Location: HOMELatest Game IssuesXenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Lands on Switch with Enhanced Story and Gameplay

Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition Lands on Switch with Enhanced Story and Gameplay

2025-03-02 22:09:53

The sprawling sci-fi RPG, Xenoblade Chronicles X, is finally making its way to the Nintendo Switch with the release of the Definitive Edition on March 20, 2025.  Originally a Wii U exclusive, this enhanced rerelease promises to bring the unique world of Mira to a wider audience.

This Definitive Edition offers more than just a simple port. Alongside improved visuals and performance enhancements, Nintendo and Monolith Soft have introduced new story content, expanding upon the mysteries and conflicts of the original game. A recent trailer showcased these additions, highlighting a new playable Skell (mech), additional party members, and a narrative arc that picks up after the main campaign's conclusion.

For nearly a decade, Xenoblade Chronicles X has been hailed by JRPG enthusiasts as a hidden gem. Now, it joins the growing library of Wii U titles finding new life on the Switch. While not directly connected to the numbered Xenoblade Chronicles series, this installment stands out with its sci-fi setting and distinct aesthetic, reminiscent of other Monolith Soft projects like Xenosaga and Xenogears.

The original game tasked players with rebuilding humanity on the alien planet Mira after Earth's destruction. As a member of BLADE, a military organization, players explored the vast open world, customized giant robots called Skells, and engaged in deep combat systems.

The new trailer, narrated by Elma, a key companion character, details several enhancements.  Beyond the visual upgrades, players can look forward to piloting a new Skell, and fighting alongside new companions like Qlurian Neilnail and Liesel, a test pilot connected to the development of the new Skell model, Hraesvelg.

The additional story content revolves around a mysterious 'Vanishing Event' that plagues Mira after the main campaign's final battle.  Massive areas of the planet are being swallowed by an expanding void, and a new enemy faction, the Ghosts, emerges from these anomalies to attack BLADE.

Official details from the Japanese website reveal that the Ares, a Skell presumed lost in the game's prologue, returns to aid in the fight.  Players will confront the Ghosts, the lingering Ganglion remnants, and the mystery of the Vanishing Event on a new floating continent high above Mira.

With the release date fast approaching, Nintendo is actively promoting Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition, preparing both long-time fans and newcomers for an epic sci-fi adventure.