Xanadu Next, a title that evokes nostalgia and curiosity, has recently resurfaced on Steam, drawing attention during the Autumn sale. Originally developed by Nihon Falcom for the Nokia N-Gage, this game is a spin-off of the 1985 classic, Xanadu: Dragon Slayer 2, which holds a significant place in the history of action RPGs. The anticipation surrounding this release stems from its unique design, crafted to function across multiple platforms, and the acclaim it has received from fans of Nihon Falcom’s extensive portfolio, which includes beloved series like Ys and The Legend of Heroes.
Gameplay Experience
After investing around six hours into the 2016 English re-release, it becomes evident why players have embraced this title. While it may not redefine the genre, Xanadu Next offers a cozy charm and an engaging metroidvania structure. The game features an isometric view and a familiar grind reminiscent of Diablo, with a central village serving as a hub for the knight protagonist to rest, upgrade, and trade. Beyond this safe haven lies a world filled with light puzzle-solving, straightforward yet satisfying combat, and a gradual unlocking of doors that require keys purchased in town, each becoming progressively more expensive.
This grind, while present, feels meditative and rewarding. The thrill of exploring the labyrinthine world and uncovering its interconnectedness provides ample motivation to delve deeper. Players may find moments of recognition akin to those experienced in Dark Souls, as the game’s world cleverly overlaps and intersects in surprising ways. The atmosphere is richly layered, blending the cheerful aesthetics of traditional JRPGs with a more melancholic undertone, creating a unique emotional landscape.
Technical Considerations
Available at a tempting 70% discount during the Steam Autumn sale, Xanadu Next does come with a few quirks. As a rare PC-only JRPG, it lacks comprehensive controller support. Although a community controller profile exists, players may still need to rely on the mouse for certain tasks, such as equipping items. It is advisable to load the separate configuration executable to adjust graphics settings before diving into the game, as it does not automatically optimize for different displays. Despite the Steam page indicating it is unsupported on the Steam Deck, players have reported success by following these steps.
This experience has rekindled an interest in other Nihon Falcom titles, many of which are also currently on sale, inviting players to explore the rich tapestry of games that this esteemed developer has to offer.
