Square Enix has announced its latest venture into the world of mobile and PC gaming with Ember Storia, a strategy RPG slated for release on iOS, Android, and PC (through DMM Games). Developed by a veteran team with experience from beloved titles like Fire Emblem and Final Fantasy, Ember Storia promises to deliver an epic experience full of strategic depth, engaging characters, and stunning world-building.
A World Shrouded in Mystery and Monsters
Set in the dark and dangerous land of Purgatory, Ember Storia revolves around humanity’s struggle for survival in a world overrun by monsters. Players are tasked with leading armies of warriors, called “Embers,” who have been resurrected from the souls of the dead. These warriors form the core of the player’s forces, and much of the gameplay focuses on training them, gathering resources, and battling fierce enemies to reclaim the world from chaos.
One of the game’s highlights is the real-time strategic combat. Players must analyze battlefields, overcome magical beasts, and conquer the looming tower at the center of the world, all while managing the floating city of Anima Arca, which serves as the base of operations. The development of this city is crucial, as it supports construction, research, and the production of valuable resources that contribute to the strength of your army.
A Star-Studded Development Team
Ember Storia brings together an impressive lineup of talent from Square Enix most iconic titles. Character designs are led by Yusuke Kozaki, known for his work on Fire Emblem Awakening and Pokémon GO. Fans of Square Enix’s legendary music can look forward to a new score composed by Masashi Hamauzu, the composer behind Final Fantasy XIII and SaGa Frontier 2. The storyline is written by Benny Matsuyama, whose previous work includes SaGa Frontier Remastered.
In addition to the rich world-building and tactical gameplay, Ember Storia features a fully voiced main storyline with a cast of over 40 Japanese voice actors. The narrative weaves a tale of destiny and survival, with Live2D technology enhancing the character dialogues, making interactions feel dynamic and immersive.
Key Features of Ember Storia
- Real-time Tactical Combat: Players will need to think on their feet as they engage in battles against monstrous creatures. Every decision matters, and victory will require careful planning and real-time analysis of the battlefield.
- City Development: Managing the floating city of Anima Arca adds a layer of strategy outside of combat. Players can build and customize the city, strengthening their forces by training their Embers and upgrading equipment crafted from materials obtained during battles.
- Embers as Core Allies: The Embers are the primary soldiers under the player’s command. These otherworldly warriors, resurrected from hell, can be customized and upgraded using items obtained from defeating enemies, adding depth to character progression.
- Immersive Storytelling: The game’s rich narrative is complemented by a talented voice cast and Live2D animations, ensuring that players are drawn into the world of Purgatory as they uncover its mysteries.
A Familiar Yet Unique Visual Style
For fans of the Fire Emblem series, Ember Storia’s visual style will feel both familiar and refreshing. Yusuke Kozaki’s distinctive art shines through in the character designs, blending the medieval fantasy aesthetic with hints of steampunk technology. The game’s environments are equally impressive, from the monstrous landscapes of Purgatory to the intricately designed floating city that players will develop over time.
Anticipated Release and Availability
Ember Storia is set to launch on November 29, 2024, according to its listing on the App Store. However, Square Enix has yet to officially confirm this date. The game will be free-to-play, with additional in-game purchases likely to support its ongoing content updates and live-service model.
While the game is initially being released in Japan, it’s expected that Ember Storia could see a global release, given Square Enix’s strong presence in the international mobile gaming market. Fans of strategy RPGs and Square Enix’s storytelling legacy will undoubtedly have their eyes on this title as it nears its debut.
With Ember Storia, Square Enix continues to push the boundaries of mobile gaming, offering players a blend of tactical depth, engaging storylines, and stunning art design. For fans of strategy RPGs or anyone looking for a new game with strong narrative elements and a tactical edge, Ember Storia is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the genre.
As more information becomes available in the weeks leading up to its release, fans will be eager to see how Ember Storia performs and whether it lives up to the high standards set by Square Enix’s previous titles. Keep an eye on this one—it could be the next big thing in mobile gaming.
