The wait is almost over for Tales fans craving the remastered treatment for one of the franchise’s most memorable entries. Bandai Namco Entertainment released the final launch trailer for Tales of Xillia Remastered on October 28, 2025, just days before the game hits stores and digital storefronts on October 31st. The 2011 PlayStation 3 classic returns with enhanced visuals, quality-of-life improvements, and all the original DLC packed into a single package across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam.
Two Heroes One Destiny Returns
Tales of Xillia made history as the first game in Bandai Namco’s long-running series to offer dual protagonists with separate perspectives on the same story. Players choose between Jude Mathis, an aspiring medical student from the capital, or Milla Maxwell, a mysterious woman accompanied by four powerful elemental spirits. Their paths intertwine when they discover the kingdom of Rashugal is using a dangerous weapon that drains mana, threatening to destroy the balance of their entire world.
The launch trailer showcases how dramatically different each perspective plays out despite following the same core narrative. Jude and Milla occasionally split up during key story moments, experiencing events from completely different vantage points. This dual-story approach added massive replay value to the original release, encouraging players to experience both campaigns to understand the complete picture.
Set in the magnificent world of Rieze Maxia where humans and spirits coexist in harmony, the game explores themes of peaceful coexistence between opposing nations. One world governed by spiritual powers clashes with another driven by scientific progress, with only Jude and Milla’s unwavering convictions capable of bridging that divide.
What Makes Tales of Xillia Special
- First Tales game to feature dual protagonists with separate story perspectives
- Dual Raid Linear Motion Battle System with real-time combo combat
- Link system lets players team up with allies for devastating combo attacks
- World of Rieze Maxia balances spiritual power and scientific advancement
- Originally released September 2011 in Japan, August 2013 in North America
- Sold over 500,000 copies in first week in Japan, exceeding 1 million worldwide
- Received neutral-to-positive reviews praising story and combat depth
Enhanced Graphics Transform the Experience
The remaster brings notable visual upgrades that modernize the 2011 release for current-generation hardware. Character models received complete overhauls with improved textures and smoother animations. Environmental details pop with enhanced lighting effects that weren’t possible on PlayStation 3. The anime-inspired art style that defines the Tales series shines brighter than ever with these graphical enhancements.
Sound design also received attention with remastered audio that takes advantage of modern sound systems. Voice acting remains intact in both English and Japanese, letting players choose their preferred language. The orchestral soundtrack composed for the original release sounds even better with enhanced audio quality that brings out subtle instrumental details.
Performance targets vary by platform but expect smooth frame rates across all versions. The Nintendo Switch version prioritizes portability while maintaining the visual improvements, though obviously at lower resolutions than PS5 or Xbox Series X. PC players get the definitive experience with unlocked frame rates and resolution options scaling to whatever hardware they’re running.
Quality of Life Improvements Welcome
Beyond prettier graphics, Tales of Xillia Remastered introduces modern conveniences that respect player time without trivializing challenge. Auto-save functionality prevents losing progress to unexpected deaths or crashes, a crucial addition given the game’s 40-plus hour runtime across both campaigns. Early access to the Grade Shop unlocks rewards and bonuses that previously required completing the game first.
The ability to toggle enemy encounters on and off addresses one of the original’s most divisive features. Players can now explore dungeons and towns without constant random battles interrupting exploration, then flip encounters back on when they need experience or materials. This single feature transforms the pacing for players who found the original’s encounter rate exhausting.
Additional quality-of-life features include faster battle animations, skip options for cutscenes on repeat playthroughs, and improved menu navigation. These changes modernize an already solid JRPG foundation without fundamentally altering the core experience that made Tales of Xillia beloved in the first place.
| Feature | Original (2011) | Remastered (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Graphics | PS3 standard definition | Enhanced textures, lighting, models |
| Save System | Manual save points only | Auto-save functionality added |
| Grade Shop | Unlocks after first completion | Early access from start |
| Encounters | Always active | Toggle on/off at will |
| DLC | Weekly releases, separate purchases | All included from day one |
All Original DLC Included
One of the remaster’s biggest selling points is the inclusion of all downloadable content from the original release. Tales of Xillia featured extensive DLC that released on a weekly basis throughout 2011 and 2012, with most consisting of cosmetic additions like character costumes, hairstyles, and bonus items. Purchasing all this content separately would have cost significantly more than the base game.
Character costumes let players customize Jude, Milla, and the supporting cast with alternate outfits ranging from stylish formal wear to silly joke costumes. Bonus items include consumables and equipment that ease progression for players who want slightly less challenge. These additions were completely optional in the original but nice to have for variety.
Some licensed DLC from promotional partnerships won’t be included due to expired licensing agreements, but the vast majority of original content makes the cut. This represents tremendous value for newcomers who missed the PS3 release or players who didn’t want to spend extra money on optional cosmetics back in 2011-2013.
The Dual Raid Linear Motion Battle System
Combat remains the centerpiece of any Tales game, and Xillia’s Dual Raid Linear Motion Battle System holds up remarkably well 14 years later. The real-time combat lets players control characters directly while AI handles party members, or swap between characters mid-battle for different tactical approaches. Unlike turn-based JRPGs where you select commands and watch, Tales battles demand active participation with dodges, blocks, and combo timing.
The link system represents Xillia’s signature innovation. Players link their controlled character with a party member to perform devastating combo attacks and trigger special support skills. Linked characters build gauge meters that unleash powerful finishing moves when full. Managing these links while dodging enemy attacks and positioning for optimal combos creates satisfying strategic depth.
Chain abilities let linked characters continue combos even when one runs out of TP (the resource for special moves), extending attack sequences that rack up massive damage. Support skills activate automatically based on linked partner actions, providing buffs, healing, or defensive options without manual input. This balance of active control and automated support keeps battles dynamic without overwhelming players with too many simultaneous inputs.
Tales of Remastered Project Continues
Tales of Xillia Remastered represents the latest entry in Bandai Namco’s ongoing Tales of Remastered Project, which has systematically updated classic entries for modern platforms. The project began with Tales of Symphonia Remastered in February 2023, followed by Tales of Vesperia Definitive Edition and Tales of Arise complete editions. Each release introduces new generations to the franchise’s celebrated storytelling and combat while giving veterans excuses to revisit their favorites.
The remaster strategy makes business sense for Bandai Namco. Rather than letting beloved titles fade into PlayStation 3 obscurity, updated versions reach current-generation audiences and drive interest in the franchise as a whole. Successful remasters also gauge fan interest for potential sequels or new projects set in established worlds.
Tales of Xillia’s strong first-week sales in Japan (over 500,000 copies) and solid Western performance made it an obvious candidate for the remaster treatment. The game spawned a direct sequel, Tales of Xillia 2, which released in 2012 and could receive similar remaster treatment if Xillia Remastered performs well commercially.
Platform Availability and Pricing
Tales of Xillia Remastered launches October 31, 2025, simultaneously across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam. This multi-platform approach ensures maximum accessibility regardless of preferred gaming ecosystem. The game releases October 30th in some Asian territories like Japan, with Western regions following a day later.
Two editions are available at launch. The Standard Edition includes the base game with all improvements and DLC for $59.99 across all platforms. The Digital Deluxe Edition adds exclusive items, bonus costumes, and a digital artbook for $74.99. Pre-orders were available starting September 5th through various digital storefronts and physical retailers.
Physical versions ship for PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, while Xbox versions remain digital-only through the Microsoft Store. PC players can purchase through Steam with cross-save functionality between devices. The game requires approximately 25-30 GB of storage space depending on platform, modest by modern standards.
Critical and Fan Reception
The original Tales of Xillia earned mostly positive reviews when it launched in 2011-2013, with critics praising the dual-protagonist system, engaging combat, and emotional storytelling. Western reviews noted the game felt more linear than previous Tales entries, with less exploration freedom in favor of tighter narrative pacing. The relationship between Jude and Milla earned consistent praise as one of the franchise’s strongest central partnerships.
Combat received universal acclaim for its depth and accessibility. The link system provided enough strategic options to satisfy hardcore action RPG fans while remaining approachable for players new to the series or genre. Boss battles delivered memorable setpieces that tested player skill without requiring grinding to overcome.
Fan communities remain passionate about Tales of Xillia 14 years after release, regularly ranking it among the series’ best entries. The announcement of the remaster generated enthusiastic responses across social media and forums, with many players eager to revisit Rieze Maxia or experience it for the first time. Concerns about the remaster focused primarily on whether Bandai Namco would deliver meaningful improvements or just a basic upscale.
FAQs
When does Tales of Xillia Remastered release?
Tales of Xillia Remastered launches October 31, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam. Some Asian territories receive it October 30th.
What platforms is Tales of Xillia Remastered available on?
The remaster launches on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, and PC (Steam). Physical versions exist for PlayStation and Switch, with Xbox and PC being digital-only.
Does Tales of Xillia Remastered include all DLC?
Yes, all original DLC including character costumes, bonus items, and cosmetic content is included from day one, except for select licensed items where agreements expired.
What improvements does the remaster add?
Enhanced graphics with improved textures and lighting, auto-save functionality, early Grade Shop access, toggleable enemy encounters, and various quality-of-life improvements modernize the 2011 original.
Do I need to play other Tales games first?
No, Tales of Xillia is a standalone story that doesn’t require knowledge of previous entries. Each mainline Tales game features separate worlds and characters.
How long does Tales of Xillia take to complete?
A single playthrough takes approximately 40-50 hours. Experiencing both Jude and Milla’s perspectives adds another 30-40 hours for completionists.
Is there a sequel to Tales of Xillia?
Yes, Tales of Xillia 2 released in 2012 as a direct sequel following new protagonist Ludger Kresnik. It has not received the remaster treatment yet.
Conclusion
Tales of Xillia Remastered arrives at the perfect time for JRPG fans looking for their next lengthy adventure. Bandai Namco has done right by this 2011 classic, delivering meaningful visual upgrades and quality-of-life improvements that respect the original vision while accommodating modern expectations. The dual-protagonist system that made Tales of Xillia special remains intact, offering two distinct perspectives on a story about bringing opposing worlds together through unwavering conviction. With all original DLC included, enhanced graphics across current-generation platforms, and smart additions like toggleable encounters and auto-save, this remaster represents the definitive way to experience Jude and Milla’s journey through Rieze Maxia. Whether you’re a franchise veteran eager to revisit this beloved entry or a newcomer curious about what makes the Tales series special, October 31st marks your chance to discover why Tales of Xillia earned its place among the franchise’s most celebrated titles. The launch trailer showcases exactly why this JRPG classic deserved the remaster treatment, and with just hours until release, the wait is finally over.