Video Game Review - Xuan Yuan Sword 7

Rob reviews Xuan Yuan Sword 7 on Xbox Series X...

The Xuan Yuan Sword series has been part of Chinese gaming for the last 30-years. Initially launching on PC back in the 90's the series has since spawned multiple sequels and spin-offs - and even a T.V. series. Now seven games in, the series is seeing a wider release and as such has found its way into the hands of Western gamers. Developed by Eastasiasoft, this standalone story follows newcomer Taishi Zhao and makes a perfect jumping point for new players. 

Set 2000 years ago within the end of China's rule by the Western Han, Xuan Yuan Sword 7 follows young warrior Taishi Zhao. Caring for his younger sister, Taishi takes on various jobs to be able to afford the medicine that she desperately needs. The game starts with Taishi taking on a contract with the local military which results in a demon mortally wounding his sister. This then results in the young warrior embarking on a grand adventure to not only save his sister but soon all of China - and ultimately the rest of the world. 

The overall story of Xuan Yuan Sword 7 is a curious mix of Chinese history and mythology with plenty of folklore and fantasy thrown in. The whole world is built upon this foundation incredibly well and is full of lore and interesting characters. Xuan Yuan Sword 7 does a rare thing of capturing your interest from the get-go. It's very easy to get behind Zhao and believe in his reasonings, which start on a personal level to then evolve into something far more.

Combat plays a big part in the narrative and thankfully Taishi Zhao has a few tricks up his sleeve. Conclude the game the warrior has enough skills at his disposal to make The Witchers own Geralt blush. Throughout you'll be allowed to upgrade these skills and - more importantly - weapons. This can be performed at various workbenches and in many of the game's outposts and settlements. What's more interesting is that during combat you're able to capture the spirit of the enemy, which is then used in these enhancements. 

Zhao is quite a versatile fighter which makes fighting a vast amount of enemies a joy. You're able to freely switch from various fighting techniques as each encounter demands, as well as utilise spells and equipment. Combat performs very fluidic and even when things get hectic, the game continues with its pace. 

Aside from combat, the game's world is pretty vast and features a great deal to see and do. There's quite a lot to explore which will see you travelling through plenty of lush outdoor settings, as well as traversing danger-filled dungeons. Thankfully the world is connected via plenty of fast travel points which will allow quick travel to towns and other places of interest. The mix between combat and exploration is balanced well, with the game knowing just the right time to change pace. 

Another interesting feature is the ability to play Zhulou Chess. This surprisingly is a completely original game that's been made specifically for Xuan Yuan Sword 7. While it borrows some mechanics from the traditional Chess game it's incredibly easy to learn but difficult to master. There's also a quest tied into this if you fancy being a Zhulou Chess master. 

Naturally, as a Series, X|S enhanced title, Xuan Yuan Sword 7 makes excellent use of the console's hardware. The visuals are crisp and clear with great clarity of detail. The overall art style fuses classic Chinese traditions with a more modern flair. Character design is also exceptional with a great diverse cast. There's plenty of conversations to be had with each displaying a great use of facial expressions that not only match the spoken conversations but the un-spoken ones too. Characters are also rich in dialogue with the spoken language being performed in Chinese - with English subtitles. It's a great way to make the story feel alive as each voice actor brings plenty of passion into their lines. 

Xuan Yuan Sword 7 is a well crafted and unique RPG. Its setting is rich with storytelling that fuses Chinese folklore with the countries diverse history. The game's world is full of intricate detail and feels very real and lived-in. There's plenty to see and do as Taishi Zhao's journey takes you through a wide range of locales, with many varying objectives or challenges. RPG fans or those looking for something different should give Xuan Yuan Sword 7 your time!

Rating 9/10

Xuan Yuan Sword 7 is available now and can be purchased via the Microsoft Store by clicking here.

A code was kindly provided for this review.

Rob Lake - For more comic book and video game chat why not follow Geek Culture Reviews on Twitter and Facebook @GeekCultureRev