Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 49 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 48 out of 49
  2. Negative: 0 out of 49
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  1. Jun 1, 2016
    97
    Like all of Vanillaware’s titles, Odin Sphere oozes with quality and polish, and because of this HD re-release, this one’s had extra polish time.
  2. Jun 24, 2016
    95
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir reworks a title that already at the time showed great potential, turning it into an extraordinary experience. Artistically sublime, deep, captivating, the game of Vanillaware is a great title for every gamer.
  3. Jun 23, 2016
    95
    Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir is an outstanding remaster of a piece of art. An excellent plot, role playing and a brilliant gameplay make this game one of the best options inside the genre.
  4. Arcade Sushi
    Jun 1, 2016
    95
    If you’re looking for a fun hack n’ slash action-JRPG with a deep customizable system to tailor to your playstyle, Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is some of the most enjoyable times to be had, going far beyond the nostalgia of a simple remake.
  5. Jun 1, 2016
    95
    I feel like I’ve touched upon everything I love about Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir, and yet I still can’t seem to say enough good things about this amazing remake.
  6. Jun 1, 2016
    95
    I never thought we'd see Odin Sphere again, but here we are with Leifthrasir. Even if it kept all of the classic frustrations as is it would still be worth checking out, but Vanillaware and Atlus have somehow managed to cater to both crowds with the remake. This game is required reading, and now is the time to curl up and see what you've been missing.
  7. Jun 1, 2016
    95
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir raises the bar for all remakes with its inclusion of an enhanced version of the original game, and also because of its refined mode, which offers sublime gameplay and some of the best looking visuals on PlayStation.
  8. Sep 7, 2016
    90
    Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir takes a good game and makes it incrementally better. The tweaks to the overall title, including better inventory management and more emphasis on combat, opens it up to those who weren't enamored with the original. The option is there for those who want to play it as it was originally intended. It provides lots of gameplay time, which is something of a rarity in console titles nowadays, though there will be a few who take offense to the fact that a good chunk of content is recycled a few times. It does all this with a presentation that still manages to impress after all these years.
  9. Jul 8, 2016
    90
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is a cult classic for good reason. It's a strange title, but an engrossing one that's only let down by some one-note characters.
  10. Jul 7, 2016
    90
    The remake of the original Odin Sphere comes with beautiful graphics, great plot and characters so unique and well written we rarely see these days in Japanese RPGs.
  11. Jul 6, 2016
    90
    To call Odin Sphere Leifthrasir the definitive version of the original game would be selling it short: the sheer amount of improvements and new content have transformed the game into a whole new experience that both original fans and curious newcomers must not miss.
  12. Jun 30, 2016
    90
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir’s distinct painterly graphics, free-flowing combat and intuitive RPG systems make it a joy, whether you’re a newcomer or a returning fan. While some remakes are largely unnecessary, Vanillaware have taken a forgotten classic and made it an essential title for the current generation.
  13. Jun 29, 2016
    90
    Vanillaware signs a great remaster, with a superb work both in the artistic and sound fields. Many gameplay hours and enjoyable fights hide several minor issues and make Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir a game you should pay attention to, whether or not you're a fan of the studio.
  14. Jun 28, 2016
    90
    Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir is one of those remakes that is more than justified. The changes and improvements made by Vanillaware are those that the original title needed to become a masterpiece.
  15. Jun 27, 2016
    90
    This title will leave its mark. Although it is now been almost a decade since its release, none of the game elements are feeling the weight of time. For all those who are slaves of their memories, it is even possible to play the classic version. Our only advice is to play it on hard mode, where Odin Sphere shows its true potential.
  16. Jun 27, 2016
    90
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is more than a remake. Fast and deep new combat system, great RPG elements and a piece of art in terms of visuals. A new must have for all action game fans with engaging story and characters.
  17. Jun 26, 2016
    90
    One of the best Vanillaware's title made even better on PlayStation family's console. Brilliant in every way: gameplay, story and artistic style.
  18. Jun 26, 2016
    90
    All of these positives were true in the PS2 original, though, so the triumph of Leifthrasir is in making things easier to enjoy on current platforms.
  19. Jun 24, 2016
    90
    This new version of Odin Sphere is a fantastic remake with new gameplay and improved graphics, despite the lack of new game modes.
  20. Jun 24, 2016
    90
    It was already good, but now it's even better. One of the best beat 'em up RPG you can find these days.
  21. Jun 23, 2016
    90
    Were all the remastered so beautiful, we would be truly happy. Odin Spere: Leifthrasir, beyond being unpronounceable, improves the original in every possible way, from the combat system to the graphics. The result is simply breathtaking, perfect for newcomers as well as for fans of the original.
  22. Jun 7, 2016
    90
    Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir is the remake this story justly deserves, marred only by slight signs of age, and a time capsule that perfectly preserves the magic of Odin Sphere, for the many years it’s lost and the many years to come.
  23. Jun 6, 2016
    90
    If you fell in love with the original all those years ago however, prepare to reassess your feelings; Odin Sphere: Leiftrasir will be akin to finding your soulmate, leaving the original title to feel like the empty husk of some great person you used to know in comparison.
  24. Jun 6, 2016
    90
    Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir shows what is possible when a grand idea is not hampered by hardware limitations.
  25. Jun 3, 2016
    90
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is a masterpiece of game design, and one of the forgotten gems of the PS2 era. I can’t recommend it enough, and it stands head and shoulders above other remakes on how to get the job done. For those that never experienced the original it is a must buy, but even for those with fond memories of the glorious Vanillaware classic, this package is more than worth a second dip.
  26. Jun 1, 2016
    90
    With lessons learned from its original release along with the experience of other titles under Vanillaware’s belt, Odin Sphere Leifthrasir surpasses what I tend to expect from a remake these days. It expands, streamlines, and enhances almost every aspect of Odin Sphere with the utmost care without leaving behind individuals who loved the original experience. This is the best case of a video game remake done right.
  27. Jun 1, 2016
    90
    A JRPG combined with an action platformer setup seems like a strange marriage, but this is a perfect example of how to pull off a seemingly unlikely combination. Vanillaware took an already great game, revamped it to feel more contemporary without losing any of its charm and made improvements across the board.
  28. 90
    If you were a fan of the original game, this one does enough to justify giving it another play through. If you missed Odin Sphere the first time around, then this is a great introduction that is also easy to recommend.
  29. Jun 24, 2016
    89
    Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir is the definitive remake: it improves the best parts of the original game while correcting almost all of its faults. It is made strong by an awesome art direction, together with an exciting storyline and an endearing gameplay: a must-have for RPG fans.
  30. Jul 22, 2016
    87
    Thanks to the timeless art design it is hard to guess the age of the original. But what’s even better: Odin Sphere Lefthrasir also plays like a modern masterpiece. Of course some of the flaws of the eight year old action-RPG are still evident – but all in all it was and still is a hell of a ride.
  31. Jun 30, 2016
    85
    We wish we could see more remasters made with the same respect and love for the original material as this Odin Sphere Leifthrasir, which is faster, prettier and flashier than it's ever been. Every change made has been for the better, and, apart from the repetitive nature of the gameplay, there's no reason not to buy this one if you own a Sony system.
  32. Jun 23, 2016
    85
    Visually looks great. Is fun and easy to learn. If you are in the mood for a fantasy story like this, is a good option.
  33. Jun 6, 2016
    85
    To say that I was surprised by Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is the understatement of the century. Despite having an original code base that dates back two console generations, it still manages to feel modern and just as relevant today as it did nine years ago.
  34. 85
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is an outstanding remaster of a game many JRPG fans missed on PS2. Perhaps its most striking feature is the refreshing availability of information that comes with its fantastic interface, from easy-to-read maps to detailed descriptions of each item that comes your way.
  35. Games Master UK
    Aug 21, 2016
    82
    Slick, smooth, and beautiful, it shines like never before on current-gen. [Aug 2016, p.79]
  36. Jun 1, 2016
    82
    A fairy tale that has stood the test of time and shows the true beauty of George Kamitani. If you enjoy games made by Vanillaware, you can't miss this high definition remake.
  37. Jul 5, 2016
    80
    Not only does this game bring the gameplay mechanics to the same high level as the slick visuals everybody knows it from, there are also a lot of small improvements that make this game heavenly to play.
  38. 80
    A highly successful remake that fixes the technical and design flaws of the original and turns it into one of the year’s best looking action role-players.
  39. Jun 23, 2016
    80
    The combat feels immensely satisfying and the upgrades and abilities you gain keep the gameplay fresh throughout.
  40. 80
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is an example of a remaster done right. Not only has the game been improved in just about every aspect, but it's also faithful to the original core.
  41. 80
    Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir is a must-play for fans of the original or platformers in general. Expertly written and well executed, the title played like some sort of grand theater, possessing a narrative that was both familiar but also new, filled with dynamic characters who interacted seamlessly not only with each other but also with the world itself. Don’t let a few minor issues put you off, Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir is a top-tier action RPG effort that is more than worthy of your time.
  42. Jun 2, 2016
    80
    It’s snappy, it’s got momentum, and it keeps me in the thick of the action, whether I’m fighting off fairies and frogs, or whether a gargantuan dragon is charging at me.
  43. Jun 2, 2016
    80
    My love for Odin Sphere Leifthrasir started to drop as the repetition took hold, but ultimately I’m still left feeling pretty good about my time with the game. I might be a little burned out on many of the bosses at this point, but it’s hard not to just get completely wrapped up in the game’s presentation and storytelling. I also really appreciate the game’s inclusion of a Classic Mode that allows for people to experience the kind of gameplay that Odin Sphere offered back on PS2.
  44. Jun 1, 2016
    80
    With so many annoyances fixed, this feels like the game Odin Sphere was meant to be. The presentation is top-notch, and the action is fast-paced and satisfying.
  45. Jun 1, 2016
    80
    The remake does an amazing job of appealing to both newcomers and veterans by offering two versions of the game. Those who were bothered by the technical issues in the original version can enjoy the remake with all its new features, while those who want more of a challenge can still enjoy the no-frills Classic Mode.
  46. Jun 1, 2016
    80
    Odin Sphere Leifthrasir is a true gem of an action RPG, and this HD remake certainly does nothing but improve upon the original release. The story certainly has its fair share of emotional drama and plot twists, complete with a handful of light-hearted moments too. If you’re looking for excellent brawler gameplay with RPG elements and absolutely gorgeous artwork and uniquely designed bosses, you can’t go wrong with Leifthrasir.
  47. Jun 1, 2016
    80
    Fully deserving of a second chance, Odin Sphere: Leifthrasir is a glorious remake of a fine RPG. Its stunning art style looks better than ever, and the tale it tells is still effortlessly charming. Little niggles like its clunky inventory system keep it from being picture perfect, but it's difficult not to be left thoroughly impressed by Vanillaware's lovingly crafted fantasy – even after all of these years.
  48. Aug 3, 2016
    75
    The game has withstand the test of time and has managed to keep the balance between fighting and turn-based action just right.
  49. Jul 4, 2016
    68
    If you’ve played any side-scrolling games, chances are you’ve incidentally played this one. Odin Sphere is undoubtedly fun, but its 40-hour quest etches too long to repel the armies of repetition. It’s charm and aesthetic character are the real arrows for its quiver - the crux to get your attention and to keep it.
User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 289 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 32 out of 289
  1. Jun 7, 2016
    10
    It's a remastering of a damn fine game that has been upgraded to near perfect! Odin Sphere on the PS2 was an under-appreciated gem that wasIt's a remastering of a damn fine game that has been upgraded to near perfect! Odin Sphere on the PS2 was an under-appreciated gem that was swimming in charm, beauty and solid game play but, it wasn't without it's faults. The faults in question were never game breaking or frustrating but rather just tiny little nitpicks here and there that just stopped it from being a near perfect masterpiece. This remastering, however, has fixed any issue the original had and turns Odin Sphere into a game that can sit along side the greatest games ever made.
    The combat is as fluid and solid as action based combat can get with minor improvements taking cues from Vanillaware's later title 'Muramasa: The Demon Blade' and the more recent Indie game 'Guacamelee' from Drinkbox Studio. The crafting and upgrading systems have been tweaked to be more modern and coherent. The ground breaking graphics and animation have had a crisp make-over and the stunning music and well acted voice work has been cleaned up.
    This is exactly what a remaster should be; take a classic game and modernize it and make it more accessible without compromising it's original integrity.
    What else can I say? If you liked the original; this is a better version (and for purists, there is 'classic mode' where the original game play is in tact). For fans of more recent Vanillaware titles like Muramasa: Rebirth and Dragon's Crown; Odin Sphere, in my opinion, is the definitive Vanillaware title. Hell, anyone into action JRPG's in general will find plenty to love in this game.
    It was an absolutely wonderful experience on the PS2 and it's just gotten better. 10/10
    Full Review »
  2. Jun 9, 2016
    10
    Let me start off by saying that I am a huge fan of Vanillaware and I have played the original Odin Sphere on PS2. The Odin Sphere was anLet me start off by saying that I am a huge fan of Vanillaware and I have played the original Odin Sphere on PS2. The Odin Sphere was an amazing game and definitely defined what features i thoroughly enjoy in a video-game. However, as fun and as mesmerizing as Odin Sphere was it fell short on a few things which I felt werent game-breaking but many younger games might. Frame rate lag, repetitiveness, and lack of variety between characters other than storyline and slight changes to gameplay were all issue that Odin Sphere fell a bit short in.

    Enter Leifthrasir~

    Leifthrasir is Vanillaware's attempt at taking an already breathtaking piece of work and make it better. And if you don't read the rest of this review Ill sum it up right now and tell you that they were extremely successful.

    Leifthrasir takes all of the issues with Odin Sphere fixes them. Frame-rate issues? Gone. Lack of variety between characters? Out the window. About the only thing that is still present is the repetitiveness of the levels. Now i know that might sound game breaking, but the thing is that even though level repetitiveness is still present, each character feels like its its own game now. Think Castlevania: Symphony of the Night except instead of just being able to play Richter and Maria, they now have their own storylines and exclusive areas as well as a complex fighting system unique to their character.

    The battle system is nothing to cough at either. Every battle feels like a street fighter match, where as before it was just a hack and slash. The controls are very fluid. pulling off combos and evading attacks feels natural. All this coupled with new items, revamped alchemy system, and access to Odin Sphere as well as Leifthrasir? 10/10 would buy again. Vanillaware does great work and Leifthrasir is another S rank on their play-card.
    Full Review »
  3. Jun 8, 2016
    10
    Got this game, the Storybook Edition. Fantastic art style, 60 FPS, 1080p, top notch animation. Even if it's a remake it's my first play withGot this game, the Storybook Edition. Fantastic art style, 60 FPS, 1080p, top notch animation. Even if it's a remake it's my first play with Odin Sphere. It's amazingly complex and intuitive at the same time. The story is great. I wasn't able to put it down for the entire night. I wasn't sure I would like it. The best comparison I can give is this: it's a bit like a cross between a Tales of game, old gen brawler and Child of Light. The combat are fast and dynamic, with heavy emphasis on crafting. This is a gem. Full Review »