During today’s Nintendo livestream, Marvelous Europe and XSEED Games used the opportunity to unveil Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, the latest installment in the long-running series which merges action-RPG and life simulation mechanics. The game is set for release in Spring 2025 (Autumn 2025 in Australia) on the Nintendo Switch and Windows PC via Steam.
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma introduces players to a new setting in the eastern lands of Azuma, featuring Japanese-inspired visuals. This marks the first time the series has ventured into the eastern regions.
The story centres around the player assuming the role of an Earth Dancer, tasked with combating a spreading blight that threatens to engulf Azuma. Players can choose from one of two protagonists, whose destinies are intertwined by mysterious forces.
In addition to traditional farming, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma introduces the ability to rebuild entire villages, moving beyond managing a single plot of land. Players will construct and strategically place buildings to attract people back to the villages, revitalising the area and reviving gods to bring life and resources back to the blighted land. Seasonal-themed villages and traditional Japanese festivals will add to the game’s immersive experience, providing new and returning events for players to enjoy.
Following past Rune Factory games, each protagonist will be able to interact with a range of romanceable characters, this time both recruitable to aid in battle, and fully voiced.
Promoted features of Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma include:
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, farm, and undo the Blight’s damage.
It Takes a Village: Don’t just mind the farm—rebuild entire villages! Construct and place buildings strategically to entice 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 in battle, too!
