Welcome to the eastern nation of Azuma! In this fresh take on Rune Factory, use your powers as an Earth Dancer to restore the land, its people, and even its gods. Along the way, battle corrupted monsters, rebuild seasonal farms and villages, and form bonds with the colorful locals.
RPG Gamers summaryNews Coverage:
In a new storyline twist from Neverland Co., the eastern lands of Azuma become the battleground against the cataclysmic event dubbed Celestial Collapse in the upcoming game, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma. The action isn’t just contained in this game’s charming lore; there’s a surprising amount of depth and complexity as players are tasked with restoring the shattered realm, fighting off a growing corruption and harnessing an entirely novel power - that of an Earth Dancer.
This power not only sets the protagonist apart but introduces a new gameplay dynamic that includes dance, sacred treasures, and fresh weapons like the Bow and Talisman. These tools are used to restore the land’s bounty and counteract the destruction caused by the Blight.
The eastern setting provides a welcomed change of scene in the Rune Factory franchise. Imaginative Japanese-inspired aesthetics give life to Azuma with its festivals, events, and monsters, providing beauty in a backdrop of devastation. Different regions are steeped in seasonal themes, showing off Azuma’s variety and hinting at its past prosperity, making the task of restoration even more poignant.
Guardians of Azuma are not just about battling the darkness; it proffers an old-school village sim element as well. Players are tasked with rebuilding entire communities from the ground up, luring villagers back, and eventually reviving the gods of nature. This township revival system promises to add depth to the gameplay, extending beyond the mere farming elements of its predecessors.
Romance and friendships are back too, offering fully voiced scenarios for gamers to engage with their preferred partners. The protagonist’s gender can be chosen at the start, and throughout the journey, players can befriend or romance a host of characters.
Overall, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma seems to weave an intriguing narrative reminiscent of early Rune Factory entries while simultaneously presenting fresh mechanics, a new setting, and enticing character interactions. With its promising combination of classic and novel elements, we’re curious to see how the game will be received upon its release.
