A Surprising Retro Find

Xanadu Next, an action-RPG originally crafted by Nihon Falcom for the Nokia N-Gage, has recently surfaced as a standout discovery during the Steam Autumn sale. While its unusual origins might seem odd, the game offers a surprisingly compelling experience that holds its own even by modern standards.


Tracing its lineage back to the 1985 classic Xanadu: Dragon Slayer 2, Xanadu Next serves as a long-awaited spin-off. Although it initially debuted exclusively in Japan in 2005, the PC version available on Steam has gained a reputation among fans as one of Nihon Falcom’s finest titles, standing proudly alongside celebrated series like Ys and Trails.


Cozy Exploration and Satisfying Combat

After diving into the 2016 English re-release, it becomes clear why this title has maintained a dedicated following. The game features an isometric "slash and grind" style that balances cozy charm with a well-designed Metroidvania structure. The gameplay loop is centered around a hub village where players manage upgrades and trade, while the surrounding world demands careful exploration.


The experience is distinctly meditative. As one player noted regarding the design:

«The pleasure of pressing further and further outwards into the labyrinthine and reassuringly blocky world is ample incentive to do so. Discovering new ways the world is interconnected is also a pleasure.»

The game’s world-building evokes a unique atmosphere, blending the typical cheerful tropes of a Japanese RPG with a distinct sense of melancholy, creating a world that feels both nostalgic and immersive.


Tips for Steam Deck and PC Players

Currently available at a 70% discount, Xanadu Next is well worth the investment for fans of the genre. However, prospective players should be aware of a few technical quirks:

  • Configuration: Before launching the game, run the separate configuration executable to adjust your graphics settings, as the game does not automatically detect display parameters.
  • Controller Support: While not officially optimized, the game runs beautifully on the Steam Deck. Players should utilize a community-made controller profile to smooth out the experience, though occasional mouse interaction for inventory management may still be required.

Despite being labeled as "unsupported" for the Steam Deck on its store page, the game is fully playable with just a few minor tweaks. For those who enjoy retro-inspired action-RPGs, this hidden gem is a fantastic addition to any library.