Scarlet Nexus

Scarlet Nexus' combat is thrilling and its story surprisingly deep, and while it's let down by limited enemy and stage variety, the strength of its characters is enough to lift it high above your average anime inspired action RPG.

The story of Scarlet Nexus might be a mess, but fun action and great character moments make it worth your time.

An excellent combat system buffers a classically unhinged anime story in an action RPG whose ambition outpaces execution.

The haunting twists of Scarlet Nexus make it a surprise gem

A brilliant battle system is let down somewhat by the largely underwhelming side stories and meandering companions of Scarlet Nexus.

With incredibly satisfying combat, weird and wonderful creatures, and an awesome aesthetic, Scarlet Nexus is well worth your time

For anime lovers and anyone who enjoyed “Fire Emblem: Three Houses,” the game will be a hit.

There’s plenty of fun to be had for all players because it’s great once it gets going – but I fear it might lose people in its opening few hours.

Scarlet Nexus is, ultimately, some gorgeous, action-heavy comfort food. It is Saturday morning anime in game form, and while it will struggle to hold your attention from a story perspective, it’s also a good way to lose 30 hours in a fun combat system. It’s not a narrative powerhouse, but if you need a vehicle for bashing monsters with the might of your brain, it’ll suit that need just fine.

Scarlet Nexus is an enjoyable, polished action RPG, but despite its interesting concepts and setting, it all feels a bit stunted. An intriguing plot is hampered by sloppy storytelling, and the combat system is good fun, but it loses its edge long before the credits roll. If you can play past the game's flaws, there's a lot to like about the brain punk world of Scarlet Nexus - just don't expect it to rewire your own grey matter.