Fei Fong Wong
The protagonist, an amnesiac young man whose connection to a powerful Gear places him at the center of the conflict.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad | Move the character or navigate menus |
|---|---|
X | Confirm selections and interact Button assignments can vary by regional version. |
Circle | Cancel or return to the previous menu Button assignments can vary by regional version. |
Triangle | Open the menu during exploration |
Square | Use context-sensitive field actions where available |
L1R1 | Rotate or adjust the camera where supported Availability depends on the current area. |
Start | Pause or advance certain screens |
Combos and sequences
D-padX | Select an attack input during human-character combat Attack sequences consume attack points. |
|---|
Control notes
Controls are for the original PlayStation release; regional button conventions may differ.
Some actions are context-sensitive and appear only in exploration or battle.
How it plays
How does Xenogears play?
The game uses a top-down or isometric perspective for exploration, with occasional first-person and cinematic sequences. Players travel through towns, wilderness areas, dungeons, and story locations while solving environmental puzzles and advancing the narrative.
Combat is turn-based. Human characters spend attack points on button-based martial-arts sequences, while Gears use fuel and special attacks. The party gains experience, equipment, abilities, and improved Gear performance as the story progresses. There is a primarily single-player campaign with no multiplayer mode.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Xenogears?
Explore towns thoroughly for equipment, items, and optional conversations before major story events. Keep both human characters and Gears equipped, since Gear battles use separate weapons, armor, fuel, and upgrade considerations.
In human combat, vary attack strings to manage attack points and learn which combinations produce stronger deathblows. In Gear battles, monitor fuel and use strong attacks selectively; Ether abilities and party support skills are especially valuable against bosses.
Save often, particularly before major dungeon sequences and disc transitions. Some story areas restrict later exploration, so complete optional activities and purchase useful supplies when the game allows it.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Elly Van Houten
A military officer and central companion whose loyalties and personal history become closely tied to Fei's journey.
Citan Uzuki
A physician, martial artist, and highly knowledgeable ally who guides the party through many of its crises.
Bart Fatima
A desert pirate and heir to a kingdom who joins the party while opposing the empire threatening his people.
Rico Banderas
A powerful arena fighter and former prisoner who becomes one of the party's Gear pilots.
Billy Lee Black
A young member of the Ethos whose faith, family responsibilities, and combat skills shape his storyline.
Maria Balthasar
A young pilot connected to the experimental Gear Seibzehn and its tragic history.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use different attack sequences to learn and unlock stronger deathblows.
- 2
Restock fuel and repair or upgrade Gears before difficult battles.
- 3
Pay attention to character Ether abilities; several bosses are easier with defensive or healing support.
Editorial context
What do players highlight?
A deeply ambitious RPG praised for its world-building, music, psychological themes, and memorable characters.
The compressed second disc and uneven pacing remain common criticisms, but the game retains a strong cult following.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0