Xenoblade: it looks nice.

European Wii owners can buy Xenoblade Chronicles next week. They can play it on their Wii consoles, without modification or anything like that: just put the disc in, pick up a pad, off they go. North American gamers though... well, they're not so lucky. You know what would take some of the sting out of that, though? How about an official Let's Play channel for the game, showing you exactly what you're missing out on? Yeah, that'd do it.

Nintendo of Europe has just set up a YouTube channel that will feature seven videos delving into the world of Xenoblade, its battles and unique features. There's also a voiceover from a well-spoken Englishman, if that seals the deal for you.

Check out the Xenoblade Chronicles YouTube channel and look out for the game on 19th August. In Europe. Sorry about that.

ALL-NEW XENOBLADE CHRONICLES CHANNEL LAUNCHES ON YOUTUBE

Get to know Xenoblade Chronicles - the critically acclaimed Wii RPG – with “Let’s Play” gameplay videos

9th August 2011 - Discover Xenoblade Chronicles for Wii™ ahead of its release on the 19th of August with the help of a series of all-new “Let’s Play: Xenoblade Chronicles” gameplay videos starting today at 11am CET, only on the Xenoblade Chronicles YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/XenobladeWii.

The series of seven in-depth gameplay videos that will be released over the coming weeks will give you a detailed look at the vast worlds of Bionis and Mechonis, the scene of a war that knows no end between the Mechon (a race of machines) and the Homs (humans).

The first video in the series takes you through the basic gameplay elements as you guide Shulk into the battle for Bionis, to repel the invasion of a terrifying mechanical army and uncover the secrets of a mystical sword called the Monado.

Get an early and unique view on the many features that form the game, learn how to fulfil quests, obtain armour and collect new items and weapons. The first exclusive video shows you the best way to launch chain attacks with your initial party members, Reyn and Fiora, which is one of the most effective ways to defeat the large monsters you will encounter along your journey.

You will also experience the Mechon onslaught, the turning point in the Xenoblade Chronicles story. Uncover the art of inflicting ‘break’ and causing ‘topple’ so you and your party can start to inflict real damage to the Mechon, as well as mastering the use of the Monado – the only blade that can defeat the Mechon.

Familiarise yourself with the visions Shulk experiences, where he can see glimpses into catastrophic future events which you must try to prevent from happening, as well as learning the affinity system, in which the player can improve his relationship with his party and many non-player characters through interacting with them. The affinity system also incorporates side quests and completing them can affect how townsfolk will treat you, opening up new story sequences for you to explore.

The first in this run of seven insights into the many elements of Xenoblade Chronicles will bring the game to life, using real gameplay examples and situations you will encounter as you battle to defend your hometown, Colony 9.

Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the second instalment next week, which will take you on a trip to Bionis’ Leg, the vast plain connecting the colonies. This lush and beautiful landscape is awash with wildlife - and home to some of the strongest creatures the game will pit against you…

Get the inside scoop on Xenoblade Chronicles for Wii, ahead of its release on 19 August, by staying tuned to the “Let’s Play: Xenoblade Chronicles” videos on the Xenoblade Chronicles YouTube Channel, starting today!

Note about spoilers: the Lets Play videos will show many locations and gameplay aspects as well as a few glimpses of cut scenes but will largely avoid story spoilers. Nevertheless, viewer discretion is advised.

[source youtube.com]