Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Böse

Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Böse (2004)

by Monolith Soft, Namco, Sony Computer Entertainment
Genres:Role-playing (RPG)
Themes:Fantasy, Science fiction
Game modes:Single player
Story:Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Böse is a direct sequel to the first episode of the science-fiction RPG Xenosaga series.
user avatarAdded by @ultramix21
Vote to bring this game to GOG and help preserve it.
3 479
Trailers and screenshots
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Screenshot
Stories about this game (2)
What’s your memory of Xenosaga Episode II: Jenseits von Gut und Böse?Share your favorite moments and see what others remember about this game.
user avatar@placeholder

Make sure to follow our Guidelines when adding new Stories.

If not sure what to write:
  • What made this game unforgettable?
  • Who did you play this game with?
  • What made it fun or challenging?
  • Why do you want this game on GOG?
user avatar@staradderuser avatar@staradder
April 29, 2025
I know that this game comes in for some flak, but I loved this game as well (and it actually had my favorite combat in the series, though I understand why some didn't enjoy it). The title sequence (before you click in) of what you later find out is an ES getting assembled to Yuki Kajiura's "In the beginning" track captivated me, and the opening FMV is still one of the best opening sequences of any game I've ever seen.
The Xenosaga series had a profound impact on me, shaping my perspective on storytelling in video games and deepening my appreciation for complex narratives. From the moment I picked up Xenosaga Episode I: Der Wille zur Macht, I was captivated by its ambitious plot, blending science fiction, philosophy, and existential questions into a compelling story. The game's exploration of themes like identity, the nature of humanity, and the search for purpose resonated deeply with me, offering a narrative that was both thought-provoking and emotionally engaging. What truly set Xenosaga apart was its ability to intertwine its philosophical underpinnings with a character-driven journey. The growth of characters like Shion Uzuki and KOS-MOS, as they faced inner turmoil, self-discovery, and the broader struggles against an enigmatic fate, made me reflect on my own life and the choices I make. Their emotional arcs, tied to the grandiose events of the series, made me understand the importance of personal growth, sacrifice, and the search for meaning, even in the face of overwhelming odds. The Xenosaga series also introduced me to an innovative battle system, mixing turn-based combat with strategic depth. The series' thoughtful mechanics encouraged me to think critically and plan ahead, not just in combat but in life, as I learned the value of careful preparation and the need to adapt in difficult situations. Beyond gameplay and story, Xenosaga introduced me to the concept of interconnectedness in both narrative and life. The series taught me how everything, from the smallest moments to the largest events, has a ripple effect. It left me with a lasting sense of reflection on the mysteries of existence and how we all play a part in the unfolding story of life. In short, Xenosaga didn’t just entertain me—it helped shape my understanding of the world, making me more introspective, thoughtful, and open to complex ideas.
Those games also need your vote!
Mass Effect 3
Mass Effect 3Earth is burning. The Reapers have taken over and other civilizations are falling like dominoes. Lead the final fight to save humanity and take back Earth from these terrifying machines, Commander Shepard. You'll need backup for these battles. Fortunately, the galaxy has a habit of sending unexpected species your way. Recruit team members and forge new alliances, but be prepared to say goodbye at any time as partners make the ultimate sacrifice. It's time for Commander Shepard to fight for the fate of the human race and save the galaxy. No pressure, Commander. Fight smarter. Take advantage of new powers and combat moves. Shepard can now blind fire at enemies and build tougher melee attacks. Plus, when you fight as a team you can combine new biotic and tech powers to unleash devastating Power Combos. Build the final force. Build a team from a variety of races and classes and combine their skills to overcome impossible odds. You'll be joined by newcomers like James Vega, a tough-as-nails soldier, as well as EDI, a trusted AI in a newly acquired physical form. Keep an eye out for beloved characters from your past, but beware. Some may not survive the final battle... Face off against friends. Enjoy an integrated co-op multiplayer mode and team up with friends online to liberate key conflict zones from increasingly tough opponents. Customize your warrior and earn new weapons, armor, and abilities to build war preparedness stats in your single player campaign.
Action
Science fiction
Action
Science fiction
18 113
6
Mass Effect 2
Mass Effect 2Are you prepared to lose everything to save the galaxy? You'll need to be, Commander Shephard. It's time to bring together your greatest allies and recruit the galaxy's fighting elite to continue the resistance against the invading Reapers. So steel yourself, because this is an astronomical mission where sacrifices must be made. You'll face tougher choices and new, deadlier enemies. Arm yourself and prepare for an unforgettable intergalactic adventure. Game Features: Shift the fight in your favour. Equip yourself with powerful new weapons almost instantly thanks to a new inventory system. Plus, an improved health regeneration system means you'll spend less time hunting for restorative items. Make every decision matter. Divisive crew members are just the tip of the iceberg, Commander, because you'll also be tasked with issues of intergalactic diplomacy. And time's a wastin' so don't be afraid to use new prompt-based actions that let you interrupt conversations, even if they could alter the fate of your crew...and the galaxy. Forge new alliances, carefully. You'll fight alongside some of your most trustworthy crew members, but you'll also get the opportunity to recruit new talent. Just choose your new partners with care because the fate of the galaxy rests on your shoulders, Commander.
Action
Science fiction
Action
Science fiction
19 436
2
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Castlevania: Symphony of the NightA seminal 2D metroidvania in which after the events of Castlevania: Rondo of Blood (1993), a man named Alucard arrives at Dracula's castle after it rises from the rubble, and seeks to defeat the evil contained within it once and for all by exploring, fighting its inhabitants and collecting the various weapons and abilities hidden in its depths.
Open world
Action
Horror
Open world
Action
Horror
19 521
53
Corruption 2029
Corruption 2029Set in a dystopian America in the not-so distant future. CORRUPTION 2029 is a new tactical strategy game from The Bearded Ladies, creators of ‘Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden’. Using your supreme tactical abilities, command a squad of heavily augmented ‘units’ deep into enemy territory to discover the cause of the CORRUPTION. CORRUPTION 2029 is a hardcore tactical game that should test the mettle of even the most experienced tactical gamers.
Science fiction
Science fiction
16
Temple of Apshai
Temple of ApshaiTemple of Apshai is a dungeon crawl role-playing video game developed and published by Automated Simulations (later renamed to Epyx) in 1979. It is considered one of the first graphical role-playing games for home computers, predating even the commercial release of Richard Garriott's Akalabeth: World of Doom. It was an enormous success for its era, selling 30,000 copies by June 30, 1982 and remaining a best-seller for at least four years.
Fantasy
Fantasy
74
Rygar
RygarAn open-world action-adventure game for the Nintendo Entertainment System that features a barbarian warrior with a distinctive "diskarmor" weapon. It is distinct from the original 1986 Arcade game Rygar, which saw numerous home console ports.
Action
Fantasy
Action
Fantasy
74
Telengard
TelengardTelengard is an earlier example of a "dungeon crawler" role-playing game--albeit with a top-down view- with either real time movement (DOS version) or turn-based movement and turn based combat. Telengard is also played in real time, which means that monsters can attack even when the player's character is not moving. The player controls a single adventurer, selecting randomly-rolled sets of attributes: Strength, Intelligence, Wisdom, Constitution, Dexterity, and Charisma. The vast Telengard dungeon consists of 50 levels down and 200 by 200 rooms each level. Experience is awarded not only for defeating enemies, but also for finding treasure. When the player character gains a level, their attributes increase, and they gain the ability to cast higher-leveled spells. Treasure chests appear randomly in the dungeon. There are also specific features such as altars, thrones, fountains, etc. that the adventurer can discover which may have various effects on the character, whether being either positive or negative. Some creatures will befriend the player, sometimes providing the player with an item and/or healing them, provided the player's Charisma is high enough.
Fantasy
Fantasy
52
Dune: Awakening
Dune: AwakeningDune: Awakening is an open world survival MMO set on the most dangerous planet in the universe. Survive the desert by learning the ways of the Fremen. Expand your potential through combat, spice, building, and trade. As guild intrigue and warfare rage, control the spice and cling to power.
Open world
Action
Survival
Open world
Action
Survival
110
The Ancient Land of Ys
The Ancient Land of YsThe hero of Ys is an adventurous young swordsman named Adol Christin. As the story begins, he has just arrived at the Town of Minea, in the land of Esteria. He is called upon by Sara, a fortuneteller, who tells him of a great evil that is sweeping the land. Adol is informed that he must seek out the six Books of Ys. These books contain the history of the ancient land of Ys, and will give him the knowledge he needs to defeat the evil forces. Sara gives Adol a crystal for identification and instructs him to find her aunt in Zepik Village, who holds the key to retrieving one of the Books. With that, his quest begins.
Action
Fantasy
Action
Fantasy
133
Illusion of Gaia
Illusion of GaiaJourney into the dark side of an ancient civilization. Radiating an ominous light in its path, the Chaos Comet threatens the existence of the planet. Battles erupt and a tentative peace is returned to the lands. Danger lurks as the Chaos Comet orbits and dreadful beasts lie awaiting. In the Age of Exploration a boy named Will is born. Tragedy strikes during an expedition to the Tower of Babel separating Will from his father. Telekinetic forces awaken as Will returns to South Cape. Armed with his transformation abilities of two great warriors, Will must save the planet. Gaia, Will's guiding spirit bestows magical powers and advice along his journey. With the help of his friends Will must battle relentless enemies and solve the puzzles of the ancient ruins. Patience and knowledge are essential to reunite this father and son.
Action
Fantasy
Action
Fantasy
632
4