Baten Kaitos Origins

 GameCube
Metascore
75

Generally favorable reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 21
  3. Negative: 1 out of 21
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  1. Nintendojo
    91
    With a lengthy 60-70 hours of gameplay, Origins is more than worth its value in longevity. Highly recommended.
  2. Kombo
    90
    Baten Kaitos is a game that may not be as big as Final Fantasy or Dragon Quest, but it sure has a heart that can easily compete. It is truly a labor of love that should not be missed by anyone who loves great storytelling.
  3. RPG Fan
    88
    There's a fine line between "challenging" and "cheap," and there are some occasions where I feel Baten Kaitos Origins crosses that line.
  5. IGN
    83
    The adventure is just as difficult, has a better overall story, and delivers more gameplay than the original with 60+ hours of play (factoring in every sub-mission). Battles require serious strategy with a hint of luck, and the deck customization – while cut back a bit from the original game – is deep and involving.
  6. GameBrink
    83
    A huge rpg (even longer than the first, which was already 60+ hours) that lights up a system nearly deceased at this point in time. [JPN Import]
  7. GameZone
    82
    Probably the only thing that would stop newcomers and casual RPG gamers from buying this game is Origin's difficulty setting but fans of the first game will have a lot to like about this prequel.
  8. eToychest
    82
    With better visuals, more side quests, and an enthralling story, Baten Kaitos Origins will keep most role-playing enthusiasts glued to their controllers until the very end.
  9. Games Radar
    80
    While it may look awfully similar to the first, don't be fooled: Origins tests negative for sequelitis.
  10. NTSC-uk
    80
    There is an element of luck involved however, likely to generate moments of frustration - but it isn't a flawed system.
  11. Nintendo Power
    80
    Whether you're looking for the next great RPG or a good reason to dust off your GameCube, Origins is a worthy title that will keep you busy for a long time to come. [Nov. 2006, p.84]
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  12. NintendoWorldReport
    80
    Baten Kaitos Origins will not sway dissidents of turn-based RPGs, but the peculiar aura and lively battles are commendable, and its plot is strong in spite of its clichés.
  13. Nintendo Gamer
    79
    There's no surprises other than neat plot twists and an interesting battle system unique to the series. [Dec 2006, p.45]
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  14. Da Gameboyz
    75
    I think that hardcore gamers will love the challenge and will most undoubtedly revel in the thought of out powering enemies with great strength.
  15. GameSpot
    75
    Baten Kaitos Origins' complex card-battle system and punishing foes weigh the game down, but it's a worthy adventure for role-playing fans who relish a challenge.
  16. Armchair Empire
    75
    Value for the buck-wise, Baten Kaitos is awesome. The main game takes between 35 and 40 hours to play through and side quests could add maybe five to eight hours to that.
  17. Gamer 2.0
    74
    The world of Baten Kaitos is a place of luscious and beautiful color that anybody would want to visit in a fairy tale. But is that enough? If you've played the first game, you're bound to be disappointed with the way the first half of this title turns out.
  18. Game Informer
    70
    If your lonely GameCube is starved for a new RPG, this is your best option. [Nov. 2006, p.139]
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  19. GameDaily
    70
    The card battle system is still very good, and the game has a better emphasis on character design and storyline. However, some of it feels like it's borrowed from the first game, including various play mechanics and several locations.
  20. G4 TV
    60
    It's telling that Nintendo stepped up and published this game itself – Namco, which released the original, was unable or uninterested.
  21. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    57
    It's just a shame the wonky battle system forces this game to fold. [Nov. 2006, p.132]
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  22. Game Revolution
    42
    Even though it pushes a new type of battle system, a huge step for any RPG, Baten Kaitos Origins reshuffles the series' deck and comes up with a hand that I wouldn't bet on.

Awards & Rankings

8
#8 Best GameCube Game of 2006
10
#10 Most Discussed GameCube Game of 2006
8
#8 Most Shared GameCube Game of 2006

User Reviews

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User Score
8.3

Generally favorable reviews- based on 38 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 38
  3. Negative: 4 out of 38
  1. Aluk
    Feb 11, 2022
    10
    Juegazo eterno, grande Monolith pero saquenlo en switch
    Eternal Game, Great Monolit but port it to switch
  2. bestbloodyday
    May 29, 2012
    8
    Probably the best RPG in Game Cube. Improves greatly the battle mechanics from first Baten Kaitos, the new system is faster and easier. AsideProbably the best RPG in Game Cube. Improves greatly the battle mechanics from first Baten Kaitos, the new system is faster and easier. Aside from that, there are some old scenarios and some new. Generally speaking, this is a great game, with some interesting story. Also, there are multiple tasks to complete that could force you to play for 60+ hours if you want to achieve everything.… Full Review »
  3. ToddS
    Nov 2, 2008
    8
    Baten Kaitos Origins, a card-based RPG, is a prequel to Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean. Although it's a prequel, Baten Kaitos Origins, a card-based RPG, is a prequel to Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean. Although it's a prequel, newcomers to the series can jump right in. It improves in almost every way: a much better battle system, better plot, scarier foes, allows the protagonist to fly, much better voice acting, etc. Baten Kaitos Origins should be played for it's 60+ hour length, side modes, great battle system, and satisfying boss battles. Though it's puzzles and dungeons encourage backtracking, which is probably the only major downside, it's worth a try. It's underrated, and probably in bargain bins now, so if you like RPG games, then you should try this game.… Full Review »
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