View source for Xenosaga

{{short description|Role-playing video game series}}
{{Infobox video game series
| title = Xenosaga
| image = Xenosaga logo.png
| creator = [[Tetsuya Takahashi]]
| developer = [[Monolith Soft]]<br/>Tom Create {{small|(''I & II'', ''Pied Piper'')}}<br/>[[Bandai Namco Entertainment|Namco Mobile]] {{small|(''Pied Piper'')}}
| publisher = {{vgrelease|JP|[[Namco]]|NA|Namco ([[Bandai Namco Entertainment|Namco Bandai Games]])|EU|[[Sony Computer Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment Europe]]}}
| genre = [[Role-playing video game|Role-playing]]
| platforms = [[PlayStation 2]], [[Mobile devices|Mobile]], [[Nintendo DS]]
| first release version = ''[[Xenosaga Episode I]]''
| first release date = February 28, 2002
| latest release version = ''[[Xenosaga Episode III]]''
| latest release date = July 6, 2006
| parent = ''[[Xeno (series)|Xeno]]''
}}
'''''Xenosaga'''''{{efn|{{nihongo||ゼノサーガ|Zenosāga|lead=yes}}}} is a [[role-playing video game]] series developed by [[Monolith Soft]] and primarily published by [[Namco]]. Forming part of the wider ''[[Xeno (series)|Xeno]]'' metaseries, ''Xenosaga'' is set in a [[science fiction]] universe and follows a group of characters as they face both a hostile alien race called the Gnosis and human factions fighting for control of the Zohar, an artifact connected to a god-like energy called U-DO. Gameplay across the series is similar, with the characters being guided through a linear narrative and fighting enemies using a [[Turns, rounds and time-keeping systems in games#Turn-based|turn-based]] combat system. The party fights both on foot and in a variety of mechs.

[[Tetsuya Takahashi]] created ''Xenosaga'' as a spiritual successor to the [[Square (video game company)|Square]]-produced ''[[Xenogears]]'', for which he founded Monolith Soft with help from Namco; multiple ''Xenogears'' staff returned, including co-writer [[Soraya Saga]]. Following the release of the [[Xenosaga Episode I|first game]], the ''Xenosaga'' series was given over to new staff with Takahashi both supervising the project and providing the draft scripts. Under the new staff, the original script saw several changes and its planned six-part structure cut down by half. The series made considerable use of Biblical imagery and elements of the works of [[Carl Jung]] and [[Friedrich Nietzsche]], with the subtitles of the main trilogy drawing from the works of Nietzsche.

Reception of individual titles has been positive, although journalists have commented that the series was too ambitious. While the first game met with strong sales, the series as a whole was a commercial disappointment. The first game also received both a manga and an [[Xenosaga: The Animation|anime adaptation]], the latter being dubbed and released in North America. Following the end of the ''Xenosaga'' series, Takahashi and other team members started a new project to rebuild morale, which became ''[[Xenoblade Chronicles (video game)|Xenoblade Chronicles]]''. Characters from ''Xenosaga'' would go on to appear in multiple crossover games.

==Titles==
===Games===
''Xenosaga'' spans five different games sharing a single continuity; the three mainline games for the [[PlayStation 2]], a spin-off and prequel for [[mobile devices]], and a remake of the first two entries in the trilogy for the [[Nintendo DS]]. Each title in the trilogy features a subtitle taken from the published work of German philosopher [[Friedrich Nietzsche]].<ref name="XenoGames"/><ref name="GRevXeno"/>

{{Timeline of release years
| range1        = 2002
| range1_color  = #000 #ccc <!-- colors are based on the series' logos -->
| compressempty = yes
| 2002  = '''''[[Xenosaga Episode I|Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht]]'''''
| 2004a = '''''[[Xenosaga Episode II|Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Böse]]'''''
| 2004b = ''[[Xenosaga: Pied Piper|Pied Piper]]''
| 2006a = ''[[Xenosaga I & II|I & II]]''
| 2006b = '''''[[Xenosaga Episode III|Episode III: Also sprach Zarathustra]]'''''
}}

*''[[Xenosaga Episode I]]''{{efn|{{nihongo||ゼノサーガ エピソードI 力への意志|Zenosāga Episōdo Wan: Chikara e no Ishi|lead=yes}}}} was first released in Japan on February 28, 2002, for the [[PlayStation 2]] (PS2).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/2001/12/27/104,1009433337,2859,0,0.html|script-title=ja:【PS2】人型戦闘兵器も登場！ 『ゼノサーガ エピソードI 力への意志』|language=ja|publisher=[[Famitsu]]|date=29 December 2001|access-date=13 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080906102822/https://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/2001/12/27/104,1009433337,2859,0,0.html|archive-date=6 September 2008|url-status=live}}</ref> Its North American release came on February 25, 2003.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q4-2002/122102a.html|title=North American Xenosaga Site Launches|last=Witham|first=Joseph|publisher=RPGamer|date=21 December 2002|access-date=13 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150919165541/http://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q4-2002/122102a.html|archive-date=19 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> An international version titled ''Xenosaga Episode I Reloaded'' was released in Japan on November 20, 2003.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga1/|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ エピソードI リローディッド 力への意志|language=ja|publisher=Xenosaga Episode I Reloaded Website|access-date=13 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150524044830/http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga1/|archive-date=24 May 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> The game's subtitle, ''Der Wille zur Macht'', was taken from the native title of ''[[The Will to Power (manuscript)|The Will to Power]]'', a posthumously published collection of notes written by [[Friedrich Nietzsche]].<ref name="GSxenosaga" />
*''[[Xenosaga Episode II]]''{{efn|{{Nihongo||ゼノサーガ エピソードII 善悪の彼岸|Zenosāga Episōdo Tsū: Zen'aku no Higan|lead=yes}}}} was released on June 24, 2004, in Japan for the PS2.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2004/1529.html|title=Huge Xenosaga Episode II Update|last=Winkler|first=Chris|publisher=RPGFan|date=30 May 2004|access-date=13 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906031612/http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2004/1529.html|archive-date=6 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> The game was released in North America on February 15, 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q4-2004/121104d.html|title=Namco Announces Pre-order Campaign for Xenosaga Episode II|last=Young|first=Billy|publisher=RPGamer|date=11 December 2004|access-date=13 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041214111035/https://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q4-2004/121104d.html|archive-date=14 December 2004|url-status=live}}</ref> In Europe, the game was published by [[Sony Computer Entertainment|Sony Computer Entertainment Europe]] on October 28, 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news050905xenosaga|title=Xenosaga II comes to Europe|last=Gibson|first=Ellie|website=[[Eurogamer]]|date=5 September 2005|access-date=13 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902162624/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news050905xenosaga|archive-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> It is the only game to have been released in Europe.<ref name="GRevXeno"/> The subtitle, ''Jenseits von Gut und Böse'', is taken from the native title of Nietzsche's philosophical novel ''[[Beyond Good and Evil]]''.<ref name="Xenosaga2Preview"/>
*''[[Xenosaga: Pied Piper]]''{{efn|{{nihongo||ゼノサーガ パイド パイパー|Zenosāga: Paido Paipā|lead=yes}}}} was released across three episodes between July and October 2004 for [[Vodafone]] [[mobile devices]].<ref name="PiedMonolith"/> A version for [[NTT DoCoMo]]'s [[i-mode]] service was released on July 5, 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20060705/xeno.htm|script-title=ja:バンダイナムコゲームス、iモード「Xenosaga Pied Piper」本編から100年前を舞台にしたオリジナルRPG|language=ja|publisher=Game Watch Impress|date=5 July 2006|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807165357/http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20060705/xeno.htm|archive-date=7 August 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Pied Piper'' remains exclusive to Japan.<ref name="GRevXeno"/> Its subtitle is inspired by the German fable of the [[Pied Piper of Hamelin]].<ref name="PiedMonolith"/>
*''[[Xenosaga I & II]]''{{efn|{{nihongo||ゼノサーガ I&II|Zenosāga Wan & Tsū|stylised as ''Xenosaga I・II''}}}} was released in Japan on March 30, 2006, for the [[Nintendo DS]].<ref name="XenoGames"/> The game is a remake of ''Episode I'' and ''Episode II'', with redrawn artwork, gameplay adjusted for a portable platform, and additional story elements based on cut content from the home console versions.<ref name="Xeno12overview">{{cite web|url=http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga1_2/outline/|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ エピソードI・II / 製品概要 / バンダイナムコゲームス公式サイト|language=ja|publisher=Xenosaga I & II Website|access-date=13 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160730082702/http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga1_2/outline/|archive-date=30 July 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Like ''Pied Piper'', ''Xenosaga I & II'' remains exclusive to Japan.<ref name="GRevXeno"/>
*''[[Xenosaga Episode III]]''{{efn|{{nihongo||ゼノサーガ エピソードIII ツァラトゥストラはかく語りき|Zenosāga Episōdo Surī: Tsaratusutora wa Kaku Katariki|lead=yes}}}} was released in Japan on July 6, 2006, for the PlayStation 2 console.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/k_tai/news/1179602_1350.html|script-title=ja:『ゼノサーガ エピソードIII［ツァラトゥストラはかく語りき］』のアイテムを先行配信！|language=ja|publisher=[[Famitsu]]|date=29 June 2006|access-date=22 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170822205757/https://www.famitsu.com/k_tai/news/1179602_1350.html|archive-date=22 August 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> It was released in North America on August 29 of the same year, published by the then-rebranded [[Bandai Namco Entertainment|Namco Bandai Games]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamezone.com/news/namco_bandai_games_ships_xenosaga_episode_iii_for_the_playstation_2|title=NAMCO BANDAI Games Ships Xenosaga Episode III for the PlayStation 2|publisher=GameZone|date=29 August 2006|access-date=22 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170822205859/http://www.gamezone.com/news/namco_bandai_games_ships_xenosaga_episode_iii_for_the_playstation_2|archive-date=22 August 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The game is the last entry to have been released in the ''Xenosaga'' series to date.<ref name="XenoGames">{{cite web|url=http://www.xenosaga.jp/xenosaga3/products/index.html|script-title=ja:Xenosaga.jp -Xenosaga EPISODE III- PRODUCTS|language=ja|publisher=Xenosaga Portal Site|access-date=13 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060717122450/http://www.xenosaga.jp/xenosaga3/products/index.html|archive-date=17 July 2006|url-status=dead}}</ref> The subtitle, ''Also Sprach Zarathustra'', is taken from Nietzsche's novel ''[[Thus Spoke Zarathustra]]''.<ref name="Xen3WestRelease"/>
{{Clear}}

===Additional media===
Following the release of ''Episode I'', a supplementary disc titled ''Xenosaga Freaks''{{efn|{{nihongo||ゼノサーガ フリークス|Zenosāga Furīkusu|lead=yes}}}} was released on April 28, 2004. The disc features a visual novel segment featuring multiple characters from the game, a minigame dubbed ''XenoPitten'', a dictionary that explains the game's terminology, and a demo for ''Episode II''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenofreaks/|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ フリークス|language=ja|publisher=Xenosaga Freaks Website|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160312030123/http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenofreaks/|archive-date=12 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20040220/xenof.htm|script-title=ja:ナムコ、「ゼノサーガ フリークス」続報 ドタバタアドベンチャー「ぜのコミ」を紹介|language=ja|publisher=Game Watch Impress|date=20 February 2004|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130628080435/http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20040220/xenof.htm|archive-date=28 June 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Freaks'' was part of a movement with the ''Xenosaga'' series to turn it into a multimedia franchise, with the project growing substantially larger than previously planned.<ref name="Xeno2Weekly"/> ''Xenosaga Episode I'' was adapted as a manga by Atsushi Baba and published through ''[[Monthly Comic Zero Sum]]''. It was later released in three volumes by publisher [[Ichijinsha]] between 2004 and 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://data.ichijinsha.co.jp/book/booksearch/booksearch_detail.php?i=75805141|script-title=ja:ZERO-SUMコミックス - Xenosaga EPISODE I(1)|language=ja|publisher=[[Ichijinsha]]|access-date=19 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170919120610/http://data.ichijinsha.co.jp/book/booksearch/booksearch_detail.php?i=75805141|archive-date=19 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://data.ichijinsha.co.jp/book/booksearch/booksearch_detail.php?i=75805213|script-title=ja:ZERO-SUMコミックス - Xenosaga EPISODE I(2)|language=ja|publisher=[[Ichijinsha]]|access-date=19 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170919120820/http://data.ichijinsha.co.jp/book/booksearch/booksearch_detail.php?i=75805213|archive-date=19 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://data.ichijinsha.co.jp/book/booksearch/booksearch_detail.php?i=75805228|script-title=ja:ZERO-SUMコミックス - Xenosaga EPISODE I(3)|language=ja|publisher=[[Ichijinsha]]|access-date=19 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170919120823/http://data.ichijinsha.co.jp/book/booksearch/booksearch_detail.php?i=75805228|archive-date=19 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Additionally an anime adaptation titled ''[[Xenosaga: The Animation]]'', which adapted the events of the first game, was produced by [[Toei Animation]]. Originally broadcast on [[TV Asahi]] between January and March 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://lineup.toei-anim.co.jp/ja/tv/xenosaga/|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ THE ANIMATION|language=ja|publisher=[[Toei Animation]]|access-date=9 September 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170909111757/http://lineup.toei-anim.co.jp/ja/tv/xenosaga/|archive-date=9 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> the anime was later licensed and dubbed for a North American release; originally licensed by [[A.D. Vision]], the North American rights are currently held by [[Funimation Entertainment]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2007/06/19/xenosaga-anime-series-announced|title=Xenosaga Anime Series Announced|last=Carle|first=Chris|website=[[IGN]]|date=19 June 2007|access-date=9 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070911120307/http://dvd.ign.com/articles/797/797704p1.html|archive-date=11 September 2007|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-07-04/funimation-picks-up-over-30-former-ad-vision-titles|title=Funimation Picks Up Over 30 Former AD Vision Titles|work=[[Anime News Network]]|date=4 July 2008|access-date=9 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080705041336/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2008-07-04/funimation-picks-up-over-30-former-ad-vision-titles|archive-date=5 July 2008|url-status=live}}</ref> Multiple staff from ''Xenosaga: The Animation'' later worked on ''Xenosaga I & II''.<ref name="Xeno12overview"/>

==Common elements==
===Gameplay===
Gameplay in the ''Xenosaga'' series feature similar gameplay across its various entries. The core gameplay revolves around the player controlling a party of characters navigating different environments including dungeons, with combat initiated when exploring environments and touching sprites representing enemy groups. Combat makes use of a traditional [[Turns, rounds and time-keeping systems in games#Turn-based|turn-based]] battle system, with basic mechanics involving the spending or conserving of Action Points (AP).<ref name="gspotXeno1"/><ref name="Xeno2gameplay2">{{cite web|url=http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga2/battle/index.html|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ エピソードII 善悪の彼岸 - 戦闘|language=ja|publisher=Xenosaga Episode II Website|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160416104618/http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga2/battle/index.html|archive-date=16 April 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Xeno3Gameplay3"/> Battles feature combat using both human party members, and in [[mecha]] known under different titles in each game.<ref name="ignXeno1"/><ref name="Xeno2gameplay2"/><ref name="Xeno3Gameplay3"/> ''Episode I'' introduces the basic gameplay and combat systems.<ref name="XenoEuro">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/fi_xenosaga_ps2|title=First Impressions - XenoSaga Episode 1: Der Wille zur Macht|last=Fahay|first=Rob|website=[[Eurogamer]]|date=7 October 2003|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110630112641/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/fi_xenosaga_ps2|archive-date=30 June 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Episode II'' incorporates multiple levels of attack types which different enemies are weak to, combined with alterations to the performance of mechs.<ref name="Xeno2gameplay2"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose-updated-impressions/1100-6112291/|title=Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Bose Updated Impressions|last=Torres|first=Ricardo|website=[[GameSpot]]|date=3 November 2003|access-date=13 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901153358/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose-updated-impressions/1100-6112291/|archive-date=1 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Episode III'' further expands upon the system, and mechs have expanded functions including dedicated dungeon environments.<ref name="EuroReviewXenoIII"/><ref name="Xeno3Gameplay3">{{cite web|url=http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga3/outline/battlesystem.php|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ エピソードIII ツァラトゥストラはかく語りき - Battle System|language=ja|publisher=Xenosaga Episode III Website|access-date=28 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160229173754/http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga3/outline/battlesystem.php|archive-date=29 February 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Xenosaga I & II'' reworks the gameplay systems; combat takes place during random encounters while exploring, and characters are arranged and have elements of their combat dictated by their placement on a grid.<ref name="RPGreviewXeno12"/><ref name="RPGFreviewXeno12"/> ''Pied Piper'' incorporates gameplay systems similar to ''Episode I'' adjusted for mobile devices, with navigation separate from battles which take place in a virtual zone tied to the narrative.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.xenosaga.jp/xenosaga1_2/products/piper.html|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ - ゼノサーガ パイド パイパー|language=ja|publisher=Xenosaga Portal Site|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060524213143/http://www.xenosaga.jp/xenosaga1_2/products/piper.html|archive-date=24 May 2006|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://gamez.itmedia.co.jp/games/mobile/2004/xenosaga/first/|script-title=ja:Mobile - ゼノサーガ パイド パイパー|language=ja|publisher=ITMedia|date=2004|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130530080332/http://gamez.itmedia.co.jp/games/mobile/2004/xenosaga/first/|archive-date=30 May 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="PiedMonolith"/>

===Setting===
{{See also|List of Xenosaga characters}}
The ''Xenosaga'' series takes place within a single [[science fiction]] universe. In the year "20XX", humanity discovers the Zohar—a primordial artifact which connects to the realm of a god-like energy dubbed U-DO—is discovered on [[Earth]] and allows travel beyond the [[Solar System]]. A disaster causes Earth's location to be lost, becoming known as "Lost Jerusalem". By the game's events, humanity has adopted a new calendar system dubbed "Transcend Christ" (T.C.), with the series' events beginning in T.C. 4768—equivalent to A.D. 7278, with humanity forming a Galaxy Federation. Planets are connected through a warp travel network called the Unus Mundus Network (U.M.N.), managed by Vector Industries, which also controls interests in the Federation's military. Existing alongside humans are Realians, synthetic humans who hold equal status with natural humans.<ref name="GSxenosaga">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/xenosaga-preview/1100-2771884/|title=Xenosaga Preview|last=Sato|first=Ike|website=[[GameSpot]]|date=8 June 2001|access-date=21 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20011208150218/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/stories/previews/0,10869,2771884-2,00.html|archive-date=8 December 2001|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://archive.thegia.com/psx2/xenosaga/xenosaga.html|title=Xenosaga Preview|author=Fraundorf, Friz|publisher=The Gaming Intelligence Agency|date=2001|access-date=26 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010813102303/http://www.thegia.com/psx2/xenosaga/xenosaga.html|archive-date=13 August 2001|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Xeno3Guide">{{cite book|date=4 August 2006|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ エピソード 3 【ツァラトゥストラはかく語りき】 公式コンプリートガイド |trans-title=Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra Official Complete Guide|publisher=[[Namco]]|isbn=4-9023-7210-X}}</ref> The Federation is attacked by the Gnosis, an ancient species revealed to be formed of souls who rejected U-DO. Vector develops two different weapon systems to fight the Gnosis: humanoid mecha dubbed AGWS (Anti Gnosis Weapon System), and the similar but more powerful KOS-MOS battle androids. There also exist more advanced AGWS models called E.S., powered by Lost Jerusalem artifacts called Vessels of Anima.<ref name="GSxenosaga"/><ref name="Xeno3Guide"/> A key backstory event is the Miltian Conflict, which occurred fourteen years before the events of ''Episode I''. Beginning as a war between the U-TIC Organization and the Federation, it escalated when a group of Realians went berserk when an experiment to suppress U-DO's energies went wrong. Miltia was lost in a space-time anomaly. Key organizations include the Federation government; the Kukai Foundation, a group that acts as a shelter for enhanced humans including U.R.T.V.s; Vector Industries, a megacorporation controlling the U.M.N.; a splinter faction called the U-TIC Organization; religious cult Ormus, which funds U-TIC; and the Testaments, a group of men who have been granted a form of immortality following their original deaths.<ref name="Xeno3Guide"/><ref name="Xeno2world">{{cite web|url=http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga2/world/index.html|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ エピソードII 善悪の彼岸 - 世界観と物語|language=ja|publisher=Xenosaga Episode II Website|access-date=26 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150407004053/http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga2/world/index.html|archive-date=7 April 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>

The first game follows series protagonists [[Shion Uzuki]] and prototype battle android [[KOS-MOS]] escaping a Gnosis attack and traveling to Second Miltia aboard the passenger freighter ''Elsa'', where they meet a young man called chaos. Together with U.R.T.V. and Kukai co-founder Jr., the group thwart the plans of Albedo Piazzolla, Jr.'s biological brother.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Xenosaga Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht|developer=[[Monolith Soft]]|publisher=[[Namco]]|date=25 February 2003|platform=[[PlayStation 2]]}}</ref> In ''Episode II'', Albedo uses information gathered during the events of ''Episode I'' to open the way to the original planet Miltia, which becomes the focus of a conflict between the Federation and Ormus. Ormus' leader Sergius gains control of a powerful mech called Proto Omega, destroying Miltia in the process. He is then killed by the Testaments, who give Albedo control of Proto Omega, forcing Jr. to kill him.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Böse|developer=[[Monolith Soft]]|publisher=[[Namco]]|date=15 February 2005|platform=[[PlayStation 2]]}}</ref> In ''Episode III'', Shion, KOS-MOS, chaos and the rest of their group confront both the Testaments—which includes a resurrected Albedo—and Vector CEO Wilhelm. Wilhelm is revealed to be an immortal being stopping the universe's destruction through [[Eternal return|eternal recurrence]]. The group defeats him, then KOS-MOS and chaos help banish the Gnosis to the region of Lost Jerusalem. Shion and Jr. set off to find Lost Jerusalem and save the universe.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra|developer=[[Monolith Soft]]|publisher=[[Bandai Namco Entertainment|Namco Bandai Games]]|date=29 April 2006|platform=[[PlayStation 2]]}}</ref> ''Pied Piper'' follows the character Jan Sauer—later known as the cyborg Ziggurat 8 (Ziggy for short)—as he investigates the crimes of a cyberspace-based serial killer a century before the events of ''Episode I''.<ref name="PiedMonolith"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.monolithsoft.co.jp/left/special/pied-piper/index2.html|script-title=ja:Monolith Soft - ゼノサーガ パイド パイパー - 第1章|language=ja|publisher=[[Monolith Soft]]|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060726023503/http://www.monolithsoft.co.jp/left/special/pied-piper/index2.html|archive-date=26 July 2006|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.monolithsoft.co.jp/left/special/pied-piper/index3.html|script-title=ja:Monolith Soft - ゼノサーガ パイド パイパー - 第2章|language=ja|publisher=[[Monolith Soft]]|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060726160944/http://www.monolithsoft.co.jp/left/special/pied-piper/index3.html|archive-date=26 July 2006|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.monolithsoft.co.jp/left/special/pied-piper/index4.html|script-title=ja:Monolith Soft - ゼノサーガ パイド パイパー - 第3章|language=ja|publisher=[[Monolith Soft]]|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060725141347/http://www.monolithsoft.co.jp/left/special/pied-piper/index4.html|archive-date=25 July 2006|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==History==
===Concept and development===
The creator of ''Xenosaga'' was [[Tetsuya Takahashi]], who had previously worked at [[Square (video game company)|Square]] on multiple projects including entries in the ''[[Final Fantasy]]'' series. Together with his wife [[Soraya Saga]], Takahashi created a proposal for ''[[Final Fantasy VII]]''; while rejected, they were allowed to develop the proposal as its own project, titled ''[[Xenogears]]''. A sequel to ''Xenogears'' was allegedly in the planning stages, but it was never released.<ref name="SagaInterview"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgfan.com/news/1999/668.html|title=A New Xenogears Game?|publisher=RPGFan|date=22 October 1999|access-date=20 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905231859/http://www.rpgfan.com/news/1999/668.html |archive-date=5 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="CreatorInterview">{{cite web|url=http://www.playstation.jp/psstyle/talk/02/01.html|script-title=ja:Creator's Talk - Tetsuya Takahashi|language=ja|publisher=[[Sony]]|date=2002|access-date=20 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050205173819/http://www.playstation.jp/psstyle/talk/02/01.html |archive-date=5 February 2005|url-status=dead}}</ref> Wanting to create his own project, unable to get suitable funding from Square, and disagreeing with Square's focus on its major franchises such as ''Final Fantasy'', Takahashi left Square and founded [[Monolith Soft]] with a number of staff from ''Xenogears''.<ref name="SPinterview">{{cite journal|author=Johansson, Martin|date=2002|title=Xenosaga - The Power of Will|journal=SUPER Play|issue=April 2002|language=sv}}</ref><ref name="GSinterview">{{cite web|last=Sato|first=Ike|title=Xenosaga Interview |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/xenosaga-interview/1100-2823598/ |website=[[GameSpot]]|date=8 November 2001|access-date=31 August 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151205032858/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/xenosaga-interview/1100-2823598/ |archive-date=5 December 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> Creating the proposal for ''Xenosaga'' during 1999 as a six-part series, development began on the first game in 2000 under the  codename "Project X", taking two years to develop with a staff of between 60 and 100 people, with around 20 of them being veterans of ''Xenogears''. The team were helped by [[Namco]], who provided funding and acted as the publisher.<ref name="CreatorInterview"/><ref name="SPinterview"/><ref name="GSinterview"/> The scenario was written by Takahashi and Saga. The ''Xenosaga'' series, while carrying over thematic and design elements from ''Xenogears'', is an unconnected [[spiritual successor]] to that game.<ref name="GSinterview"/><ref name="XenoSaga"/>

Following the release of ''Episode I'', Takahashi and other Monolith Soft staff reassessed the series and the general structure of Monolith Soft. Takahashi, who had acted as the first game's director, stepped down to allow the ''Xenosaga'' series to grow. He gave the development of ''Episode II'' and future ''Xenosaga'' projects to a team of younger developers. The new team decided to shift the game's focus based on player feedback and expand the series into other media. Takahashi continued to act as a supervisor to ensure the series remained true to the original overall plan.<ref name="Xeno2Weekly">{{cite journal|date=2004|script-title=ja:週刊ゼノサーガ|journal=Weekly Xenosaga Episode II|issue=3|pages=6–12|publisher=[[SoftBank Group|SoftBank Creative]]|language=ja}}</ref><ref name="Xeno2guide"/><ref name="FamInterview">{{cite magazine|date=23 May 2003|script-title=ja:ja|magazine=[[Famitsu]]|issue=6 June 2003|publisher=[[Enterbrain]]|language=ja|pages=34–35}}</ref> The draft, created by Takahashi and Saga, was turned into a script by Norihiko Yonesaka, who needed to condense and even cut several events from the original draft to fit it into a single game.<ref name="Xeno2Weekly"/> Saga later commented that these changes resulted in the planned scenario for ''Episode III'' also being changed.<ref name="SagaInterview"/> A portion of the intended narrative of ''Episode II'' was turned into the plot of ''Pied Piper''.<ref name="Xeno12interview"/> ''Pied Piper'' was co-developed by Monolith Soft, [[Bandai Namco Entertainment|Namco Mobile]] and Tom Create.<ref name="Xeno2guide"/><ref name="XenoTom">{{cite web|url=http://www.tomcreate.co.jp/k_rireki.htm|script-title=ja:トムクリエイト 開発履歴|language=ja|publisher=Tom Create|access-date=10 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070314193654/http://www.tomcreate.co.jp/k_rireki.htm|archive-date=14 March 2007|url-status=dead}}</ref> Following the completion of ''Episode II'' and ''Pied Piper'', Saga left the series.<ref name="XenoSaga">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/xenosaga-series-loses-key-writer/1100-6116608/|title=Xenosaga series loses key writer|website=[[GameSpot]]|date=19 January 2005|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131129021308/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/xenosaga-series-loses-key-writer/1100-6116608/|archive-date=29 November 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref>

When ''Episode I'' and ''Episode II'' were remade as ''Xenosaga I & II'', which was Monolith Soft's first portable title and co-developed with Tom Create.<ref name="XenoTom"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2004/2057.html|title=Xenosaga, Baten Kaitos DS-Bound|author=Winkler, Chris|publisher=RPGFan|date=1 December 2004|access-date=13 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050505023843/http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2004/2057.html|archive-date=5 May 2005|url-status=live}}</ref> Takahashi worked with scenario writer Yuichiro Takeda on the scenario, which was to both include the original games' events and incorporate elements and scenarios cut from the original versions. While doing this, Takahashi and Takeda needed to keep the scenario consistent with the in-development ''Episode III''. The volume of the game's scenario and Takahashi's wish to cut as little story as possible resulted in the game being given a two-dimensional artstyle.<ref name="Xeno12interview">{{cite web|url=http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga1_2/interview/index.php|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ I・II / 原案・監修高橋氏・脚本竹田氏スペシャル対談！|language=ja|publisher=Xenosaga I & II Website|access-date=10 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151121185218/http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/xenosaga1_2/interview/index.php|archive-date=21 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Episode III'', which began development during the last development stages for ''Episode II'', was designed to be the last entry in the ''Xenosaga'' series. In addition to up the story of Shion while also leaving room for further entries if there was enough demand, further adjustments were made to both gameplay and graphics based on combined staff comments and fan feedback. Takahashi supervised the project and created the draft, with the script again being written by Yonesaka.<ref name="Xeno2Weekly"/><ref name="XenosagaIIIign">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2006/08/10/reader-qa-xenosaga-episode-iii|title=Reader Q&A: Xenosaga Episode III|website=[[IGN]]|date=10 August 2006|access-date=22 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160204142711/http://www.ign.com/articles/2006/08/10/reader-qa-xenosaga-episode-iii|archive-date=4 February 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

The ''Xenosaga'' series incorporates multiple references to [[Christian mythology|Biblical mythology]], [[Jewish mysticism]] and [[Gnosticism]]; several character, object and place names (such as [[Nephilim]], [[Zohar]], [[Gnosis]], [[Merkabah mysticism|Merkabah]]) are taken from sources within these belief systems.<ref name="XenosagaThemes">{{cite book|last=Evans|first=Eri|chapter=22: The Struggle with Gnosis - Ancient Religion and Future Technology in the Xenosaga Series|title=Playing with the Past - Digital Games and the Simulation of History|publisher=Bloomsbury Academic|isbn=978-1-6235-6728-6|pages=343–356|date=19 December 2013}}</ref> The universal structure incorporates elements of [[Zen]], with the names of central characters KOS-MOS and chaos being deliberate homages to the [[Universe|universal]] concepts of order and [[Chaos (cosmogony)|chaos]].<ref>{{cite book|date=7 September 2001|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ SPECIAL FAN BOOK with DVD|publisher=[[SoftBank Group|SoftBank Publishing]]|page=3}}</ref> It additionally draws on the philosophy and literature of [[Carl Jung]] and Nietzsche.<ref name="XenosagaThemes"/><ref name="SagaInterview">{{cite web |url=http://www.siliconera.com/2010/06/11/soraya-saga-on-xenogears-and-xenosaga/|title=Soraya Saga On Xenogears And Xenosaga|last=Yip|first=Spencer|publisher=Siliconera|date=11 June 2010|access-date=27 May 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222161735/http://www.siliconera.com/2010/06/11/soraya-saga-on-xenogears-and-xenosaga/|archive-date=22 December 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> Nietzsche in particular is heavily referenced throughout the ''Xenosaga'' trilogy, with each entry taking its subtitle from the native title of one of his famous works; for ''Episode I'' and ''Episode II'', the subtitles tied directly into the story themes and characters.<ref name="GSxenosaga" /><ref name="Xenosaga2Preview">{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/previews/xenosaga-episode-ii_3|title=Preview: Xenosaga Episode II|website=[[1UP.com]]|date=2004|access-date=21 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160128103358/http://www.1up.com/previews/xenosaga-episode-ii_3|archive-date=28 January 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="Xen3WestRelease">{{cite web|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2006/04/13/xenosaga-iii-to-north-america|title=Xenosaga III To North America|last=Dunham|first=Jeremy|website=[[IGN]]|date=13 April 2006|access-date=21 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121191827/http://www.ign.com/articles/2006/04/13/xenosaga-iii-to-north-america|archive-date=21 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Xeno2guide">{{cite book|date=27 July 2004|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガ エピソード2 [善悪の彼岸] 公式コンプリートガイド|trans-title=Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Böse Official Complete Guide|publisher=[[Namco]]|isbn=4-9023-7203-7}}</ref> The subtitle of ''Pied Piper'' likewise tied to the game's narrative.<ref name="PiedMonolith">{{cite web|url=http://www.monolithsoft.co.jp/left/special/pied-piper/|script-title=ja:Monolith Soft - ゼノサーガ パイド パイパー|language=ja|publisher=[[Monolith Soft]]|access-date=9 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060503223044/http://www.monolithsoft.co.jp/left/special/pied-piper/|archive-date=3 May 2006|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Music===
{{Main|Music of Xenosaga}}
The score for ''Episode I'' was composed by [[Yasunori Mitsuda]], who had created the music for ''Xenogears''. Mitsuda worked with Takahashi to create tracks based upon specific locations and scenario elements rather than general recycled tracks for segments of the game.<ref name="GSinterview"/><ref>[[Yasunori Mitsuda|Mitsuda, Yasunori]] (6 March 2002). "Xenosaga Original Soundtrack liner notes". [[DigiCube]]. SSCX-10062. Retrieved on 13 September 2017.</ref> For ''Episode II'', the music was composed by three people: [[Yuki Kajiura]], who had found fame as a composer for anime series; [[Shinji Hosoe]], who worked on ''[[Street Fighter EX]]'' and the ''[[Ridge Racer]]'' series; and Ayako Saso, who had composed for ''[[Galaxian]]'' and ''[[Street Fighter EX]]''. Kajiura worked on tracks which played during cinematic cutscenes, while Hosoe and Saso composed other cutscene music and gameplay tracks. Hosoe and Saso worked together as part of the Super Sweep music group, but they did not collaborate with Kajiura on any tracks, or even meet with her during the game's production.<ref name="Xeno3Music">{{cite web|url=http://www.originalsoundversion.com/?p=3027|title=Anime Boston 2009: Interview with Kalafina and Yuki Kajiura|last=Kotowski|first=Don|date=26 May 2009|publisher=Original Sound Version|access-date=28 January 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100920011656/http://www.originalsoundversion.com/?p=3027 |archive-date=20 September 2010 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Xeno2Music2">{{cite web|url=http://www.squareenixmusic.com/features/interviews/shinjihosoe.shtml|title=Interview with Shinji Hosoe|last=Greening|first=Chris|date=26 January 2010|publisher=Square Enix Music Online|access-date=26 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120919010718/http://www.squareenixmusic.com/features/interviews/shinjihosoe.shtml|archive-date=19 September 2012|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>[[Yuki Kajiura|Kajiura, Yuki]] (7 July 2004). "Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Böse Movie Scene Soundtrack liner notes". [[Victor Entertainment]]. VICL-61431/2. Retrieved on 12 September 2017.</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |author=出口裕子|date=2004-07-02|title=サウンドスタッフインタビュー|trans-title=Sound staff interview|language=Japanese|magazine=Shūkan Zenosāga II Vol.4|script-work=ja:週刊ゼノサーガII Vol.4|trans-work=|publisher=Softbank Games|url=https://xenogearsxenosagastudyguide.blogspot.com/p/xs-ep-ii-weekly-voliv-sound-staff-2004.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230429192301/https://xenogearsxenosagastudyguide.blogspot.com/p/xs-ep-ii-weekly-voliv-sound-staff-2004.html|archive-date=2023-04-29|access-date=2023-06-15}}</ref> Kajiura returned to create the entire score for ''Episode III'', drawing upon the game's concept art and scenario when creating the music.<ref name="Xeno3Music"/> All three games have received album releases, although both ''Episode II'' and ''Episode III'' saw large portions of their scores go unreleased due to varying factors.<ref name="Xeno2Music2"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgfan.com/soundtracks/xs-ost/index.html|title=Xenosaga OST|last=Maas|first=Liz|author2=Thomas, Damian |author3=Farand, Eric |date=17 March 2002|publisher=RPGFan|access-date=23 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131006182855/http://rpgfan.com/soundtracks/xs-ost/index.html |archive-date=6 October 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>[[Keiichi Nozaki|Nozaki, Keiichi]] (12 July 2006). "Xenosaga Episode III Also Sprach Zarathustra Original Sound Best Tracks liner notes". [[Victor Entertainment]]. VICL-61975/6. Retrieved on 14 August 2017.</ref>

==Reception==
In an article for [[1UP.com]] about video game series that had ended prematurely, Scott Sharkey felt that no-one was surprised when the series ended with ''Episode III'' as he deemed the series far too ambitious.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3171873|title=Top 5 Games That Ended Halfway Through|last=Sharkey|first=Scott|website=[[1UP.com]]|date=2009|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090225110729/http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3171873|archive-date=25 February 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> Jeremy Parish, writing for [[Eurogamer|USGamer]], felt that Takahashi managed to "[come] through" despite his planned six-part series being cut down by half, with ''Episode III'' being a satisfactory conclusion to the series' storyline. He also noted that ''Xenosaga'' showed a trend with Takakashi's work of being ambitious to the point of needing to compromise the original plan due to external limitations.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.usgamer.net/articles/on-this-day-in-video-game-history-the-end-of-xenosaga|title=On This Day in Video Game History: The End Of Xenosaga|last=Parish|first=Jeremy|website=[[Eurogamer|USGamer]]|date=6 July 2015|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170417094702/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/on-this-day-in-video-game-history-the-end-of-xenosaga|archive-date=17 April 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Blake Peterson, in a feature on the ''Xenosaga'' series, felt that the success of later ''Xeno'' titles—which took a different approach and had met with critical and commercial success—meant that the ''Xenosaga'' series would not be continued.<ref name="GRevXeno">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/features/monolith-soft-and-nintendo-why-well-never-get-more-xenogearssaga|title=Monolith Soft and Nintendo: Why We'll Never Get More Xenogears/saga|last=Peterson|first=Blake|publisher=[[Game Revolution]]|date=3 December 2015|access-date=20 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160107005349/http://www.gamerevolution.com/features/monolith-soft-and-nintendo-why-well-never-get-more-xenogearssaga|archive-date=7 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Individual titles===
{{Video game series reviews
| updated = July 26, 2017
| fam     = yes
| game1   = [[Xenosaga Episode I]]
| fam1    = 33/40<ref name="FamReview2">{{cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=2226|script-title=ja:(PS2) ゼノサーガ エピソード II [善悪の彼岸]|language=ja|publisher=[[Famitsu]]|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160802053345/http://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=2226|archive-date=2 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
| mc1     = 83/100 (35 reviews)<ref name="MC1">{{cite web | title=Xenosaga Episode I: Der Wille Zer Macht for PlayStation 2 on Metacritic | url=http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/xenosaga| website=[[Metacritic]] | access-date=30 November 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080624001912/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/xenosaga|archive-date=24 June 2008|url-status=live}}</ref>
| game2   = [[Xenosaga Episode II]]
| fam2    = 33/40<ref name="FamReview2">{{cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=2226|script-title=ja:(PS2) ゼノサーガ エピソード II [善悪の彼岸]|language=ja|publisher=[[Famitsu]]|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160802053345/http://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=2226|archive-date=2 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref>
| mc2     = 73/100 (45 reviews)<ref name="MC2">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2|title=Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Bose for PlayStation 2|website=[[Metacritic]]|access-date=12 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151109075400/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose|archive-date=9 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref>
| game3   = [[Xenosaga I & II]]
| fam3    = 31/40<ref name="FamReview12">{{cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=11228|script-title=ja:(DS) ゼノサーガ I・II|language=ja|publisher=[[Famitsu]]|access-date=13 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130625143525/https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=11228|archive-date=25 June 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>
| mc3     = —
| game4   = [[Xenosaga Episode III]]
| fam4    = 33/40<ref name="FamReview3">{{cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=2229|script-title=ja:(PS2) ゼノサーガ エピソードIII ツァラトゥストラはかく語りき|language=ja|publisher=[[Famitsu]]|access-date=28 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130816102007/https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=2229|archive-date=16 August 2013|url-status=live}}</ref>
| mc4     = 81/100 (34 reviews)<ref name="MC3">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/xenosaga-episode-iii-also-sprach-zarathustra/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2|title=Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra - Metacritic|website=[[Metacritic]]|access-date=12 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110109112356/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/xenosaga-episode-iii-also-sprach-zarathustra|archive-date=9 January 2011|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

''Episode I'' received positive reviews upon release. The narrative was generally praised for its complex structure and cinematic approach, while its gameplay was seen as enjoyable despite initially being complicated even by genre standards and the mech segments not feeling consequential. The graphics and music were generally praised, although the latter was felt to be too sparse.<ref name="gspotXeno1">{{cite web|last=Kasavin|first=Greg |date=21 February 2003 |title=Xenosaga Episode I Review|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/xenosaga-episode-i-der-wille-zur-macht-review/1900-2911361/ |website=[[GameSpot]] |access-date=30 November 2009 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024061144/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/xenosaga-episode-i-der-wille-zur-macht-review/1900-2911361/ |archive-date=24 October 2013 }}</ref><ref name="ignXeno1">{{cite web | last=Dunham|first=Jeremy| date=24 February 2003 | title=Xenosaga Episode I Review | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/387/387085p1.html | website=[[IGN]] | access-date=30 November 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060114075647/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/387/387085p1.html|archive-date=14 January 2006|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="FamReview2"/><ref name="gameproXeno1">{{cite magazine | date=24 February 2003 | title=Review: Xenosaga Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht | url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/28344/xenosaga-episode-i-der-wille-zur-macht/ | magazine=[[GamePro]] | access-date=30 November 2009 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080202180110/http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps2/games/reviews/28344.shtml | archive-date=2 February 2008 | url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="GSpyXeno1">{{cite web|url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/xenosaga-episode-i-der-wille-zur-macht/5613p1.html|title=Reviews - Xenosaga Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht|last=Nutt|first=Christian|publisher=[[GameSpy]]|date=13 February 2003|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090427043815/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/xenosaga-episode-i-der-wille-zur-macht/5613p1.html|archive-date=27 April 2009|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="RPGreviewXeno1">{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgamer.com/games/xeno/xenosaga/reviews/xenosagastrev1.html|title=Xenosaga - Review|last=Alley|first=Jake|publisher=RPGamer|date=10 March 2003|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160614123425/http://www.rpgamer.com/games/xeno/xenosaga/reviews/xenosagastrev1.html|archive-date=14 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Episode II'', which had seen its gameplay and graphics reworked from ''Episode I'', received praise from critics for both these adjustments and the refocusing of its narrative despite the latter's short length. The replacement of some of the original English voice actors also came in for criticism.<ref name="FamReview2"/><ref name="EuroXenoII">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_xenosagaii_ps2|title=Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Bose Review|last=Parkin|first=Simon|website=[[Eurogamer]]|date=10 November 2005|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061218165232/http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=61739|archive-date=18 December 2006|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="GProXenoII">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps2/games/reviews/42072.shtml|title=Review - Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Bose|magazine=[[GamePro]]|date=15 February 2005|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050305052026/http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps2/games/reviews/42072.shtml|archive-date=5 March 2005|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="GameSpotXenoII">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose/reviews/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose-review-6118506/ |title=Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Bose Review |website=[[GameSpot]] |last=Massimilla |first=Bethany |date=11 February 2005 |access-date=12 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120125215924/http://www.gamespot.com/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose/reviews/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose-review-6118506/ |archive-date=25 January 2012 }}</ref><ref name="SpyXenoII">{{cite web|last=Nutt|first=Christian|url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose/586164p1.html|title=GameSpy: Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Böse review|publisher=[[GameSpy]]|date=11 February 2005|access-date=12 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304115834/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose/586164p1.html|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="IGNXenoII">{{cite web|last=Dunham|first=Jeremy|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2005/02/09/xenosaga-episode-ii-jenseits-von-gut-und-bose|title=Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Bose Review|website=[[IGN]]|date=15 February 2005|access-date=12 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050210001649/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/585/585744p1.html|archive-date=10 February 2005|url-status=live}}</ref>

''Episode III'' received praise for its narrative and the way it concluded the series' overarching plot, but many felt that there was too much need for knowledge of the original games for it to be enjoyable for newcomers. The battle system and character customization also saw praise, although other gameplay aspects such as side activities divided opinion.<ref name="EuroReviewXenoIII">{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_xenosagaiii_ps2|title=Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra Review|last=Parkin|first=Simon|website=[[Eurogamer]]|date=13 September 2006|access-date=28 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160522133450/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_xenosagaiii_ps2|archive-date=22 May 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="FamReview3"/><ref name="GProReviewXenoIII">{{cite magazine|url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/reviews/80968/xenosaga-episode-iii-also-sprach-zarathustra/ |title=Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra Review from GamePro |magazine=[[GamePro]] |date=13 September 2006 |access-date=12 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070312162631/http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps2/games/reviews/80968.shtml |archive-date=12 March 2007 }}</ref><ref name="gamespotXenoIII">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/xenosaga-episode-iii-also-sprach-zarathustra-revie/1900-6156836/ |title=Xenosaga Episode III: Also sprach Zarathustra Review |website=[[GameSpot]] |last=Massimilla |first=Bethany |date=30 August 2006 |access-date=12 August 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160423123420/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/xenosaga-episode-iii-also-sprach-zarathustra-revie/1900-6156836/ |archive-date=23 April 2016 }}</ref><ref name="GSpyReviewXenoIII">{{cite web|last=Vasconcellos|first=Eduardo|url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/xenosaga-iii/728826p1.html|title=GameSpy: Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra review|publisher=[[GameSpy]]|date=26 August 2006|access-date=12 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060901180348/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/xenosaga-iii/728826p1.html|archive-date=1 September 2006|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="IGNreviewXenoIII">{{cite web|last=Dunham|first=Jeremy|url=http://uk.ign.com/articles/2006/08/31/xenosaga-episode-iii-also-sprach-zarathustra-review|title=Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra Review|website=[[IGN]]|date=30 August 2006|access-date=12 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061023231251/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/729/729365p1.html|archive-date=23 October 2006|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="RPGamerXenoIII">{{cite web|last=Martz|first=Josh|url=http://www.rpgamer.com/games/xeno/xenosaga3/reviews/xenosaga3strev1.html|title=Xenosaga Episode III: Also Sprach Zarathustra Staff Review|publisher=RPGamer|date=2006|access-date=11 August 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304211011/http://www.rpgamer.com/games/xeno/xenosaga3/reviews/xenosaga3strev1.html|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Xenosaga I & II'' was generally praised by critics; while some more technical elements of the story slowed the pace, the narrative was generally seen as the game's strongest feature, while the general gameplay and battle system were also praised for removing the more convoluted elements from the mainline titles. In import reviews, it was commented that the extensive amount of Japanese text would be the largest barrier for those who wished to import the game from Japan.<ref name="RPGreviewXeno12">{{cite web|url=https://www.rpgamer.com/games/xeno/xenosagads/reviews/xenosagadsstrev1.html|title=Xenosaga I + II - Staff Retroview|author=Baker, Michael|publisher=RPGamer|date=2011|access-date=13 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160612210441/http://www.rpgamer.com/games/xeno/xenosagads/reviews/xenosagadsstrev1.html|archive-date=12 June 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="RPGFreviewXeno12">{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/xenosagads/|title=Xenosaga I•II Review|author=Chandran, Neal|publisher=RPGFan|date=31 August 2007|access-date=13 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170813195218/http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/xenosagads/|archive-date=13 August 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="FamReview12"/>

===Sales===
''Episode I'' managed a strong debut, selling over 240,000 units within three days of its release,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2002/1212.html|title=Xenosaga Tops Japanese Sales Charts|last=Winkler|first=Chris|publisher=RPGFan|date=10 March 2002|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905185049/http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2002/1212.html|archive-date=5 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> and becoming the seventh best-selling game in Japan during 2002.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://geimin.net/da/db/2002_ne_fa/index.php|script-title=ja:2002年テレビゲームソフト売り上げTOP300|language=ja|publisher=Geimin.net|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161030020328/http://geimin.net/da/db/2002_ne_fa/index.php|archive-date=30 October 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> It was also a commercial success internationally,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q2-2004/052604b.html|title=Namco Announces Profits, Release Dates|last=Clayton|first=Philip|publisher=RPGamer|date=26 May 2004|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170327025948/http://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q2-2004/052604b.html|archive-date=27 March 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> going on to sell over one million copies.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://dengekionline.com/data/news/2003/7/21/d6702af1cb8c0c4abd4b313c3d711c5b.html|script-title=ja:モノリスの新作3タイトル発表！『ゼノサーガエピソードII』では『I』の謎が明らかに！|language=ja|publisher=[[ASCII Media Works|Dengeki Online]]|date=21 July 2003|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170905192948/http://dengekionline.com/data/news/2003/7/21/d6702af1cb8c0c4abd4b313c3d711c5b.html|archive-date=5 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Episode II'' debuted at #2 in sales charts,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/94947/Latest_Japanese_Sales_Charts__Week_Ending_June_27.php|title=Latest Japanese Sales Charts - Week Ending June 27|last=Jenkins|first=David|website=[[Gamasutra]]|date=2 July 2004|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304041909/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/94947/Latest_Japanese_Sales_Charts__Week_Ending_June_27.php|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> going on to sell 280,000 in Japan during 2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2005/1175.html|title=Namco Posts Third Quarter Results|last=Winkler|first=Chris|publisher=RPGFan|date=14 February 2005|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905212801/http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2005/1175.html|archive-date=5 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> It also saw commercial success in North America, although no sales figures were revealed.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/namco-posts-fy2005-results|title=Namco Posts FY2005 Results|last=Maragos|first=Nich|website=[[Gamasutra]]|date=25 May 2005|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160122191119/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/96534/Namco_Posts_FY2005_Results.php|archive-date=22 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite this, ''Episode II'' underperformed commercially, reaching just over 50% of Namco's projected sales target.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.rpgfan.com/previews/xenosaga3/|title=Xenosaga Episode III - First Look Preview|last=Winkler|first=Chris|publisher=RPGFan|date=29 April 2006|access-date=14 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170902114124/http://www.rpgfan.com/previews/xenosaga3/|archive-date=2 September 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Xenosaga I & II'' met with poor sales, with its debut being seen as disappointing for the still-popular series,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rpgamer.com/editor/2006/q2/041706bb.html|title=Crunching Numbers: DS vs. GBA|author=Boulette, Bryan|publisher=RPGamer|access-date=13 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304172409/http://rpgamer.com/editor/2006/q2/041706bb.html|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> and going on to sell over 38,000 units during 2006.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://geimin.net/da/06/rank_mc.php|script-title=ja:2006年テレビゲームソフト売り上げTOP500（メディアクリエイト版）|language=ja|publisher=Geimin.net|access-date=13 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005231131/http://geimin.net/da/06/rank_mc.php|archive-date=5 October 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Episode III'' debuted with sales approaching 124,000, noted as being the lowest debut for the main trilogy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/10080/Mario_Bros_Tops_Japanese_Charts_For_Sixth_Week.php|title=Mario Bros. Tops Japanese Charts For Sixth Week|last=Jenkins|first=David|website=[[Gamasutra]]|date=14 July 2006|access-date=28 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160924052653/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/10080/Mario_Bros_Tops_Japanese_Charts_For_Sixth_Week.php|archive-date=24 September 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> Selling over 181,000 copies in Japan during 2006,<ref name="EBsales">{{Cite book |title=Famitsū Gēmu Hakusho 2007 |publisher=[[Enterbrain]] |year=2007 |location=Tokyo |language=ja |script-title=ja:ファミ通ゲーム白書2007 |trans-title=Famitsu Game Whitebook 2007 |chapter=2006年ゲームソフト年間売上TOP500 |trans-chapter=2006 Game Software Annual Sales Top 500 |url=http://geimin.net/da/db/2006_ne_fa/index.php}}</ref> it went on to sell 343,000 units across Japan, mainland Asia and North America by February 2007.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2007/1058.html|publisher = RPGFan|title = Bandai Namco Announces 3rd Quarter Results|access-date = 6 May 2007|date = 17 February 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170311030054/http://www.rpgfan.com/news/2007/1058.html|archive-date=11 March 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> Takahashi later stated that the series as a whole had underperformed.<ref name="XenobladeInterview"/>
{{Clear}}

==Legacy==
{{Main|Xenoblade Chronicles}}
The initial success of ''Xenosaga'' turned Monolith Soft into a popular developer, with Namco placing the company alongside [[Namco Tales Studio]] as a valuable development partner.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://namco-ch.net/event/2003/monolith/report.html|script-title=ja:モノリスソフト新作発表会～ＥＰＩＳＯＤＥ ２００３～|language=ja|publisher=[[Namco]]|date=2003|access-date=12 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060619035520/http://namco-ch.net/event/2003/monolith/report.html|archive-date=19 June 2006|url-status=dead}}</ref> Following the release of ''Episode III'', and the mixed reception received by the series as a whole, the entire development team were in a state of low morale. Partly to boost team morale and create a game players would enjoy, the team developed a new RPG for the [[Wii]]. Originally titled ''Monado: Beginning of the World'', its title was eventually changed to ''[[Xenoblade Chronicles (video game)|Xenoblade Chronicles]]''. During its development, the team moved away from the narrative and design techniques used for the ''Xenosaga'' games, which were considered old-fashioned.<ref name="XenobladeInterview">{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Iwata-Asks/Iwata-Asks-Xenoblade-Chronicles-3D-for-New-Nintendo-3DS/Xenoblade-Chronicles-3D-for-New-Nintendo-3DS/1-We-want-to-make-a-JRPG-masterpiece/1-We-want-to-make-a-JRPG-masterpiece-979737.html|title=Iwata Asks: Xenoblade Chronicles 3D for New Nintendo 3DS|publisher=[[Nintendo|Nintendo UK]]|date=2015|access-date=8 December 2015|archive-url=https://archive.today/20170120132323/https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Iwata-Asks/Iwata-Asks-Xenoblade-Chronicles-3D-for-New-Nintendo-3DS/Xenoblade-Chronicles-3D-for-New-Nintendo-3DS/1-We-want-to-make-a-JRPG-masterpiece/1-We-want-to-make-a-JRPG-masterpiece-979737.html|archive-date=20 January 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|last=Kohler|first=Chris|date=29 January 2010|title=Nintendo To Publish The Last Story, Mistwalker RPG|url=https://www.wired.com/2010/01/the-last-story-wii/|magazine=[[Wired (website)|Wired]]|access-date=29 January 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150519023433/http://www.wired.com/2010/01/the-last-story-wii|archive-date=19 May 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/news/xenoblade|title=All About Xenoblade|last=Gifford|first=Kevin|website=[[1UP.com]]|date=17 February 2010|access-date=16 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018143313/http://www.1up.com/news/xenoblade|archive-date=18 October 2012|url-status=dead}}</ref> The success of ''Xenoblade Chronicles'' led to the development of further ''Xenoblade Chronicles'' titles.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.usgamer.net/articles/how-the-xenoverse-got-its-groove-back|title=How the Xenoverse Got Its Groove Back|last=Mackey|first=Bob|website=[[Eurogamer|USGamer]]|date=10 April 2015|access-date=9 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150907022259/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/how-the-xenoverse-got-its-groove-back|archive-date=7 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> In a later interview, Takahashi stated that he would be willing to develop further titles in the ''Xenosaga'' series if funding was provided.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamekult.com/actualite/xenoblade-2-a-la-rencontre-de-son-createur-tetsuya-takahashi-3050796525.html|title=Xenoblade 2 : à la rencontre de son créateur, Tetsuya Takahashi|publisher=GameKult|language=fr|date=22 June 2017|access-date=28 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170624043201/https://www.gamekult.com/actualite/xenoblade-2-a-la-rencontre-de-son-createur-tetsuya-takahashi-3050796525.html|archive-date=24 June 2017|url-status=live}}</ref>

The character KOS-MOS was included as part of the playable cast of ''[[Namco × Capcom]]'' for the [[PlayStation 2]], a crossover title developed by Monolith Soft featuring characters from both Namco and [[Capcom]]-owned game franchises.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/namco_x_capcom/character/|script-title=ja:Namco × Capcom - キャラクター|language=ja|publisher=Namco × Capcom website|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705222710/http://bandainamcoent.co.jp/cs/list/namco_x_capcom/character/|archive-date=5 July 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/999/G999905/20150526045/|script-title=ja:「ナムコ クロス カプコン」発売10周年を記念したイラストが公開|language=ja|publisher=[[4Gamer.net]]|date=26 May 2015|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150921230754/http://www.4gamer.net/games/999/G999905/20150526045/|archive-date=21 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> KOS-MOS and her rival from ''Xenosaga Episode III'' T-elos appeared in ''[[Super Robot Taisen OG Saga: Endless Frontier]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bandainamcoent.co.jp/blog/2008/03/post_69.html|script-title=ja:フロンティア、集う！|language=ja|publisher=[[Bandai Namco Entertainment]]|date=14 March 2008|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160227183644/https://bandainamcoent.co.jp/blog/2008/03/post_69.html|archive-date=27 February 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/1215189_1407.html|script-title=ja:強力な技で行く手を阻むライバルに立ち向かえ!!『無限のフロンティア スーパーロボット大戦ＯＧサーガ』|language=ja|publisher=[[Famitsu]]|date=14 May 2008|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110912003313/http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/1215189_1407.html|archive-date=12 September 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> Supporting character MOMO was later introduced alongside KOS-MOS and T-elos in the game's sequel ''[[Super Robot Taisen OG Saga: Endless Frontier Exceed]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/1231902_1407.html|script-title=ja:【動画つき】新キャラクター＆序盤シナリオ紹介！『無限のフロンティアEXCEED スーパーロボット大戦OGサーガ』|language=ja|publisher=[[Famitsu]]|date=10 February 2010|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100213163032/https://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/1231902_1407.html|archive-date=13 February 2010|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/101/G010104/20100122045/|script-title=ja:ゼノサーガシリーズからM.O.M.O.が参戦！ 「無限のフロンティアEXCEED」最新情報|language=ja|publisher=[[4Gamer.net]]|date=22 January 2010|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141005024043/http://www.4gamer.net/games/101/G010104/20100122045/|archive-date=5 October 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> Both KOS-MOS and T-elos starred in ''[[Project X Zone]]'' for the [[Nintendo 3DS]], a spiritual successor to ''Namco × Capcom'' from the same development team.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://jpgames.de/2012/04/ein-interview-und-viele-screenhots-zu-project-x-zone/|title=Ein Interview und viele Screenhots zu Project X Zone|language=de|publisher=JPGames.de|date=13 April 2012|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170406063346/http://jpgames.de/2012/04/ein-interview-und-viele-screenhots-zu-project-x-zone/|archive-date=6 April 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pxz.channel.or.jp/entry/bng04.html|script-title=ja:『ゼノサーガ』シリーズ/登場作品/PROJECT X ZONE/バンダイナムコゲームス公式サイト|language=ja|publisher=Project X Zone Blog|access-date=24 September 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170301075341/http://pxz.channel.or.jp/entry/bng04.html|archive-date=1 March 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> KOS-MOS also appeared in its sequel ''[[Project X Zone 2]]'' alongside ''Xenoblade Chronicles'' heroine Fiora.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://gematsu.com/2015/09/project-x-zone-2-adds-fire-emblem-xenosaga-xenoblade-characters|title=Project X Zone 2 adds Fire Emblem, Xenosaga, and Xenoblade characters|last=Romano|first=Sal|publisher=Gematsu|access-date=19 September 2015|date=9 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151208073517/http://gematsu.com/2015/09/project-x-zone-2-adds-fire-emblem-xenosaga-xenoblade-characters|archive-date=8 December 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> KOS-MOS and T-elos made cameo appearances as titular blades in ''[[Xenoblade Chronicles 2]]''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-11-30 |title=Xenoblade Chronicles 2 adds KOS-MOS Re: from Xenosaga as Rare Blade |url=https://www.gematsu.com/2017/11/xenoblade-chronicles-2-adds-kos-mos-re-xenosaga-rare-blade |access-date=2024-09-23 |website=Gematsu |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-09-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240923222357/https://www.gematsu.com/2017/11/xenoblade-chronicles-2-adds-kos-mos-re-xenosaga-rare-blade |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-04-24 |title=Xenoblade Chronicles 2 version 1.4.0 update launches April 27, adds two new Rare Blades |url=https://www.gematsu.com/2018/04/xenoblade-chronicles-2-version-1-4-0-update-launches-april-27-adds-two-new-rare-blades |access-date=2024-09-23 |website=Gematsu |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-09-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240923222357/https://www.gematsu.com/2018/04/xenoblade-chronicles-2-version-1-4-0-update-launches-april-27-adds-two-new-rare-blades |url-status=live }}</ref> KOS-MOS's head armor from ''Xenosaga I'' makes a late game appearance in ''[[Tales of Arise]]'' as part of its artifacts system. KOS-MOS was added as a playable character during a limited-time event in [[Tales of the Rays]], additionally, costumes based on MOMO, T-elos and chaos were added for other playable characters.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-24 |title=Tales Of The Rays Announces Xenosaga Collaboration - Noisy Pixel |url=https://noisypixel.net/tales-of-the-rays-announces-xenosaga-collaboration/ |access-date=2024-01-09 |website=noisypixel.net |language=en-us}}</ref>

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{wikiquote}}

{{Xeno series}}
{{Franchises owned by Bandai Namco Holdings}}

[[Category:Xenosaga| ]]
[[Category:Bandai Namco Entertainment franchises]]
[[Category:Video game franchises]]
[[Category:Video game franchises introduced in 2002]]
[[Category:Video games set on fictional planets]]
[[Category:Antitheism]]