Summary
- Release Year: 2007
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG), Strategy
- Platforms: PlayStation Portable, PlayStation Vita
- Developers: Media.Vision
- Publishers: 505 Games, Sony Computer Entertainment, Inc. (SCEI), XSEED Games
Wild Arms XF: A Tactical Gem on the PlayStation 2
Released in 2007 for the PlayStation 2, Wild Arms XF is a 2D turn-based tactical role-playing game (T/RPG) that stands out from its peers with its unique gameplay mechanics and engaging story. Developed by Media.Vision and published by Sony Computer Entertainment, Wild Arms XF is the fifth main installment in the Wild Arms series, and while it shares some similarities with its predecessors, it also introduces a number of new features that set it apart.
Gameplay
At its core, Wild Arms XF is a grid-based T/RPG, similar to games like Final Fantasy Tactics and Tactics Ogre. Players control a squad of up to six characters and navigate them through a variety of maps, engaging in battles with enemies. The game’s combat system is turn-based, and players must carefully consider their positioning and actions in order to succeed.
One of the things that sets Wild Arms XF apart from other T/RPGs is its emphasis on positioning and maneuvering. The game’s maps are made up of hexagonal tiles, and characters can move and attack from any tile. This allows for a great deal of strategic flexibility, and players are encouraged to outmaneuver their enemies as well as outgun them.
Another unique feature of Wild Arms XF is its “Formation Arts” system. When characters are positioned in certain formations, they can unleash powerful attacks that deal bonus damage. For example, if three characters are positioned in a line, they can perform a “Line Formation Art” that deals increased damage to a single enemy.
In addition to Formation Arts, Wild Arms XF also features a “Combination Arts” system. This system allows characters to team up to attack an enemy with multiple attacks in a single turn. The more characters that participate in a Combination Art, the more damage it will deal.
Story
Wild Arms XF takes place on the planet Eldia, a world that is slowly being consumed by a mysterious force known as the “Vangwolf.” The player takes on the role of Clarissa Arwin, a young woman who is destined to save Eldia from the Vangwolf.
Clarissa is joined on her journey by a group of companions, each with their own unique skills and abilities. Together, they must travel across Eldia, fighting the Vangwolf and uncovering the secrets of the planet’s past.
Characters
Wild Arms XF features a cast of six playable characters, each with their own unique playstyle and personality.
- Clarissa Arwin: The protagonist of the game, Clarissa is a young woman who is destined to save Eldia from the Vangwolf. She is a skilled swordsman and has the ability to use powerful magic.
- Jude Maverick: A young man who is traveling with Clarissa. Jude is a skilled archer and has a strong sense of justice.
- Liete: A young woman who is a member of the Eldia Royal Guard. Liete is a skilled fighter and is fiercely loyal to her country.
- Garr Holt: A gruff old man who is a member of the Eldia Royal Guard. Garr is a skilled warrior and has a wealth of experience.
- Raquel Errante: A young woman who is a member of the Vangwolf. Raquel is a powerful sorceress and is fiercely loyal to her people.
- Zed Magnus: A young man who is a member of the Vangwolf. Zed is a skilled swordsman and has a strong sense of honor.
Reception
Wild Arms XF received generally positive reviews from critics upon its release. The game was praised for its unique gameplay mechanics, engaging story, and charming characters. However, some critics found the game’s difficulty to be off-putting.
Despite its critical success, Wild Arms XF was not a commercial success. The game sold poorly in Japan and Europe, and it was never released in North America. This is a shame, as Wild Arms XF is a truly unique and enjoyable T/RPG that deserves to be experienced by a wider audience.
Conclusion
Wild Arms XF is a hidden gem among tactical RPGs. Its unique gameplay mechanics, such as Formation Arts and Combination Arts, add a thrilling layer of strategy to the battles. The game also features a cast of charming characters and an engaging story. If you are a fan of T/RPGs, then you owe it to yourself to check out Wild Arms XF.
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
