Tokyo Xanadu eX+

There is a new Tokyo Xanadu on the way, ten years after this first one was released. Whether you’re playing this for the first time, or taking the opportunity to refresh yourself before enjoying the new one, you won’t regret spending time with this new localisation.

The new localization alone, despite the very infrequent handful of errors, is worth revisiting Tokyo Xanadu if you have played it already. There are a few performance hitches and the visual fidelity isn’t as clear as on PS4 or PC. But Tokyo Xanadu eX+ on Switch is still easily the definitive version of one of contemporary Falcom’s strangest games. It has problems a simple re-release can’t fix, but is full of cool and interesting ideas nevertheless. If you’re looking for something new there are bigger, blockbuster JPRGs that would be easier to recommend, but if you want something a little more out there, there isn’t much quite like Tokyo Xanadu.

Tokyo Xanadu eX+ is a solid port of a fairly good, if not spectacular, game. Falcom knows how to write an interesting cast of characters and it certainly knows its way around action-RPG combat, and both of those elements are present here. Tokyo is an enjoyable setting even if it’s getting to be a rather familiar one, and while this isn’t the most visually impressive game around it looks good on the Switch’s screen. Some pacing issues drag the experience down somewhat, as it piles on the quantity without ensuring the structure can properly support it. As long as that isn’t an issue for you, this is a pleasing action-RPG to add to your Switch collection.

Tokyo Xanadu eX+ on the Switch offers an enhanced action RPG experience with a captivating combat system, new English localization, and a high-quality port. Set in the fictional Morimiya, the game combines intriguing narrative elements with dynamic character interactions. Despite lacking a unique identity and having some repetitive aspects, the game excels in its polished combat and replayability. This Switch port is an excellent opportunity for new players to experience this underrated gem, making it a must-play for fans of Falcom's works.

Tokyo Xanadu is a very competent RPG and dungeon crawler with enough systems in place to make it as easy or as challenging as you like. The characters are well-written, and while the story is a little clichéd, the secret ending more than makes up for it. Tokyo Xanadu was originally released in 2015, and I’m glad the upgraded version has finally returned to handheld consoles. Playing on the go is the best way to experience it, and now you can, even without a Vita obsession.