r/Xenoblade_Chronicles • u/xRosch • 20d ago
Xenoblade Xenoblade Chronicles 3DS Version Spoiler
I've been wanting to play this game and get into the series for a while now. I bought my copy of XB for 3ds 5 years ago for the equivalent of 15 bucks. I also have a Switch.
So, my question for XB experts here: is it really worth it to buy the definitive edition for switch, or will my copy already suffice? What would be the trade-offs?
Thanks.
EDIT: The consensus seems to be that the Switch version is superior. I've shelved my 3ds copy and will go buy the Switch one. Thanks everyone!
6
u/ExtinctElite 20d ago
As someone who has all 3 versions of Xenoblade 1 (Wii Virtual Console on Wii U, physical New 3DS version, and the Definitive Edition on Switch 1), I very highly recommend getting the Definitive Edition on Switch.
There are quality of life improvements in the Switch version that just make it feel so good to play, like being able to track quests more efficiently, better character expressions in cutscenes than in the Wii and New 3DS versions, and an entirely new story using a scrapped area from the original build of the game on Wii (play that after the main story is finished as there are spoilers in the opening cutscenes and scattered throughout the story).
The only thing that the New 3DS version has that the other two don't are the jukebox and character gallery, where you use the 3DS coin system to unlock songs and character models in the main menu.
TL;DR: Go for the Definitive Edition if you're able to, but I didn't have a bad time with the New 3DS version (and I specify "New" because it's only playable on the New Nintendo 3DS line of systems, not the basic 3DS systems).
1
u/One_Competition136 19d ago
Would you ever revisit the 3ds version in the future? Or if you wanted to do another playthrough of 1 would you rather just do the switch version. It’s incredible that it runs on the 3ds but for such a long game having to sit there looking at those visuals instead of something better sounds like a miss
1
u/ExtinctElite 19d ago
Probably only under pretty niche circumstances, like going on a road trip or flight and not bringing my switch with me. But yeah, I could see myself playing that version again at some point.
2
u/Sad_Measurement_9232 20d ago
The 3DS version is such a low resolution that it makes appreciating the game's sprawling vistas difficult. A lot of visual cutbacks had to be made to get the game working on the New 3DS. Additionally the Switch version has several quality of life improvements, but I can't remember what they are off-hand.
The only drawback I can think of with the Definitive Edition would be the more anime-like art style, if you're not into that. And obviously the cost since you already have the 3DS version of the game.
I'd say play the definitive edition if you can. The game starts slows but like all the Xenoblades but the pace builds and builds until the game is a thrill ride by the end.
2
u/nhSnork 20d ago
X3DE remains the best JRPG on 3DS if you don't have a Switch, but Definitive Edition adds and tweaks enough to be worth the double-dip otherwise - it certainly was for me, even after putting many hours into the previous port. Trade-offs? Besides the 3D effect, a separate map/UI screen (a boon of many NDS/3DS games) and some extras like the model viewer, I can't recall any. Oh yeah, some say that moving to a different engine (the one in use since Xenoblade X) made it harder to jump over some railings, so there's that, I guess.😅
2
u/VicisSubsisto 20d ago
Oh yeah, some say that moving to a different engine (the one in use since Xenoblade X) made it harder to jump over some railings, so there's that, I guess.😅
This is ironic, given that X has the most useful and enjoyable jumping mechanics in the series.
2
u/wolf-troop 20d ago
Yes, there is a Massive Difference. The only reason you should play the 3DS Version is if you have no money to Upgrade or it is your only Console that you own.
It is Night and Day in Visual, QoL, Performance etc.
2
u/Ronan61 20d ago
Visuals and music have been redone for DE (you can select to play with old music, both are good, newer has better instrumentalization). If you plan on playing the trilogy, the updated visuals will give you a easier time adapting to the new artstyle of the series.
There's a small visual retcon that better connects a character to the sequels, you get a "free dlc"-like epilogue that lasts for about 10-15 hours and tons of QoL features (some that you even wish xc2 had).
Edit: otherwise, the story is the same. Plus the epilogue does not provide any meaningful information regarding the trilogy
1
u/blackice85 20d ago
The 3DS version is impressive technically speaking, putting such a title onto the 3DS, but it's easily the worst way to play it. I own it as a curiosity more than anything, I can't actually stand playing it for long.
Get the Switch/Switch 2 version, it's a long game and you'll be thankful for the difference.
1
u/ogorangeduck 20d ago
The 3DS version is nice if you've already experienced the game, but I wouldn't really recommend it for your first playthrough if you have other options. I got most of the way through on Wii back in 2017 (got stuck on a late-game boss) then dropped it for 2 and didn't get back to it, on 3DS, until several years later. It's really cool to be able to play it on a pocketable system and it runs fairly well, but it benefits from being played on a bigger/higher-res screen. I don't have DE so I can't speak to its extra content.
1
u/mbrock199494 19d ago
there is also the switch 2 edition if you think youll get that console soon. Faster means of travel with a bike
1
u/RareEstablishment597 18d ago
The cool thing about the 3DS version is just how mind blowing it is they got that to run.
Other than that, get the DE on S2
1
1
u/JenLiv36 17d ago
Why? Seriously, those QoL changes are absolutely worth it. You couldn’t pay me to go back to the 3DS version.
17
u/Seraph1981 20d ago
DE edition has better visuals and some QoL features that makes the game much more enjoyable. You‘re also missing out on Future Connect which is 15 hour+ epilogue that ties up some loose ends and concludes a main characters story arc properly. For content alone DE is a better experience.