Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Expansion Pass Wave 4 - Future Redeemed

It’s not clear what the future holds for the Xenoblade series, but the director, Tetsuya Takahashi has confirmed that the story that started in the first game is officially finished with this DLC. Whether it will go the route of starting a brand new story in the same universe – like what Kingdom Hearts 4 appears to be doing – remains to be seen, but if this did happen to be the final thing we ever got in the Xenoblade franchise, I would be thoroughly satisfied. Future Redeemed is the perfect end to a perfect story.

Just like it did with the excellent Torna – The Golden Country, Monolith Soft has given us a carefully refined prequel experience here, adding to and improving upon core combat and exploration elements that were already best-in-class. Xenoblade Chronicles 3’s delightful battle system feels better than ever, its stunning landscapes are packed full of exploration that’s been reinvigorated thanks to the new Affinity system and there’s enough emotion and revelations packed in to satisfy the most ardent of Xenoblade fans. It also provides something of a clean slate going forward for this most intriguing of franchises. Where will the world of Xenoblade take us next? We cannot wait to find out.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed is an absolutely essential component of the Xenoblade Chronicles trilogy. Combat and exploration are tightly refined to keep things moving along, so there’s never a dull moment unless you choose to take a breather. The story relies heavily on nostalgia for its emotional moments, but fans will be pleased that some of the loose ends are finally tied together, albeit with knots they likely didn’t expect.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed is a fantastic addition to the Xenoblade Chronicles saga. It ties up the story so far in a nice thematic bow, with equal amounts of new additions and returning favorites. The combat system is tighter and incredibly satisfying, and is even tied to exploration to make you feel like you’re always growing. Once again, I can’t wait to see what Monolithsoft cooks up next.

Quotation forthcoming.

If you came here looking for anything but glowing praise, you came to the wrong place. All the work that Takahashi has put into building his world pays off beautifully here with a fun, rewarding nostalgia trip, the most refined gameplay in the series, and the same beautiful look and sound we’re accustomed to. Frankly, my biggest criticism is that I wanted more. Future Redeemed may close the door on one chapter of the Xenoblade Chronicles saga, but hopefully it won’t be too long before Monolith Soft opens another and I get just that—more Xenoblade.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed is Monolith Soft firing on all cylinders, and it’s a resounding victory lap that rewards longtime fans while showcasing exactly what this incredible team do best. The story balances new and old with a deft touch, and everyone gets their moments. Plus, there is so much to see and explore, with smart and satisfying reasons to do so. Maybe make sure you’ve played a few entries before jumping in, but this is heaven for Xenoblade fans.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3 Future Redeemed pulls from key narrative moments across the series and creates a magnificent narrative that ties up loose ends. It relies heavily on series knowledge, making it the perfect expansion for fans who have stuck with the series for so many years. The unique features allow it to differentiate itself from the base game, but the lack of party variety seems like an oversite. Still, this was a fantastic conclusion to this adventure, and it has me eager to experience the next chapter.

Speaking of unexpected, what Future Redeemed does best is recontextualize the ending of Xenoblade 3.

Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed is the answer to fans' dreams, as well as a solid bridge that inextricably links the first two numbered chapters of the franchise to the third. Indeed, to be completely precise, Tetsuya Takahashi has seized the opportunity to bring order to the continuity of "Xeno" and establish once and for all what is or is not part of it. Whether it's the end of the long narrative arc that began on Wii way back in 2010 or just the beginning of a new (Xeno) saga, Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed is undoubtedly an obligatory stop for any fan of the brand, who after years of doubts and speculations will find more or less all the coveted answers. A passionate love letter that we had hoped to read last year and which despite the delay has finally reached our homes.