Xenoblade

Xenoblade is a video game franchise developed by Monolith Soft and published by Nintendo. It comprises a series of action role-playing games set in science-fantasy worlds. The first entry, Xenoblade Chronicles, released in 2010 in Japan and in 2012 worldwide for the Wii, and was followed by Xenoblade Chronicles X (Wii U, 2015), Xenoblade Chronicles 2 (Nintendo Switch, 2017), and Xenoblade Chronicles 3 (Nintendo Switch, 2022). A Definitive Edition of the original Xenoblade Chronicles was released for Nintendo Switch in 2020 with updated visuals and additional content.

World design and setting: The games are known for large-scale, open-world environments and narratives built around extraordinary life forms. The original Chronicles takes place on the giant creatures Bionis and Mechonis, with human factions and hostile machines. Chronicles X explores the planet Mira, while Chronicles 2 is set in the world of Alrest, a land built on the backs of colossal beings and connected to living weapons called Blades. Chronicles 3 centers on a cross-era story that links elements from its predecessors. The settings emphasize exploration and environmental storytelling.

Gameplay: all titles combine real-time combat with party-based systems. Each game develops its own mechanics: Xenoblade Chronicles emphasizes Arts and driver party synergy; Xenoblade Chronicles X adds large-scale exploration and mechanized travel called Skells; Xenoblade Chronicles 2 introduces Blades as living weapons bound to drivers; Xenoblade Chronicles 3 uses a six-member party and an Interlink system that threads together two drivers for special attacks.

Reception and impact: The series has been praised for its ambitious world design, expansive narratives, and music, earning a dedicated fanbase and influencing other JRPGs. Cumulative reception has varied by title, with many critics highlighting its scope and innovation.