Wild Arms 3 vs Wild Arms XF

Wild Arms 3 is a fully 3D role-playing adventure featuring stroke-shaded animation-style graphics and a distinct Wild West setting. Players follow four Drifters chosen by the planet's spiritual protectors, the Guardians, as they journey together to prevent a prophesied catastrophe. Throughout their quest, the heroes contend with rival Drifter groups, fanatical scientists known as the Prophets, and legendary Demons. As they uncover startling truths about Filgaia's history, the four protagonists must rely on turn-based strategy and powerful Guardian abilities to save their world.

Wild Arms XF is a 2D turn-based tactical role-playing game that blends the depth of chess with strategic grid-based combat. Players control a small squad of up to six characters on unique hexagonal battlefields, utilizing positional advantages and environmental maneuvering to overcome challenging foes. The story follows Clarissa Arwin, who enters the kingdom of Elesius to retrieve a stolen family sword and is mistaken for the deceased heir-presumptive. Assuming the persona of Princess Alexia, Clarissa founds the rebel group Chevalet Blanc to liberate the nation from the oppressive Council of Elder Statesmen and their mercenary Martial Guard.

• Distinctive Wild West fantasy setting
• Vibrant stroke-shaded art style
• Engaging turn-based combat system
• Compelling overarching mystery and narrative

• Engaging hexagonal grid tactical combat system
• Deep tactical mechanics like Formation and Combination Arts
• Compelling storyline of political rebellion and personal vengeance
• Memorable cast of characters within the established Wild Arms universe

• Random encounter rates can feel high
• Visually sparse world due to its desert setting
• Steep difficulty spikes in certain boss battles

• Steep difficulty curve requiring careful tactical positioning
• Limited squad size restricting massive army deployments
• Niche genre appeal that may not suit action game fans