Review: White Knight Chronicles: A Solid RPG - Examiner

White Knight Chronicles is latest RPG to come from famed RPG developer, Level-5. After garnering great success on the PS2 with the Dark Cloud series and Rogue Galaxy, they ventured off into different series like Dragon Quest and their hit PSP strategy-RPG, Jeanne D'Arc. Setting higher standards for other RPG developers to reach, Level-5 continues to grow and innovate. White Knight Chronicles is their latest RPG, and, like previous efforts, it offers some unique ideas and gameplay concepts. Finally, after waiting for nearly five years, we'll be graced with the honor of serving this knight.

[-Alpha]

AA score seems just about right. It looks like a solid game-- but this game is nowhere near the Dark Cloud series. I don't know why Level 5 decided to go with this instead. I am sure it's fun, and I'll pick it up, but I hope they bring Dark Cloud 3.

I haven't been following the game too much just because it's not as interesting as the world of Dark Cloud, but Level 5 is still Level 5 and they do good RPGs.

[SoapShoes]

Just no... You can't go saying a series that you played is more interesting than a game you haven't played. The reason Dark Cloud was more interesting to you is because you actually put the effort into playing it and if you haven't played either then you are fool.

[AKNAA]

This game looks better than anything square enix has released so far this gen...

[-Alpha]

That's not what I'm saying-- I'm more interested in the world of Dark Cloud not because I played it, but because I find the world engaging.

The world of WKC doesn't interest me as much-- I'm not saying one is better than the other-- your right, I haven't played it. You misunderstood me, or likely I wasn't clear: I don't like the idea of playing as a knight, and I find the world of WKC to be "okay" compared to the unique world of Dark Cloud. I don't have to play both games to figure that out much like you don't have to play a game of Uncharted 2 to see that it has great animation.

I enjoyed DC's world, but I'm not as interested in the premises of WKC. As a Level 5 fan, I'm just upset DC3 hasn't been announced.

That's all I was trying to say.

[damnightmare]

I agree, the Dark Cloud series is more appealing to me then White Knight Chronicles.

I will pick this up if I can, RPG starvation hurts =\

Hopefully they look at bringing Dark Cloud 3 to fruition though. Level 5 is working on a few games for the DS and then White Knight Chronicles 2 already. So I doubt we'll see it for a long time either way. Sigh

[FamilyGuy]

Wow, I knew they made Dark Cloud but had no idea they made Jeanne D'Arc too, that game was fantastic!

Honestly I'd have preferred another dark cloud game over this but hopefully I'll be pleasantly surprised when my copy of WKC arrive in the mail.

[Pennywise]

Thats all alphaboy does... talk about games he hasnt played. Wouldnt be shocked to hear he doesnt have a ps3.

[-Alpha]

Did you not read what I wrote or do you just defensively assume everybody who doesn't live in your PS3-sheep obedient world doesn't own a PS3?

If you are going to be willfully ignorant then go ahead but please try to comprehend what I write before your preconceived notions cloud your judgment. I'm so sick and tired of people assuming that just because I say some things that aren't pro-PS3 that I automatically hate it or don't own one. How would you like to step up and eat your own words? Send me your PSN ID and I'll add you. Or do you just like convincing yourself that anyone who doesn't think the same thoughts as you is a troll?

I don't have to had played WKC to see that the game world doesn't interest me, and in comparison to the rich and unique world of DC2, WKC doesn't interest me as much. I have eyes. I can see when a game looks interesting. The game is out in Japan. I can see tons of videos and compare them to DC2. I didn't say WKC sucked or looks terrible, I just said that DC series is something I prefer over WKC series from Level 5.

I don't have to hype and love every PS3 game just because it's an exclusive like you expect me to, I actually have my own thoughts and own tastes. Shocking, isn't it?

[Redempteur]

dark cloud dark cloud dark cloud

YEs thank i understand already you loved dark cloud ..but develloppers have the right to start another franchise , another world another game !

Does nippon ichi does only disgaea ? no they do plenty of other projects
DOes GUST only produce Atelier games ? No they created several new ip the last 5 years ..
Does square enix only doing final fantasy ? No they did plenty of games ..

Level 5 is no différent ..

it's like disliking uncharted because it isn't jak and daxter ..

Please let dark cloud rest until they find the passion to make another game ..

The biggest crime this game has even before you tried it is that it isn't dark cloud 3 ...

[kingdavid]

dont listen to these clowns alpha male.

90% of the people on this site are trolls. Seriously, after all the things people say on this site you all pick on him cos hes comparing 2 games and expressing his opinion.

Go find a "bot" to pick on.

[Redempteur]

i believe White knight is a solid game ..just like he says but when the only reason he doesn't like it he that it's not another game well that's kinda ridiculous ...

[ButterToast]

I really hate that the only thing I hear from level-5 fans is "give me dark cloud." I would much rather a developer work on new games/IPs rather than get stuck in a rut making the same game over and over, just updating the graphics.

As for me, i think level-5 always makes a solid RPG, the world, characters and story in their games on the other hand always tends to be on the bland side though with maybe the exception of Rouge Galaxy. usually they have a really deep item creation system to work with and i doubt it's any different here.

[sikbeta]

Awesome, I wasn't expecting a 10/10 for this game, so I'm OK with this Review, this Game was Already in My List For Long Time

[testerg35]

Penny, may I ask why you're not yelling at PS3 fans when they comment on articles about why a PS3 exclusive doesn't deserve a low score even though they've never played it?

[baum]

Pennywise is the only voice of reason in this thread.

:)

[Hakimy]

I too wish for Dark Cloud 3,but do you think it will do great this gen? somehow I feel that reviewers and many people aren't that interested in jrpgs like they used to be ;)

[Bodyboarder_VGamer]

Make sure you're happy with your avatar because to edit it you'll need to pay $5 and if you don't wanna pay then you'll have to start the game from the beginning. =(

[Myst]

Wait what $5.00?

[Homicide]

"For those of you who are going to be investing significant time in your characters, there will be an option to remake them without having to start the game over by purchasing a special key through the PlayStation Store for only $4.99. This will allow you to redesign your avatar at any point and keep all that hard work you’ve put in intact. This feature will go live this Thursday on the PlayStation Store."

http://blog.us.playstation....

-------------

And you can only redesign your character once. After that, you have repurchase the ticket. Rip-off.

[Myst]

Thanks Homicide +bubbles+

Looks like the hour that I was going to spend on my character has been increased to at least two hours and maybe an extra thirty minutes just to check and make sure everything is right. Yeah I'd say it's a rip-off, they should at least give us one freebie or not have us pay at all. Oh well though I don't expect people to change their avatars that much though not as much as I would.

Sucks that Georama has stuff you have to pay, hopefully if done right it could be similar to LittleBigPlanet's method as long as they keep the prices right. So far I don't think they are doing it right by having someone pay 5.99 for a re-design of their persona, but only time will tell I suppose.

[Homicide]

LOL yeah. My first day on WKC will be spent on creating my avatar and making sure I like it. I'm going to create a female avatar. Everything is funner as a chick.

[ThanatosDMC]

$5 to configure your character?! That's F-up but i guess it's fine as long as you make your ideal character.

[Redempteur]

RE-configure ..

NOthing unusual ..you character doesn't change in other game ... and this is the same service you have in mmos ..

NOthing unusual

[ButterToast]

you also get a lot of free stuff from boys :P

[Homicide]

"The story found in White Knight Chronicles a bit slow starting off. In the first ten hours of gameplay, you'll notice that the story hardly develops at all. The story doesn't really feel like it's moving or interesting until you reach the halfway point. Once things do finally pick-up, the game does return to being lackluster soon after."

I said it many times: the story in WKC is awful.

[trane07]

In almost every damn WKC article you're up in it screaming how mediocre and god awful the game will be, even despite scores that SO FAR seem to state the contrary.

Some of you fanboys just need to quit it. seriously.

[GhostofHorizon]

Cause you played it and you would know? That's like taking a blind man's opinion on how a picture looks.

[ThanatosDMC]

He might have. A lot of people here on N4G actually do imports. I'm waiting for the game to come out and see what credible people on N4G will say about the game.

[ButterToast]

I wouldn't doubt it. level-5 has never written the best stories. Jeanne D'arc is put together pretty well, but the story was practically written for them and it's still very cliche. in most level-5 rpgs i find the emphasis to be on dungeon crawling, exploration, and item creation, not the story.

[A LIVING LEGEND]

Perhaps I will determine that for myself.Perhaps you are right or perhaps your 'awful' isn't my awful.
In any case,I can't wait to try this.
It isn't Dark cloud therefore it cannot be great....thats the reasoning or lack thereof?
Thnx for coming out....again.Didn't we do this last week with MAG?...
Strangely familiar scene.

[Myst]

Ugh, I won't know until tomorrow since it's one of those "the day after release date" deals at Gamestop so...Study and sleep for me today sadly. Though will admit I can't wait till tomorrow now :).

[Wakka_]

Had it and returned it. Combat too slow and boring.

[user858621]

ur mama was 2 slow n boring..... xD

[Bodyboarder_VGamer]

After checking out some of your prior comments this comment does not surprise me... But you're a bad liar because there's an article from the playstation blog saying that they shipped the game today so it is impossible for you to have it.

[spunnups]

I'm getting this game the second I catch up with College Classes. I just picked up MAG but WKC will be purchased very shortly. I have watched just about every video imaginable and I love how huge the game is.

[Shadow Man]

:D Mass Effect2 AAA is coming to the ps3 so don't worry Droids.

[user858621]

I know!! this plus mass effect plus splintercell xD great times for ps3

[Bodyboarder_VGamer]

Wrpg's doesn't appeal to me... And even less when they are just shooters disguised as rpg. Just like many wrpg fans do not like jrpg's. They both have very different styles.

[Obama]

I am not sure why you are bragging since ME2 is probably coming to the ps3 and it's not a 360 exclusive to begin with. You know, you should brag about exclusives only, but I know it's hard when you only got a 360. :)

[JasonPC360PS3Wii]

You're right Obama Mass Effect 2 isn't a 360 exclusive, it's a Microsoft exclusive :) How's that Windows doing? Don't worry droids you still may get Mass Effect 2... When Mass Effect 3 is out :D

[Obama]

I would like to remind you that I got the highest end gaming pc and if I really want to play ME2 I would have already gotten the game. It doesn't interest me.

[TheColbertinator]

Nice score.Thank you Level 5.You never let me down

[Shadow Man]

http://www.youtube.com/watc...

[shammgod]

I'm getting it tomorrow. My primary concern is the green dress looking thing your avatar starts out with. WTF?!?!? That thing is awful! Game looks great though. Cant wait to scoop it

[Drakes_Fortune]

Rougue Galaxy is one of the worst games i have ever played.

Level 5 games always have boring stories, characters and are very bland and unispired.

[hatchimatchi]

As much as you dislike their games level 5 is probably the best jrpg centric development studio around. Jeanne d'arc, professor layton (i know it's not a jrpg), dragon quest 8 (it's a SE IP but level 5 developed it), etc. They consistintly hit the mark in each game and respective genre. I love level 5, their games drip with polish and style. Not to mention they're one of the few jrpg developers that are pushing the genre into new grounds and aren't simply trying to "westernize" their games.

[TheTruth2009]

I've been trying to tell the PS3 Supporters ever since I joined this site a few months ago. Your 2010 will fall short... WAY short. You have been listing these supposed "AAA" Games for all of 2009, and I've told you over and over that your list is a forgotten one and void of any substance. A "AAA" Game is a Metacritic Score of 90 and above. Stop trying to change the rules to fit your pathetic argument.

For example:
You've already been hit hard with blistering reviews for M.A.G.:
http://www.metacritic.com/g...

White Knight Chronicles has seen two reviews. Both mediocre. And one blistering from the premiere Japanese Review Site:
http://kotaku.com/5113983/s...
http://www.examiner.com/exa...

Heavy Rain is on deck. That'll score well, but will sell NOTHING.

And then what's left?

God of War III is more of the same Hack 'N Slash we've seen from the first two versions. It'll sell slowly, but steady. Just like Uncharted 2. It'll fall short by everyone's expectations. Not to mention, Dante's Inferno will outsell it collectively and probably outscore it from a number of review sites.

Gran Turismo 5 will be released alongside Halo: Reach and Project Natal. Good luck. :-)

And you have nothing else.

Don't try to list any phantom titles either. PS3 Fans like to list games that NO ONE has said is coming out in 2010, but their desperation forces them to try to "fatten the list". Don't even try it. Here's the facts:

A 2010 RELEASE IS A TITLE THAT HAS BEEN CONFIRMED BY THE DEVELOPER AND/OR SONY WITH AN OFFICIAL PRINT COPY, WEB ARTICLE (NOT BLOG), AND/OR SHOW PRESENTATION STATING THAT THE RELEASE WILL COME OUT IN 2010.

PS3 SUCKS. And in 2010, it'll get obliterated. I've been trying to warn you, but you refused to listen. And you're already getting desperate by proclaiming "a SEVEN is a good score for a game".

HILARIOUS.

NO. ONE. CARES.

And I hope Mass Effect 2 DOES come to the Playstation 3.

You guys need something good to play this year. Sorry.

[Bodyboarder_VGamer]

Tell that to all the flops that are on the X360:

1. Star Ocean 4: The Last Hope

2. Lost Odyssey

3. Infinite Undiscovery

4. Blue Dragon

5. Eternal Sonata

6. Enchanted Arms

They flopped so hard that they had to come to the PS3. In fact, WKC have sold more in Japan than all those jrpg's in the entire world. So there you have it, if 8 is a flop then all those are flop and on top of that they flopped in sales too. Don't believe me? Google is your friend. ;)

[Conando]

"In fact, WKC have sold more in Japan than all those jrpg's in the entire world."

^ Let's see about that...

-WKC (Japan sales): 360,000

-Star Ocean 4 (Worldwide sales): 590,000

-Lost Odyssey (Worldwide sales): 820,000

-Infinite Undiscovery (Worldwide sales): 560,000

-Blue Dragon (Worldwide sales): 530,000

-Eternal Sonata (Worldwide sales): 240,000

-Enchanted Arms (Worldwide sales): 180,000

It looks like you are, for the most part, mistaken there, laddy.

(Numbers courtesy of VGChartz)

[The Maxx]

"Google is your friend. ;)"

Maybe next time instead of just typing that comment, you will actually use it.

[Karooo]

final fantasy, bioshock2 , bad company 2 etc you dumbass. there are more AAA multiplatform games in 2010 than exclusives from sony or microsoft.

[The Maxx]

FINALLY an intelligent comment. I agree with you 100%. To bad it took the harsh comments of "TheTruth09" to get you to make that comment.

If only you didn't have to be so pushed so hard to finally make an educated comment like that then you could really help N4G's problem with it being so saturated with ignorance.

Thanks "TheTruth" for possibly curing kartik21 and getting him to see the light.

[A LIVING LEGEND]

^ Good thing this entire thread is devoted to the 'awful' works of level5 and not even remotely about the good things present in WKC.

As you were.

[kewlkat007]

I'm so busy with games and other sh!t goin gon. I haven't even bought MA:2 yet. I have to buy traditional JRPG for the PS3 yet.

[Jikla]

My copy of the game was shipped from the states today :D Looking forward to getting my hands on it.

[hatchimatchi]

I don't care if the story is mediocre. I'm looking forward to the online aspect. I hate how almost all online mp games on the ps3 are just deathmatch or capture the flag. I like coop, working together in teams to accomplish things. I find it much more enjoyable. I can't wait to make my character and jump online to track down enemies with a group of friends. I plan on being a healer, just like in resistance 2, I love playing as a medic.

[spunnups]

You would LOVE MAG, highly recommended for coop lovers

[JasonPC360PS3Wii]

PS3 so far this year 3 flops MAG, Heavy Rain and White Knight.

[horndog]

Last Guardian

Heavy Rain

GoW3

and many many more

I guess the only good games this year for the ps3 will be the timed xbox 360 exclusives which might be ported over. They really need some badly

[Sigh]

so interested in PS3 games.

[Figboy]

but personally, i think WKC is the best RPG Level 5 has put out thus far on the Playstation consoles.

the combat system is engaging, the character creation is second to none (literally - i haven't played a console RPG with even a QUARTER of the level of control and customizability available in WKC, not Fallout, not Oblivion, not Dragon Age, or any other console RPG that allows you to customize a character).

the graphics are quite fetching; the character models are very anime, but the environments are quite stunning.

since this is my first time with the English version of the game (i had the JP version for a while), i can say the story seems interesting enough, but i'm not far enough into it. one of my biggest fears has been assuaged, however, and that's the American voice acting.

i was afraid it'd be Pokemon bad, but it's more along the lines of a Ninja Scroll or Cowboy Beebop in terms of the quality of the voice acting.

i said it in another thread, but i'm a huge fan of Level 5's games, and i think WKC is the best in terms of game play content. the jury is still out on the story, but from what i played of the JP version way back when, it seemed interesting enough, and now that i can follow the story properly, it still seems interesting.