Lost Odyssey
- November 22, 2013
- Mistwalker
- 60h median play time
Lost Odyssey is the story of Kaim, an immortal character who has lived more than 1,000 years. He doesn't remember his past, and he doesn't know where his future lies. Throughout Kaim's journey, a handful of characters join him on an odyssey to discover their intricate past and destiny, leading players through a dramatic story of massive scale. Massively multiplayer online role-playing game element…
Reviews
- Lost Odyssey features an engaging and emotional storyline, with well-developed characters and beautiful graphics that enhance the overall experience.
- The turn-based combat system is strategic and enjoyable, incorporating unique mechanics like the 'ring' system that adds depth to battles.
- The game offers a vast amount of content, including numerous side quests and exploration opportunities, making it a rewarding experience for players who enjoy immersive RPGs.
- The game suffers from long loading times, especially during cutscenes, which can detract from the overall pacing of the experience.
- Some players found the 'dream' sequences, which provide backstory, to be tedious and overly lengthy, interrupting the flow of the main narrative.
- There are occasional issues with disc readability, particularly with the fourth disc, which can lead to frustrating gameplay interruptions.
- story141 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The story of "Lost Odyssey" is widely praised for its emotional depth and complexity, featuring a rich narrative that intertwines the experiences of its immortal protagonist, Kaim, with poignant memory flashbacks. Players appreciate the intricate storytelling, engaging character development, and the blend of action and tender moments, making it a standout in the RPG genre. While some find the pacing slow and the dream sequences tedious, the overall consensus is that the game offers a compelling and immersive story that resonates with fans of classic RPGs.
“By far the strongest point of this game is its storytelling; the memory flashbacks Kaim has are some of the most emotional cutscenes I've ever seen. There were a few that even had me tearing up; no lies here, they were that moving.”
“The story of Lost Odyssey is deeply affecting; it is both full of action and laced with soft, tender moments.”
“More than just the average RPG, Lost Odyssey gives you an intricate storyline, dazzling cinematics, and above-average voice acting.”
“The story to this game is very predictable and kind of sucks.”
“You get sent on a lot of weird, boring, non-pertinent side quests whether you like it or not!”
“They are supposed to enhance the story by adding some background knowledge of the main character; however, all they do is waste time.”
- graphics48 mentions
- 77 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game have received widespread praise for their stunning visuals and artistry, often highlighted as a standout feature that enhances the overall experience. While some reviewers noted minor issues like aliasing, the use of the Unreal Engine has been commended for delivering high-quality graphics that are on par with contemporary RPGs. Overall, the visuals are described as beautiful and engaging, complementing the game's compelling story and character development.
“The game itself is beautiful, graphically.”
“With an engrossing story and beautiful graphics, the classic JRPG formula proves it can make the leap to the newest generation of console gaming without having to sacrifice story and character for graphics.”
“Although I do enjoy the real-time battle, this game excels above all because of the stunning graphics and artistry.”
“From graphics, to gameplay, to story, Losy Odyssey fails to bring something original to the table.”
“I think when it first came out it was probably a good game but now it was a little boring and the graphics were certainly well behind the times.”
“Because of the use of the Unreal graphics engine, it would be wise to download the entire game (yes, all 4 discs) into your hard drive.”
- music28 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 36 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The music in the game is universally praised, with many reviewers highlighting it as a standout feature that enhances the storytelling and emotional depth. Composed by Nobuo Uematsu, the soundtrack is described as one of the best in video game history, effectively capturing the game's themes and moments. Overall, the music is considered a compelling reason to play, alongside the engaging story and nostalgic homage to classic RPGs.
“Nobuo Uematsu once again does an outstanding soundtrack that captures 'the emotion of the moment', as I like to call it.”
“This game has the best soundtrack for a video game I have ever heard, no lie.”
“If you needed only one reason to buy the game, it's the soundtrack.”
“When I reviewed Final Fantasy 12, I praised its refreshing battle system and frowned on its poor characters, music, and storyline.”
“If storyline, characters, and music are important to you, then you need to play this game.”
“Lost Odyssey is very reminiscent of Final Fantasy, which is to be expected since you have Hironobu Sakaguchi, the father of the entire Final Fantasy series, and his cohort in musical crime onboard.”
- gameplay25 mentions
- 16 % positive mentions
- 72 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a traditional turn-based RPG style, featuring a structured progression that introduces mechanics and story elements effectively, particularly in the first disc. Players appreciate the ring system and skill-building mechanics, alongside the nostalgic feel of classic JRPGs, though some find the gameplay too structured and lacking in armor upgrades. Overall, it offers a rich experience for fans of old-school RPGs, complemented by good graphics and music, but may not appeal to those who prefer more dynamic gameplay.
“This game is what you would expect from an RPG: an epic story with familiar gameplay.”
“The plot, the characters, the game mechanics - all reminiscent of a traditional turn-based RPG but unique in their own ways.”
“The ring system and skill building is one of my favorite game mechanics in any RPG that I've ever seen.”
“The gameplay was too structured for my tastes.”
“There are no armor upgrades, so it's just you and your character throughout all 40+ hours of gameplay.”
“Gameplay (if you aren't a fan of the turn-based battle system) is a con.”
- emotional19 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its deeply emotional storytelling, particularly through poignant memory flashbacks that resonate with players, often evoking tears. Its serious themes and mature narrative, enriched by literary elements, create a harrowing journey that captivates and satisfies emotionally, making it a standout experience for those who appreciate a compelling story. However, players should be prepared for the sadness that permeates many of the game's scenes.
“By far the strongest point of this game is its storytelling; the memory flashbacks Kaim has are some of the most emotional cutscenes I've ever seen. There were a few that even had me tearing up; no lies here, they were that moving.”
“All I'm going to say is that Lost Odyssey is a harrowing journey that left me feeling completely satisfied and stirred emotionally.”
“It has so many emotional scenes that pull you in and keep you wanting more.”
- character development10 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The game features a cast of likable and multifaceted characters, with notable character development, particularly for the main protagonist, despite initial reservations. While the character design is praised, some players expressed a desire for even more depth in character arcs. Overall, the RPG elements enhance the character development experience, making it a standout aspect of the game.
“It is full of likable characters (even though the main protagonist seems really iffy at first), and the most important ones get a lot of great character development.”
“The characters are multifaceted, and it has one of the better main character developments I've seen in a long time.”
“Wow, a good classic RPG with all RPG elements near perfect; the formation, ring assembly, and link skill systems add a great layer for character development and planning for each encounter.”
“Would have appreciated a little more character development.”
- grinding9 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players appreciate that the game offers a fun turn-based RPG experience without forced grinding, featuring plenty of content and exploration. However, some find the random battles tedious and feel that while the battle system is enjoyable, it can become repetitive over time. Overall, the game presents a challenge that may appeal to those who prefer grinding, but it may also frustrate others seeking a more streamlined experience.
“The graphics are great, the battle system is spot on... the game is just really, really tedious.”
“I enjoyed the battle system, but after a certain point it was tedious to get stopped and engage in a full battle assault.”
“The random battles can become tedious, but the story is very involved and intriguing.”
- humor5 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is highlighted by the witty one-liners of the character Jansen, who is frequently mentioned as a standout for his comedic personality. Players appreciate the humorous dialogue and engaging storytelling, which contribute to an overall fun and entertaining experience.
“One of the best storytelling experiences I've come across in a game to date. The graphics are top-notch, and the characters have distinct personalities, such as Jansen, who will keep you laughing with his one-liners throughout the game.”
“The character Jansen in the game is my favorite; he's absolutely hilarious.”
“Fun to play, with humorous dialogue and plenty of funny moments.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game has low replayability, a common sentiment among RPGs, with users noting that while it may appeal to younger audiences, it lacks elements that encourage repeated play.
“As is the case with most RPGs, I find the replay value of this game is low.”
“Kids liked it, but there is little replay value.”