While the visual novel flashback sequences, penned by Kiyoshi Shigematsu, were widely acclaimed, critics were divided on the main story itself. RPGFan stated that the story and gameplay were both "overused, uninspired, and stilted", but that the memory sequences penned by Shigematsu were "some of the richest, most emotionally charged storytelling seen in any RPG to date". GameSpot praised "Lost Odyssey"s "fascinating cast," character development, and "great plot," and also called the combat system "solid." The reviewer also described the flashbacks as "well written and emotionally gripping." GameSpy, called the main plot and characters, "shamelessly derivative." "GamePro" magazine agreed, declaring that the main story was not particularly compelling, although it noted that many subplots carried plenty of emotional weight. On the other hand, "Game Informer" magazine deemed the story line as being "one of the most compelling tales ever told on the Xbox 360," and praised the "cool combat system." GameTrailers said, "what sets "Lost Odyssey" apart is a deeply moving story that places an emotional focal point on its characters."