Xenoblade Chronicles 2 was released for the Nintendo Switch on this day eight years ago, in 2017. It launched during the first year of the console, at a time when the Switch was still building its library, and it quickly became one of the system’s biggest early titles. For many players, it showed that the Switch could handle large, story-driven games with huge worlds and long adventures. Its arrival helped strengthen the console’s identity and gave fans a major RPG to enjoy right from the start.
The story follows Rex, a young salvager, who meets Pyra, a powerful Blade linked to an ancient mystery. Together, they travel across the Titans, massive living creatures that serve as the last homes for humanity. Each Titan has its own style, culture, and history, making the world feel wide and full of life. Along the way, Rex’s group grows with new allies, each with personal goals and struggles that add more emotion to the journey.
One reason the game stood out was its battle system, which mixed fast movement with strategic skill use. Players had to think about timing, combos, and Blade setups in order to perform strong attacks. At first it could feel complex, but once understood, it became one of the most rewarding systems in the series. The wide selection of Blades also gave players a sense of discovery, as each one brought new abilities and personality. This pushed many players to explore every corner of the world in search of rare Blades and hidden secrets.
The visual style of Xenoblade Chronicles 2 also became a major talking point. Its bright colors, expressive characters, and sweeping landscapes created a strong anime-inspired look. Combined with the soundtrack, which featured energetic battle tracks and emotional orchestral themes, the game delivered some of the series’ most powerful moments. Many fans still point to scenes from the game as some of their favorite memories on the Switch.
