I have weird impressions of this game that are both positive and mixed.
Strengths
Interesting Worldbuilding: The focus on alien species and their unification against a common enemy ads depth and intrigue, even if the premise itself isn groundbreaking. I really enjoyed seeing various alien species uniting under the same banner against common enemy.
Enjoyable Overall Experience: Despite its flaws, I find the gameplay enjoyable. Party customization is robust, gameplay is variable, and overall there are a lot of stuff to do.
Weaknesses
1. Lack of Focus in Storytelling:
While the details of the rebellion and alien dynamics were compelling, the fragmented narrative structure (shifting from rebels to androids to dogpeople) made it harder to follow or stay invested. This lack of cohesion detracted me from the overall experience.
2. Gameplay Overload:
The abundance of skill trees, most of which are repetitive or niche, makes the customization overwhelming rather than meaningful. A streamlined skill system might have allowed for more clarity and better strategic decision-making.
Likewise, making a combat for seven party members in a turn-based RPG (as opposed to Xenoblade 3 action-based system) feels very excessive. It bloats battles, making them longer and more difficult to balance effectively.
Suggestions for Improvement
Narrative Tightening: Focusing on fewer story arcs or interweaving them more cohesively would help prevent the mush effect I mentioned. A smaller, more focused cast could also improve player connection to the characters and their struggles.
Streamlining Mechanics: Reducing the number of redundant skill trees and offering clearer differentiation between skills would allow for more satisfying gameplay progression. Likewise, scaling down the party size could make combat more manageable and balanced.
Final Impression
The game has its heart in the right place, with strong worldbuilding and ambition, but struggles to bring its disparate elements together into a cohesive whole. My and others enjoyment despite these issues suggests that the foundation is solid, but refinement in both narrative and gameplay focus could elevate it significantly. If this series does continue, addressing these concerns could help it achieve its full potential.