Developer: Bandai Namco Studios, Tose
Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Available on: PC, PS4 (reviewed), PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
Release date: June 25, 2021
JRPGs often delve into sci-fi themes, and the latest entry from Bandai Namco Studios and Tose is no exception. Scarlet Nexus gives us a world that is teetering on the Apocalypse, surrounded by what is termed the Extinction Belt and plagued by bizarre creatures called the Others. The OSF (Other Suppressive Force) is formed to combat the menace, and it’s this organization that is joined by both Yuito Sumeragi and Kasane Randall. Each character gets to head up their own 25-30 hour campaign, and if you wish to know the complete story you’ll need to play through both. Sadly, the story goes on longer than it should, indulges in annoying anime tropes, becomes very convoluted, and its initial fun battle system wears thin after a very large amount of battles. It will have its fans, but there will be many who may get through one run and never touch the game again.
PROS
Two campaigns to choose from
Fun combat initially
Interesting creature designs
Story has interesting beginning
Varied use of powers
Unique leveling system
Fast travel
Save points decently spaced
CONS
Combat wears thin and becomes repetitive
Anime tropes
Level design uninspired
Story becomes convoluted
Bond episodes hit or miss
Levels feel too long (especially the final chapter)
Powers fade quickly
Camera issues
Systems can be clumsy to use
Map not always helpful, easy to get turned around
Cheap deaths
In all, Scarlet Nexus starts off promisingly enough. Its combat, a mix of swordplay and the use of psychic powers, is fun for the first 10 hours or so. After that, it soon becomes more of a chore and repetitive (not in a good way). Anime tropes rear their head early, and the sheer stupidity of the characters really got on my nerves by the game’s end. Add to that levels, while nicely detailed, are uninspired and feel empty of anything interesting. The game just goes on too long for its own good. Some will love it, but others will become tired of it and never play both stories. A shame, as this could have been among the great and memorable JRPGs with a few tweaks and some pruning. As it is, if you have the need to check it out, you’re better off waiting for it to be discounted.
5/10 stars
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