Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma will launch for Switch and PC via Steam on May 30, publishers Marvelous, Marvelous USA, and Marvelous Europe announced.
The latest issue of Weekly Famitsu, due out on January 16, has a 16-page feature on the Japanese culture-inspired Rune Factory game, introducing the story, protagonists Subaru (voiced by Junya Enoki) and Kaguya (voiced by Yuishikawa), their fluffy companion Mocoron (voiced by Ai Kakuma), the “fantasy life” game cycle, and the protagonist’s 12 love interests including the mysterious archaeologist Hina (voiced by Shiina Natsukawa), the sky-faring adventurer Mauro, and the vibrant teashop owner Iroha. It also has a special interview with game director Shiro Maekawa.
Here is an overview of the game, via Marvelous USA:
About
The classic action RPG and life-simulation gameplay beloved by Rune Factory fans across the globe is boldly reimagined in Guardians of Azuma. This all-new adventure takes place in the never-before-seen eastern country of Azuma where you will assume the Earth Dancer powers and fight against the corruption spreading throughout Azuma to bring hope back to this once-prosperous land.
Choose from one of two protagonists whose destinies are intertwined by mysterious forces. Use sacred treasures to fight against the Blight’s many forms to restore the people, and even gods, to their natural glory. Take farming further, as you’ll manage more than a plot, rebuilding entire villages and cultivating new allies and resources along the way. Explore seasonal-themed villages heavily inspired by traditional Japanese culture, each with brand-new festivals and revamped fan-favorites, as well as charming romance candidates. Embrace your fate. The adventure of a new world awaits.
Story
The Celestial Collapse—a calamity caused by a colossal object crashing into the eastern lands known as Azuma. The devastating impact sent fragments of terrain to the skies above and the seas below. With the earth shattered, the power provided by the runes ceased to flow. The gods of nature vanished soon after. Mountains crumbled and fields withered, leaving the people with nothing…not even hope.
You awaken, startled by a dream of dueling dragons. You don’t remember how or why, but a voice resonates within you.
“Accept the power of an Earth Dancer. Use this power to save the land.”
Key Features
- Bold New Abilities and Weapons – As an Earth Dancer, use the power of dance, sacred treasures, and fresh weapons like the Bow and Talisman to purify the land, your farms, and undo the Blight’s damage.
- It Takes a Village – Don’t just mind the farm—rebuild entire villages! Construct and place buildings, enticing people to return to the villages and contribute. Revive the gods to bring vitality and valuable resources back to the plagued lands.
- Your Fantasy Japanese Life – Experience beautiful Japanese-inspired character designs and aesthetics—from festivals to events to monsters. Explore Azuma’s natural landscapes and its seasonal-themed locales steeped in tradition.
- Classic Romance and Relationships – Choose between male and female protagonists, then befriend or romance any of the eligible candidates in fully voiced scenarios. Recruit these new friends to aid you in battle, too.
Thanks, Famitsu.