What we could see out of a Xenoblade Chronicles 2 remaster

Source: https://nintendoeverything.com/what-we-could-see-out-of-a-xenoblade-chronicles-2-definitive-edition/

Summary

The article speculates on potential enhancements for a hypothetical *Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Definitive Edition*, building on the success of previous *Xenoblade* remasters. It proposes a "big list" of improvements, including visual overhauls (increased resolution, stable framerate), streamlined gameplay (simplified Blade system, improved map), and quality-of-life additions (adjustable difficulty, customizable UI). Furthermore, it explores new content possibilities, such as side quests and enhanced audio options. The author believes a successful remaster would solidify the franchise and demonstrate Nintendo's commitment to revitalizing classic titles, aligning with the growing demand for JRPG remakes.

Full News Report

Here's the article: **Could We See a Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Definitive Edition? A Big List of Potential Remaster Changes** **Who:** Gamers and JRPG fans, especially those familiar with the *Xenoblade* series. **What:** Speculation on potential features and improvements that could be included in a hypothetical *Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Definitive Edition*. **When:** This article explores potential future developments based on the success of previous *Xenoblade* remasters and current trends. **Where:** This discussion centers on the *Xenoblade Chronicles 2* game, initially released for the Nintendo Switch. **Why:** Following the success of *Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition* and *Xenoblade Chronicles 3*, fans are eager to speculate on how *Xenoblade Chronicles 2* could be improved and revitalized for a new generation of players. **How:** This article presents a *big list* of changes, adjustments, and enhancements that would enhance the gameplay, visuals, and overall experience of *Xenoblade Chronicles 2*. The *Xenoblade Chronicles* franchise has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, largely fueled by the critical acclaim of *Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition* on the Nintendo Switch. This remaster not only brought the original game to a new audience but also implemented quality-of-life improvements and enhanced visuals, demonstrating Nintendo's willingness to revisit and refine their classic titles. Similarly, *Xenoblade Chronicles 3* further solidified the series' standing as a JRPG powerhouse. Given this track record, it's only natural that fans are beginning to wonder if and when *Xenoblade Chronicles 2* might receive a similar treatment. This article delves into a *big list* of changes and adjustments we’d love to see in a hypothetical *Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Definitive Edition*. This isn't confirmation of such a project, but rather a hopeful and constructive exploration of possibilities. ## What a *Xenoblade Chronicles 2 Remaster* Could Bring: Our *Big List* ### Visual Overhaul and Performance Enhancements Arguably the most anticipated change would be a significant visual overhaul. *Xenoblade Chronicles 2*, while visually appealing, suffers from occasional frame rate drops and inconsistent resolution, particularly in handheld mode. A *remaster* would ideally address these issues with: * **Increased Resolution:** Bringing the game to a consistent 1080p resolution when docked and a sharper image in handheld mode would be a huge improvement. * **Stable Frame Rate:** Maintaining a stable 30 frames per second, or even aiming for 60, would greatly enhance the gameplay experience, especially during combat. * **Updated Textures and Models:** High-resolution textures, improved character models, and more detailed environments would bring the world of Alrest to life like never before. Imagine the Titans rendered with the same fidelity as the environments in *Xenoblade Chronicles 3*! * **Enhanced Lighting and Effects:** Upgrading the lighting engine and adding more sophisticated visual effects (like particle effects and reflections) would significantly improve the game's overall atmosphere. This visual upgrade wouldn't just be about making the game look prettier; it would also contribute to a smoother and more immersive gameplay experience. ### Streamlining Gameplay and Addressing Common Complaints While *Xenoblade Chronicles 2* is beloved by many, it's also known for some gameplay quirks that could benefit from refinement. A *remaster* could address these with: * **Simplified Blade System:** The gacha-style Blade system, while unique, can be frustrating due to its random nature. Consider implementing a system that allows players to earn specific Blades through quests or achievements, reducing the reliance on luck. * **Improved Map System:** The in-game map can be confusing to navigate. A clearer, more intuitive map with better waypoint functionality would be a welcome addition. Perhaps incorporating a layered map system similar to *Xenoblade Chronicles 3* would enhance navigation. * **Refined Combat System:** While the combat system is deep and engaging, it can be overwhelming for newcomers. A more comprehensive tutorial system and clearer explanations of Blade Arts, Driver Arts, and combos would make it more accessible. The AI of party members could also be improved, reducing the need for constant micro-management. * **Skippable Cutscenes:** Allowing players to skip cutscenes, especially during repeat playthroughs, would be a quality-of-life improvement appreciated by many. * **Blade Affinity Chart Clarity:** Make the affinity chart unlocks clearer and less obtuse. Sometimes figuring out how to unlock the next skill on a Blade's affinity chart can be a confusing and frustrating process. These gameplay tweaks wouldn't fundamentally change the core game, but they would address some of the common criticisms and make the overall experience more enjoyable for both veterans and newcomers. ### Quality-of-Life Improvements and Accessibility Options Modern games often include a range of accessibility options and quality-of-life improvements, and a *Xenoblade Chronicles 2 remaster* should be no exception: * **Adjustable Difficulty Settings:** Allowing players to adjust the difficulty on the fly would cater to a wider range of skill levels. Implementing an "easy mode" for those who primarily want to experience the story and a "hard mode" for those seeking a greater challenge would be beneficial. * **Customizable UI:** Giving players the option to customize the user interface, such as resizing elements and repositioning them, would improve accessibility and cater to personal preferences. * **Text Size Adjustment:** An option to increase text size would greatly improve readability, especially for players with visual impairments. * **Remappable Controls:** Allowing players to remap the controls would make the game more comfortable to play for individuals with different hand sizes or physical limitations. * **Fast Travel Enhancements:** Expanding the fast travel system to include more locations and making it easier to access would reduce unnecessary backtracking. These improvements would ensure that *Xenoblade Chronicles 2* is accessible to a broader audience and that players can tailor the experience to their individual needs and preferences. ### Additional Content and Expansion Possibilities Beyond visual and gameplay improvements, a *remaster* could also include new content to further enrich the experience: * **New Side Quests and Activities:** Adding new side quests, challenges, and mini-games would provide players with more opportunities to explore the world of Alrest and interact with its inhabitants. * **Expanded Post-Game Content:** Providing more challenging post-game content, such as new superbosses or dungeons, would give players a reason to continue playing after completing the main story. * **New Blades and Driver Combinations:** Introducing new Blades with unique abilities and storylines, as well as exploring new Driver and Blade combinations, would add more depth to the combat system. * **Integration of Torna ~ The Golden Country into the main game:** While *Torna ~ The Golden Country* is a standalone expansion, integrating elements of its story or gameplay mechanics into the main *Xenoblade Chronicles 2* experience could enhance the overall narrative. This could involve additional cutscenes or playable sections that provide more context to the events of the main game. ### Enhanced Soundtrack and Audio Options The *Xenoblade Chronicles* series is renowned for its exceptional soundtracks, and a *remaster* could further enhance the audio experience: * **Remastered Soundtrack:** Remastering the existing soundtrack with improved audio quality and potentially including new arrangements of iconic tracks would be a treat for fans. * **Dual Audio Options:** Providing options for both Japanese and English voice acting would cater to different player preferences. * **Accessibility Options for Audio:** Including options to adjust the volume of individual sound effects, music, and voice acting would allow players to customize the audio experience to their liking. ### Impact and Related Trends The success of a *Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Definitive Edition* could have several significant impacts. It would further solidify the *Xenoblade Chronicles* franchise as a cornerstone of Nintendo's JRPG lineup and could attract even more players to the series. A successful *remaster* would also demonstrate Nintendo's commitment to preserving and revitalizing their classic titles, setting a precedent for future remasters of other beloved games. The increasing popularity of JRPGs and the growing demand for remasters and remakes are trends that further support the potential for a *Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Definitive Edition*. Games like *Final Fantasy VII Remake* and *Persona 5 Royal* have proven that there is a strong market for updated and enhanced versions of classic JRPGs. **Conclusion** While a *Xenoblade Chronicles 2: Definitive Edition* remains a hypothetical project, the potential benefits are undeniable. By addressing common complaints, improving visuals and performance, and adding new content, a *remaster* could elevate *Xenoblade Chronicles 2* to even greater heights, solidifying its place as a JRPG classic. This *big list* of potential improvements highlights the possibilities and fuels the hope that Nintendo will eventually revisit this beloved title and give it the definitive treatment it deserves. Only time will tell if our hopes will be realized, but the possibility remains an exciting prospect for *Xenoblade* fans worldwide.