Product Overview
- Product Name: Xenosaga Episode I
- New or Used: Used
- In Case or Loose: In Case
- Overall Condition: Good
- Disc Condition: No scratches / Scratch free
- Notes: Excellent overall condition. The instruction manual shows a faint circular waviness visible under angled light, while all other components — including the case, artwork, and disc — remain in pristine, like-new condition. The manual is the only element preventing this item from achieving a higher grade. A very nice copy that would make an outstanding addition to any PlayStation 2 collection!
Photos show actual product for sale — no stock images used.
What's Included
- PS2 Game Disc: Yes
- Disc Count: 1
- Manual / Instructions: Yes
- Case Artwork: Yes
- Case Type: Aftermarket replacement*
- Extras:
Game Description
Xenosaga Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht for the PlayStation 2 launches the epic sci-fi trilogy that binds philosophy, mythology, and human drama. Set in a distant future where humanity has abandoned Earth, the story begins with engineer Shion Uzuki and her android partner KOS-MOS as they flee a Gnosis assault aboard the research ship Woglinde. Pulled into interstellar conflict, they head to the planet Second Miltia—only to be drawn into the machinations of the Galaxy Federation, the shadowy U-TIC organization, and the mysterious immortal Albedo.
At its core, Episode I blends on-foot exploration of linear environments, narrative cutscenes, and turn-based combat that includes both characters and mechs known as A.G.W.S. Battles employ a multi-tiered system involving Action Points (AP), Boost mechanics, Ether skills, and custom attack combinations—offering strategic depth and cinematic flair. Meanwhile, Shion’s UMN handheld console unlocks side quests, a BBS messaging system, and a glossary of lore, enriching the world and tying every detail into the grander narrative.
Developed by Monolith Soft and published by Namco, the title features a sweeping soundtrack by Yasunori Mitsuda (with Gregorian chant elements and orchestral backing) and design roots tracing back to *Xenogears*. Though intended as the first entry in a six-part saga, it evolved into a trilogy. Its dense narrative, cinematic presentation, and philosophical themes have made it a standout among PS2 RPGs and a prized pick for collectors building deeper sci-fi and story-driven libraries.
Gameplay Features
- Engage in turn-based battles using AP management, Boost actions, Ether skills, and combo attacks.
- Pilot A.G.W.S. mechs for enhanced combat power at the cost of skipping party turns.
- Visit richly rendered zones, interact with NPCs, and pursue narrative sidequests via Shion’s UMN device.
- Unlock lore entries, emails, and BBS posts that reveal the game’s mythos and hidden connections.
- Experience over 80 hours of narrative, minigames, and bonus content across core and optional play paths.
- Original soundtrack blends orchestral score, Gregorian vocals, and thematic compositions by Mitsuda.
Historical Trivia or Fun Fact
Der Wille zur Macht is a direct nod to Nietzsche’s philosophy—“The Will to Power”—underscoring the game’s themes of choice, identity, and transcendence. It was developed as a spiritual successor to *Xenogears*, with many team members and design philosophies crossing over.
One quirky detail: the names of Jr.’s assistants, Mary and Shelley, nod to Mary Shelley, author of Frankenstein. Because of its ambitious tone and depth, this PS2 release quickly sold over a million copies worldwide, and original complete copies remain highly sought after among RPG and sci-fi collectors.
Additional Details
- Variant: Black Label
- Genre: RPG
- Year Released: 2003
- Publisher: Namco
- Developer: Monolith Soft
- ESRB Rating: T - Teen
- UPC: 722674021364
- SKU: 6025-MANP
- Format: Sony PlayStation 2 (PS2) video game disc
- Platform: Sony PlayStation 2 console (PS2 system)
- Region: NTSC (North America, Canada)
Important Information
- *Used cases may be replaced with a new aftermarket one if damaged. Listing above indicates if it's "OEM/Original" or "Aftermarket." Aftermarket cases typically differ in color &/or build quality from original PS2 cases. (See photos)
- Any online features (multiplayer, DLC, patches) may no longer be supported.
- Photos show the exact item for sale — we never use stock images for used games.
- Used discs are professionally resurfaced via our commercial-grade repair system to remove scratches.
- All used items are cleaned, tested, and 100% guaranteed to work.
- Backed by Retro Game Fan’s 60-day warranty.