Without Operation Rainfall, One Of My Favorite Franchises Of All Time Would Never Be With Me
There’s a lot of buzz, but nothing official about the “Switch 2’s” operating system or releases yet. Nintendo has confirmed a new console is coming, possibly by late 2025, with upgrades like an improved processor, more RAM (around 8GB), and a larger screen (possibly 8 inches). Changes may include magnetic controllers and an LCD screen.
Thinking about the next Switch wouldn’t be something I’d be doing had it not been for Operation Rainfall and the Xenoblade series. Operation Rainfall played a crucial role in bringing Xenoblade Chronicles 1, 2, and the upcoming 3 to the West. Without it, I wouldn’t have had the chance to experience these games, and hopefully someday, Xenoblade Chronicles X on the Switch.
Rainfall Reigns Supreme
When I first played Xenosaga Episode I in college, I was captivated by its complex storytelling and deep philosophical and religious themes. This fascination with the Xeno series led me to explore Judaism and religion, broadening my intellectual horizons. However, it wasn’t until Operation Rainfall that I truly realized the power of fan advocacy in the gaming community, a movement that brought the Xenoblade Chronicles series to the West and into my life.
Operation Rainfall was a pivotal fan-driven campaign that emerged from a simple yet passionate desire: to bring three highly anticipated RPGs to North American shores. Announced in 2011, the campaign specifically targeted the localization of Xenoblade Chronicles, The Last Story, and Pandora’s Tower for the Nintendo Wii. Despite their popularity in Japan, these titles faced uncertain futures in North America due to Nintendo’s cautious approach to localizing niche RPGs. The fans, however, were not willing to accept this fate.
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Monado: Making Waves
Xenoblade Chronicles, initially released in Japan in 2010, stood out as a potential gem among the Wii’s limited RPG offerings. Developed by Monolith Soft, the game was originally titled “Monado: Beginning of the World.” It wasn’t until the late Satoru Iwata, then President of Nintendo, suggested adding the “Xeno” prefix that the game truly found its identity.
This name change paid homage to the game’s director, Tetsuya Takahashi, and his previous works on Xenogears and Xenosaga. This small yet significant shift hinted at the game’s deep narrative roots and complex gameplay mechanics, echoing the hallmarks of the Xeno series I had come to love.
However, the journey to the West was fraught with obstacles. Following its Japanese release, European gamers were the first to experience Xenoblade Chronicles in 2011, thanks to a more proactive localization approach by Nintendo of Europe. North American fans, on the other hand, faced disappointment as the game’s release seemed increasingly unlikely. This uncertainty fueled the birth of Operation Rainfall, which utilized online petitions, email campaigns, and social media to catch Nintendo’s attention.
The fan effort paid off. In April 2012, Xenoblade Chronicles finally made its North American debut, albeit through a limited release via GameStop. Despite this restricted availability, the game was a resounding success, proving the viability of niche RPGs in the North American market. The success of Xenoblade Chronicles not only validated Operation Rainfall but also cemented the game’s place as a cornerstone of Nintendo’s RPG offerings.
Future Perfect
The impact of Xenoblade Chronicles extends beyond its initial success. The game received two sequels, a spin-off on the Wii U, and re-releases on both the New Nintendo 3DS and the Switch. Its characters even joined the roster of Super Smash Bros., further cementing the series’ popularity. For me, the release of Xenoblade Chronicles was a personal milestone. It prompted me to purchase a Nintendo Switch, driven by my desire to experience the complete series.
The rumors surrounding Xenoblade Chronicles X on the “Switch 2” are exciting for fans like me, but it’s important to manage expectations. A gaming insider named Zippo claimed Monolith Soft is developing a “full remake” of Xenoblade Chronicles X for the “Switch 2,” suggesting it would be more than just a port. Zippo has a mixed record with leaks, so it’s essential to be cautious.
The rumors are especially exciting in knowing that, thanks to the Xenoblade 3, the Xeno-series, including Xenogears and the Xenosaga trilogy, are all connected lore-wise now.
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Playing through the Future Redeemed DLC for Xenoblade 3, I wasn’t expecting much from the radio in that scene with Na’el. But then it hit me – a treasure trove of Xenosaga references! The Vector Industries logo? A bombshell. They’re practically the villains in Xenosaga, with Shion working for their CEO.
Next came Dmitri Yuriev’s name. Different spelling than Xenosaga, sure, but the last name and the whole backstory about being an enhanced immortal who ran a research institute? Come on. Plus, his final radio message saying “Please stay with us” feels like a developer wink to future games. Maybe wishful thinking, but intriguing nonetheless!
The success of Xenoblade Chronicles: Definitive Edition on the Switch shows there’s an audience for the series, and a remake could address the original’s technical limitations. The “Switch 2’s” improved hardware could also handle X’s vast open world more smoothly. However, Monolith Soft might focus on new projects for the “Switch 2,” and a remake would be a lengthy process. Nintendo might prefer launching the new console with a brand-new Xenoblade title instead.
As I look forward to the “Switch 2” and the continuation of the Xenoblade series, I am filled with anticipation. The developer, Monolith Soft, is expected to do something big, with many hints pointing toward a more sci-fi experience akin to X. Without Operation Rainfall, I probably wouldn’t even be writing this article. The campaign not only brought Xenoblade Chronicles to the West but also connected me deeply with a series that continues to inspire and excite me.
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