes are a little too much. The voice acting isn't horrible, and the graphics (though I complained above) are OK. However, the first 10 hours or so are dominated by cut scenes (I know the story is rich and perhaps difficult to develop in the gameplay, but I think the developers could have tried a little harder).

Now that I have ranted (and really, these flaws are minor), I should praise. The story is magnificent, and will pull the gamer in even though it develops on screen (rather than interactively). Also, the gameplay is fun (the combo system returns from Xenogears, but it is simpler, and spell-learning is handled in a clever way). Also, there is a random effect which occurs every turn in battle (e.g. the next turn will have a boosted chance for a critical hit, the following turn will have a boosted ether attack, etc.). The developers used this in a clever way at times, but I'll leave it to the player to discover just how it works!

Also, four mini-games can be unlocked during game play. These minigames are fantastic, and very involved (I'll give away only one of these - a Magic-type card game in which you build a deck throughout the game in order to vie for tournament victories and fabulous prizes). The games are well thought-out, but can be complicated at times.

Anyway, I've rambled here. In summary, this is a worthwhile game to own, but the flaws are noticeable. I hope that Namco and company can sort this out by the time episode two rolls around (particularly the cutscene problem).

The legend continues!

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 6 / 6
Date: June 01, 2005
Author: Amazon User

Xenosaga the prelude to the Playstation game Xenogears is an excelent role playing game and sequel. If you have played Xenogears I highly recomend you get this game. This time its Shion playing the role of the main character in this incredible 3d adventure. Over 80 hours of amazing game play and hours of fun to watch FMV's. With detailed graphics and storyline and customizable characters makes this a fun and incredible game. For most RPGers out here this is far different from Final Fantasy. Some of the game tactics are the same but the fighting style is different and you can customize the characters to your own specifications. There are 6 differnt characters in the game along with things called A.G.W.S. there mobile fighting robot suits you get to contol. WOW! whats better than kicking the crap out of people with giant robots. The A.G.W.S are also customizable to your own specifications. So all in all its a well rounded game, you get a great story line, hours of fun game play, and best of all GIANT FIGHTING ROBOTS YEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH! So if your an RPG fan and your looking for something new i highly recomend Xenosaga Episode 1 Dur Wille Zur Macht.
I also highly recomend you play the whole series to fully understand the storyline, so also check out Xenogears for Playstation, and the recent release of Xenosaga Episode 2 Jenseits Von Gut Und Bose. I hope you found this review to be helpful.

Thank you and happy gameing.

The best RPG that's come out!!!!!

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 8 / 10
Date: February 27, 2003
Author: Amazon User

Now this game is nothing but amazing. Namco makes it but Namco has always been famous for the graphics not the gameplay. Such titles as the Dead or Alive series. But this game is totally different. It's just like a final fantasy game. Very good graphics, and the cut-scenes are amazing my jaw dropped to the ground and stayed there. This game also needs work from the player. This has a very deep storyline. All in one game. This game was a presequel to xenogears. This game is definetly the RPG for Ps2 for awhile. Also, check out .Hack part 1. expect another title to come out soon followed by 2 other titles. go on ebgames.com and you'll find. If this was helpful than please click yes. Thanks for your time!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! A very skilled and amazed gamer!!!

A Must-Own.

4 Rating: 4, Useful: 8 / 10
Date: March 07, 2003
Author: Amazon User

One word of caution: you will either love Xenosaga or hate it. This RPG is not an average Final Fantasy. Cut-scenes shower the entire 80 hour's worth with more than half of it cinemas. But if you enjoy thorough and complex stories, then you shall love this title. This story's deep- although the plot is fairly simple in theory, the underlyings of it if you look deeper are enough to think for your entire life time. What is our existence for? Is there a God? Should you pursue the inevitable? These all are questions that follow you throughout the entire game.
But enough about the story. The characters in here are awesome, with the foxy yet dangerous KOS-MOS, to the cool Jr., these are top quality players. And they are all unique in the battle. You use an extremely intriguing and cool battle system featuring combos (about 6 in all total) including all the Techs you can find throughout. The leveling up system isn't bad either, allowing you to customize the types of spells, attributes, and weapons in any way you'd like. I find no flaws in this system. It's tough, too-though not too much to suffocate you. It's refreshing to play it, and when you beat a boss, you'll be proud of your victory (unlike FFX, where it's basically one hit and it's dead). And the AGWS (huge mechs that you as well can fight in) are stunning and neat to play in and customize. The gameplay is equally as compelling as the story.
The graphics are great, too. Many people complain about them, saying they're outdated, but really they're nice. I love the character designs, as well, with the big eyes and shiny outfits and stuff. The only problem, though, is that the mouths either don't move at all, or warble mindlessly while they talk. It's kind of pathetic. Also, although the music is a stellar mix from the composer of the Chrono series, it's a skimpy track and you never hear it during actual gameplay. It's very dissappointing.
Despite these small shortcomings, it doesn't detract from the game or story, and trust me, you will not be dissappointed. This is a revolutionary game, and should not be overlooked by Final Fantasy fans.
Oh, and if you don't like the cutscenes, you don't have to watch them. Pause the game and press the triangle button.

A game you can't put down

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 5 / 5
Date: October 27, 2006
Author: Amazon User

I have been a staunch Final Fantasy fan for years. While waiting for the newest release, which kept being pushed back, I tried out Xenosaga. Let me tell you, I am grateful I have!

This game is one of the most entertaining and interesting games I have ever played. The world is absolutely amazing and the characters are unique, not to mention a plot that has profound depth. You will fall in love....trust me. If you are looking for an rpg that will draw you in and keep you playing for hours, it is Xenosaga.

Look no further.

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 5 / 5
Date: March 13, 2003
Author: Amazon User

Xenosaga... I can safely say I've been waiting for for a long time... and I tell you, now that it's finally in my hands, I have never been more satisfied with any RPG I've ever played, except it's predecessor, Xenogears (PSX). The graphics are simply amazing, topping even goliath producers like Squaresoft. There is much voice acting, and it all sounds excellent, and every voice fits the characters. The plot I couldn't even describe to you, as I'd be saying more than this box can hold... you immerse yourself in a complete universe that you can only experience. All I could tell you is that it's the greatest story and it's perfectly told. The battle system combines intense strategy with amazing effects, not to mention the return of A.W.G.S.. The whole system of combat is combined with a character development system that makes fighting itself an experience as well. 11Xenogears fans, don't hesitate, it's the same but better, but new fans... embrace! Enter the world of Xenosaga and you will never want to leave! I enjoyed Final Fantasy X, I played through Wild Arms 3, not to mention Kingdom Hearts and .hack, but all above all, Xenosaga is the best RPG that has ever hit the U.S.. If you are a fan of RPGs don't hesitate! Xenosaga is an instant pickup! You won't be disapointed!

Xenosaga......WOW

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 5 / 5
Date: March 14, 2003
Author: Amazon User

To sum this game up in one word it's incredible. Every part of about this game is great.

THE STORY

One of the most in depth stories I have ever seen in a video game. Capturing every emotion as the story grabs you. An encompassing sci-fi story that can rival any other in movies, books or games. Twists turns and surprises Oh my.

THE MUSIC

Music is one if my favorite parts of any RPG. The music done by the London Philharmonic Orchestra does an excellent job of helping the story engulf you as it does. Surrounding you in the environment of the game and making you a part of it. Having surround sound hooked up really gives the games music it's due credit.

GAMEPLAY/CINEMAICS

I group these two together because they both share the Xenosaga gaming experience. After a short amount of time walking around you'll be welcomed into a cut scene, as much of this goes along. This might seem like a bad thing to some but to me it's welcomed wholeheartedly. Being able to realistically talk with people during climatic points in the game gives it a realistic touch. Who wouldn't talk when being succumbed to shocking or scary events? I also love the added feature of traps and destroyable objects. These traps have effects out of battle like slow or stop and in battle like start off critical or getting a boost bonus.

BATTLES

Xenosaga's battles are truly fun. This is where RPG's are made and broken. Even though to me battles are those annoying things between events in the story. These attacks are beautiful. Customization of your characters to your personal fighting style and strategy. The customization uses a skill/tech/ether point system. All of this adds to a game where I didn't mind fighting a boss a dozen times to find the right blend of characters and attacks.

GRAPHICS

Like the rest of the factors the graphics are literally a sight to behold. Very crisp and clear. The graphics in Xenosaga really push what the Playstation 2 is capable of doing. Those hunting for graphics in a RPG need not to look any further. * Even graphics in a game is merely icing on the cake in my opinion *

CHARACTERS

OK first of this isn't your classic ragtag bunch of RPG misfits. (the warrior/thief/mage thing is thrown out the window) Instead it is replaced by a team of intelligent, insightful, interesting, and some other in- words people. Every one of them. That is a rarity. I like them all. I can honestly say that in no other RPG have I made a connection with and liked all of the playable characters.

CONCLUSION

Well that's about all I can say without giving much away( as I recommend to anyone planning on purchasing this game). Trust me the less you know the better. To me experiencing this game is as important as sugar is to candy and with playing gaming is so much sweeter.

Game of the year, but not for everyone

5 Rating: 5, Useful: 5 / 5
Date: August 25, 2003
Author: Amazon User

Difficulty: easy to medium.

Pros:

Hugely compelling and mainly well thought out storyline.
Beautiful cutscene graphics.
Intuitive battle gameplay.
Wonderful music.
Very good voice acting and text translation throughout.
Sensible, easy to medium puzzles.

Cons:

Cutscenes can be very long (the story is so good this didn't bother me in the slightest, plus the scenes can be skipped).
Two years until part two comes out.
Respawning enemies is a bit annoying.
Keep a clock nearby as you'll find time passes very quickly when playing.

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