Xenosaga Episode III

RPG lovers are always on the lookout for a game with an excellent story. This was the case with the popular game Xenosaga. Xenosaga first came out a few years ago. This awe inspiring tale had one of the most heart wrenching and enthralling storylines of any game. Unfortunately, the game ended and it left many questions unanswered. But this was to be expected, since Xenosaga was to be a trilogy. Next, Xenosaga Episode II was released. This game was great, but it left even more unanswered questions. It also did not have the great game play like the first episode did. But not to worry! Finally, all questions will be answered with the release of Xenosaga Episode III. Xenosaga Episode III promises to answer all of the mysteries of the game and it has much better game play than the second episode.

The story starts one year after the events of Episode II. Shion quit her position with Vector after learning that they have a lot to do with the Gnosis threat. She joins an underground group called Scientia. Scientia looks for the truth behind Vector and its actions. Shion also learns that KOS-MOS's development is to be canceled and that a new android named T-Elos has appeared.

Aside from having an epic story and being the conclusion to a great game, Xenosaga Episode III has a few changes from its predecessors. First is the battle system. A new "Break" system has been ensued. Battles are also a lot quicker and much more fun than the previous games. Also, before engaging enemies in battle, characters are now able to set up traps to aid them in battle before the battle with the enemy actually starts. This also makes battles much easier. In fact, Xenosaga Episode III is probably the easiest game to play of the three episodes. Except for the boss battles...

Another change is that characters are more customizable. There is now a branching skill set which allows for more depth and battle strategy. You can also upgrade you character's weapons and armor or buy items at shops. This also goes for you E.S.'s (the huge robots that you fight battles with). This feature disappeared in the second episode. Thank goodness it is back!

Lastly, there are a couple of extra features that make the game more enjoyable. If you get confused with the story or if you forget about a certain location, person, item, etc...you can view the in-game database. This feature holds all of the information about the game you may need. You can use it as a reference point. It makes things much easier. Also, there is a new and fun minigame available throughout the game. It is a nice break from the story when you need it.

There is one flaw in Xenosaga Episode III. It is obvious that this game had a lower budget. The constant cinematic scenes that the game is famous for are not in it nearly as much. Instead, many scenes are replaced with text boxes. Now don't get me wrong, Xenosaga Episode III has over 8 hours of movies and cut scenes. But if you played the other games, you know that this is only a fraction compared to what it normally has. Aside from this, the movies and cut scenes are just gorgeous to look at. In fact, the entire game will just take your breath away.

Xenosaga Episode III is only available for Playstation 2. It has an ESRB rating of T for teen. This is because the game features violence, suggestive themes, and language. If you want to get all you can out of the game, a strategy guide is available.