System: Microsoft Xbox 360

Publisher: Microsoft Game Studios

Reviewer’s rating: ***

ESRB rating: Teen

Game type: Role-playing game

Kind of like: “Final Fantasy XIII-X”

Best features: Beautifully designed; immersive combat system

Worst features: Derivative plot; lack of originality

The bottom line: As far as Japanese, turn-based role-playing games are concerned, the buck stops with Hironobu Sakaguchi. Here, the creator of the legendary “Final Fantasy” series finally bridges the gap onto the Xbox 360, whose only worthy RPG titles have been action-based games such as “Oblivion” and “Mass Effect.”

“Lost Odyssey” is a safe foray into the often methodical, patient approach required by turn-based games. Chronicling the story of Kaim Argonar, a 1000-year-old immortal, the game follows him as he tries to regain his memories and discover his purpose in this world. Those familiar with “Final Fantasy” from VII onward will feel right at home, from the epic — if nonsensical — plot to the depth of the turn-based combat.

Much of the success of a turn-based RPG has to come from the battles, which must balance the need for patience and planning without putting gamers to sleep. “Lost Odyssey’s” system is surprisingly engaging, despite its simplicity, and boasts a deep skill tree. Having immortals who automatically resurrect after a few turns adds another layer of strategy as well. Like every other Sakaguchi title, there is a tendency toward micromanaging everyone’s skills, but there is that certain appeal in trying to create a powerhouse of a party.

Even if “Lost Odyssey” seems only to build incrementally on what is already a well-worn genre, it’s still a worthy title in a relatively empty playing field.