Xenoblade Chronicles X

The 1st disc of the infamously unfinished Xenoblade and the unconnected original Chronicles are the only worthwhile offerings from the developer. The rest ultimate crumbled under ambition, so I greatly welcome this new one-and-done approach. The melodramatic story gets good after a slow first act but don't ask me why the cringe worthy ?humor? had to increase and don't expect a resolving sequel. The gameplay, aka. the game's main selling point, is the same quality offering as last time but the lack of comfort during the quest-chains is a noticeable flaw. So is the lack of a MUCH needed manual/tutorials. The decision to go with an avatar protagonist is a bit awkward at times too but the narrative somewhat justifies it. I would have liked to select Japanese VAs, as last time, but the American ones do a decent job and the soundtrack is again a highlight despite it's sometimes inappropriate use. The graphics should also be the best the WiiU has to offer. I can ultimately recommend the game, mostly due to the lack of competition, but it is WAY too padded and ultimately inferior to the Wii predecessor.