Massive improvement over Xenoblade 2 but doesn't quite reach the lofty heights of Xenoblade 1.
Positives: The main cast are easily the most well-rounded of the entire series, the overall game direction is far better focused than Xenoblade 2 and the highs of this game far exceed anything from XC1 or 2. The end of Chapter 5 in particular is heart-wrenchingly brilliant and one of the best story moments I've ever experienced in a JRPG.
Negatives: Combat takes a long time to hit its stride, only unlocking to its full potential around halfway through the game. The villains are unfortunately very weak and underdeveloped aside from the secondary antagonist, making for a very noticeable contrast with the excellent protagonist cast. The overall story is good but feels rushed in the last third, even for Xenoblade standards.
Positives: The main cast are easily the most well-rounded of the entire series, the overall game direction is far better focused than Xenoblade 2 and the highs of this game far exceed anything from XC1 or 2. The end of Chapter 5 in particular is heart-wrenchingly brilliant and one of the best story moments I've ever experienced in a JRPG.
Negatives: Combat takes a long time to hit its stride, only unlocking to its full potential around halfway through the game. The villains are unfortunately very weak and underdeveloped aside from the secondary antagonist, making for a very noticeable contrast with the excellent protagonist cast. The overall story is good but feels rushed in the last third, even for Xenoblade standards.