It's no secret that you need to have something special in your RPG to make it truly stand out in pop in today's world of gaming. Reynatis is off to a great start, featuring fabled composer Yoko Shimomura to score the RPG's music, and Kazushige Nojima is credited as the Scenario Writer for the story. It's a powerful duo that instantly put Reynatis on my radar.

Modern Day Shibuya

At its core, Reynatis is an Action RPG that takes place in a realistic depiction of the Japanese commercial district of Shibuya. However, in the world of Reynatis, there are wizards with the ability to utilize magic, though not everyone has such powers. As such, powerful organizations have formed seeking to oppress and liberate the wizards due to fears over their power. It reminds me of the dynamic from Harry Potter or even the classic TV show Heroes.

It also looks like the developer, FURYU Corporation has worked ha?rd to bring the city of Shibuya to life, featuring details that anyone who has been there will actually recognize including shops and signs, featuring iconic locations such as Shibuya 109 and Dogenzaka Alley. The city itself seems lively and bustling, featuring NPCs who will carry out their life walking around the city, but respond to your acti??ons. If the locale catches you utilizing your magical powers, they'll freak out and use their phone to notify the "magic police", known as the M.E.A. which will then hunt you down.

From a gameplay perspective, Reynatis features a fast-paced action combat that allows you to switch b?etween the characters in your party on the fly, and even call upon them to perform powerful combos. A unique system allows you to switch between two modes—Suppression and Liberation—in real-time. When in Suppression Mode, you're able to dodge attacks and build up your magical power. Upon switching to Liberation Mode, you're able to unleash your stored magical power dealing massive damage.

Still some questions about combat

Having the opportunity to see the combat system in action across a few different environments, there does seem to be? some repetition and overall simpleness to the combat system. But if it's as fast-paced as NIS has stated, it seems like that's partially by design. I personally don't mind a more simplistic combat system as long as it's still fun, rewarding, and overall doesn't feel boring. In fact, with some games, I actually prefer it so I can instead focus on grinding, exploring the environments, or getting enthralled into the story?.

One of the most intriguing facets of Reynatis is that it has a collaborative crossover with NEO: The World Ends with You. This isn't a simple event or anything, either. Characters from NEO: TWEWY will appear throughout Reynatis, and are actually a substantial component of the story. I'm always down for some more TWEWY, so this only furthers my excitement for Reynatis.

The only negative I could take away from the preview is that Reynatis features Japanese voiceovers only. English subtitles are available, but I do know some players will be disappointed that there is no dub option. However, if that's not an issue for you, Reynatis looks like a so??lid fast-pace?d Action RPG set in a beautifully authentic rendition of the city of Shibuya.

I'm looking forward to exploring the city myself when Reynatis releases on PC via Steam, PlayStatio??n 4, PlayS??tation 5, and Nintendo Switch on September 27, 2024.

The post Re??ynatis Preview: Fast action combat on the street??s of Shibuya appeared first on Destructoid.

Earlier today, I reported that The Legend of Heroes: Kuro no Kiseki was finally getting an English localization. Titled Trails through Daybreak, I picked out a talking point from the NISA announcement stream that Trails through Daybreak would be the start of a new story arc, and therefore serve as a decent entry point for new ??fans. Little did I ?know that I stepped on a landmine with this comment.

Falcom’s The Legend of Heroes series has become an absolute monster of a work. Technically speaking, The Legend of Heroes dates back to the 80s with Dragon Slayer: The Legend of Heroes. We got this one in English on the Turbografx CD, which is something I’ve been dying to talk about. But to get back on track, what modern gamers usually refer to as �em>The Legend of Heroes�is actually a bit more specific. They are more specifically referring to the �em>Kiseki�subseries within the greater Legend of Heroes brand, which has localized into what we now know as the �em>Trails�series. Previous Legend of Heroes games are disconnected from the Trails story.

This, of course, is not to be confused with Namco’s Tales series, which�okay, I’m starting to se??e how weird this all sounds for people not into RPGs.

Setting a new Trail

Starting with The Legend of Heroes: Trails in the Sky, Falcom president Toshihiro Kondo began what?? he would literally call hi??s �a href="//www.gamespot.com/articles/falcom-president-talks-the-future-of-legend-of-her/1100-6468720/">life’s work.�The Trails series spans a huge world, telling interconnected stories that weave together one of the biggest tales in RPG history. The series started on the PC, which is currently the easiest platform to play the Trails series from start to finish.? However, the games have appeared on platforms ranging from the PSP all the way to the PlayStation 5.

While Falcom has clearly spun an impressive world, trying to actually experience this massive tale feels overwhelming. It’s hard enough to find time for one 50+ hour RPG, so how is any adult going to carve out the time for ten of them just to catch up? This is why I originally latched onto that comment about how Trails through Daybreak might serve as a good starting point. As a reminder, I too am functionally new to th??is series.

I’ve since spent the rest of the day talking with fans of the Trails series. While Trails through Daybreak may be playable on its own terms, you’d maybe miss out on why fans actually love these games to begin with. Let’s untangle all these threads and give those curious about the Trails gam?es ??something of a primer to help them get started.

In what order should you play The Legend of Heroes: Trails series?

Again, only focusing on the games within the immediate Trails story, a current, perf?ect playthrough of the saga so far looks li??ke this.

• 1: Trails in the Sky
• 2: Trails in the Sky: Second Chapter
• 3: Trails in the Sky the 3^rd
• 4: Trails from Zero
• 5: Trails to Azure
• 6: Trails of Cold Steel 1
• 7: Trails of Cold Steel 2
• 8: Trails of Cold Steel 3
• 9: Trails of Cold Steel 4
• 10: Trails into Reverie
• 11: Trails through Daybreak

For reference, this is the order these games originally came out in Japan. The English release order got a bit jumbled, as for a while we skipped over Trails from Zero and Trails to Azure. But rest assured, the above order will present you ea?ch story the way Falcom intended.

For simplicity’s sake, I have not counted spinoffs in this list, even though I thought The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails was great. But obviously, playing all these games is easier said than done. By adding up hour counts on HowLongToBeat.com, preparing for Trails through Daybreak by playing all the preceding games would take about 485.5 hours. And that’s only counting main story playthroughs, as completionist runs would basically double that. This puts catching up with the Trails series roughly on par with watching the entirety of One Piece, if not a bit longer.

So, naturally, this is when most people would start looking at cutting corners. What games aren’t so essential, or what stor?ies can you enjoy in isolation?

The best starting points in the Trails series

Since I don’t know the Trails series firsthand, I sought out comments from other fans about ??what starting points, if any, would work best.?? This led me to our own Cody Perez, who has played through all the mainline games. His comment follows:

I would say Trails in the Sky, Trails from Zero, and Trails of Cold Steel are the best starting points. Sky for seeing the start of the Zemurian saga, Zero for its introduction which feels built for newcomers, and Cold Steel for its more broad appeal to fans of other games like Persona.

- Destructoid's Cody Perez

Following that advice, the biggest cut corner here would be to start with Trails of Cold Steel. This would bring your hour count down to a more conservative 276 hours, which uh�okay, that’s still a lot of hours. Given the circumstances, the idea of just entering right into Trails through Daybreak starts sounding even more enticing. But here's why fans might advise you against? that.

The problem with starting with Trails through Daybreak

After talking with other fans about using Trails through Daybreak as a starting point, we concluded that starting here would be kind of like watching a Marvel movie halfway through the saga. Would you get the broad strokes of the story and enjoy it in isolation? Absolut?ely.

However, the appeal here is the slow burn of world building that has accumulated over almost twenty years. Stories will often have references and callbacks that reward longtime fans, which uniquely separates Trails for most other RPG series. Sure, any Avengers movie works on its own, but they wouldn’t feel nearly as special without the stories preceding them. That’s the gist of the Trails series.

So, was it wrong to suggest that you could start with Trails through Daybreak? Not necessarily. But getting that full experience absolutely does require familiarity with everything that built up t?o this arc?, which many fans are passionate about.

Judge your time and make your call

In short, to immerse yourself in the community surrounding these games and get the full experience, start with Trails in the Sky. However, I’m of the mind that there’s no right or wrong way to play games like this, as long as you’re well informed. During my research, I found posts from people who started with Trails of Cold Steel 3 - a game most would say is not a good place to start �w??ho ?said they enjoyed their time. Fun and value is all subjective, so no one can make that call but you.

However, I do very well understand why fans advocate for starting the series from the beginning. You can only experience something for the first time once, after all. So insisting that someone get that optimal experience right off the bat makes sense. It does make me sad that, realistically, I’ll probably only find time to play Trails through Daybreak without the preceding titles at best. But not everyone is in my boat, and there’s no harm in taking these longer stories slow. People are playing Final Fantasy XIV from start to Endwalker all the time,?? and that isn’t too terrib??ly dissimilar in terms of time commitment.

It’s not the end of the world if you can’t start from the beginning, but that is the best case scenario if you can. Otherwise, just play the games that catch your eye and hope for the best. All I know is, the moment someone invents a time vacuum that strictly exists to play all the games in your backlog, I’m gonna go nuts with this series. Dragon Slayer: The Legend of Heroes for the Turbografx CD is calling my name.

The post How do yo??u start The Legend of Heroes: Trails series? appeared first on Destructoid.

If major RPG franchises like Final Fantasy introduced me to RPGs, it’s the B-tier titles that made me love the genre. Throughout the SNES, PSX, and PS2 eras of gaming, those lower budget, heartfelt RPGs were my bread and butter. Games like Illusion of Gaia (and later Terranigma), Lunar: The Silver Star Story, and Wild Arms meant so much to me, and I’m always in search of titles that capture that same creative energy. The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails may not come from that same time period, but it ?is absolutely cut from that same cloth.

Granted, it’s no surprise that I would like this one (sorry, spoilers). The Legend of Nayuta was originally released by Nihon Falcom for the PSP in 2012, AKA the creators of the Ys series. If you read my bio at the bottom of this article, you could guess my feelings on the developer. And really, The Legend of Nayuta is potentially the most Falcom-y Falcom game ever made. It sports the Trails/Kiseki moniker in the title, seems to use the Ys Seven engine, yet plays like a mix of Zwei: The Ilvard Insurrection and Ys: The Oath in Felghana. Few games are so tailored to my tastes and sensibilities as this, and I imagine other Falcom fans don’t n??eed my take to know they should pick this one up.

Don’t worry, for the rest of you not as keen on relatively niche RPG franchises, I still have my critic hat on. And while I did thoroughly enjoy The Legend of Nayuta, it maybe doesn’t have?? the same consistent highs as Falcom’s best work. Mostly due to the hardware it was originally made for.

The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails (PC [Reviewed], Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4)
Developer: Nihon Falcom
Publisher: NIS America, Inc.
Released: September 19, 2023 (NA), September 21, 2023 (EU)
MSRP: $39.99

Trails of no relation

As a quick clarifying note, The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails is a completely standalone title. The Kiseki/Trails series is a mammoth, but you don’t need experience with any of those games to enjoy this one. While there are some references for fans here, the consensus is that Nayuta takes place in its own world. Granted, even if this one was tied to a gr??eater universe, I think you’d understand it just fine.

The titular Nayuta is a boy who lives on an island, and his story is a greatest hits of RPG tropes from roughly 1997 to 2005. He discovers a magical other world called Terra that his parents died while investigating in the past. His best friend is also maybe his rival. There’s a mysterious girl who has lost her memory, who potentially creates a love triangle with Nayuta’s childhood friend. It’s real, real basic, but it’s by-the-book to the point of feeling nostalgic??. Some of the later plot points do get contrived, but otherwise I think there’s a lot of charm here.

Part of the appeal is less the story itself and more the smaller details. Falcom games like Ys: The Oath in Felghana have this warm sense of community to them, and The Legend of Nayuta is no exception. Everyone on Nayuta’s island has a name and a distinct personality, and the way everyone cares for each other is exceedingly wholesome. Moments like talking to everyone after saving a particular character and seeing them get tearful over everything turning out okay is just heartwarming, no matter how simple it is. And for me, while the plot isn’t always a bed of flowers, that sense of comfort is what really elevates The Legend of Nayuta as a whole.

Half Action, half RPG, half Platformer

Where The Legend of Nayuta starts getting interesting is within its actual structure. As a game originally created for the PSP, it absolutely feels like a handheld game. It forgoes open areas in favor of bite-sized levels that each feature a handful of chal??lenges to fulfill. Find all the secrets, open the chest(s), and fulfill a specific task like “defeat 30 enemies.�This starts to make this RPG feel a bit like a platformer, which is fitting.

Levels in The Legend of Nayuta generally resemble an Ys dungeon at first glance. You’ll hack and slash your way through monsters, using magic and swordplay between swiftly dodging attacks. However, there’s also a strong focus on straight-up platforming. Jumping from platform to platform, and eventually using unique gimmicks?? to cross large gaps, takes a strong focus here. In fact, you’ll often see treasure chests that you can only obtain with powers you’ll unlock later, which imbues a bit of Metroidvania here as well.

The game usually controls well, though it ??does maybe bite off more than it can chew in some regards. More on this la??ter.

Don’t worry though, the RPG side of things is here too. It veers on the simple side, with basic stats and equipment that primarily serve to make you look different and do bigger damage numbers. But fighting baddies and leveling up is as much of this experience as any game, with a few other RPG-y systems thrown in too. Healing items come through co?oking, which uses items you find during your adventure to make. Also, you’ll find a wide variety of spells to level up and equip as you see fit. These systems work well, especially?? since the number crunching is less important than your reflexes.

Becoming Adol Christin

The combat system in The Legend of Nayuta evolves in a fascinating way. Compared to Ys games, Nayuta controls much more slowly than Adol Christin at the start. It veers towards Zwei’s more casual focus, with just the ?right amount of requisite dodging to kee??p things interesting. However, as Nayuta progresses through the story and completes those optional challenges, his combat capabilities increase. Before you know it, you have unique aerial attacks, a dedicated parry button, charge attacks that use a specific meter, combo chain bonuses, and more.

I eventually hit a point where I was playing Nayuta similarly to how I’d play Adol in something like Ys: Lacrimosa of Dana. Enemies get faster and stronger to match Nayuta, which really gave me that Ys-styl??e rush in the later levels. That said, the game never really veers into especially hard territory. I played on the harder ??difficulty, and while I did die a few times, it was mostly because I forgot to use my own healing items. This is a very approachable game, but I was never bored.

The boss design can be a bit hit-or-miss, but when it hits, it really hits. There is one encounter in this game that is so explosive that I’m surprised they fit it into what was originally a PSP game. Sure, it comes at a moment where you’d expect something like that, but I still got that “hell yeah!�feeling as I was fighting. Falcom action games run this fine line of feeling both modern and retro at the same time, and The Legend of Nayuta follows in that proud tradition. Fans of Ys Origins, The Oath in Felghana, or The Ark of Napishtim will be thrilled.

More Falcom jams

Speaking of Falcom staples, I’d be remiss if I didn’t gush about the soundtrack here. The funny thing is, I don’t even think this one hits quite as hard as Ys does on average. However, even the Olympic Bronze Medalist is still an impressive athlete, and The Legend of Nayuta slaps in the audio department.

Accompanying the escalation of game mechanics, the soundtrack similarly evolves as you play. At the start, the music takes a slower, friendlier vibe to lull you into a sense of security. Honestly, some tracks feel like they’re deliberately knocking off something like Super Mario Galaxy. They’re quality songs, but definitely a change of pace from Falcom’s usual work. But as you progress, t??he music starts to match the i??ntensity of the combat and veers towards the type of stuff that you’d hear in something like Ys or Mega Man X. It’s earw??orm after earworm with this game, especially if you’re into the stronger, catchier hooks synonymous with retro titles.

Even without that gameplay cohesion, I could write an entire review talking about how good the soundtrack is here. The miniboss theme is better than it has any right to be, especially since I only managed to hear its rocking second half in the later stages of the game. Even the slower tracks, like your peaceful town theme, are just pleasant to listen to. Even if you have no plans to play The Legend of Nayuta, you h??ave to listen to this soundtrack. It’s quality video game music to a tee, and I expect to listen to this while I work for the foreseeable future.

Unfortunate portable origins

Sadly, The Legend of Nayuta does have one noticeable Achilles' Heel: it was originally a PSP game. Falcom had a rather robust run of titles on the PSP, and The Legend of Nayuta was their final game on the handheld. I get the sense that they treated this game as something of a culminating work, so they crammed it with as many ideas as possible. Unfortunately, this approach hasn’t let The Legend of Nayuta age quite as well.

The big, ever-present issue here is the camera. Presumably to fit the original smaller screen, The Legend of Nayuta tends to zoom in pretty close on its protagonist. This works great in combat, not so much for all that platforming. At forks in the road, it was often hard to tell which way continued the critical path or led to secrets since I couldn’t see that far ahead of me. Other times, I’d sc??our levels?? for a secret I missed, only to find it was somewhere just out of my viewing area. This isn’t a huge issue, but it does begin to grate after a while.

Additionally, while I do appreciate how ambitious Nayuta’s kit becomes, some of the ideas here start to feel janky. One sticking point was the ability that let Nayuta hookshot to rotating gears in the sky. This just never felt that good to me, and sometimes led to tumbles down cliffs because I accidentally used a hookshot when I didn’t mean to. Additionally, since many of these abilities are tied to a meter, I ran into moments where I’d need to wait around and let it refill just to ad?vance certain parts.

Forward and back, and then forward and back

I also do feel the need to mention that The Legend of Nayuta is, by design, pretty repetitive. One of its major gimmicks is that you’ll unlock various seasons across its other world as you progress. Changing the season transforms levels, ??which gives you incentive to replay them with a slew of new enemies and challenges to overcome. These do switch things up considerably, but they still involve repeating stages?? to clear the game. It’s a clever way of doing it, but it’s worth noting all the same.

Additionally, the game will deliber?ately funnel you back into stages you’ve already cleared as well. Some sidequests, for instance, will have you track down certain objects in a cleared stage. You might find these items on your first run, but only with the proper quest can you pick them up. In other cases, you’ll come across a challenge on a stage that requires its own dedicated run to clear. For instance, challenges like “clear with only defeating three enemies�are functionally impossible on your first attempt, simply because you’ll need to defeat things to access other secrets.

This type of repetition may not be a big deal to fans of say, Ys Origin, which required playing the game three times to earn its true ending. However, The Legend of Nayuta doesn’t space out these returns to older levels or give you new characters to play like Ys Origin did.

I actually don’t say this so much as a negative as much as a general heads up. This type of design clearly fit the game’s handheld origins, so I recommend playing The Legend of Nayuta that way. With quick pick-up-and-play sections, you’ll hardly notice this as a fault. If you marat??hon the game for hours, it becomes more noticeable. I felt this was a perfect fit for my Steam Deck, where it looked and ran great. So if you’re in the market for a good portable game, definitely give this one a look.

That beautiful B-tier

Again, I need to clarify that I really liked The Legend of Nayuta. Even with the minor frustrations here and there, I generally enjoyed this one from start to finish. After all, it’s hard to feel vexed by repeating levels when the action-platforming-RPG core of the game is this rock solid. The Legend of Nayuta leans into those retro sensibilities that of?ten tests your gaming prowess, with enough RPG elements to create a more casual experi??ence if that’s what you want.

For most, I imagine The Legend of Nayuta might look like one of those “I’ll get it on sale�types of games. Especially since it’s technically a decade-old game with a fresh coat of paint. However, the quality of the experience on offer here is completely worth that full price. Beating The Legend of Nayuta took me about 20 hours, and beating The Legend of Nayuta took me about 25. I won’t elaborate on what that means. Additionally, there’s some robust New Game Plus content here, making this the perfect game to return to over a month or so. Honestly, even if you don’t play it like that, I think The Legend of Nayuta is solid. I think it j?ust hits hardest if you treat it?? that way.

The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails is pure gaming comfort food. Its mix of action, platforming, and RPG is too pleasant to resist, especially accompanied by its fantastic soundtrack. It certainly shows its age, and especially its portable origins. But that aside, Nayuta’s tale captures an authentic spirit of classic RPGs that I found as charming as I did entertaining. I’m sure fans of Fal??com’s work have this one pre-ordered already, but even if you aren’t in that fandom, give this one a look.

_{[This review is based on a retail build of the game provided by the publisher.]}

The post Review: The Legend of Nayuta: Boundless Trails appeared first on Destructoid.

A horrible night to have a curse

I wasn’t expecting a third Yomawari game. The first two games were two years apart, so I expected that they’d either remain at that pace or the series would simply end. Five years later, we have Yomawari: Lost in the Dark, and there hasn’t been a step missed. You almost wouldn’t believe this is five years removed from Yomawari: Midnight Shadows because th?e art and graphics are almost identical, and it features the same incremental tweaks that you’d expect.

And that’s for better or worse.

Yomawari might be my favorite horror game series around, and it’s not because the gameplay is exciting. Holy crap, it definitely isn’t. However, as far as horror games go, Yomawari knows how to do storytelling in a way that takes advantage of the interactive medium and incorporates its aesthetic. Sure, they’re not necessarily fun to play, but it’s a small price to pay for their wonderful narratives.

Nonetheless, if there’s one thing I hoped for in going into Yomawari: Lost in the Dark, it was that it wou??ld get its gameplay on a level that matches the talent demonstrated everywhere else. Well, small steps, I ??suppose.

Yomawari: Lost in the Dark (PC [Reviewed], PS4, Switch)
Developer: Nippon Ichi Software
Publisher: NIS America
Released: October 25, 2022
MSRP: $39.99

Since I feel that narrative is the ultimate reason to play Yomawari: Lost in the Dark, I’m going to try really hard to avoid spoiler?s. As you do in previous titles, you play as a young gi?rl who has something bad happen to her in the opening moments of the game, then attempts to set things right. After the bad things happen, she’s told she is cursed, and the only way to undo the curse is to gather all her lost memories before 6a.m.

Whew! That was really difficult.

As was central to the previous two titles, this mostly involves wandering around the girl’s hometown in the dead of night armed with nothing more than a flashlight. The town is open and non-linear. You search for items that the girl strains to remember anything about, you’re?? then given a brief cutscene showing where she may have lost something. This lifts a fog wall somewhere in the world where you can now proceed into. Each area has its own problem and backstory, which you must solve or navigate in order to find the girl’s lost memory.

[embed]//youtu.be/QUv_KN1V88w[/embed]

Always trust the dogs

The approach to storytelling will be familiar to anyone who played through the first two titles. Much of what Yomawari: Lost in the Dark tells you is obfuscated in one way or another. There’s no exposition, so little pieces are fed to you, and they’re often vague or unreliable. By the end of the game, as with the previous titles,? you’re generally given enough pieces to put together a picture, but it’s anything but clear.

To me, the titles tend to be coming-of-age stories told through a horror filter, which is perfect. It may be about responsibilities or the pain of letting go, but the most pessimistic views of the world are used to frame it. Yomawari: Lost in the Dark c??ontinues this sort of storytelling and does so with the same deftness. It really doesn’t ??miss a beat.

On the other hand, I found the subject matter focused on in Yomawari: Lost in the Dark to not be as satisfying as the previous two games. To put it strangely: it’s less dark. It’s no less of a horror game, but here, the protagonist is mainly just learning lessons of courage, whereas the previous girls had to make sacrifices. Another way to put it is that Midnight Shadows set the bar too high, and it’s maybe not surprising that Lost in the Dark falls a smidge short.

Your eyes... Give them to me

Then there’s the actual gameplay, which I’m a little mixed on. While the exploration and light puzzle-solving of the Yomawari games are retained here, the action bits have been refocused. It’s largely a game of avoidance, which the previous games also had, but this time, it’s almost entirely that. Each of the game’s memories comes with a little part at the end where you run from something, and you have to follow specific dance moves to get to the end. The dance steps aren’t necessarily going to be well communicated, and if you die, you often get sent to the beginning of whatever scene you were in. In Yomawari: Night Alone, I actually found myself rage-quitting one of these parts, and I never got to that point in Yomawari: Lost in the Dark, but?? if you’re looking for any major refinement, you??’re not going to find it.

What you will find is a lot of the same shortcomings. Much of the world is actually empty, leaving only what’s illuminated by your flashlight and the sounds of the night. From an atmospheric perspective, this works fine. However, the monsters are all just annoyances. You have to avoid them, and while this was partially done with the horror-proven hiding method in previous games, in Yomawari: Lost in the Dark, you cover your eyes. This has the advantage of allowing you to remain mobile while hiding from enemies, it also means that you? move about as slowly as a frozen glop of meringue.

You will find something more important than me

Everything that made the first two Yomawari games special are here. The only problem is that nothing was added on top. This isn’t Yomawari: Plus One; it’s Yomawari: Another One. I wouldn’t even say it’s Yomawari: The Best One.

Still, if you enjoyed the first couple of titles, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed by Yomawari: Lost in the Dark. It’s a solid continuation of the series, even if it doesn’t hit the heights of Midnight Shadows. The whole trilogy is a unique take on horror, tying in childh??ood and dumping a whole barrel of relatable sadness. The greatest success the series has had is not just presenting the misery to the player but making them be an active part of it. So, I hope you’re ready to be miserable.

_{[This review is based on a retail build of the game provided by the publisher.]}

The post Review: Yomawari: Lost in the Dark appeared first on Destructoid.

Coming to Japan on January 26, dood!

A very happy morning for JRPG fans, as Nippon Ichi Software (NIS) has officially announced Disgaea 7, the latest entry in the legendary?? anime adventure series. Currently in the works at NIS, the new mainline chapter will launch in Japan January 26 on PlayStation and Nintendo Switch platforms.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=2cMt71Z2w-s

Set against the backdrop of the "Hinomoto Netherworld Cluster," Disgaea 7 will see a wandering samurai, Fuji, team with a spritely otaku girl, Piririka, as the duo embark upon an against-the-odds mission to overthrow the wicked Ooedo Shogunate and restore peace and order to the land, currently occupied by a ruthless invading force. It will take strong-willed belief in friendship, honor, and loyalty if Hinomoto is ever to see its shattered peace and tranquility rig?htfully restored.

Of course, alongside Fuji and Piririka, players can expect to meet a huge cast of allies and enemies, including wild-eyed wolf-girl Ao, humanoid weapon Suisen, mighty swordswoman Higan Zesshousai, and pint-sized explosives expert Seefour (see what they did there?). Disgaea 7 will feature the deep exploration and chaotic combat that is a series trope, while including all new mechanics such as the "Dodeka MAX" feature, which sees characters grow into li??teral giants for kaiju-style warfare.

The "Reincarnation" mechanic will allow players to rebirth party members over and over again, retaining combat knowledge and skills from previous iterations while afforded the chance to start an entirely new build. This mechanic also applies to weapons and gear, letting the player evolve their party and tools with reckless abandon. Additionally, over 45 generic characters will be featured in Disgaea 7, so you'll have no problem building up your home ??team of colorful freedom fighters out of a roster of new and familiar faces.

And this is all just scratching the surface of what will be available in Disgaea 7. Ranked battles, custom A.I. mechanics, new skills and abilities, and a range of limited and collector's editions will all be present and correct come launch day. Western fans should take heart that while localization is yet to be announced, it seems incredibly likely th?at NIS America will be picking up the new sequel for its overseas fan communities, so stay tuned for further announcements.

In the meantime, you can find more screenshots, details, and character profiles over at the official website.

Disgaea 7 launch?es in Japan January 26, 2023 on PlayStation and ??Nintendo Switch platforms.

Disgaea 7 announced for PS5, PS4, and Switch [Gematsu]

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Spellbinding adventure set to return

[UPDATE: The first trailer for GrimGrimoire OnceMore has been released. You can check out footage from the remaster in the video below, courtesy of Gematsu. NIS America is yet to announce a localization.]

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=-NQreEUAoU8&t

Grab your magic wands and your cute Victorian boots, folks. Nippon Ichi Software has announced that the classic PS2 strategy title GrimGrimoire is getting a remaster. Currently in development at Vanillaware, the delightfully titled GrimGrimoire OnceMore will launch in Japan th??is summer on PS4 and Nintendo Switch.

As revealed in the newest issue of Weekly Famitsu, GrimGrimoire OnceMore will see clumsy witch-in-training Lillet Blan attempt to rescue her school, The Tower of Silver Star, from a bothersome time loop, activated by a nefarious sorcerer who comes seeking the Ph??ilosopher's Stone. A 2D real-time-strategy adventure, players control Lillet as she puppeteers armies of mystic familiars, battling it out with the evil wizard's own dark forces.

Check out t??he trailer for the original 2007? release below.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUQqX8KvK14

GrimGrimoire was written and directed by George Kamitani of Dragon's Crown fame, and features the instantly recognizable art style of Kouichi Maenou. Unfortunately, despite receiving plaudits from critics and fans, and even being fortunate enough to receive a western localization, GrimGrimoire was something of a sales flop, which quickl??y put? an end to plans for an extended franchise.

The new remaster promises higher-resolution, widescreen visuals, new magic mechanics and skill tree options, rebalanced difficulty options, an overhauled save system, and a newly recorded voice track, as well as a gallery of Maenou's gorgeous artwork. With this sparkling remaster, perhaps GrimGrimoire will find the p?laudit and success in 2022 that escaped it back in 2007. While a western lo??calization has not been announced, NIS has shown plenty of commitment in bringing its recent release to these shores, so an international edition seems somewhat inevitable.

GrimGrimoire OnceMore laun?ches in Japan on PS4 and Nintendo Switch July 28.

GrimGrimoire OnceMore announ??ced for PS4 and Switch [Gematsu / Ryokutya2089]

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Live stream scheduled for March 31

The New Game Plus Expo presentation will return for i??ts 2022 iterat??ion later this month.

Fans will be able to tune into the live stream on March 31 at 08:00 PT / 11:00 ET and check out a fistful of reveals and updates for a range ?of titles currently in development at some st??ellar, bite-sized studios.

Scheduled to put in an appearance during this year's show are Aksys Games, Idea Factory, Inti Creates, Natsume, Neowiz Games, NIS America, PLAYISM, PM Studios, Rocket Panda Games,? and Skystone Games. Viewers can expect plenty of footage from the studios' forthcoming releases, along with trailers, interviews, and some sp??ecial guest appearances.

The New Game Plus Expo 2022 stream will be broadcast over on the official NGPX Twitch channel.

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You ok? You look a little off..?

Nippon Ichi Software has announced that its charming but morbid survival RPG Void Terrarium is to receive a sequel later in 2022. Void Terrarium 2 �or to give it its full name "void tRrLM2(); //Void Terrarium 2" �is currently in development for PS4 a?nd Nintendo Sw?itch.

While details of the new sequel are currently slim, it seems that once again a brave little survival bot will be tasked with the protection and evolution of the last human on Earth �the young Toriko �as she attempts to thrive, or even survive, in a miserable post-apocalyptic world. Unable to brave the outside w??orld due to its toxic atmosphere, Toriko remains within a weak glass terrarium, with the player controlling her robot friend as its scours the land for resources, nourishment, and other elements to make Toriko as comfortable and as happy as she can be in this painful, desolate world.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uqp4tIf05Iw

While Void Terrarium has lovely storybook visuals and cute and charming thematics, it is also decidedly grim and distressing. A sickly girl, young Toriko suffers from an abundance of gruesome body-horror illnesses, which must be cured with remedies from the environment. Of course, there is also the ever-looming presence of the end of the universe, and the inherent loneliness of our protagonists. I'm not describing this as a disparaging statement against Void Terrarium, but for yer boy �who has legitimate and serious empathy issues?? �even just the original game's trail??ers were a little much for my tear ducts.

Still, for those of you who enjoyed this incredibly weird but intriguing release, know that there is more adventure en route. While NIS has currently only announced Void Terrarium 2 for Japan, we can very likely expect a localization through its western arm NIS America. So stay healthy, stay tuned and perhaps check out our own CJ Andriessen's review of the original game.

Void Terrarium 2 is sch?eduled to launch in Japan for PS4 and Nintendo Switch this summer.

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It's obscure and a little creepy... for a change

Nippon Ichi Software, in a surprise to end all surprises, has launched a new teaser website, offering up obscure clues to some unknow?n title currently in the works at the Japanese developer. In keeping with 95% of all NIS teasers, the tone of the website is both old-school in aesthetic while being somewhat unnerving.

The site features an old VDU-style monitor, on which appears to be security camera footage of a laboratory of some kind. Visitors to the site can control a cute little researcher, walking around the lab and examining various objects, including files, books, and a cup of coffee. My Japanese is a little rusty, so I can't translate the in-game text, but it is all very intriguing at any ??rate. in the background, we can hear nothing but some disquieting static. What could it be?

We'll be sure to gi?ve you a heads u??p when NIS spills the beans, with an update expected today.

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Legendary series to make its PS5 debut

Nippon Ichi Software (NIS) has announced that Disgaea 6 Complete will be coming west this summer. The anime RPG will launch on PlayStation and PC (via Steam) platforms in Japan this June, with localized releases to follow shortly thereafter in North America and Eu?rope.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhlOtnM5HKU

Disgaea 6 Complete is a "GOTY"-style rerelease of 2021 release Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny. This latest chapter of the popular adventure franchise was released on PS4 and Nintendo Switch in Japan, but only the Switch edition made it over to these shores. The "Complete" edition will allow western PlayStation and PC players to enjoy the title in its fully localized glory, complete with all post-release updates and DLC extras. The release will also mark the series' debut on PlayStation 5 hardware??.

Defiance of Destiny is the quirky tale of young zombie, Zed, whose ambition far outweighs his abilities. However, when the Netherworld falls prey to invasion by a terrifyingly destructive menace, it is up to Zed to put his money where his undead mouth is �battling his way across the underworld to save its people from death. Yes, a second death. Like so many examples of the genre, Disgaea 6 features a fun and dramatic storyline, a plethora of potential allies and enemies, and evolvi?ng tactical combat.

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Two more classics from the archives, Dood

NIS America has announced a release date for the localized edition of its second compendium Prinny Presents NIS Classics Vol. 2. The retro twofer will launch on PC and Nintendo Switch in the west this May. This double pack includes two cult?? action-RPGs, featuring the colorful characters, wild creatures, and melodramatic anime action that is a trademark of the NIS catalog.

The first title is Makai Kingdom: Reclaimed and Rebound, a revamped edition of 2005 PlayStation 2 release Makai Kingdom: Chronicles of the Sacred Tome. This Disgaea spin-off follows sees the player take control of?? overlord-turned-book (yep) Lord Zetta as he attempts to overthrow the Netherworld from his new, page-by-page form. Use a huge rang?e of spells and weaponry, as well as the game's unique INVITE system, to claim the realm from your enemies and place yourself back on the bookshelf... erm... throne.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=4HZ_RP9UzQ0

The second included title, ZHP: Unlosing Ranger vs. Darkdeath Evilman, is making its first appearance on a modern platform in over a decade. First released for the PlayStation Portable way back in 2010, this wild, tactical RPG places a heavy emphasis on customization, as players build their own custom hero and lay waste to armies ??of underworld denizens in a quest to face their fate as the "Absolute Victory Unlosin??g Ranger." Oh, and you'll also rescue world savior Super Baby and defeat the nefarious Darkdeath Evilman.

Prinny Presents NIS Classics Vol. 2 launches on PC (via Steam) and Nintendo Switch in North America on May 10, with Europe to follow a few days later on May 13. NIS Classics Vol. 1 is available now.

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Port La Pucelle: Tactics and Rhapsody again, thanks

NIS 2022 plans include new games, sequels, and ports, as the company continues to build and dip into its extensive decades-long catalog. That's actually pretty much always ??in th?e cards for the company, but now NIS is looking to feedback as a guide.

Here's what producer Sohei Niikawa had to? say to 4Gamer when asked about the future (as translated by Gematsu):

"In 2022, we’ll release ??various titles, including new works, sequel(s), and port(s). For the sequel(s) in particular, we’ll reflect on the opinions of? our users and gradually improve the quality of the game. Please look forward to what’s to come!"

So we do know that Crystar is coming to Switch (NIS is publishing ?the? port) in early 2022, amid anticipated wider releases for projects like Asatsugutori. We'll likely see more and more teasers in the weeks to come, like this one that led to the announcement of Yomawari 3. It's interesting to hear that feedback will be incorporated for the sequels "in particular," as the company strives to adapt and survive in?? the modern era. No matter what the company will keep busy through th??eir diversified publishing arm, which can outshine their developmental works in any given year.

As for me, possibly as part of those NIS 2022 plans, I want more HD "classics collection" projects. Give me Rhapsody, La Pucelle Tactics, Makai Kingdom: all of those late '90s and early 2000s games in one place on a modern platform. While the company's PSP ports were admirable, picking many of those up is exceedingly difficult to navigate now, not to mention the fact that La Pucelle was only released in Japan on PSP. We did get a "Volume 1" this year for Phantom Brave and Soul Nomad, so there's hope.

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Alone in the Dark

Nippon Ichi Software, always up for a good haunt jaunt, has released a new gameplay trailer for its spooky-looking sequel Yomawari 3, which will launch in Japan in April 2022 on PS??4?? and Nintendo Switch.

The c??uriously creepy clip sees our hero, an apparently nameless young girl, exploring h?er desolate hometown and hoping to break a curse that hangs heavy overhead. Guided almost entirely by torchlight, the protagonist will visit the homes, schools, stores, and forests of her youth, gathering forgotten clues and memories in order to afford her power over the monsters and demons that plague her waking moments.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYU5VkA1qFg

With light being the central mechanic to the adventure, Yomawari 3 tasks players with exploring lonely locations, using the meager light of the hero's torch to uncover hidden paths, items, and all manner of frightening creatures that wait in the dark. While the player cannot fight these ghouls, they can run, hide, and �if all else fails �simply close their ??eyes in hopes that their diminished presence will lure the enemies away.

It's all very J-Horror, and film dorks from the early '00s would say, and this trailer does contain its share of unsettling moments. As to whether Yomawari 3 will make its way west at any point, there's been no official word, but Nippon Ichi's western arm, NIS America, has really worked overtime in bringing localizations to English-speaking audiences over the past two years, so never say never. Frankly, you can keep it. Far too spoopy for m?e.

Yomawari 3 launches in Japan, April 21, on PS4 ??and Nint?endo Switch.

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The clock's ticking, dude

Nippon Ichi Software (NIS) loves nothing more than a good teaser website. They're borderline obsessed with them, frankly. This morning sees the Japanese publisher kickstart another marketing mystery, thanks to the arrival of a sparse website that features a simple-yet-ornate pocket watch and an even simpler messa??ge: "Thre??e Days..."

What could it mean? What new title is on the horizon? And will it involve doe-eyed teenagers embroiled in some form of social murder-mystery? Frankly, you could probably put all of your safe money on that last one. Hell, even modern-day shmups have started adopting that trope. All jesting aside, this could be anything �the teaser, its website, and its domain are currently incredibly tight-lipped on leaving behind any clues... It's go??nna be about murder though, isn't it?

Stick around. We will, of cours??e, bring you all of the details ??on this release once NIS shows its hand.

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You kids with yer death and yer time travel

Nippon Ichi Software has finally offered up a full reveal of its recently teased new title, Asatsugutori, which is currently in development for PS4 and Ninten??do Switch. The dark-looking adventure follows a group of girls inside a miserable, dilapidated bui??lding, who use the paradoxical intricacies of a time-loop in order to prevent a series of gruesome murders... their own.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=50htcGR0HIs

Asatsugutori puts players in the quaking boots of young Hibari, who awakens in a miserable hospital bed housed within a depressing unknown location. Discovering seven other girls within the building, our protagonists soon learn that someone �or something �is out for blood, picking our hapless heroes one by one. Hibari has a trick up her sleeve, however, the ability to rewind time and hopefully prevent each killing from taking place. Like Quantum Leap but with doe-eyed anime gals.

After discovering each grisly corpse, it is up to Hibari to rewind the clock, gather evidence, interrogate suspects (and the soon-to-be victim), and take steps to prevent the murder from taking place. Hopefully, Hibari and her new pals will also uncover the mysterious force that trapped them all within this looping nightmare and, more importantly, find a way to break free. Asatsugutori certainly looks like it will appeal to fans of series such as Danganronpa, though the former appears to have a far subtler and bleaker aesthetic. You can check out more screenshots and character profiles on NIS' official Asatsugutori website.

Asatsugutori will launch in Japan on PS4 and Nintendo Swi??tch November 25. There is no word on a western release as of yet, but given the stellar localization work by NIS America in recent years, it's worth remaining hopeful.

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Yes, another time loop game coming in 2021

Nippon Ichi Software has revealed the creepy new game that it has been teasing over the past week. As noted in the latest issue of Weekly Famitsu, NIS' Asatsugutori?? is a brand new murder mystery adventure that features that most popular mechanic of gaming's current zeitgeist: The Time Loop.

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IvKf6cV5?b4&list=TLGGJ6NgWKB9T4gwNDA4MjAyMQ

Asatsugutori will tell the grim tale of eight young girls, living together in a mysterious complex and each seemingly doomed to die a miserable death. The player protagonist, howeve?r, has been given the gift of time manipulation, and must solve each murder upon discovery of the corpse �winding back the clock to chat with the victi?m, gather evidence, ascertain alibis, and uncover other clues in the lead-up to the grisly killing.

Little else is known about the intriguing new title at this date, but NIS has a full reveal planned for tomorrow, August 5. Currently in development for PS4 and Nintendo Switch, Asatsugutori is scheduled to launch in Japan November 25. There's no word on whether NIS will be bringing the murder 'n' mayhem westward, but given the recent output of NIS America, I would be surprised if we don't see Asatsugutori hit these shores in 2022.

NIS announces 'time loop investigation adventure game' Asatsugutor??i [Gematsu]

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Pre-orders for the full game are now live

Disgaea fans have had one helluva wait for Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny, but we?'re on the home straight now. With the latest entry in the long-running RPG series just a skip over a month away, publisher NIS America has dropped a demo on the Nintendo eShop, giving the community a final burst of hype ??to help get them over the finish line.

The demo — which has been previously made available in Japan — will let you check out the first two chapters of Disgaea 6, offering a taste of the adventure and its "quadrillion" damage potential. Oh Laharl, you cheeky scamp. Disgaea 6 launched in Japan on PS4 and Switch back in January, although curiously a western localization of the PS4 edition is yet to b?e announced.

The demo will allow players to carry over their save file into the final game which, incidentally, is now available to pre-order over on the Nintendo eShop. A 10% discount for any players who own a previous Disgaea release on Switch. Oh, and don't forget, early purchases will bag you a quartet of bonus characters, including Adell, Asagi, Rozalin, a??nd a ??female variant Laharl. So jump on that.

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The '00s is now old enough to be 'classic gaming'

If you fancy filling your summer with a hefty dose of mid-'00s adventure, then Nippon Ichi Software (NIS) has you covered. The publisher has announced a release date for Prinny Presents NIS Classics Vol. 1, which ??hits PC and Switch in North America August 31, with Europe following on September 3.

Prinny Presents NIS Classics Vol. 1 includes two anime-happy adventures. The first title is Phantom Brave: The Hermuda Triangle Remastered. This 2010 Sony PSP adventure is itself a remastered edition of the 2004 PS2 release, and sees a spirited orphan girl and her ghost pal protect their world from a terrifying demonic force. This edition of Phantom Brave is expected to be the same release that previously launche??d ??on Steam in 2016.

The second title is Soul Nomad & The World Eaters, an intense, strategy-based RPG that launched on PS2 back in 2007. Players are entrusted with building a resourceful and capable army out of a small-town populace, with an aim to fending off an incoming assault by an army of giants, (the titular "World Eaters"). Soul Nomad's inclusion in the Prinny Presents... compilation marks the title's first-ever western re-release since its hum?ble PS2 origins.

So there you have it, two relatively obscure JRPGs repackaged for both PC and Nintendo's hybrid console. Both games will make for effective time-killers "on-the-g?o," so here's hoping that ??this run of retro compilations continues. After all, it's not like NIS doesn't have an almost bottomless well of '00s PS2 releases to cherry-pick from.

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A chance to revisit the sadness

Void Terrarium is a game that will stick wi?th me for a very long time. It's a rather sad affair with a bleak outlook on mankind's future, but with a kick-ass gameplay loop that totally hooked me last year. It's really worth a playthrough, even if I ??can't guarantee you'll be all that happy when you watch the credits roll.

If you missed out on the title in 2020, NIS America is re-releasing the game next month for PlayStation 5 as Void Terrarium++. This n??ew version of the game will include everything from the o??riginal and adds new emotes, hairstyles, diseases, and a new environment to traverse.

If you did pick this up last year and feel a bit left out, NIS America has announced the new content introduced in the PS5 version of the game will be made available as DLC for the Switch and PS4 versions. So if you've alrea?dy played through it once and can stomach a second trip to the wastelands, you won't be missing out on all the new bells and whistles should you decide to downlo??ad the DLC.

There is currently no word on the pricing of the DLC or when it will be available. Void Terrarium++ launches on May 18 for PlayStation 5.

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Coming to PC and Switch this summer

Nippon Ichi Software (NIS) has announced the launching of a new retro range. Prinny Presents NIS Classics will tag-up titles from the NIS archives for release on modern platforms. The first volume launches on PC and Nintendo Switch this summer and will feature Phantom Brave: The Hermuda Triangle Remastered and Soul Nomad & The World Eaters. As for what Prinny themselves brings to the party... I'?m not too sur?e.

Originally released on Sony PSP in 2010, Phantom Brave: The Hermuda Triangle is itself a remastered edition of the 2004 PS2 release Phantom Brave. The story follows the adventures of a young orphan girl and her ghostly guardian as they strive to protect their beautiful world from the wrath of a returning demon. The Prinny Presents edition of Phantom Brave is expected to be the same release tha??t arrived on Steam back in 2016.

Soul Nomad & The World Eaters is a strategic adventure title that launched on PS2 way back in 2007. Fighting against an army of destructive giants, (the titular "World Eaters"), players are tasked with building an army out of the local townsfolk, training units, recruiting warriors, designating roles, and preparing the people for the incoming war that will shape the very future of the continent of Predesto. This Prinny Presents edition will be Soul Nomad's firs?t western re-release since its initial launch.

Prinny Presents NIS Classics Volume 1 will launch this summer on PC and Nintendo Switch. A limited edition physical release is also in the works, which will include a copy of the game alongside a double-disc CD soundtrack, a hardcover art-book and two acrylic stands in a special presentation box. Pre-orders are now live at the NIS America store.

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Murder Most Horrid

Nippon Ichi Software has released a new trailer for its interesting looking murder mystery title Tantei Bokumetsu, which is currently in development ??for PS4 and Nintendo Switch. The developer/publisher also r??eleased new details regarding the quirky-looking title's gameplay.

As a quick refresher, Tantei Bokumetsu sees the greatest detectives in the world forced together to ascertain the identity of a psychopathic killer known as "Yatzuzakikou," who has racked up a killstreak of over 100 brutal murders. These master sleuths - collectively known as "The ?Detective Alliance" hope to combine their respective skills to unmask the ?killer... but little do they know that THE KILLER IS IN THE BUILDING WITH THEM AND THE CALLS ARE COMING FROM INSIDE THE HOUSE AND IT'S HIM DRESSED AS HIS MUM.

While the plot is similar to many creepy-cute titles - such as Kazutaka Kodaka's Danganronpa - Tantei Bokumetsu has a delightful "board game" aesthetic, as the player, (in the role of newbie gumshoe Wato Houjou), must gather clues??, interrogate suspects, and stay one step ahead of a series of death traps set up by Yatzuzak??iko.

As explained by NIS, Tantei Bokumetsu will place heavy emphasis on efficiency and time management, as every movement, search, conversation, and conclu?sion will cost valuable action points, which could mean life or death for Wato of his fellow detectives. As such, the player must utilize every available resource to their advantage - delegating tasks, moving swiftly, and quickly eliminating dead-end leads in order to solve multiple mysteries whilst keeping themselves and their friends in the l??and of the living.

Tantei Bokumetsu looks interesting, unique, charming, grim, and even a little classy in regards to i??ts ornate gameplay visuals. While NIS is yet to announce an English localization, the publisher has been very keen on releasing its catalog in the west,? so have your magnifying glass ready, and watch this space.

Tantei Bokumetsu second trailer [Gematsu]

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Bonus characters for early adopters

NIS America has announced that the localization of RPG sequel Disgaea 6: Defiance of Destiny will launch in No?rth America and Europe on Nintendo Switch June 29. The announcement was made during today's edition of the New Game Plus Expo (NGPX)

NIS America also released an announcement video, (which you can check out below), spotlighting bonus characters Adell, Asagi, Rozalin, and a female variant of the mischievous demon, Laharl. These characters will be made available exclusively to players who pick up Disgaea 6 at launch. Although the anime adventure is already available for purchase on PS4 and Switch in Japan, a localization for the PS4 edition has not yet been confirme?d.

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There's just something in my eye

I don't need this kind of wholesome emotion this early in the morning. But regardless, Nippon Ichi Software has released the first trailer for Sayaka Oda's new adventure title The Wicked King and The Noble Hero, ??which launches in Japan this June on PS4 and Nintendo Switch.

The lovely looking tit?le tells the story of a young orphan named Yuu, raised by a powerful dragon known as The Overlord. Having never known her father, Yuu wants to follow in his footsteps and become a brave and noble adventurer - a dream which Overlord is helping her to accomplish. But unbeknownst to Yuu, the relationship between her deceased father and her dragon guardian goes way back, and could lead to heartbreak or worse for the inseparable pair.

The Wicked King and The Noble Hero fully embraces a picture book/storytelling aesthetic, complete with hand-drawn illustrations, turning pages, and even narration from voice actor Reina Kondou. Players will help Yuu realize her dream of becoming a great adventurer as she picks her way through land, battles enem?ies, and even picks up a few allies and companions en route, all under the watchful and protective eye of The Overlord. And, when the day's adventuring is done, Yuu will return home for slumber as she listens to more tales of her father's heroism.

It sounds to be an incredibly emotional tale, dressed up in attractive visuals and backed by a evocative score. While a localization is yet to be announced, one is quite likely, given the existence of NIS America who also localized previous release The Liar Princess and The Blind Prince. While Oda's previous release had its fair share of problems with regards to gameplay, it received high praise for its charming story and style, here's hoping The Wicked King and The Noble Hero can provide the best of both worlds when its tale finally? unfurls.

The Wicked King and The Noble Hero teaser trailer [Gematsu]

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Headed to Japan this summer

[Update: As expected, NIS has indeed announced The Wicked King and The Noble Hero, a new RPG from Sayaka Oda, the brain behind 2019's The Liar Princess and The Blind Prince. The new game will launch on PS4 and Switch in J??apan June 24.]

Always a fan of a good tease, Nippon Ichi Software (NIS) has released a new website, ostensibly preemp??ting the announcement of a new mystery title. The new site features a charming, story-book style illustration of a forest, set to feature new decorations and characters over the coming days as the publisher leads up to this week's final reveal.

It appears the cat is already out of the bag, however, as Japanese retailer Biccamera jumped the gun a little early, revealing the mystery game to be The Wicked King and The Noble Hero. In a listing removed from the retailer's website, the new title is scheduled to launch in Japan on ?Nintendo Switch this June.

According to the listing, The Wicked King and The Noble Hero is the story of a young girl named Yuu, who is raised in the forest by the great King Dragon. Each night, the dragon tells Yuu of her late father's explo??its as a great adventurer, inspiring the child to go on a mythic quest herself, in hopes that she will live up to the reputation of the man she never knew.

The Wicked King and The Noble Hero will fully embrace its fairy-tale concept, featuring story-book style illustration, a wide cast of varied characters, a little drama, a little humor, and charming music and narration. It appears to be the intent of the developer that the player truly feels as if they are living a fairy-tale, read aloud to them as they progress, whi??ch is a delightful concept. A full reveal can be expected from NIS later this week.

Nippon Ichi Software launc?hes new title teaser w??ebsite [Gemastu / @naetoru60]

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Upgrade. Evolve. Destroy.

It feels like we've been talking about it forever, but Granzella's love letter to one of the most inspiring shmups of all-time is nearly cleared for take-off. Publisher NIS America has released a new gameplay trailer, ahead of R-Type Final 2's April 30 launch on PS4, PC, Xbox One,? Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch.

R-Type Final 2 is a celebration of Irem's iconic interstellar arcade blaster - a re-imagined compendium of vessels, mechanics, bosses, and stages, (not to mention its arsenal of impressive weaponry), cherry-picked from the series' s?toried history. As showcased in the video below, players will be able to choose from one of a selection of R-9 fighters, before blasting into battle with the Bydo Empire, upgrading and tweaking the ship en route into a devastating intergalactic fighter. Even th??e pilot will have customization options!

The new sequel will marry impressive contemporary visuals and effects to the classic R-Type gameplay that has proven such a hit with shmup fans over the decades, with adaptive difficulty keeping the challenge in each player's respective sweet spot. Additional gameplay modes and online leaderboards will ensure the R-Type faithful? will have plenty of reason to keep taking to the?? stars for another round of galactic mayhem. It's looking pretty slick, that's for sure, and I can't wait to try it out.

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Japanese-centric publisher stream returns

You might remember that during the months and months of E3's 2020 live stream showcases, (which I dubbed "Endless3" because I'm a talented man), the New Game+ Expo made its debut presentation - a special stream featuring a glut of news and rev?eals from Japanese-centric publishers such as Arc Sy??stem Works, NIS, Aksys, Natsume, and others.

And it looks like the show is set to return,?? although this time you won't have to wait until the summer, as New Game+ Expo 2021 will be taking place as soon as next month, March 4 to be exact. Not all of the previously featured studios are returning, (SNK, Spike Chunsoft, and WayForward are among the missing names), but 10 studios will be on-hand to showcase some of their 2021 wares.

Tune in to the official Twitch channel on Thursday, March 4 at 08:00 PT / 11:00 ET / 17:00 BST and check out some of the colorful titles gracing PC and console platforms later this year. The full list of attendees for New ?Game+ Expo 2021 is as follows:

• Aksys Games

• Arc System Works

• GungHo America

• Koei Tecmo

• Idea Factory International

• Inti Creates

• Natsume

• NIS America

• Playism

• PM Studios

The post New Game+ Expo set to return on March 4, 2021 appeared first on Destructoid.

Watching the Detectives

Nippon Ichi Software has released the opening movie to its upcoming murder mystery RPG Tantei Bokumetsu, (literally "Detective Eliminator"), which the publisher recently revealed following a series of strange and unsettling teasers.

The hyperactive cinematic introduces us to the 14 detectives of the Detective Alliance - each and every one of them highly specialized in a trademark field - who find themselves cloistered together on the remote "Morgue Island". One of these lawmakers, however, is actually a lawbreaker, the notorious s??erial killer "Yatzuzakikou," who is currently wanted for ?over 100 brutal murders.

With a killer among their midst and the body count fast rising, it will be up to high school student and wannabe investigator Wato Houjou to explore the island, hunt for clues, and interrogate each suspect before any more blood is shed, including their own. As one would expect, having a huge party of detectives on hand is pretty useful, and Wato will be able to call on each investigator's certain set of skills to hel?p ascertain the killer's identity. But who can he trust?

It's impossible not to get a Danganronpa vibe from Tantei Bokumetsu - the "specialized" cast of characters, the murder mystery, the remote location, the character tropes, the wild fashions. The gameplay, however, does have its own unique style, depicting the action akin to a tabletop game. As to whether Tantei Bokumetsu will capture th?e same morbid fascination of Kazutaka Kodaka's mystery series is ??a case yet to be closed.

Tantei Bokumetsu launches in Japan on PS4 and Switch May 27. You can check out more screenshots and character portraits over on the official website. No western localization has been confirmed.

Tantei Bokumetsu opening movie first details [Gematsu]

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Bydo battles back again

NIS America has announced that incoming sci-fi shmup R-Type Final 2 will launch in the west on PS4, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch o??n April 30 - a mere day after the long-in-development title's Japanese r?elease.

R-Type Final 2 is an amalgamation of sorts of everything that has ensured Irem's classic series remains an enduring icon of the shmup genre. Players will select from one of a number of hi-tech spacecraft before jetting off into battle against the might of the evil Bydo Empire. Featuring spruced-up audio/visuals, a huge hosts of gameplay modes, and stacked with explosive weapons and power-ups, R-Type Final 2 looks set to be a fan's dream.

Indeed, the fans have only themselves to thank for this release, having generously donated the equivalent of almost $935,000 USD to developer Granzella's Kickstarter campaign back in June 2019. The dedicated R-Typer might want to check out the official NIS America online store, where a special "Inaugural Flight Edition" is now available to pre-order.

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Running through my veins

NIS America has released a gameplay trailer for its incoming third-person shooter Poison Control. The psychedelic anime adventure will la??unch on PS4 and Ninte??ndo Switch April 13, 2021.

Described by NIS as a "darkly amusing tale of redemption" Poison Control will see the player step into the dual roles of the high-energy Poisonette and her "Soul Mate" – a custom character stepping in as the player avatar. Wielding the gun-toting skills of the latter and the toxin-absorbing abilities of the former, the player must ?free a selection of troubled individuals from their unhappiness, achieved by purging their very souls of Poison Mires and the deadly "Belle's Hells."

As our heroes push through the adventure, they will unlock new skills, weapons, and abilities, with the player boosting Poisonette's stats through conversation and dialogue choices. While we're yet to check out the action for ourselves, Poison Control has a pretty kooky premise, and offers a vibrant, almost lurid reality with its hyper-colorful visuals. With release day a mere two months away, we'll soon see whether the gameplay proves equally a??s intoxicating.

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Expanded edition of the gloomy dungeon crawler in the works

Nippon Ichi Software has revealed that an expanded edition of its charming but dour adventure Void Terrarium is coming to PS5 in early 2021. Void Terrarium Plus - or to give it it's full name void tRrLM(); ++ver; //Void Terrarium Plus - will feature all of the content of the original PS4 and Nintendo Switch edition, alongside addition??al new features.

Void Terrarium is set in a grim, post-apocalyptic world, and puts players in the role of a beat-up service droid, tasked with protecting a vulnerable young girl, Toriko, from the highly toxic environment. Players gu??ide the little bot through a series of dungeons, searching out food, medicine, and resources in efforts to keep Toriko healthy while offering her some form of comfort in this dark and miserable world.

Among the new features added to Void Terrarium Plus will be the option to customize Toriko with a selection of clothes, accessories, and hairstyles. Various cute new animations have been applied to the characters and, (somewhat less cheerfully), Toriko can now catch one o??f several new illnesses, including one that apparently tur??ns her into a cat.

I love the concept and style of Void Terrarium but I just can't play it. It all looks too gosh-darn upsetting. But if you're a fan of NIS' bleak-but-hopeful tale of isolation and friendship, then maybe keep an eye out for Void Terrarium Plus. It will launch in Japan in February 2021, though the publisher is yet to offer a date for a western localization. The new content will also be made available as paid DLC for both the PlayStation 4 and Nint?endo Switch editions.

Void Terrarium Plus debut t??railer, de?tails, screenshots [Gematsu]

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