Baten Kaitos: Eternal Wings and the Lost Ocean

Baten Kaitos looks to be the next big RPG for the Gamecube. While it may have some non-traditional elements (such as a card based battle system), don’t let that turn you away from what looks to be a breathtaking adventure.

One of the first things that you notice when looking at Baten Kaitos is that it looks gorgeous. The CG cinemas look amazing and rival some of the finest in the industry, while the in-game graphics look equally mesmerizing. The game environments are all pre-rendered, and look great. Spell effects in battles also are very nice to look at. All in all, Baten Kaitos looks like it could be one of the best looking Gamecube games ever.

Sound in the game looks to be up to par as well. Based on the batch of trailers released, the background music sounds as though it will fit in with this epic adventure. Also, Namco seems to have hired a talented group of voice actors (based on voicework heard in the first batch of American trailers), and this should add to the epic feel of the game.

Where Baten Kaitos breaks from the norm is with its gameplay. While you will be doing typical RPG mainstays like exploring and interacting with other character’s, Kaitos features a unique battle system. Using what has been dubbed as the “Magnus Card System”, players will use over 1000 cards to form various attacks, spells, and other misc. actions. Enemies will also be visible on the screen, eliminating the random battles of the past. One possible pitfall is that battles could possibly be a little drawn out using this battle system, as battle is heavily menu based.

Baten Kaitos looks like it could be a contender for RPG of the year. With gorgeous graphics and an unconventional battle system, this game will be one to watch. Baten Kaitos will be available for the Gamecube on November 16'th , keep an eye out for it.