Tales of Xillia Remastered: A Cherished JRPG Returns with Physical Editions on PS5 and Nintendo Switch

The Legacy of Xillia: More Than Just a Remaster

Originally gracing the PlayStation 3 in 2011, Tales of Xillia introduced players to a world where magic and technology intertwined, often with explosive results. Its narrative, centered around dual protagonists Milla Maxwell, the Lord of Spirits, and Jude Mathis, a medical student, quickly captivated audiences. Their accidental entanglement in a nefarious plot by the Kingdom of Rashugal to create a weapon of mass destruction propelled them into a journey fraught with peril, camaraderie, and discovery across a beautifully realized world.

This remastered version isn`t merely a graphical upscale. While it boasts higher-resolution visuals that promise to breathe new life into the landscapes and character models, it also incorporates welcomed quality-of-life enhancements, such as a much-anticipated auto-save system. Furthermore, most of the original PS3 version`s downloadable content will be seamlessly integrated, ensuring a comprehensive experience right out of the box, with only a few licensed cosmetic items notably absent. It’s a thoughtful package designed to appeal to those who remember the original with fondness, and to those experiencing its charms for the first time.

The Enduring Charm of Physical Media

In an increasingly digital landscape, the announcement of physical editions for PS5 and Nintendo Switch carries a particular weight for collectors and purists. There`s a certain satisfaction in holding a game`s case, admiring the cover art (which, fittingly, will feature reversible designs), and knowing you truly “own” a piece of the game`s history. For a series like “Tales Of,” which often boasts intricate lore and vibrant character designs, a physical release serves as a small, aesthetic triumph, a testament to the enduring appeal of owning a tangible copy of your favorite adventures. It acknowledges that for some, gaming is as much about the collection as it is about the play.

A “Tales” Renaissance: Xillia`s Place in a Growing Lineup

Tales of Xillia was the thirteenth mainline entry in the long-running “Tales Of” series, a franchise renowned for its real-time action combat systems, deep character development, and often emotionally charged narratives. Unlike many RPG series, most “Tales Of” games are standalone, offering unique stories that can be enjoyed independently. However, Xillia did receive a direct sequel, Tales of Xillia 2, which picks up one year after the original`s events.

The consistent stream of “Tales Of” remasters in recent years suggests that Bandai Namco is keenly aware of the nostalgia and demand for these beloved titles. With Tales of Graces f Remastered having launched earlier this year and Tales of Symphonia Remastered also receiving renewed attention, the possibility of a Tales of Xillia 2 Remastered feels not just likely, but almost inevitable. It seems the “Tales Of” assembly line for re-releases is well-oiled, ensuring that no classic is left behind in the ever-evolving landscape of gaming. While it might lead to a bit of humorous exhaustion for fans trying to keep up, it ultimately benefits everyone by preserving these experiences for new generations.

For those interested in the more contemporary entries, the critically acclaimed Tales of Arise (2021) and the earlier Tales of Zestiria (2015) remain excellent options for experiencing the series` evolution. Whether revisiting an old favorite or embarking on a fresh adventure, the world of “Tales Of” continues to expand and invite players into its distinct blend of fantasy, action, and compelling storytelling.