'Xenosaga'
By: Namco
(Playstation 2 / ASIN: B00005BW7Q / SKN: 224254 / Rated: T / $49.99)
Features:Role-playing adventure game. Full English voice-overs. 4 mini-games. In-game database helps players track game information.
For 1 player.
Description:Thousands of years into the future, humanity exists only in deep space, facing an uncertain destiny as it unlocks the secrets of the universe in search of the ultimate truth. Brutally opposed by the Gnosis - a mysterious and hostile alien life form - the Federation works to expand humankind's reach throughout the universe ... even by force where necessary.
Verdict:'Xenosaga: Episode I' is without a doubt a masterpiece of a game. From a soundtrack by the best of the best to awe inspiring graphics, to the deepest storyline in an RPG since 'Xenogears.' Quite frankly there's not much to say but "Takahashi, you dog. You did it again!"
As if it's storyline and graphics weren't enough, 'Xenosaga: Ep I' also delivers a soundtrack by none other than the best music composer out there; Yasunori Mitsuda (internationally known for his awesome work in games like the 'Chrono' series and 'Xenogears').
Another Giant making a return is the personal favorite; character designer Kunihiko Tanaka, who's awesome way of bringing characters' emotions to life is a style that has always fascinated (and inspired those of us who are artists) fans throughout the globe.
Last, but not least is Xenosaga's professional voice acting work. While many (myself included) feared that after the game's localization and translation it's voice acting would end up poor and generic, this was not the case. While more work could have been put on the movement of the lips for more realism, the voice acting work still exceeds that of 'Final Fantasy X's. So far every character's voice seems natural and right in place.
All in all the game offers nothing but high quality everything, leaving us fans in agony as we await the arrival of the next episode in the saga with great anticipation. What else is there to say other than your favorite review quote "Definitely a must get!"
'Speed' Geist