Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma’s Bold New Direction for a Beloved Franchise is Revealed During Nintendo Direct
Marvelous Europe revealed Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma for the Nintendo Switch™ system and Windows PC via Steam, debuting the first official trailer on today’s Nintendo Direct livestream and announcing a Spring 2025 release.
This next-level offering is the latest entry in the popular action-RPG and life-simulation series, and introduces players to the lands of the east for the first time in franchise history with Japanese-inspired visuals and new twists on familiar themes and gameplay elements.
The classic action-RPG and life-simulation gameplay, beloved by Rune Factory fans across the globe, is taken in a bold new direction 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 spreading Blight 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-favourites, as well as charming romance candidates. Embrace your fate. The adventure of a new world awaits.
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma 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, 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!
Pre-orders for the Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma “Earth Dancer Edition” will be available soon at participating retailers via the Marvelous Europe website for an RRP of €99.99. This stunning collection comes in a custom outer box and includes a physical copy of the game, an original soundtrack CD, an art book, an Azuma-inspired folding fan, the “Seasons of Love” DLC bundle, additional DLC costumes for your protagonists and their divine sidekick Woolby, and a plush Woolby keychain. The standard edition of the game will also be available to pre-order for an RRP of €59.99. Details on digital editions and pricing will be announced later.