Edens Zero

Superfans of the series might find something to love if they dig deep enough – but Konami's Edens Zero, more than anything, is another grim reminder of the unrealized potential of anime-based video games.

Edens Zero takes an enjoyable if tropey sci-fi anime and bloats it with gameplay and mechanics that belong in the early 2000s. It is altogether weaker than the sum of its serviceable parts.

Konami delivers a space action RPG that is easy to learn, with direct combat, distinct characters and classic progression through levels, skills and equipment. The formula fits Edens Zero well, but the chapter structure and free mode could have been integrated better.

EDENS ZERO is a discreet, enjoyable action RPG, with good ideas and capable of entertaining (especially fans of the original work), but made without the care needed to really shine.

Edens Zero really is a game made for existing fans, specifically those who aren't too picky about their gameplay. The combat is serviceable enough to provide button-mashers with some fun, and the open world gives the game some legs once the story section has been completed. For those new to the series, the rushed and initially convoluted storytelling provides a terrible first impression, while the gameplay's stunted nature makes you wonder why the game was made into an action-RPG title instead of a more straightforward action title. Overall, the game can be decent, but it fares poorly when compared to many other anime-based games on the market.

EDENS ZERO is a cosmic adventure that captures the style and heart of its anime roots, but stumbles on polish and depth. It is a flawed game that still manages to be an endearing one. Fans will overlook the rough edges and enjoy the ride, while newcomers will find a decent but imperfect gateway into Mashima’s space fantasy.

EDENS ZERO is an addictive adaptation that will get you hooked on the story, even if you haven't read it yet. If you look past the fanservice and repetitive combat, you'll find a real gem of a storyline here.

I really wish Edens Zero were a better game. As a fan of the source material, I was really looking forward to it. But the execution leaves much to be desired in several respects. The strange beginning, which gives away a lot of the story, the lack of enemy variety, the tanky bosses that pose no real threat, and the graphics, which could be improved: there are more reasons against the title than for it. The only redeeming qualities would be the minigames and the voiced dialogue. And that's simply not enough.

Edens Zero, much like Fairy Tail 2, is a missed opportunity. Once again, Mashima's works are not made accessible, and Edens Zero seems to be half-ready in pretty much everything: despite an engaging combat system and a faithful recreation of the anime's characters and story, its technical aspect leaves much to be desired. It's basically an empty game, with dull scenarios and little to no interactivity, and this makes this barely sufficient game hardly enjoyable by more casual fans.

As an outsider looking in, the video game adaptation of Edens Zero confused the hell out of me due to its disjointed take on the manga’s plot. Its combat and overall mechanics could have been just a bit more polished. Still, with that said, I had a pretty good time with it. It’s dumbed down in terms of its gameplay, and its presentation is really freaking good. It won me over due to its simplicity. Now, did it make me want to actually watch the Edens Zero anime? No, it didn’t.