Unfortunately it doesn’t seem like Monster Monpiece will ever be published in Australia, following its release in North America this week and Europe very shortly. Because of this, myself and I am sure others might have been sceptical about plans for future Idea Factory International releases in the region, especially with Hyperdimension Neptunia Re;Birth 1 set for release later this year as part of an already established franchise.
I come bearing some good news, with a representative of the publisher confirming that Hyperdimension Neptunia Re;Birth 1 will be available for purchase digitally in Australia, and IFI will be working hard to release other titles in the region as well.
Hyperdimension Neptunia Re;Birth 1 is an enhanced PlayStation Vita remake of Hyperdimension Neptunia (PS3) which was released on the PlayStation 3 back in early-2011 by NIS America. The game features an overhauled battle system, improved visuals and amendments to the plot among other things.
Gamindustri: One of many parallel universes protected by four goddesses known as CPUs. Long ago, these four CPUs engaged in a war for supremacy known as the War of the Guardians. However, this war weakened their protective hold on the world inhabited by their people, and in turn it was flooded by monsters under the influence of an individual known as Arfoire.
During the War of the Guardians, one of the CPUs—Neptune—was defeated by the others and hurled down to the world’s surface from the heavens. The drop caused Neptune to lose her memories, as learned by Compa and IF, who happen upon the fallen girl. A mysterious book containing knowledge of all Gamindustri’s history suddenly speaks out to Neptune, Compa, and IF. With the assistance of this sentient book, the trio embark on an extraordinary journey across four different nations on a quest to save the entire world!
So basically, we’re getting digital only just like Europe? That kind of sucks. Especially considering how NISA were able to give us a physical release of the idol spinoff.
Although I suppose I could take advantage of the lack of region locking on the Vita and import the US version if I’m really desperate to have a physical copy and the price difference isn’t significant.
Apparently they will be offering an English dub though which works for me. Hopefully that also means the original cast will return even if the script is more literal (Or at least that’s what I expect given the loose translation was where most of the complaints about NISA were directed)