Xanadu Next

 PC
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. Twinfinite
    Nov 3, 2016
    70
    Xanadu Next is definitely a game that feels dated by many standards with its lack of a detailed map, frustrating menus, and simple combat. Even despite all this, there was an immense draw to the game with its gameplay loop that proved to be incredibly fun, and really made me want to keep going.
  2. RPGamer
    Dec 2, 2016
    60
    This is not a revolutionary title that set the Japanese gaming world on fire and crossed the Pacific with spectacular expectations. Xanadu Next is instead a game that had to wait eleven years after its original release to cross the Pacific (unless the N-Gage release played by approximately seven people counts), but at least it's a solid title. Falcom tends to deliver worthy action RPGs, and this one is definitely worth experiencing for anyone interested in hacking and slashing to victory.

Awards & Rankings

95
#95 Best PC Game of 2016

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.4

Mixed or average reviews- based on 24 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 16 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 24
  3. Negative: 4 out of 24
  1. zatta
    Dec 8, 2016
    10
    Nothing about Xanadu Next screams quality, and it looks like a PS2 game. The story is terrible, characters are typical JRPG fare andNothing about Xanadu Next screams quality, and it looks like a PS2 game. The story is terrible, characters are typical JRPG fare and completely forgettable. But none of this matters, because when you start playing, you're going to be hooked. Gameplay, pacing, and the sense of adventure are simple but satisfyingly consistent. Areas are visually different enough so that you feel like you're progressing through an organic world. Progression systems are fun with interesting choices to make on skills and abilities. You can redistribute your stats if you want to change them, and even level back down with some perks if necessary. This is one of those rare gems you shouldn't miss if you like games like Diablo, with more adventure and less gear-grind. 12 hours of pure blissful entertainment--this is what we want, as Creamwolf said, feed us more games like this please and ty.… Full Review »
  2. yosa1
    Dec 27, 2016
    3
    When you start up this game you are treated to a style of rpg that does not get done much any more; there is story, exploration and characterWhen you start up this game you are treated to a style of rpg that does not get done much any more; there is story, exploration and character development.

    Here are the issues...

    Linear and very obvious; many rpgs pull off linear and integrate an element of choice/story/exploration; this is boring and limited.

    Exploration is contrived behind a theme of gates, events and again linear. I say fu, if I want to go to a dangerous ruin on an island to explore, dont set the whole thing on rails. I see no difference between this and nes mario in its reguards for player freedom.

    Inventory is relegated to a bunch of necessary items and must have weapons to push through an artificial obbstical.

    There are bugs and such that are well documented( the inventory bug on the pc can be solved by using a joystick and the switch to pointer button)

    (a personal and relevant stigma for some games)
    How does the sound for these games get tested, seriously. playing the back ground music was earsplitting due to the digital flute sound that was so shrill my neighbor pounded a wall; this is one of many complaints of the sound balancing in games.

    As a side note; A 10 this does not deserve, and if you give it such high praise you also describe your reasons, I applaud zatta for being descriptive. (12,28,2016)    … Full Review »
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