Tecmo Koei have just confirmed that work on localizing of Ar Nosurge: Ode to an Unborn Star is underway, and that the game will be released for the PlayStation 3 across Europe on September 26.
The Sci-Fi RPG is being developed by niche, budget RPG developer Gust and it shows in the game’s sales pitch; Although it’s a “deep turn-based RPG”, the focus is more on item crafting and forging character relationships which in turn strengthen the entire party, rather than mission success. It reminds us of the equally quirkly named Atelier Escha and Logy: Alchemists of the Dusk Sky, a game by the same developer, which was focused on relaxed experimentation. And whereas we didn’t feel that game lived up to its potential it was certainly unique.
Where Ar Nosurge looks to differentiate itself from Atelier is in its setting and pairs-based battle system. In the world of Ar Nosurge a nomadic space faring civilization has been roaming space for 2000 years in search of a new home. Players will switch between two sets of characters; Delta and Casty, whose goal is to protect humanity; and Ion and Earthes, who are trying to find a way home to Earth.
These character sets also fight as pairs in battle, with one character standing on the front lines whilst the other plays a song in the back. Songs can affect enemies in battle as well as reinforcements that are off-screen until the enemy frontlines are cleared.
The Japanese version of Ar Nosurge enjoyed a generally positive critical reception, netting an 32/40 from Famitsu, so we are interesting in seeing how the localization holds up. Currently there’s no word on a localization of Ar Nosurge Plus, the PS Vita remake of Ar Nosurge that is set for Japanese release on October 2.
The consistency of the artstyle, animation quality and modelling all look better than what we expected from the developer based on our time with Escha and Logy. Take a look over the screens and gameplay montage (based on the Japanese version) for yourself.
Shehzaan Abdulla
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