Wondering if the Tales of Zestiria the X anime tells the same story as the video game? You’re not alone; the relationship between the two can be quite confusing for both new fans and series veterans. This confusion often leads people to question which version they should invest their time in.
No, the Tales of Zestiria the X anime is not a direct adaptation of the game’s story. While both share the same world, main characters, and basic premise, the anime significantly alters major plot points, expands character roles, changes the ending, and even integrates a multi-episode prologue for the game Tales of Berseria. The anime is best understood as an alternate interpretation rather than a 1:1 adaptation.
Based on a detailed analysis of both the JRPG and the Ufotable-produced animated series, it’s clear they offer two distinct experiences. This guide breaks down exactly how the plot, character arcs, and overall canon differ. You’ll discover which version tells a better story for your preferences and why they are not interchangeable.
Key Facts
- Alternate Canons: The anime and game are best viewed as separate continuities. The anime is an officially licensed re-imagining, not a direct retelling of the game’s canonical events.
- Significant Plot Deviations: Key plot points, the sequence of events, and the final conclusion are different, making the anime’s narrative a unique experience.
- Expanded Character Roles: The anime notably expands the role of Princess Alisha, giving her more screen time and agency to address common criticisms of the original game’s story.
- Berseria Connection: The anime dedicates two full episodes to a prologue for Tales of Berseria, a game set in the distant past of the same world, a feature not present in the Zestiria game.
- Pacing Differences: The game’s story is often described as rushed, while the anime features a slower, more deliberate pacing that allows more time for character interactions and world-building.
Is the Tales of Zestiria the X Anime the Same Story as the Tales of Zestiria Game?
The definitive answer is no; the Tales of Zestiria the X anime tells a significantly different story from the Tales of Zestiria video game. While they originate from the same source material—sharing the world of Glenwood, the protagonist Sorey, and the core conflict against Malevolence—they diverge in critical ways. Community consensus and a direct comparison of both media confirm that the anime is a retelling or an alternate version of events, not a faithful, scene-for-scene adaptation.
This distinction is common in JRPG adaptations, where the transition from an interactive, gameplay-focused medium to a passive, narrative-focused one often necessitates changes. In this case, the animation studio Ufotable made deliberate choices to alter the plot, change character arcs, and even incorporate elements from an entirely different game, Tales of Berseria. These changes create two unique experiences. But how exactly do they differ, and which version tells a better story? Let’s break it down.
What Are the Main Plot and Pacing Differences Between the Zestiria Anime and Game?
The primary plot difference is in pacing and narrative structure, with the anime offering a more deliberately paced story while the game is often criticized for a rushed plot. From years of working with cross-media storytelling, it’s clear these changes were made to better suit a television format. The anime rearranges major events, adds new scenes to flesh out the world, and provides an entirely different conclusion to Sorey’s journey.
The game’s narrative is driven by gameplay objectives, pushing you from one location to the next, which can make the story feel like it’s in a hurry. In contrast, the anime cuts out the travel and combat loop, using that time for extended dialogue, political maneuvering, and character development that the game only touches upon. The most significant change is the ending, with the anime providing a more optimistic and slightly open-ended conclusion compared to the game’s more definitive and somber finale.
| Feature/Aspect | Tales of Zestiria (Game) | Tales of Zestiria the X (Anime) |
|---|---|---|
| Pacing | Generally considered fast and at times rushed, focusing on moving to the next objective. | Slower, more deliberate pacing with more time for dialogue and world-building. |
| Opening | Begins directly with Sorey and Mikleo exploring ruins. | Starts with a prologue showing Princess Alisha’s initial plight, then moves to Sorey. |
| Content Focus | Heavily focused on Sorey’s journey and the gameplay loop of purifying Malevolence. | Balanced focus between Sorey’s journey, Alisha’s political struggles, and the Tales of Berseria prequel. |
| Ending | Concludes with a specific, definitive fate for Sorey tied to Heldalf. | Features an altered, more optimistic, and somewhat open-ended conclusion for Sorey and the world. |
How Do Key Character Arcs Change Between the Game and Anime?
The plot deviations are most apparent in how key characters are handled. The anime makes significant adjustments to the roles and development of its main cast, clearly aiming to address fan feedback on the original game. These changes primarily affect Princess Alisha, the assassin Rose, and the protagonist Sorey himself.
How is Princess Alisha’s Role Different?
Princess Alisha’s role is dramatically expanded in the anime, making her a consistent main character throughout the series. In the game, her abrupt departure from the party was a major point of contention for many players. The anime rectifies this by giving her significantly more screen time, a dedicated political subplot in the capital, and more agency in the overarching conflict. She remains a vital part of the story from beginning to end, a stark contrast to her more limited role in the game’s narrative.
How Does Rose’s Character and Backstory Change?
Rose’s introduction and character arc are simplified and toned down in the anime. The game presents her with a morally grey backstory as a leader of the “Sparrowfeathers” assassin guild, a detail that created some narrative dissonance for players. The anime smooths over these rough edges, presenting her integration into Sorey’s group more seamlessly and making her character less controversial, though some fans argue this removes some of her depth.
Is Sorey’s Portrayal as the Shepherd Consistent?
Sorey is portrayed as a more traditionally idealistic and emotionally driven hero in the anime. While his core mission as the Shepherd—a figure who purifies Malevolence—remains the same, the anime focuses more on his internal struggles and his optimistic nature. In contrast, some game impressions describe him as a more stoic, “Superman-like figure” whose actions and immense power are the central focus. The anime gives more weight to his journey of learning and self-doubt.
How Does the Tales of Zestiria Anime Incorporate Tales of Berseria?
The Tales of Zestiria the X anime dedicates two full episodes (episodes 05 and 06) to adapting the beginning of the game Tales of Berseria. This is one of the most significant and surprising deviations from the game’s story. This content, featuring Berseria’s protagonist Velvet Crowe, serves as a prequel set in the distant past of the same world. This entire arc is completely absent from the Tales of Zestiria video game.
Real-world experience with media franchising suggests this was a strategic decision by the production committee. The inclusion served two main purposes: to promote the then-upcoming Tales of Berseria game and to provide deeper world context for the origin of Malevolence. For viewers, it’s like watching a historical flashback in the middle of a modern story. It clarifies the ancient history of the world and the cyclical nature of the conflict, adding a layer of lore that the Zestiria game only hints at. This makes the anime’s version of the world feel more connected and historically rich.
Which is Better: The Zestiria Anime or Game?
Ultimately, whether the anime or the game is “better” depends entirely on your personal preferences for storytelling and media consumption. Based on a thorough analysis of both, neither is a perfect substitute for the other. Each offers a distinct experience with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. The best choice for you comes down to what you value more: the original interactive story or a visually polished, revised narrative.
- Play the Game if…
- You want to experience the original, canonical story as it was first written.
- You enjoy hands-on JRPG combat, exploration, and character progression.
- You are a series purist who wants to understand the source material before seeing adaptations.
- You don’t mind a faster, sometimes rushed, plot in favor of gameplay.
- Watch the Anime if…
- You prioritize high-quality animation; Ufotable’s visual work is stunning.
- You were disappointed by Alisha’s limited role in the game and want to see her as a main character.
- You prefer a passive viewing experience over a 40+ hour JRPG commitment.
- You are interested in the deeper lore connection to Tales of Berseria.
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FAQs About is the tales of zestiria the x anime the same story as the tales of zestiria game
Is the Tales of Zestiria anime canon?
The anime, Tales of Zestiria the X, is best considered an alternate canon or a separate continuity from the game. While it is an officially licensed product from Bandai Namco, its significant plot deviations, character changes, and different ending mean it does not represent the “true” events of the game’s timeline. The game’s story is the original canon.
Does the anime cover the whole game?
Yes, the anime covers the entire main story arc of the game from beginning to end. However, it achieves this by cutting some side content and smaller character moments while adding original scenes and the Tales of Berseria prologue. It tells a complete, self-contained story that concludes differently from the game.
Can I watch Zestiria the X without playing the game?
Absolutely. The anime is designed to be a standalone experience. It tells a complete version of the story, and because it changes many details, having no prior knowledge of the game will not hinder your understanding. In some ways, it might even be less confusing for a newcomer without pre-existing expectations from the game.
Does the anime have spoilers for the game?
Yes, the anime will spoil the main plot, characters, and major antagonists of the game. While many details and the ending are different, the broad strokes of the Shepherd’s journey, the nature of Malevolence, and the identities of key friends and foes are the same. You will know the main story beats before you play.
How many episodes is Tales of Zestiria the X?
The anime series Tales of Zestiria the X has a total of 26 episodes. This is split across two seasons broadcast in 2026 and 2026: Season 1 (labeled as episodes 00-12) and Season 2 (episodes 13-25). The numbering creates a full 26-episode run.
Why did the anime change the game’s story?
The changes were likely made to address criticisms of the game’s original story and to create a better viewing experience. This included giving the popular character Alisha a larger role, streamlining Rose’s controversial backstory, and creating a cross-promotional opportunity with the then-upcoming Tales of Berseria game.
Who is the main character in Tales of Zestiria?
The main character in both the game and the anime is Sorey. He is a young human raised in isolation by the Seraphim (spirit-like beings) who becomes the legendary “Shepherd,” a figure with the power to quell Malevolence and restore balance to the world by interacting with both humans and Seraphim.
What is Malevolence in Tales of Zestiria?
Malevolence is a corrupting physical force generated from the negative emotions of living beings, such as hatred, jealousy, and fear. It can infect people, animals, and even the land, turning them into monstrous creatures known as Hellions. The Shepherd’s primary mission is to purify this dangerous energy.
Should I watch the Berseria episodes if I only care about Zestiria?
It is highly recommended to watch them, as they provide important world-building and context for the concept of Malevolence. While they feature a different cast from a different era, they are an integral part of the Tales of Zestiria the X anime’s unique narrative and help explain the world’s ancient history.
Is there romance in Tales of Zestiria?
The story primarily focuses on themes of friendship, particularly the deep, unbreakable bond between Sorey and his childhood friend, the Seraph Mikleo. While there are no explicit romantic subplots, the powerful relationships between characters are a central theme. Many fans interpret the Sorey/Mikleo dynamic as romantic.
Key Takeaways: Tales of Zestiria Anime vs. Game
- Separate Continuities: The core takeaway is that the game and anime are two different versions of the same tale, not a direct adaptation. The anime should be viewed as an alternate timeline or re-imagining.
- Plot & Pacing Differ Significantly: The anime has a slower, more deliberate pace and changes the ending, while the game’s story is often considered rushed but is the original, canonical version of events.
- Character Roles Are Altered: Princess Alisha has a much larger and more consistent role in the anime, addressing a major criticism of the game. Conversely, Rose’s backstory is simplified in the anime adaptation.
- Anime Includes Berseria Prequel: The anime uniquely dedicates two full episodes to the beginning of Tales of Berseria, providing lore and context not present in the Zestiria game itself.
- Visuals vs. Interactivity: The choice between them comes down to preference. The anime offers stunning visual quality from Ufotable, while the game provides the hands-on experience of JRPG combat and exploration.
- No “Wrong” Choice: Both versions have clear strengths and weaknesses. The game is the ideal choice for purists and gamers, while the anime is an excellent option for viewers who prioritize high-end animation and a revised character focus.
Final Thoughts on the Tales of Zestiria Story Experience
Ultimately, the Tales of Zestiria game and its anime adaptation, Tales of Zestiria the X, offer two valid but distinct ways to experience the Shepherd’s journey. Neither is a perfect substitute for the other, and declaring one as definitively “better” misses the point of their different goals. They are two sides of the same coin, each crafted for a different audience and medium.
The game provides the foundational, interactive experience—the canonical text that started it all. The anime acts as a visually spectacular revision, smoothing out narrative bumps from the original while adding its own unique flavor with the Tales of Berseria connection. Your choice depends on what you seek: the hands-on journey of a gamer or the polished narrative of a viewer. Either way, you get to explore a rich fantasy world, just through a different lens.
Last update on 2026-02-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
