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{{Short description|1999 video game}}
{{good article}}
{{Infobox video game
| title = Maken X
| image = Maken X.jpg
| caption = North American Dreamcast cover art
| developer = [[Atlus]]
| publisher = {{vgrelease|JP|Atlus|NA|[[Sega]] (DC)|EU|Sega<br/>Midas Interactive Entertainment (PS2)}}
| director = [[Katsura Hashino]]
| producer = [[Kouji Okada]]
| artist = [[Kazuma Kaneko]]
| writer = Kazunori Sakai
| designer = Tatsuya Igarashi
| programmer = Tai Yamaguchi (DC)<br/>Satoshi Ōyama (PS2)
| composer = [[Shoji Meguro]]<br/>Takahiro Ogata
| platforms = [[Dreamcast]]<br/>[[PlayStation 2]]
| released = '''Dreamcast'''{{vgrelease|JP|November 25, 1999|NA|April 25, 2000|EU|July 7, 2000}}'''PlayStation 2'''{{vgrelease|JP|June 7, 2001|EU|June 27, 2003}}
| genre = [[Hack and slash]]
| modes = [[Single player]]
}}
'''''Maken X'''''{{efn|{{nihongo||魔剣X||lit. ''Demon Sword X''|lead=yes}}}} is a [[First-person (video games)|first-person]] [[hack and slash]] video game developed by [[Atlus]] for the [[Dreamcast]]. It was published by Atlus in Japan in 1999, while [[Sega]] localized and released the game overseas in 2000. Gameplay has the Maken—a sentient sword-like being—"brainjacking" or taking control of multiple characters across a variety of levels; combat is primarily based around short-ranged melee attacks, with some characters sporting additional abilities such as ranged attacks.

The story is set on near-future [[Earth]] during a time when the world is descending into chaos due to natural disasters and political upheaval in [[Europe]] and rising political tension between the [[United States]] and [[China]]. When the facility where the Maken was developed is attacked, the sword bonds to main heroine Kay Sagami and is sent on missions against the group responsible for the attack. Depending on dialogue choices and brainjacked characters, seven possible endings can be achieved.

Concept work began during the middle of production on the ''Persona 2'' duology. Featuring staff from the ''[[Megami Tensei]]'' franchise including artist [[Kazuma Kaneko]] and composer [[Shoji Meguro]], development took approximately two years. It was the first game developed by Atlus to feature full voice acting, and one of the company's earliest fully 3D titles. The game was met with mixed reviews, but sold well in [[Japan]]. An enhanced remake for the [[PlayStation 2]], {{nihongo|'''''Maken Shao: Demon Sword'''''|魔剣 爻|Maken Shao}}, was published by Atlus in Japan in 2001 and in Europe by Midas Interactive Entertainment in 2003. It changed a number of gameplay elements, introduced further cutscenes, adjusted the music, and added the third-person perspective in response to a common trend in Japan of first-person games causing motion sickness.

==Gameplay==
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''Maken X'' is a [[First-person (video games)|first-person]] [[Action game|action]] [[hack and slash]] video game where players control a variety of characters wielding a sentient sword dubbed the Maken.<ref name="ODMreview"/><ref name="MakenPreview"/> The game is divided into "Event Scenes", cutscenes related to the story; and "Action Scenes", the gameplay segments; and the world map used to select levels.<ref name="MakenGameplay1">{{cite book |chapter=The Game |title=Maken X instruction manual |editor=Sega |editor-link=Sega |date=April 25, 2000 |pages=10–11}}</ref> On the world map, players can select a variety of levels including main story missions, zones holding new playable characters, and levels involving key [[non-playable character]]s.<ref>{{cite book |chapter=World Map |title=Maken X instruction manual |editor=Sega |editor-link=Sega |date=April 25, 2000 |page=12}}</ref> If the player character's health is fully depleted, the game ends.<ref name="MakenGameplay1"/> Players take control of a number of people through the Maken's "brainjack" ability, enabling them to take control of different story-related characters; each character wields a version of the Maken, but also have unique abilities and different statistics such as higher health and greater attack power, or character-specific abilities such as ranged attacks or stunning enemies.<ref name="MakenPreview">{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/02/25/maken-x-2 |title=Maken X (Preview) |author=Gantayat, Anoop |date=February 24, 2000 |website=[[IGN]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020817075558/http://dreamcast.ign.com/articles/134/134177p1.html |archive-date=August 17, 2002 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="GSreview"/><ref name="EdgeReview"/>

Players navigate linear levels with the selected character, able to interact with certain environmental elements and jump over obstacles or onto higher platforms.<ref name="MakenPreview"/><ref name="MakenGameplay2"/> During combat, the player is able to move freely within the environment, and has access to a variety of moves including a back step and strafing to avoid attacks. Enemies encountered in areas include humans, hostile animals, machines, and supernatural entities. The player character, who can lock onto enemies during combat, has a standard attack option, with [[Combo (video gaming)|combos]] achieved through consecutive attacks. An "EX Gauge" can be charged up and released to trigger a powerful attack. The player can also leap over and strike an enemy from behind—these actions open the enemy up to a high-damage attack.<ref name="EdgeReview"/><ref name="MakenGameplay2">{{cite book |title=Maken X instruction manual |editor=Sega |editor-link=Sega |date=April 25, 2000 |pages=16–20}}</ref><ref name="IGNreview"/> The player can find several types of items within each level; these include various sizes of life capsules which replenish health, increase attack power for a limited time, and gain PSI points from defeated enemies. PSI points are essential when brainjacking new characters, as the Maken can only brainjack a character with a lower or equivalent PSI level.<ref name="MakenGameplay2"/>

For the remake ''Maken Shao'', gameplay remains mostly the same, but with several added mechanics and a shift to a third-person perspective focused behind the back of the character. Combat options remain the same, but character abilities are now increased through combat by gaining "Image points", [[experience point]]s earned from defeated enemies. After gathering enough Image points, new skills are unlocked for the current character, with the Maken's compatibility or "synchronization" with that character increasing alongside it; increased synchronization with a character raises their basic attributes such as health and attack power.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.atlus.co.jp/cs/game/pstation2/shao/gmsys.html |script-title=ja:魔剣爻 - ゲームの特徴 |language=ja |website=[[Atlus]] |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20021222112830/http://www.atlus.co.jp/cs/game/pstation2/shao/gmsys.html |archive-date=December 22, 2002 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

{{clear}}

==Synopsis==
===Setting and characters===
''Maken X'' is set in a near-future version of Earth, described as "five minutes" into the future, the limit of precognitive vision. In the world of ''Maken X'', the spirit is a scientifically proven concept referred to as PSI, which arises from a separate dimension and is the source of emotion and sensation.<ref name="MakenManualStory1">{{cite book |chapter=Prologue |title=Maken X instruction manual |editor=Sega |editor-link=Sega |date=April 25, 2000 |pages=2–3}}</ref><ref name="MakenManualStory2">{{cite book |chapter=Glossary |title=Maken X instruction manual |editor=Sega |editor-link=Sega |date=April 25, 2000 |pages=25–27}}</ref> Amid rising tensions and flagging negotiations between the [[United States of America]] and the [[People's Republic of China]], the [[European Union]] is collapsing due to growing misfortune across [[Europe]].<ref name="MakenManualStory1"/> Two key factions are the Blademasters, a society who maintain world peace at all costs and share a special gene dubbed the "D Gene"; and the Sangokai, a [[Hong Kong]]-based crime syndicate which splintered from the Blademasters and are responsible for the catastrophes engulfing the world. The Sangoki are led by the Hakke, humans with warped PSI that has malformed their bodies.<ref name="MakenManualStory2"/> The central cast are staff at the Kazanawa Research Institute in Japan, which is secretly funded by the Blademasters from a base in China.<ref name="MakenManualStory1"/>

The main protagonist is the Maken, an artificial being with direct access to the world of PSI. The Maken's key ability is "brainjack"; the Maken's native PSI is able to substitute itself for the PSI of a chosen host—referred to as their "Image"—giving the Maken control of that person's body. Given the default name "[[Deus ex machina|Deus Ex Machina]]", it was developed ostensibly as a means of treating mental illness, but is in fact a weapon for the Blademasters to defeat the Sangoki as it has the ability to destroy a person's Image.<ref name="MakenManualStory2"/><ref name="MakenCharacters">{{cite web |url=http://www.atlus.co.jp/cs/game/dcast/maken/chara.html |script-title=ja:魔剣X - キャラクター紹介 |language=ja |website=[[Atlus]] |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010620211055/http://www.atlus.co.jp/cs/game/dcast/maken/chara.html |archive-date=June 20, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="MakenManualStory3">{{cite book |chapter=Character Introductions |title=Maken X instruction manual |editor=Sega |editor-link=Sega |date=April 25, 2000 |pages=21–26}}</ref> The Maken's first and primary host is Kay Sagami; the daughter of the institute's leader Hiro Sagami and a Chinese mother who died when Kay was still young, Kay dreams of following in her father's footsteps.<ref name="MakenCharacters"/><ref name="MakenManualStory3"/> Supporting characters include Institute researchers Anne Miller and Peter Jones, Kay's childhood friend and love interest Kou Yamashiro; Blademaster leader Fu Shou Lee, who funds the Maken's creation; and Fei Chao Li, Kay's tutor and the intended wielder of the Maken due to possessing the Blademasters' D Gene.<ref name="MakenCharacters"/><ref name="MakenManualStory3"/>

===Plot===
The game opens with the Maken's activation; Kay watches with her father as Fei prepares to wield the sword. They are attacked by Sangokai member Hakke Andrey, who kidnaps Sagami and mortally wounds Fei. Prompted by Fei before he dies, Kay takes up the Maken; brainjacking Kay, the Maken defeats Andrey, but fails to prevent Sagami from being kidnapped. Despite brainjacking Andrey to pursue the Sangokai under Lee's orders, Kay remains tied to the Maken and is in danger of permanently losing her PSI. During the Maken's journey across the world, it is revealed that the Sangokai—whose members include the current [[President of the United States]]—are being influenced by a god-like being of the PSI realm dubbed Geist. Geist, which also seeks to preserve humanity through more extreme means than the Blademasters, intends to use the Sangokai to reduce the human population. Over the course of the game, the Maken has the option of brainjacking numerous characters from both the Blademasters and the Sangokai.

Depending on brainjacking and dialogue choices made by the Maken through the game, several different narrative paths and endings are unlocked.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.atlus.co.jp/cs/game/dcast/maken/index.html |script-title=ja:魔剣X |language=ja |website=[[Atlus]] |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20010522154440/http://www.atlus.co.jp/cs/game/dcast/maken/index.html |archive-date=May 22, 2001 |url-status=dead}}</ref> One ending has the Maken follow the Blademasters' orders, destroying the Sangokai and Geist while saving both Kay and Sagami; it is then sealed away as it has the potential of becoming a second Geist. Another ending sees the Maken allowing Kay to die, taking control of the American President following Geist's defeat. The third ending shows the Maken abandoning its mission in order to save Kay, which brings it into conflict with Geist—with the help of Kou, the Maken sacrifices itself and restores Kay to her body. Alternate versions of this route show the Maken being offered a deal by Geist if the Maken refuses to allow itself to die for Kay—accepting the truce restores Kay, while refusing it restores Sagami while the Maken permanently takes over Kay's body. Another route sees the Maken refuse to follow the Blademasters' orders and instead side with the Sangokai, killing Lee and joining Geist in creating a "utopia" by controlling human thoughts. If the Maken refuses to follow both the Blademasters and the Sangokai, it kills Geist while allowing Kay to die. The Maken is contacted by Lee's spirit, who says that the Maken is now the only being left capable of restoring the world.

==Development==
The concept for ''Maken X'' arose while Atlus was part of the way through developing the ''Persona 2'' duology (''[[Persona 2: Innocent Sin|Innocent Sin]]'' and ''[[Persona 2: Eternal Punishment|Eternal Punishment]]'') for the [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]].<ref name="MakenMagazine">{{cite magazine |script-title=ja:魔剣X |language=ja |magazine=Dreamcast Magazine  |issue=37 |date=November 19, 1999 |pages=63–65}}</ref> Producer [[Kouji Okada]] was one of the original creators of Atlus' ''[[Megami Tensei]]'' series. Longtime ''Megami Tensei'' artist [[Kazuma Kaneko]] acted as art director and character designer.<ref name="MakenMagazine"/> The director was [[Katsura Hashino]]; having worked as a planner on multiple titles since ''[[Shin Megami Tensei If...]]'', ''Maken X'' was his debut as a game director.<ref name="MakenHashino">{{cite web |url=http://www.atlus.co.jp/2pro/voice/kahashino.html |script-title=ja:橋野 桂 [プロデューサー&ゲームディレクター] / スタッフ Voice |author=Hashino, Katsura |language=ja |website=[[Atlus]] |access-date=May 30, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150530112552/http://www.atlus.co.jp/2pro/voice/kahashino.html |archive-date=May 30, 2015 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The game was developed by internal studio Atlus R&D1.<ref name="MakenCredits">{{cite video game |title=Maken X |developer=[[Atlus]] |publisher=[[Sega]] |platform=[[Dreamcast]] |date=April 25, 2000 |scene=Credits}}</ref> Most of the development team were directly carried over from the second ''Persona 2'' game.<ref name="GSmaken"/> The Atlus staff were beginning to feel limited by the scope of the ''Megami Tensei'' universe, so when they were shown the specifications of the [[Dreamcast]] console, they immediately decided to create something new for that console.<ref name="MakenDCMinterview"/> Okada later said that Atlus' main desire when creating ''Maken X'' was to develop something new after making role-playing games for most of the company's lifetime.<ref name="GSmaken">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/gamespot-talks-to-legendary-atlus-producer/1100-2450989/ |title=GameSpot Talks to Legendary Atlus Producer [date mislabeled as "April 27, 2000"] |author=Kennedy, Sam |date=June 3, 1999 |website=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[Fandom (website)|Fandom]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/19990827111754/http://headline.gamespot.com/news/99_06/03_vg_atlus/index.html |archive-date=August 27, 1999 |url-status=live}}</ref>

Speaking in an interview, Okada and Kaneko referred to the development period for ''Maken X'' as quite turbulent. Kaneko felt at first that the game was an "odd job", but over time he became deeply involved as the game graduated into being an important project for him. It was the first time the team had tried development with the Dreamcast, which proved more versatile and powerful than expected. The developers initially wanted a "neat" development project, but demands came for a more expansive project, resulting in the game's scale greatly increasing and the development process becoming chaotic, with more staff coming on board to help development. Due to these factors, the period of trial and error when creating the gameplay lasted much longer than intended.<ref name="MakenMagazine"/> The first-person perspective combined with sword-based action was chosen to create a unique feel for the game.<ref name="GSmaken"/> While 3D elements had been included in earlier Atlus titles, ''Maken X'' was the first time Atlus used both full 3D visuals and full-motion 3D CGI cutscenes.<ref>{{cite magazine |script-title=ja:魔剣X |language=ja |magazine=Dreamcast Magazine |issue=22 |date=April 23, 1999 |pages=41–43}}</ref> The game was also the first time the ''Megami Tensei'' team had attempted development of a game outside the role-playing genre.<ref name="MakenMagazine"/>

Okada described the main theme as power achieved through intelligence and overcoming the environments.<ref name="MakenDCMinterview"/> The main narrative featured multiple references to [[Chinese mythology]], while many of the player characters drew from historical and literary figures from each country the game visited. The Hakke leaders of the Sangokai were designed around a particular part of their body being malformed.<ref name="MakenMagazine"/><ref name="MakenShaoBook"/> A narrative element carried over from the ''Megami Tensei'' franchise was a system of choices based on morality that influenced the ending; while these elements had been thoroughly explored in ''Megami Tensei'', the team felt the themes still had potential and so used it in ''Maken X''. The game was Atlus' first title to feature full voice acting; the team initially planned to voice event scenes in English and Chinese with Japanese subtitles, but included voice acting across the whole game due to positive feedback. A similar set of circumstances led to the wide use of stereophonic sound across the whole game when it was initially planned only for action sequences.<ref name="MakenMagazine"/>

===Music===
The game's original score was composed by [[Shoji Meguro]] and Takahiro Ogata.<ref>{{cite magazine |script-title=ja:魔剣X |language=ja |magazine=Dreamcast Magazine  |issue=53 |date=December 24, 1999 |pages=168–69}}</ref> The musical style, which was described by Okada as "all techno music with heavy drumbeats", was intended to make the game feel "lively and fast".<ref name="GSmaken"/> Meguro worked on the soundtrack for around a year and a half, and composed most of the game's music, receiving some concepts for tunes and then being left to his own devices. He was faced with restrictions with the console's hardware, but was able to have more creative freedom than his work on ''[[Shin Megami Tensei: Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers|Devil Summoner: Soul Hackers]]''. The jazz-oriented ending theme, sung by Diana Leaves, was cited by Meguro as one of his favorite compositions from the game.<ref name="MakenMeguro">{{cite web |url=http://interviews.rocketbaby.net/interviews_meguro_2.html |title=Shoji Meguro interview |website=RocketBaby |access-date=December 21, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020826234017/http://interviews.rocketbaby.net/interviews_meguro_2.html |archive-date=August 26, 2002 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Due to his work, Meguro was unable to contribute to the ''[[Persona 2]]'' duology at the time despite his previous involvement with ''[[Revelations: Persona]]''.<ref>{{cite book |script-title=ja:ペルソナ公式パーフェクトガイド |trans-title=Persona Official Perfect Guide |language=ja |publisher=[[Enterbrain]] |date=May 13, 2009 |page=355 |isbn=978-4-7577-4915-3}}</ref>

An official soundtrack was released by King Records in Japan on December 23, 1999.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://vgmdb.net/album/2498|title=Maken X original sound tracks |website=VGMdb |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081003045918/https://vgmdb.net/album/2498 |archive-date=October 3, 2008 |url-status=live}}</ref> An album of remixed tracks from the game by a number of guest musicians, ''Maken X Remix Soundtrack L'Image'', released by [[Avex Group|Avex Mode]] on January 19, 2000.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://vgmdb.net/album/2497|title=Maken X Remix Soundtrack L'Image |website=VGMdb |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160708231543/https://vgmdb.net/album/2497 |archive-date=July 8, 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> The ''Maken X'' album, which became fairly rare in the years following its release, was later re-released by Atlus on [[iTunes]] on June 1, 2011. A new remix track was included as an exclusive to the digital album.<ref name="MakenAlbums">{{cite web |url=http://www.4gamer.net/games/107/G010757/20110601085/ |script-title=ja:ATLUS MUSICにて「魔剣X」「ブレイズ・ユニオン」などの楽曲配信がスタート |language=ja |website=[[4Gamer.net]] |publisher=Aetas Inc. |date=June 1, 2011 |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160322170250/https://www.4gamer.net/games/107/G010757/20110601085/ |archive-date=March 22, 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref>

==Release==
''Maken X'' was first announced in November 1998.<ref>{{cite magazine |language=ja|script-title=ja:魔剣X |magazine=Dreamcast Magazine |issue=4 |date=November 27, 1998 |pages=32–45}}</ref> ''Maken X'' was published by Atlus on November 25, 1999.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.atlusnet.jp/catalog_nw/d1_det_63.html |script-title=ja:[DC] 魔剣X |language=ja |website=[[Atlus]] |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024185916/http://www.atlusnet.jp/catalog_nw/d1_det_63.html |archive-date=October 24, 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref> While Atlus' earlier ''Megami Tensei'' titles were aimed fully at the Japanese market, ''Maken X'' had been designed from the outset to have an international appeal.<ref name="GSmaken"/> Voice recording for the international release took place in North America. Meguro was involved in the process, which he stated was a positive experience.<ref name="MakenMeguro"/> The localization was handled cooperatively by Atlus and the American branch of [[Sega]], who acted as the game's publishers.<ref name="MakenDCMinterview"/><ref>{{cite book |title=Maken X instruction manual |editor=Sega |editor-link=Sega |date=April 25, 2000 |page=28}}</ref><ref name="MakenLocal"/> The game's international release was announced in February 2000.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/02/04/maken-x-us-release-date-revealed |title=Maken X US Release Date Revealed |author=<!--Not stated--> |date=February 3, 2000 |website=[[IGN]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170703092714/https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/02/04/maken-x-us-release-date-revealed |archive-date=July 3, 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> One of the points Atlus was concerned about for the international version was the use of Nazi imagery for some enemies. Due to what were described as "cultural points that could be harmful", the game's graphics were altered for the international release to avoid controversy. The gameplay remained unchanged between versions.<ref name="GSmaken"/><ref name="MakenDCMinterview">{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/OfficialSegaDreamcast4Mar2000/page/n25/mode/2up |title=X Marks the Spot |magazine=[[Official Dreamcast Magazine (US magazine)|Official Dreamcast Magazine (US)]] |publisher=[[Future US|Imagine Media]] |issue=4 |date=March 2000 |page=24 |access-date=December 19, 2021}}</ref> Kaneko described the voice recording as the most difficult part of the localization.<ref name="MakenDCMinterview"/> Initially scheduled for release in March, the game was pushed forward into April for unspecified reasons, although it was speculated that it was due to that month already boasting several game releases.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/03/01/maken-x-gets-pushed-back |title=Maken X Gets Pushed Back |author=Gantayat, Anoop |date=February 29, 2000 |website=[[IGN]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107124030/https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/03/01/maken-x-gets-pushed-back |archive-date=November 7, 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> ''Maken X'' was eventually released in North America on April 25, 2000.<ref name="MakenLocal">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/sega-ships-two/1100-2565558/ |title=Sega Ships Two |author=GameSpot staff |date=April 25, 2000 |website=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[Fandom (website)|Fandom]] |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000608184750/http://headline.gamespot.com/news/00_04/25_vg_segaships/index.html |archive-date=June 8, 2000 |url-status=live}}</ref> In Europe, the game was released on July 7 of that year.<ref name="ODMreview"/>

===''Maken Shao: Demon Sword''===
''Maken Shao: Demon Sword'', known in Japan simply as ''Maken Shao'',{{efn|{{Nihongo||魔剣爻||lit. ''Demon Sword Shao''}}}} was developed by Atlus for the [[PlayStation 2]].<ref name="MakenShaoBook"/> Okada, Hashino and Kaneko returned to their respective roles. The additional CGI segments were created by [[Polygon Magic]].<ref name="MakenHashino"/><ref name="MakenShaoBook"/><ref>{{cite video game |title=Maken Shao: Demon Sword |developer=[[Atlus]] |publisher=Midas Interactive Entertainment |platform=[[PlayStation 2]] |date=July 26, 2003 |scene=Credits}}</ref> While the basic gameplay and the original plot were carried over, several adjustments were made. The biggest change was a shift from a first-person to a third-person perspective; this was done due to a recurring problem with Japanese gamers dubbed "3D sickness", where people became motion sick when playing first-person games.<ref name="MakenShaoBook"/> Another improvement was the sound environment, which made full use of Dolby Surround software.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://dengekionline.com/data/news/2001/6/3/c29b41fd6605b760d92e8f0cdca1dd79.html |script-title=ja:秋葉原で行われた『真・女神転生』、『魔剣爻』の発売記念イベントを密着レポート！ |language=ja |publisher=[[ASCII Media Works|Dengeki Online]] |date=June 3, 2001 |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170702185245/http://dengekionline.com/data/news/2001/6/3/c29b41fd6605b760d92e8f0cdca1dd79.html |archive-date=July 2, 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> The title's added "爻" character, an archaic Chinese symbol, was used as it represented two "X" characters, showing the game's status as an evolved version of ''Maken X''.<ref name="MakenShaoBook">{{cite book |script-title=ja:魔剣爻 公式ガイドブック |trans-title=Maken Shao Official Guide Book |language=ja |publisher=[[Enterbrain]] |year=2001 |isbn=4-7577-0519-0}}</ref> Meguro returned to compose for ''Maken Shao'', remixing many paces and adding additional musical elements.<ref name="MakenShaoBook"/>

''Maken Shao'' was first announced in February 2001. Prior to its official announcement, there was speculation that it was a sequel to the original game.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/02/15/latest-details-maken-shao |title=Latest Details: Maken Shao |author=Gantayat, Anoop |date=February 14, 2001 |website=[[IGN]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140628172511/https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/02/15/latest-details-maken-shao |archive-date=June 28, 2014 |url-status=live}}</ref> ''Maken Shao'' was published by [[Atlus]] in Japan on June 7, 2001. It came with both standard and limited editions, with the limited edition having exclusive cover art.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.atlusnet.jp/catalog_nw/d1_det_206.html |script-title=ja:[PS2] 魔剣爻（通常版）|language=ja |website=[[Atlus]] |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131024064019/http://www.atlusnet.jp/catalog_nw/d1_det_206.html |archive-date=October 24, 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref> A mini-album of new and remixed music from ''Maken Shao'', titled ''Maken Shao Mini Soundtrack'' and released alongside the original album's iTunes release to celebrate the game's tenth anniversary.<ref name="MakenAlbums"/>

For its European release, [[DC Studios (video game developer)|DC Studios]] both converted ''Maken Shao'' to PAL region hardware, and localized the game into English.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.dc-studios.com/products.htm|title=Products|publisher=[[DC Studios (video game developer)|DC Studios]]|access-date=August 31, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20031221104811/http://www.dc-studios.com/products.htm|archive-date=December 21, 2003|url-status=dead}}</ref> It was published as ''Maken Shao: Demon Sword'' by Midas Interactive Entertainment on June 27, 2003.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.midasinteractive.com/ |title=Upcoming Products |website=Midas Interactive Entertainment |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030624054107/http://www.midasinteractive.com/ |archive-date=June 24, 2003|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/maken-shao/related/release/platform/ps2/ |title=Maken Shao: Demon Sword - Related Games |website=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130103032745/http://www.gamespot.com/maken-shao/related/release/platform/ps2/ |archive-date=January 3, 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref> This version was later re-released by Midas Interactive Entertainment on the European [[PlayStation Network]] on February 27, 2013, as a PlayStation Classic title.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.siliconera.com/atlus-maken-shao-reaches-playstation-network-in-europe-this-month/ |title=Atlus' Maken Shao Reaches PlayStation Network In Europe This Month |author=Sahdev, Ishaan |date=February 14, 2013 |website=Siliconera |publisher=[[Enthusiast Gaming]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130216035728/http://www.siliconera.com/2013/02/14/atlus-maken-shao-reaches-playstation-network-in-europe-this-month/ |archive-date=February 16, 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Adaptations===
A manga adaptation written and illustrated by [[Q Hayashida]] was released between January 2000 and November 2001 by [[Kodansha]]. Titled ''Maken X: Another'', the story followed a similar path to the original game.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://kc.kodansha.co.jp/product?isbn=9784063490244 |script-title=ja:魔剣Ｘ ＡＮＯＴＨＥＲ（２） |language=ja |website=[[Kodansha]] |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705153144/https://kc.kodansha.co.jp/product?isbn=9784063490244 |archive-date=July 5, 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://kc.kodansha.co.jp/product?isbn=9784063490763 |script-title=ja:魔剣Ｘ ＡＮＯＴＨＥＲ（３） |language=ja |website=[[Kodansha]] |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170705153317/https://kc.kodansha.co.jp/product?isbn=9784063490763 |archive-date=July 5, 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref> The manga was collected into two volumes and released under the title ''Maken X: Another Jack'' by [[Enterbrain]] on December 25, 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.enterbrain.co.jp/product/comic/beam_comic/08253601.html |script-title=ja:魔剣X Another Jack 1 |language=ja |website=[[Enterbrain]] |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111209011319/https://www.enterbrain.co.jp/product/comic/beam_comic/08253601.html |archive-date=December 9, 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.enterbrain.co.jp/product/comic/beam_comic/08253701.html|script-title=ja:魔剣X Another Jack 2 |language=ja |website=[[Enterbrain]] |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111209011324/https://www.enterbrain.co.jp/product/comic/beam_comic/08253701.html |archive-date=December 9, 2011 |url-status=live}}</ref> A comic anthology was published by Kodansha in March 2000.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kobunsha.com/book/HTML/cmc_maken_x.html|script-title=ja:魔剣Ｘ|language=ja|website=[[Kodansha]]|access-date=2022-02-26|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020109214652/http://www.kobunsha.com/book/HTML/cmc_maken_x.html|archive-date=2002-01-09|url-status=live}}</ref> A novelization titled ''Maken X: After Strange Days'', written by Akira Kabuki and published by [[ASCII Media Works]], was released in April 2000.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://iss.ndl.go.jp/books/R100000002-I000002950555-00 |script-title=ja:魔剣X : アフターストレンジデイズ |language=ja |website=National Diet Library |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801234922/https://iss.ndl.go.jp/books/R100000002-I000002950555-00 |archive-date=August 1, 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>

==Reception==
{{Video game reviews
| SDC = true
| PS2 = true
| na = true
| GR_SDC = 71%<ref name="MakenRanking">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerankings.com/dreamcast/197848-maken-x/index.html |title=Maken X for Dreamcast |website=[[GameRankings]] |publisher=CBS Interactive |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190505082029/https://www.gamerankings.com/dreamcast/197848-maken-x/index.html |archive-date=May 5, 2019 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| Allgame_SDC = {{Rating|3.5|5}}<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=23828&tab=review |title=Maken X - Review |author=Knight, Kyle |website=[[AllGame]] |publisher=[[All Media Network]] |access-date=December 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141115042207/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=23828&tab=review |archive-date=November 15, 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| CNG_SDC = 8/10<ref>{{cite web |url=http://gamecenter.com/Consoles/Dreamcast/Makenx/ |title=Maken X |author=D'Aprile, Jason |date=May 19, 2000 |website=Gamecenter |publisher=[[CNET]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000824012143/http://gamecenter.com/Consoles/Dreamcast/Makenx/ |archive-date=August 24, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| Edge_SDC = 6/10<ref name="EdgeReview">{{cite magazine |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/b/b4/Edge_UK_081.pdf |title=Maken X [JP Import] |author=Edge staff |magazine=[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]  |issue=81 |date=February 2000 |page=85 |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230707191558/https://retrocdn.net/images/b/b4/Edge_UK_081.pdf |archive-date=July 7, 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| EGM_SDC = 5.83/10<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/b/bf/EGM_US_131.pdf |title=Maken X |author1=Kujawa, Kraig |author2=Hager, Dean |author3=MacDonald, Mark |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |issue=131 |date=June 2000 |page=161 |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230408134403/https://retrocdn.net/images/b/bf/EGM_US_131.pdf |archive-date=April 8, 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref>{{efn|In ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]''{{'}}s review of the game, one critic gave it a score of 5.5/10, and the rest gave it each a score of 6/10.}}
| EPD_SDC = 5/10<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.elecplay.com/reviews_article.php?article=2689 |title=Maken X |author=Conlin, Shaun |date=July 4, 2000 |website=[[EP Daily|The Electric Playground]] |publisher=Greedy Productions Ltd. |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040523111314/http://www.elecplay.com/reviews_article.php?article=2689 |archive-date=May 23, 2004 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| Fam_SDC = 32/40<ref name="FamReviewDC">{{cite magazine |url=https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=12828&redirect=no |script-title=ja:ドリームキャスト - 魔剣X |language=ja |magazine=[[Famitsu]] |publisher=[[Enterbrain]] |issue=572 |year=1999 |page=30 |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211221073619/https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=12828&redirect=no |archive-date=December 21, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| Fam_PS2 = 32/40<ref name="FamReviewPS2">{{cite magazine |url=https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=9530&redirect=no |script-title=ja:(PS2) 魔剣 爻（シャオ）|language=ja |magazine=[[Famitsu]] |publisher=[[Enterbrain]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170704070608/https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=9530 |archive-date=July 4, 2017 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| GI_SDC = 7.75/10<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=4603 |title=Maken X |author1=Fitzloff, Jay |author2=Helgeson, Matt |author3=Reiner, Andrew |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |publisher=[[FuncoLand]] |issue=86 |date=June 2000 |access-date=December 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20001202004000/http://gameinformer.com/reviews/review_detail.cfm?ITEM_ID=4603 |archive-date=December 2, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| GameFan_SDC = (E.M.) 97%<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/Gamefan_Vol_8_Issue_02/page/n65/mode/2up |title=Maken X [Import] |author=Mylonas, Eric "ECM" |magazine=[[GameFan]] |publisher=Shinno Media |volume=8 |issue=2 |date=February 2000 |pages=65–67 |access-date=December 20, 2021}}</ref><br />(A.C.) 86%<ref>{{cite magazine |url=http://www.gamefan.com/repre.asp?g=1560&t=r |title=REVIEW for Maken X |author=Chau, Anthony |date=April 25, 2000 |magazine=[[GameFan]] |publisher=Shinno Media |access-date=December 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000511052927/http://www.gamefan.com/repre.asp?g=1560&t=r |archive-date=May 11, 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| GameRev_SDC = C+<ref name="GRevReview">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamerevolution.com/review/32218-maken-x-review |title=Maken X Review |author=G-Wok |date=April 2000 |website=[[GameRevolution]] |publisher=[[CraveOnline]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909154818/http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/maken-x |archive-date=September 9, 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| GSpot_SDC = 7.9/10<ref name="GSreview">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/maken-x-review/1900-2540383/ |title=Maken X Review [JP Import] [date mislabeled as "April 28, 2000"] |author=Mielke, James |date=December 8, 1999 |website=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[Fandom (website)|Fandom]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041209065505/http://www.gamespot.com/dreamcast/adventure/maken10/review.html |archive-date=December 9, 2004 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| GSpy_SDC = 8/10<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.planetdreamcast.com/games/reviews/makenx/ |title=Maken X |author=BenT |date=April 25, 2000 |website=[[GameSpy|PlanetDreamcast]] |publisher=IGN Entertainment |access-date=December 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090225090902/http://www.planetdreamcast.com/games/reviews/makenx/ |archive-date=February 25, 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| IGN_SDC = 7.9/10<ref name="IGNreview">{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2000/04/29/maken-x |title=Maken X |author=Gantayat, Anoop |date=April 28, 2000 |website=[[IGN]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020622052954/http://dreamcast.ign.com/articles/164/164177p1.html |archive-date=June 22, 2002 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| JXV_SDC = 15/20<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0000/00000790_test.htm |title=Test: Maken X |language=fr |author=Kornifex |date=August 4, 2000 |website=[[Jeuxvideo.com]] |publisher=[[Webedia]] |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211220041927/https://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0000/00000790_test.htm |archive-date=December 20, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| JXV_PS2 = 9/20<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0000/00003614_test.htm |title=Test: Maken Shao: Demon Sword |language=fr |author=Killy |date=November 13, 2003 |website=[[Jeuxvideo.com]] |publisher=[[Webedia]] |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211220041927/https://www.jeuxvideo.com/articles/0000/00003614_test.htm |archive-date=December 20, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| NGen_SDC = {{Rating|2|5}}<ref name="NGen">{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/NextGen67Jul2000/page/n89/mode/2up |title=Maken X |author=Bratcher, Eric |magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|NextGen]] |publisher=[[Future US|Imagine Media]] |issue=67 |date=July 2000 |page=88 |access-date=December 19, 2021}}</ref>
| rev1 = [[Official Dreamcast Magazine (UK)|''Official Dreamcast Magazine'' (UK)]]
| rev1_SDC = 85%<ref name="ODMreview">{{cite magazine |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/0/0b/DreamcastMagazine_UK_12.pdf |title=Maken X |author=Coward, Nerys |magazine=[[Official Dreamcast Magazine (UK magazine)|Official Dreamcast Magazine (UK)]]  |issue=12 |date=October 2000 |pages=62–63 |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221102013716/https://retrocdn.net/images/0/0b/DreamcastMagazine_UK_12.pdf |archive-date=November 2, 2022 |url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

In Japan, the game received high scores from critics. The Japanese ''Dreamcast Magazine'' gave ''Maken X'' scores of 9, 9 and 7 out of 10 from three critics, placing it among the issue's highest-scoring games.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/11/20/new-japanese-dreamcast-games-get-rated |title=New Japanese Dreamcast Games Get Rated |author=Williamson, Colin |date=November 19, 1999 |website=[[IGN]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=December 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020603021343/http://dreamcast.ign.com/articles/072/072342p1.html |archive-date=June 3, 2002 |url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Famitsu]]'' gave the game a score of 32/40, consequently receiving the magazine's "Gold" award.<ref name="FamReviewDC"/> The remake ''Maken Shao'' received an identical score of 32/40 from ''Famitsu'', which praised the overall gameplay and varied character choice.<ref name="FamReviewPS2"/>

The game received above-average reviews internationally according to the [[Review aggregator|review aggregation]] website [[GameRankings]].<ref name="MakenRanking"/> In an import review, ''[[Edge (magazine)|Edge Magazine]]'' said that it was only the game's lack of multiplayer and level design that kept it from contending with the likes of ''[[GoldenEye 007 (1997 video game)|GoldenEye 007]]'', saying that it was otherwise a good Dreamcast game for adventure players.<ref name="EdgeReview"/> In contrast, Lee Skittrell of ''[[Computer and Video Games]]'' felt it was not worth purchasing other than by those "desperate" for an action game due to the many faults he found.<ref name="CVGReview">{{cite magazine |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/1/16/CVG_UK_226.pdf |title=Maken X |author=Skittrell, Lee |magazine=[[Computer and Video Games]]  |issue=226 |date=October 2000 |page=112 |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230519142544/https://retrocdn.net/images/1/16/CVG_UK_226.pdf |archive-date=May 19, 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref> James Mielke of ''[[GameSpot]]'' called ''Maken X'' a strong addition to the Dreamcast library and a good game in its own right,<ref name="GSreview"/> ''[[IGN]]''{{'}}s Anoop Gantayat felt the game should be rented rather than immediately bought due to his own complaints,<ref name="IGNreview"/> while website ''[[GameRevolution]]'' said that ''Maken X'' was "one of those games that could have been great."<ref name="GRevReview"/> Eric Bratcher of ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|NextGen]]'' said of the game, "There are redeeming elements, but they just don't resolve into anything exciting. We suggest waiting for ''[[Counter-Strike (video game)|Half-Life [Counter-Strike]]]''."<ref name="NGen"/> ''[[GamePro]]'', however, stated, "While this game doesn't fit neatly into any category – action, fighting, adventure, or role-playing – anyone who likes the idea of a pulse-pounding, arcade-style slasher with sweet graphics will enjoy hacking it up with ''Maken X''."<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://retrocdn.net/images/1/16/GamePro_US_142.pdf |title=Maken X |author=Jake The Snake |magazine=[[GamePro]]  |issue=142 |date=July 2000 |page=92 |access-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230813153147/https://retrocdn.net/images/1/16/GamePro_US_142.pdf |archive-date=August 13, 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref>{{efn|''[[GamePro]]'' gave the game three 4.5/5 scores for graphics, control, and fun factor, and 4/5 for sound.}}

Nerys Coward of ''[[Official Dreamcast Magazine (UK magazine)|Official Dreamcast Magazine]]'' praised the story, calling it "theatrical and intriguing",<ref name="ODMreview"/> while in contrast Gantayat felt the storytelling was "poor" and faulted Sega's translation for further effecting it.<ref name="IGNreview"/> ''Edge Magazine'' noted the story's prominence set ''Maken X'' apart from equivalent first-person games of the time.<ref name="EdgeReview"/> Skittrell was highly critical of the story segments as "boring [...] and far too long", but said the story was entertaining.<ref name="CVGReview"/> ''GameRevolution'' praised the unique choice of the Maken as protagonist along with the variety of endings.<ref name="GRevReview"/> The English voice acting was panned by multiple critics.<ref name="ODMreview"/><ref name="IGNreview"/><ref name="GRevReview"/>

Coward described the gameplay as highly enjoyable, praising the variety of playable characters but faulting the controls as stiff.<ref name="ODMreview"/> ''Edge'' praised the combat options and refreshing change from standard combat in other first-person games, noting the variety offered by character abilities but criticizing the lack of multiplayer options.<ref name="EdgeReview"/> Mielke called the gameplay "pretty standard" aside from enemy variety and character options, and noted the light puzzle elements.<ref name="GSreview"/> Skittrell generally found the game's substance lacking, but enjoyed the brainjacking feature.<ref name="CVGReview"/> Multiple reviewers faulted the controls as cumbersome or inappropriate for the gameplay.<ref name="ODMreview"/><ref name="GSreview"/><ref name="IGNreview"/><ref name="CVGReview"/><ref name="GRevReview"/>

Coward praised the "slick and [[glitch]]-free" environments,<ref name="ODMreview"/> while Gantayat gave unanimous praise to both the game's graphics and its character designs.<ref name="IGNreview"/> Mielke gave particular praise to Kaneko's character designs, and like Coward noted the environments as being free of glitches and running smooth while maintaining quality.<ref name="GSreview"/> Skittrell called the environmental graphics "super-crisp but lifeless and bland",<ref name="CVGReview"/> a sentiment shared by ''Edge''.<ref name="EdgeReview"/>

Upon its release in Japan, ''Maken X'' reached No. 6 in gaming charts. With sales of around 66,000 units, the game was the best-selling new Dreamcast release of the week, selling through nearly 73% of its shipments.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/12/07/japan-software-sales |title=Japan Software Sales |author=Langan, Matthew |date=December 6, 1999 |website=[[IGN]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |access-date=December 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130415111642/https://www.ign.com/articles/1999/12/07/japan-software-sales |archive-date=April 15, 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="MakenTotal"/> The game's total sales as of 2004 have reached over 70,800 units, ranking as the 50th best-selling Dreamcast game in Japan.<ref name="MakenTotal">{{cite web |url=http://www.japan-gamecharts.com/dc.php |title=Sega Dreamcast Japanese Ranking |website=Japan Game Charts |access-date=May 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090924030648/http://www.japan-gamecharts.com/dc.php |archive-date=September 24, 2009 |url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Maken Shao'' entered Japanese charts at No. 2, coming in behind ''[[Phantasy Star Online|Phantasy Star Online Ver 2]]'' and ahead of the PlayStation port of ''[[Shin Megami Tensei]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/323/323833/ |script-title=ja:【メッセサンオー本店売り上げランキング(6/3～6/9調査)】文句なし！「PHANTASY STAR ONLINE Ver.2.0」がぶっちぎりトップ!! |language=ja |website=[[ASCII Media Works]] |date=June 12, 2001 |access-date=December 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210818092114/https://ascii.jp/elem/000/000/323/323833/ |archive-date=August 18, 2021 |url-status=live}}</ref> Total sales for ''Maken Shao'' in Japan during 2001 stand at just over 40,000 units.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://geimin.net/da/db/2001_ne_fa/index.php |script-title=ja:2001年テレビゲームソフト売り上げTOP300 |language=ja |website=Geimin.net |access-date=July 5, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121020210236/http://geimin.net/da/db/2001_ne_fa/index.php |archive-date=October 20, 2012 |url-status=dead}}</ref>

{{clear}}

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{Reflist}}

==External links==
* {{Official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20010522154440/http://www.atlus.co.jp/cs/game/dcast/maken/index.html|name=Japanese Dreamcast website (archived)}} {{in lang|ja}}
* {{Official website|https://web.archive.org/web/20030203035912/http://www.atlus.co.jp/cs/game/pstation2/shao/index.html|name=Japanese PlayStation 2 website (archived)}} {{in lang|ja}}
* {{moby game|id=/10886/maken-x/}}
* {{moby game|id=/11704/maken-shao-demon-sword/|name=''Maken Shao: Demon Sword''}}

{{Atlus}}

[[Category:1999 video games]]
[[Category:Atlus games]]
[[Category:Dreamcast games]]
[[Category:First-person video games]]
[[Category:Hack and slash games]]
[[Category:Midas Interactive Entertainment games]]
[[Category:PlayStation 2 games]]
[[Category:PlayStation Network games]]
[[Category:Seinen manga]]
[[Category:Sega video games]]
[[Category:Single-player video games]]
[[Category:Video game remakes]]
[[Category:Video games about demons]]
[[Category:Video games developed in Japan]]
[[Category:Video games featuring female protagonists]]
[[Category:Video games scored by Shoji Meguro]]
[[Category:Video games set in Hong Kong]]
[[Category:Video games set in India]]
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[[Category:Video games set in the future]]