Following last year’s release of the HD-2D RPG Live a Live’s as a timed exclusive on the Nintendo Switch, Square Enix has today expanded its availability onto the PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and Windows PC via Steam. The game is developed by Team Asano, who has previously worked on a range of other notable Square Enix RPG HD-2D/2.5D projects including Octopath Traveler, Bravely Default II, and Triangle Strategy.
Live A Live sets out to offer players a unique gameplay experience, offering players the opportunity to explore eight distinct stories with eight different characters, each set in various time periods ranging from pre-historic eras to the Wild West.
The game incorporates a strategic battle system known as the “checker battle system”, allowing players to master different gameplay mechanics in each chapter, including stealth, suspense, and trap placement. The episodic story format enables players to complete each chapter in any order they choose, or even play parts of multiple chapters simultaneously.
Takashi Tokita, the producer of Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy IV and the director of the original Live A Live, has overseen the game’s modern-day release – combining pixel art nostalgia with modern graphics techniques, with they hope will provide players with a classic RPG experience enhanced by updated visuals on the PS4, PS5, and PC. Yoko Shimomura, the game’s original composer, has also recreated the soundtrack under his supervision.
A free playable demo of Live A Live is now available for download on the PlayStation Store and Steam. The demo allows players to experience the opening sections of three of the eight stories in the game: The Wild West, Twilight of Edo Japan, and The Distant Future. Players who purchase the game on PlayStation or Steam can carry over their saved progress from the demo to the full version, ensuring a seamless gaming experience. In addition, purchasing the game via the PlayStation Store or Steam comes with special bonuses (A PS4 theme or Wallpaper), and Steam players can take advantage of a 20% off introductory offer until 11 May 2023.
