The Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition arrives on Nintendo Switch on March 20th. While early leaks have frustrated some eager fans awaiting the official release, the game's remarkably efficient file size has garnered widespread praise.

Recently, Twitter user Aero highlighted the Definitive Edition's surprisingly small footprint of 13.5GB. This contrasts sharply with the original Wii U version's 23GB size.  The question arises: how did Monolithsoft manage to increase the resolution by 50%, include all the original DLC, add a new storyline, and *still* reduce the file size by almost 10GB?  Are they wizards?  Can other developers learn this magic?

Theories abound in online discussions.  Some suggest Monolithsoft meticulously removed redundant code and assets, streamlined loading processes, and employed advanced compression methods. Others proclaim optimization and compression to be lost arts, lamenting the trend of bloated game sizes often exceeding 100GB. Many point to Nintendo as a shining example, urging other developers to learn from their efficiency.  Comparisons are being drawn to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which boasts impressive visuals and gameplay within a relatively compact 13GB, a size some speculate could easily balloon to 50GB or more on other platforms.