Metal Max Xeno
Release Date: April 19, 2018
RPG, turn-based, tanks, post-apocalypse, jRPG, PlayStation exclusive, singleplayer
OpenCritic
Metal Max Xeno is a 3D jRPG set in a post-apocalyptic world. The game belongs to a series going under the name Metal Max; the series is not much known in the West. The game features a turn-based combat system, and the graphics resemble an animated movie thanks to the cel shading technique.
Metal Max Xeno is a jRPG combining exploration of a 3D world (the camera is placed behind the character’s back) with tactical, turn-based combat. This is the second title belonging to the Metal Max series, which was released in the West (after Metal Saga, released for the PlayStation 2 in 2006). The game was developed by Kadokawa Games.
Story
The action of Metal Max Xeno takes place in a post-war, post-apocalyptic world, in which there are many different types of armored vehicles (tanks, mechs, etc.). The player controls a group of heroes wandering through the wastelands while trying to survive.
Mechanics
Metal Max Xeno is a JRPG. The gameplay consists of exploring the 3D game world and tactical, turn-based combat, which is typical of this genre. During combat, players control a group of characters, and for the most part, the combat revolves around picking out targets and choosing attack types. Although we sometimes traverse the wastelands on foot, vehicles play an important role in the game, they can be used both for mobility and combat. The game features a long list of vehicles with varying stats, which are left to players’ disposal.
Technical aspects
Metal Max Xeno employs cell shading, which makes the game resemble an animated movie. The graphics style was crafted to resemble Japanese manga and is rather pleasing to the eyes.
Last updated on June 25, 2018
Videos and Screens
DualShockers: 7.5 / 10 by Jordan Boyd
In a year filled to the brim with triple-A game releases, there's no doubt some of the smaller games will be lost in the fray. I hope that Metal Max Xeno isn't one of those games. While it may seem like I had a lot more to complain about than praise, I actually did really enjoy my time with the title, and it was a nice surprise considering how unfamiliar I am with the series. At $40, Metal Max Xeno is a worthy addition to any JRPG-lover's library, I hope you'll consider it.
Chalgyr's Game Room: 7.8 / 10 by Nick Herber
There have been some pretty big-named RPGs of late between games like Valkyria Chronicles 4, Dragon Warrior and even the re-release of Disgaea 1 this fall, which unfortunately overshadows METAL MAX Xeno quite a bit. That being said, there is something incredibly charming about this underdog title, with its complex progression systems, dystopian setting and colorful characters that should appeal to JRPG fans looking for something a bit different.
Video Chums: 6.4 / 10 by A.J. Maciejewski
I'm glad to see the Metal Max series make a comeback in the west.
Metal Max Xeno Summary
Platforms:
PlayStation Vita April 19, 2018
PlayStation 4 September 25, 2018
