This the single most flawed game I've given a 4* rating to. Xenogears is an unfinished mess, with some of the worst dungeons I've played in an rpg, some VERY silly moments and questionable pacing. But even then, I'll miss Xenogears, because even through a sea of bs I greatly enjoyed my time with the game (avid disc 2 defender btw).

If you're willing to forgive some of the game's faults, you'll find a very impactful and compelling narrative with a lot of great characters and an almost living world.