4/5 ★ – SoftLockJake's review of Xenoblade Chronicles 3: Future Redeemed.

I don't quite have time for a full review, so here are some quick thoughts: Overall: Future Redeemed is the best DLC expansion ever made for any game, and it is the best game in the Xenoblade Chronicles trilogy despite being smaller in scope. Gameplay: FR fixes many of the issues I had with XC3, mainly that exploration and world interaction is now rewarded and less time-consuming while still providing wonder and nostalgia. Vibes: The soundtrack is off the chain, maybe not as good as XC1, 2, or X, but certainly better than 3. The use of leitmotif isn't often used in this franchise, but it was so tastefully employed here. Graphics still left a lot to be desired, but the visual design and character designs are some of the best in gaming right now, with all party members being among the top tier for character design and outfit design. Story (Spoiler-free): Despite being a prequel, FR does so much to build out and contextualize the story of XC3 that I actually like the story in that game now. It *redeemed* so many of the odd choices Monolith made in 3's story that now seem earned and actually quite touching. Of course, the return of Shulk and Rex was going to hit me hard, but it was so genuinely pleasant to have them around for the whole game. Although, I was shocked that they didn't steal the show. I was just as interested in Matthew and A's story as I was in theirs. Story (Spoilery): What do you mean Riku is 1000 years old, Riki's descendant, and the savior of the world? What do you mean the Sword of the End and the Fists of the End are parts of the Trinity Processor? WHAT DO YOU MEAN WE GET TO GO TO EARTH PRE-KLAUS, AND IT CONNECTS TO XENOBLADE X AND XENOSAGA?!?! There was so much needed clarification and story explanations in FR that I feel truly satisfied with how the Klaus Saga has ended, even if I would like some more explanation. I loved what they did with Alvis as a character and the way that Shulk and Rex were foils to him in almost every way BECAUSE of what they've been through was earned and awesome. I truly felt like the only lacking part of the story was Glimmer and Nikol's backstory and connection with their parents, but other than that this passes with flying colors. Amazing experience of anime bullshit from start to finish in the best way possible.