Battlesector, Metaphor ReFantazio, Eiyuden Chronicle, and lots of Announcements, News, and Releases
Here we are at the last RPG Recap of April 2024. Let’s see what happened before we dive into next month, which also promises a slew of exciting new releases that I’ll showcase on Wednesday in an article dedicated to all of May’s releases.
It was undoubtedly the week of Eiyuden Chronicles, the indie title that harks back to the classic Suikoden. A lot else has happened, like new plans for the strategy game Warhammer Battlesector, details and release date of the highly anticipated JRPG Metaphor: ReFantazio, the upcoming release date of the strategy game inspired by Heroes Of Might And Magic, and many other announcements, releases, and news. Let’s take a look at them together.
Cassette Beasts is going On Mobile
The open-world RPG Cassette Beasts is set to expand its reach with an official release on Android and iOS platforms on June 4, 2024. Currently available on Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC, this game offers players the unique ability to collect and transform into various monsters, engaging in exciting turn-based battles.
The latest trailer provides another glimpse into the game’s expansive world, showcasing the dynamic gameplay and rich environments that players can explore.
HOMM-Like Strategy Game Ready for the full release
The eagerly anticipated official launch of Songs of Conquest is set for May 20th, which will also introduce its fourth and final campaign. Players can look forward to stepping into the role of Bhigli, a Wielder with grand ambitions, and exploring the significant contributions of the mercenary tinkerers of Barya.
The developers assure that the release of version 1.0 does not signify the end of the journey. Plans for further content, updates, and improvements are already in motion, promising an ongoing enhancement of the gaming experience. It’s probably where I’m going to spend time next month.
100 Heroes to Play In Suikoden-Homage JRPG
This week saw the release of Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes, launched by 505 Games and Rabbit & Bear Studios. This game, the most successful Kickstarter-funded game of 2020, is one of the most eagerly awaited JRPGs in recent years. Developed by the esteemed Junko Kawano and the late Yoshitaka Murayama, known for their work on the Suikoden series, this game offers a rich narrative with over 100 playable characters, blending meticulously crafted 2D sprites and 3D backgrounds.
Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes features a unique six-character battle system and is designed to deliver a modern twist on classic JRPG gameplay. Celebrated as a tribute to Murayama-san’s legacy, the game has garnered significant anticipation and support from fans and backers. It is now available across multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC via Steam, Epic Game Store, and GOG.
Nintendo Life rated the game 6 out of 10, describing it as a flawed gem with notable issues in design and performance on the Switch, such as frequent crashes and slow load times. Nintendo World Report was even more critical, giving it a 5 out of 10 and unfavorably comparing the Switch version’s performance to a dumpster fire.
Conversely, reviews from other platforms like PlayStation and Xbox were more positive. Push Square awarded the game 8 out of 10, praising its narrative and faithful extension of the Suikoden legacy, despite some adherence to old-school design principles that might not appeal to all players. Pure Xbox also gave it an 8 out of 10, highlighting its suitability for Microsoft’s Game Pass and its successful modernization of classic JRPG elements, making it an engaging experience for both newcomers and fans of the genre.
Release date and new gameplay sequences for JRPG Metaphor ReFantazio
ATLUS has officially announced the release date for their highly anticipated fantasy RPG, Metaphor: ReFantazio, scheduled for October 11, 2024. This announcement came during a detailed developer livestream led by Studio Zero Director Katsura Hashino, known for his work on the Persona series and Shin Megami Tensei III. The stream provided a first look at the gameplay with a 30-minute session that showcased various game locales, from grand cities to subterranean waterways. Hashino also delved into the game’s mechanics and characters, focusing on the Gauntlet Runner—a central vehicle that serves as both the player’s home base and headquarters.
In addition to revealing the gameplay and setting the launch date, ATLUS also opened physical pre-orders for the game, including a special Collector’s Edition. This edition includes the base game, an artbook, a soundtrack, collectible pins, a sticker sheet, a steel book, a cloth map of the Kingdom of Euchronia, and a digital compilation celebrating ATLUS’s 35th anniversary.
Metaphor: ReFantazio will be available on Xbox Series X|S, Windows, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and Steam. Fans interested in more details or pre-ordering can visit the game’s official website. The full developer livestream is available for viewing in both dubbed and subtitled English versions.
New Sci-Fi Dungeon Crawler Ready To Exit Early Access Next Month
Indie game studio Juggernaut Games has announced the upcoming release of StarCrawlers Chimera, a turn-based cyberpunk RPG, set to launch on Steam and GOG on May 13, 2024. Accompanying the announcement, a new trailer showcasing the game’s features and atmosphere was released. StarCrawlers Chimera invites players into the procedurally-generated corridors of Chimera HQ, where the primary objective is to locate the enigmatic Dr. Cerberus.
The game is described as a cyberpunk-themed dungeon crawler that combines tactical, turn-based combat with an exploration of ever-changing environments. Players will face a wide array of enemies and bosses, navigate through grid-based dungeons, and adapt their strategies to survive. Customization is a key element, allowing players to tailor their character’s skills and equipment across combat, stealth, tech, and psychic disciplines, contributing to a personalized playstyle.
The game also features four difficulty modes, including an optional permadeath setting, to challenge both new and veteran players.
60-seconds New Gameplay Trailer for Most Anticipated Crown Wars
Artefacts Studio and NACON have unveiled a new gameplay trailer for Crown Wars: The Black Prince, a turn-based tactics and strategy game set to release on May 23, 2024. This game, which draws its thematic essence from the dark medieval era of the 100-Years War, will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, with a version for the Nintendo Switch expected later in the year.
Crown Wars: The Black Prince offers a deep tactical gameplay experience set in a dark fantasy medieval world. Players will operate from their castle, the central hub for managing their troops, where they will recruit, arm, and train soldiers to defend their kingdom and gather essential resources.
The game emphasizes strategic squad formation based on the unique skills and attributes of individual soldiers to combat enemies and thwart a diabolical plot by a secret malevolent organization known as the Order, which seeks to sow chaos and alter the course of history.
Unique Rogulite Game Set For Ealy Access Next Month
Rogue Voltage is set to launch into Early Access on May 10th, 2024, promising an engaging opportunity for players to contribute to the game’s development. The game will be priced at EUR/USD 15.99, and a 10% discount will be available during the first week of release. The game will support multiple languages including English, German, Chinese (both Simplified and Traditional), Russian, Japanese, French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Korean.
Planned to stay in Early Access for approximately 12 months, Rogue Voltage is a strategic deckbuilding simulation with an engineering roguelite twist where players can construct their own abilities by wiring together modules to build machines capable of zapping monsters and triggering elaborate chain reactions. It will offer players a dynamic gameplay experience with over 90 unique modules and 9 characters, each featuring distinct playstyles that enhance replayability.
The developers aim to use the early access period, which will last about 12 months, to refine the game’s content and mechanics in collaboration with the community. Players can expect regular updates and patches, with the final version featuring expanded character choices, playstyles, and meta-progression systems.
Open World Tactical RPG Sand Nomads Announced
Sand Nomads is an upcoming open-world tactical RPG developed and published by PlayPanic, set on the expansive desert planet of Eldo. This game invites players to lead a team of nomads in search of fame and fortune, navigating a world where futuristic technology meets ancient superstitions. Scheduled for release soon, Sand Nomads combines elements of adventure, indie, RPG, and strategy genres, appealing to fans of turn-based tactical games and expansive explorative experiences.
The game revolves around managing a mercenary team deeply embedded in a nomadic culture within a sci-fi setting inspired by Middle-Eastern themes. Players can explore vast open worlds, engaging in turn-based tactical battles influenced by hazardous and randomly generated environments.
Key gameplay features include recruitment and management of companions, quest completion, resource gathering, and uncovering rare artifacts. Character progression is class-based, with options like Hunter, Wanderer, Daredevil, among others, each offering unique traits and perks.
The narrative unfolds through quests tied to the different territories on Eldo, with players’ decisions influencing the outcome of conflicts and the overarching story. Additionally, the game offers crafting, professions, a knowledge tree, and the exploration of ancient alien ruins, enriching the player’s experience and engagement with the mysterious world of Eldo. For sure, one to watch and wishlist.
New Fan Mod For Phoenix Point
Snapshot Games is excited to announce the release of Terror from the Void 1.0, a comprehensive fan mod for the tactical RPG Phoenix Point, developed by the PHOENIX RISING team. This mod, now available on Steam Workshop and GitHub for other platforms like Epic Games Store and GOG, offers a complete overhaul of the game’s campaign, introducing a range of new features, including revamped classes, a redesigned storyline, and significantly improved AI and UI.
Terror from the Void transforms Phoenix Point by introducing new characters, events, and a deepened lore that integrates seamlessly with the original game’s narrative. The mod also features entirely redesigned class systems to enhance tactical gameplay, balance previously overpowered synergies, and strengthen the identity of each class. Additionally, players will encounter new challenges, such as Revenants—nightmarish forms of fallen heroes that add a thrilling element to the campaign.
The mod includes a total rework of the DLC content, such as the “Legacy of the Ancients and “Kaos Engines,” offering new missions, weapons, and expanded marketplace options. Quality of life improvements, such as loadable soldier loadouts and helmet visibility toggles, have been added to enhance the gameplay experience.
More than 80 additional hours of Gameplay For Shin Megami Tensei Vengeance
Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance by Atlus is set to dramatically expand the base game, offering almost 80 additional hours of gameplay. According to producer Shinjiro Takata, this new installment will not only cater to fans of the original 2021 game but also attract newcomers to the dark fantasy JRPG genre. The update introduces over 40 new demons and several original characters, enhancing the depth and breadth of the game. The expansion is so substantial that it goes beyond being just an add-on.
Additionally, the musical score of the game has been significantly revamped, with 80% of the existing tracks rearranged and more than 20 new pieces composed specifically for this release. These updates promise a fresh and engaging experience for both returning players and those new to the series.
Whether choosing the new Canon of Vengeance or sticking with the original game’s Canon of Creation, players can expect an enriched auditory experience. Shin Megami Tensei V: Vengeance will be available from June 14 on PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and PC.
Details About The Legend of Heroes: Kai no Kiseki – Farewell O Zemuria
Falcom has recently unveiled details for the upcoming game The Legend of Heroes: Kai no Kiseki – Farewell O Zemuria, introducing new characters, an engaging story, and innovative battle system elements. This game features the characters Van Arkride, Agnes Claudel, and Bergard Zeman, each bringing unique backgrounds and roles within this expansive narrative set in a richly detailed world.
Van Arkride, a 25-year-old Spriggan, navigates between the real and underworlds, balancing his pragmatic nature against his own decision-making methods. Agnes Claudel, a gentle yet determined 17-year-old, joins Van’s team while pursuing mysteries linked to her great-grandfather’s legacy. Bergard Zeman, a 69-year-old former priest and martial arts master, provides guidance and support to Van, highlighting deep personal connections that enrich the narrative.
The game’s battle system builds on the framework from its predecessor, integrating new elements like the “Awakening” and B.L.T.Z. (Blitz) System to enhance tactical engagements. These allow characters to transform and amplify their combat abilities, along with enabling dynamic follow-up attacks and enhanced effectiveness for both offensive and supportive moves.
The Legend of Heroes: Kai no Kiseki – Farewell O Zemuria is scheduled for release in 2024 in Japan and Asia.
New Plans For Warhammer Battlesector
Slitherine, a leader in strategy game development, has officially taken over the future development of Warhammer 40,000: Battlesector, following the acquisition of the game’s engine rights. Previously developed by Black Lab Games, Battlesector has enjoyed a positive reception (here our review) and substantial post-launch support since its initial release in 2021 on platforms including PC, PlayStation, and Xbox. Under Slitherine’s direction, the game is poised for further expansion, promising DLCs that are expected to surpass the scope of previous releases.
Black Lab Games, which has been at the helm since Battlesector’s inception, developed the game along with the first six faction DLCs, introducing new game modes and features through 2024. As Black Lab Games transitions to work on new, yet-to-be-announced projects, Slitherine plans to continue evolving Battlesector, ensuring its place as a tactically rich and comprehensive title within the Warhammer 40,000 universe.
Marco Minoli, Slitherine’s Director of Publishing, expressed gratitude towards Black Lab Games for their contributions and hinted at exciting future developments for the game, encouraging fans to stay tuned for updates on Battlesector’s Steam page and Slitherine’s social media channels.
80s Wizardry RPG Ready For Some 3d Remaster Treatment
Digital Eclipse has announced the official release of a full 3D remaster of the seminal RPG, Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord, set to hit consoles and PC on May 23. Originally launched in 1981 by SirTech for the Apple II, Wizardry is recognized as the pioneer of the party-based dungeon crawler genre, influencing numerous iconic series such as Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest.
This revamped version of the game maintains the core mechanics of the original, built atop the Apple II game’s code to preserve its classic appeal while enhancing it with modern graphics and gameplay improvements. These enhancements include updated party management, navigation, spellcasting, and combat systems, integrated within the original game’s framework. Players can switch between the new interface and the original Apple II version during gameplay.
Wizardry: Proving Grounds of the Mad Overlord remaster has been available on Early Access since September 2023 and has received very positive feedback, leading to several improvements in the final version. These updates include visually stunning graphics and animations powered by Unreal Engine, customizable gameplay options, an in-game Bestiary offering tactical enemy insights, a rich musical score by Winifred Philips, and a controller-friendly interface. The game is fully localized in several languages including English, Japanese, French, Spanish, Italian, and German.
Digital Eclipse, known for its dedication to the preservation of classic video games, has managed this project under license from SirTech, which retains exclusive licensing rights to the first five Wizardry games. The upcoming release aims to continue the legacy of this influential title, offering both long-time fans and new players a modernized version of a classic RPG experience.
Acclaimed Tactical RPG The Last Spell Launches New DLC
The Last Spell, a tactical RPG that has already sold over 400,000 copies and received a nomination for the DICE Awards Strategy/Simulation Game of the Year, is expanding its horizons with the launch of its new DLC, Dwarves of Runenberg.
Available today on PC via Steam and GOG, this DLC is priced at $7.99 and introduces a variety of new content including a fresh map set in the town of Runenberg, a Dwarven playable character class, and innovative weapon systems accompanied by encore challenges. This addition promises to refresh the strategic gameplay of The Last Spell by integrating destructible, explosive crystals and mob-spawning statues that pose new challenges for players.
In addition to the paid DLC, a free update for all players of The Last Spell has also been released. This update enriches the game with a new weapon pool dilution system, adds over 20 new perks and trinkets, and implements bug fixes to enhance the overall player experience.
The game itself combines turn-based combat with procedurally generated enemies and gear, set against massive enemy armies and infused with roguelite elements, creating a highly replayable and challenging game environment. Players are tasked with defending humanity’s last haven using strategic prowess enhanced by a dynamic progressive metal soundtrack, making every battle intense and rewarding.
That’s all for this week. Let me know what you think about everything covered in this weekly RPG recap. Discord, X, and YouTube are the places where you can get in touch with me. I wish you an awesome weekend. Ciao
