Tales of Vesperia for Xbox 360 marks the debut of the Tales series on the platform, and it certainly does not disappoint. This game takes the elements that made the series beloved by fans worldwide and elevates them to new heights. With its captivating storyline, anime-style graphics, and upgraded battle system, Tales of Vesperia delivers a standard-setting RPG experience.
One of the standout features of Tales of Vesperia is its use of an all-new graphics engine and character designs by the renowned Kosuke Fujishima. The high-quality HD character models and environments truly bring the game to life, immersing players in a world that feels indistinguishable from traditional cel-based anime. For retro gaming enthusiasts, this nostalgic nod to classic anime aesthetics will surely be appreciated.
In terms of gameplay, Tales of Vesperia introduces significant additions to the series' real-time combat system. Players can engage in battles on massive battlegrounds, learning new special attacks that are tied to individual weapons. The inclusion of finishing blows adds an exciting dynamic to combat, allowing players to take down enemies in a single hit with correctly timed button combinations. Additionally, the inclusion of mission-based battles adds variety to each encounter, rewarding players with unique items for fulfilling battle objectives.
Crafting is another feature that adds depth to gameplay. Players can use materials collected from executing finishing moves to craft rare and unique equipment for their characters. This system provides a sense of progression and customization, allowing players to tailor their characters to their playstyle.
While Tales of Vesperia excels in many aspects, it does have some flaws that retro gaming enthusiasts may find disappointing. The game falls short in terms of its narrative depth, with a storyline that, at times, feels predictable and lacks the emotional impact seen in classic RPGs. Additionally, the game's pacing can be uneven, with moments of excitement followed by slower, less engaging segments.
Overall, Tales of Vesperia for Xbox 360 delivers an enjoyable RPG experience that will appeal to fans of the genre. Its stunning graphics, upgraded combat system, and crafting mechanics provide a nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic games. While it may not reach the heights of some of the greatest retro RPGs, it still offers a worthwhile adventure for those looking for a mix of appreciation for the past and insightful discernment.
