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Xenosaga | 
 enlarge | From: Namco
Category: Video Games
List Price: $19.99
Buy Used: $8.75
You Save: $11.24 (56%)
New (18) Used (25) Collectible (1) from $8.75
Avg. Customer Rating:  233 reviews
Sales Rank: 1481
Platform: Playstation2
ESRB: Teen
Media: Video Game
Autographed: No
Memorabilia: No
Number Of Items: 1
Batteries Included: No
Age: 12 - 20 years
Operating System: Playstation 2
Shipping Weight (lbs): 0.5
Dimensions (in): 7.5 x 5.3 x 0.6
MPN: 02136
Model: 722674021364
UPC: 722674021364
EAN: 0457049003774
ASIN: B00005BW7Q
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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| Features:
| • | The Federation seeks to expand humanity's reach in the universe, but the brutal race called the Gnosis stands in their way. This hostile life form must be dealt with -- by force if necessary | | • | Enter an epic storyline with captivating visuals and beautiful, interactive environments | | • | Breathtaking visuals will captivate players as the spell system and attacks practically jump off the screen | | • | Take a break from the action by playing 4 exciting mini-games | | • | In-game database helps players track their game information |
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| Editorial Reviews:
Amazon.com
The ambitiously named Xenosaga: Episode 1--Der Wille zer Macht is an epic-sized space opera that opens in the outer reaches of the galaxy. The story follows several space-dwelling citizens as they aim to unlock the secrets of the universe. The specifics of those secrets presumably will be revealed over subsequent editions of the Xenosaga series (after all, this is only Episode 1)--but a vital clue is held in the elusive Zohar, a mysterious artifact that is aggressively sought by evil aliens. Without spoiling the plot's surprising twists, let's just say the game's German subtitle "Der Wille zur Macht" (translated as "The Will to Power") is a less-than-subtle ode to German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, who is considered as one of the precursors of existentialism. Like many conventional RPG titles, Xenosaga's gameplay balances between exploration and battle modes. The game designers have thankfully spared players from any ill-conceived random battle sequences. Instead, you can concentrate directly on your quest without the repetitious enemy battles. The designers also did a good job balancing a traditional RPG structure with complex themes. However, the game seems to go out of its way to casually integrate controversial (and frankly creepy) religious imagery into the context of the game. Some may find the game offensive and disturbing; others will likely find it intellectually stimulating. Namco promises about 80 hours of gaming--but a good portion of that is non-interactive full-motion video. While the stretched-out cutscenes do add considerable depth to the characters, they're often poorly paced and too long--one takes an alarming 30 minutes to unfold! The addition of more background music might have helped to pick up the pacing, since the obligatory soundtrack is strangely absent at some critical plot points. With impressive animation and unexpected plot points, Xenosaga: Episode 1--Der Wille zer Macht is easily one of the more enjoyable RPG titles to hit the PS2. While this isn't for the happy-go-lucky gaming crowd (see Kingdom Hearts), adult-minded gamers will likely be consumed by the darkness and devious delights offered within this twisted title. --Brett Atwood Pros: - Complex characters and story themes
- No random battle sequences
- Impressive 3-D animation
Cons: - Long, long, looooooooong cut scenes
Product Description
Xenosaga takes you into the far future of the human race -- a time when humanity is desperately fighting for hope! An exciting new challenge for even the most experienced gamer!
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| Customer Reviews: Read 228 more reviews...
 Best story I've ever experienced, and probably ever will. ** spoiler free review ** July 19, 2008
Before focusing specifically on Xenosaga Episode 1, I want to make some general comments about the series. Episode 1-3 are all direct sequels off each other and pick up the story right where it left off in the previous episode, so don't plan on starting with episode 2 or 3, or just playing episode 1, if you want the true effect of this series. Think of these games exactly as you would a trilogy of books. Also, it is NOT a sequel of Xenogears, and officially is NOT connected to that game in any way, although there is more than enough that happens throughout the series to create controversy that it is.
This game, and the entire series, is all about the story. While there are plenty of other things that make the games great and fun to play, the engrossing and emotional story is clearly what leaves its mark on people. There is nothing that even comes close to Xenosaga from my experience, and I'm referring to not just video games, but movies and books as well. THE STORY IS THAT GOOD! If that aspect of a game does not hold your interest you may want to pass on this game, and series, however, as there are many cut scenes of length and story elements that could leave someone frustrated if it's not of interest to them.
Graphics (8/10) - Graphics are somewhat dated, and they definitely can't compare with Episode 3's graphics, but for their time they were good. Not something that's a deal breaker by any means, and it's not like you're playing a 16 bit game, but compared to todays standards they are lacking.
Music (10/10) - The muscial score for this game is one of the best I've heard, and in my opinion the best of the series. Amazing music in this game, worthy enough of getting the soundtrack for sure. Some of the tracks are breathtaking.
Battles (9/10) - Complex battle system is refreshing for those that want a challenge and originality, but perhaps could be seen as cumbersome for someone wanting simplicity. Very fun once completely understood, but don't expect to just jump into it without the training option or reading the manual.
Extras (10/10) - Lots of mini games and one in particular of an extreme depth, the Xenocard game. Lots of fun and very intricate. There are also other hidden goodies throughout the game, and more mini games, so plenty to do besides the general game.
Story (10/10) - As stated already, this is definitely the highlight of the game and series. Expect a very mature storyline that touches on everything from philosophy and psychology to the nature of existence and humanity. Many twists and turns through the course of the series, and engrossing and immersive are adjectives that barely do it justice. The story is uplifting and tragic at the same time, and will definitely pull in your emotions. Upon completing episode 1, however, expect a bunch of questions with just a few answers.
Characters (10/10) - I figured this needed a separate category from the story, even though it clearly falls into the story. The characters are so well developed in this series it's amazing, and even the nature of the villains goes beyond simply black and white good and evil. Everyone has a story and a history that plays into their present actions, including the villains. Also, the characters are so endearing that it's almost impossible to not become extremely attached to some of them, especially as one continues to progress through the series. Expect to laugh and cry with them as you go through the journey.
Fun factor (10/10) - Even apart from the story, I found the game very fun. Battles are a bit more complex than your normal rpg, but that was a positive for me. The level design is good and there was a good overall challenge to the game, but not to the point of frustration. Just a fun game, what can I say!
Xenosaga may not be for everyone with it's frequent cut scenes and heavy story elements, but for the niche that it caters to I don't believe anything can even come close to it, including the ever popular Final Fantasy VII. If you are a fan of a solid story and haven't played this yet, you need to do whatever is necessary to get this game in your system as soon as possible!
Xenosaga I July 5, 2008
A new series to me, plays well, lots of movie sequences, interesting story line so far.
Great game June 29, 2008
This is a great game and the service was very quick.The write up amazon provided is exactly what my brother told me about the game before I bought it.He has been playing this game since it came out. I am very happy with my purchase. Thanks again Amazon
Tired of Final Fantasy? This is your game! February 3, 2008
1 out of 1 found this review helpful
Having exhausted myself of Final Fantasy (from the PS1 all the way through the PSX) I decided to walk on the wild side and try this game.
Boy was I pleasently surprised!
If you happened to play Xenogears for the PS1, this game is loosely based on events that occured in that game.
One thing this game has going for it is a story. Many reviews peg the game time at 80 hours but don't worry: A great portion of this is made up of those cinematic events!
I've only completed the first 2 portions of the game but I am well impressed enough to provide ratings for this game:
Graphics: 9/10
The cinema events in this game will simply blow you away. Keep in mind if you've seen the XBox 360 or PS3, you can't compare the graphics of the 2 systems (duh!). But compare this game to other PS2 releases and I assure you the graphics hold up just fine to any other PS2 game, and in many cases far exceed them. In battles, the special effects are impressive, from Shion's Ray attack to KOS-MOS R-Blade. Tecmo defintely had a winner with the graphics from this game.
Sound: 9/10
The music often fits the mood of the situation perfectly. I was definitely on the edge of my seat in the level where you are trying to evade the Gnomis without getting touched! Now, my ONE gripe with this so far is the music doesn't change for bosses as it does with other RPG's. This is slightly annoying but a minor complaint.
Sound effects are right in place and very good.
Presentation: 9/10
So far, the game directs you well in where to go, but allows a lot of freedom on how to get there. There are several paths, for example, you can take on the ship level to get around.
Add in the email system, the ether system and the ability to extract skills from different items you can equip and you've got a very deep experience here.
Lasting Appeal/Overall: 9.5/10
If you are tired of ordinary RPG's and want something different, Xenosaga Episode 1 is definitely for you. It can be had for around 10-15 bucks in most used game stores and is well worth the investment. You'll definitely spend a lot of time exploring the game dynamics, which are very much in-depth both in battles and in strategy.
This game does have some language (hence the "T" for teen) so if you happen to have a kiddie (8-12 or so) I'd be careful about this one.
But if you've got a teenager (or you're a kid at heart) who loves RPG's and strategy, this is the game for you!
Love it, Hate it, It's still Xeno January 8, 2008
We can only hope Namco(somehow) pick's this franchise up again and give's so many people what they so desperately NEED.
Even as this game may have been a bit long-winded, those that knew Xeno, knew it for It's story and the power it brought you.
Could this game have used work? Yes. However, it is still a great first episode and is STILL better than watching that god-awful graphic overdose bonus cinematic disk that came with the LE version of Episode 2.
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