Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World vs Tales of the Abyss
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Set two years after the events of Tales of Symphonia, the game follows Emil Castagnier and Marta Lualdi as they uncover why their world has fallen into ruin. Their journey intertwines with the original cast and the mysterious Ratatosk spirit, leading to a quest to restore balance. The title expands the series with a monster capture system, free‑movement combat, and a deep elemental alignment mechanic, letting players customize parties from hundreds of combinations while enjoying single‑player or co‑operative play.
Tales of the Abyss follows the journey of Luke and his companions as they uncover the mysteries of the world of Auldrant. The game blends a deep, character‑driven story with fast-paced, action‑oriented battles that keep players engaged from start to finish. Originally released on PlayStation 2 in 2005, the title offers both single‑player and multiplayer modes, allowing friends to experience the narrative together or compete in battle arenas. Its vibrant anime‑style visuals and robust skill system make it a standout entry in the Tales series.
- Deep monster recruitment system
- Free‑movement real‑time combat
- Rich continuation of the Symphonia storyline
- Co‑op split‑screen support
- Engaging real‑time combat system
- Rich, multi‑character storyline
- Robust character customization
- Co‑op multiplayer option
- Graphics dated compared to modern releases
- Occasional performance hiccups on PC
- Learning curve for monster management
- Graphics show their age compared to modern titles
- Occasional frame‑rate drops on original hardware
- Side quests can feel repetitive
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth are paid, single‑purchase RPGs with real‑time combat, but Tales of the Abyss offers a broader story and character customization, while Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World focuses on monster recruitment and split‑screen co‑op.
Key differences
- •Combat style: Abyss uses a combo‑based Linear Motion Battle System; Dawn of the New World adds free‑movement and monster‑based Unison attacks.
- •Co‑op: Abyss supports two‑player co‑op for the main campaign; Dawn of the New World adds split‑screen co‑op with a larger party system.
- •Content focus: Abyss emphasizes multi‑character storyline and skill trees; Dawn of the New World centers on recruiting 200+ monsters and elemental alignment.
- •Critic scores: Abyss 69/100 vs Dawn of the New World 65/100.
- •Release era: Abyss (2005) is older, but both note dated graphics compared to modern titles.
Gameplay & fun factor
Abyss offers a robust skill tree and combo‑based combat, praised for engaging real‑time battles.
Platform availability
Both are listed only with release dates; platform specifics not provided, so availability appears equal.
Price & value
Both priced identically at $59.99, offering a one‑time purchase.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Dawn of the New World adds split‑screen co‑op, a broader multiplayer option than Abyss's two‑player co‑op.
Content & replayability
Over 200 recruitable monsters and many party configurations increase replay value in Dawn of the New World.
Difficulty & accessibility
Abyss's combat is described as engaging but not noted for a steep learning curve; Dawn of the New World mentions a learning curve for monster management.
Graphics & performance
Both have dated graphics; Abyss notes occasional frame‑rate drops, while Dawn of the New World cites occasional PC hiccups.
Choose Tales of Symphonia: Dawn of the New World if…
Players who want monster collection, split‑screen co‑op, and higher replay variety.
Choose Tales of the Abyss if…
Players who prioritize story depth, character customization, and classic combo combat.
Common questions
Do either games support online multiplayer?
Not specified; Abyss lists multiplayer but no online mode, Dawn of the New World mentions split‑screen co‑op only.
Which game has a higher critic rating?
Tales of the Abyss has a critic score of 69/100, versus 65/100 for Dawn of the New World.
Is there a steep learning curve for either title?
Dawn of the New World notes a learning curve for monster management; Abyss does not mention a steep curve.