Posts Tagged ‘Square-Enix’

Star Ocean: First Departure / Star Ocean: Second Evolution

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: October 21, 2008
STAR OCEAN: Second Evolution™
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: January 6, 2009
Developer: SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system
Genre: RPG
*These titles will be released as two separate products

Following the exploits of humankind’s journey across the stars, the STAR OCEAN saga comes to life in the completely remastered STAR OCEAN: First Departure and STAR OCEAN: Second Evolution, exclusively for the PSP® (PlayStation®Portable) system. Both feature a revised game engine, an improved battle system and fully voiced, all-new animated scenes displayed in 16:9 widescreen. And with a newly added layer of character interaction, players can enjoy their journey into the rich STAR OCEAN universe like never before.

STORY STAR OCEAN: First Departure

Space Date 346: The crew of a Terran Federation ship arrives on the planet Roak. With the help of a stalwart band of local heroes, the crew must work together to unravel a mystery and halt a galactic war. STAR OCEAN: First Departure marks the first time that the initial instalment in the popular STAR OCEAN franchise is available in North America.

STAR OCEAN: Second Evolution

Space Date 366: A young Federation officer finds himself transported to a mystical planet, where he is suddenly anointed as the Hero of Light. He begins a journey to fulfill a prophecy and save a newfound race. STAR OCEAN: Second Evolution continues the STAR OCEAN saga!

FEATURES

• Completely rebuilt for the PSP system, with real-time battles that keep players immersed in the action
• STAR OCEAN: First Departure, the entry that started it all, now available to North American audiences for the first time
• Brand-new, fully voiced animated cut-scenes provided by anime powerhouse Production I.G
• The private action system adds depth to the story, introducing riveting subplots between characters

Star Ocean: The Last Hope

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Developer: tri-Ace Inc.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform:
Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft
Genre: RPG
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: Spring 2009

STAR OCEAN: THE LAST HOPE is the latest entry in the futuristic space opera RPG series, STAR OCEAN. Science fiction and fantasy meld in this long-awaited continuation of the celebrated franchise from developer tri-Ace Inc.

STORY

The year is S.D. 10. In the aftermath of World War III, humanity voyages into the stars in search of a new home…and a second chance.

FEATURES

• A prequel that combines sci-fi and fantasy elements, spanning multiple planets and the vastness of space itself to recount the origins of the STAR OCEAN universe
• Exhilarating combat expands upon the franchise’s famous real-time battle system, including the amazing graphics and visual effects only possible on the Xbox 360
• Features breathtaking CG movies by Visual Works, the cutting-edge studio whose previous work includes cut scenes for the acclaimed FINAL FANTASY RPG series

The Last Remnant

Sunday, July 20th, 2008
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform:
Xbox 360®video game and entertainment system from Microsoft /
PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system
Genre: RPG
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: (Xbox 360) November 20, 2008 / (PLAYSTATION 3 system) TBA

A brand-new RPG created using the best artistry and technology Square Enix has to offer, THE LAST REMNANT promises to set new standards with its arrival on the next-generation scene. The first RPG in a new series brought to you by Square Enix’s next-generation creators on Unreal Engine 3, the simultaneous international release and all-new battle system signify a new era for a next-generation world.

THE LAST REMNANT delivers a dynamic gaming experience with stunning graphics, a moving story and mind-blowing large-scale battles created by the team that brought you the FINAL FANTASY® and SaGa series.

STORY

In ancient times, mysterious artifacts referred to as Remnants were discovered all over the world. People used these objects for their awesome powers — a choice that eventually began to cause a rift in the world’s balance. Equality was replaced by those who ruled and those who were ruled over. War was inevitable. A thousand years later is when this story begins…

Rush lives with his sister Irina on secluded Eulam Island, far from the power struggles for Remnants that are occurring back on the mainland. However, this peaceful life is shattered when his sister is suddenly kidnapped by a mysterious group of soldiers right before his eyes. He immediately sets off after them, unaware of the evils of the outside world but determined to find his sister at any cost.

FEATURES
• Experience groundbreaking graphics, only possible on next-generation platforms, that bring the intensity of gameplay to an entirely new level
• Uncover the mystery of the Remnants, powerful artifacts from an ancient civilization that are scattered around the world and stand as they were a millennia ago
• Navigate a massive battlefield while surrounded by countless foes and friends
• Immerse in exhilarating, large-scale battles through a never-before-seen battle command system

Song Summoner: The Unsung Heroes

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: iPod nano with video, iPod classic and fifth generation iPod
Genre: Role-Playing
Launch Date: Available now
Price: 4.99 USD (iTunes® Store download)

SONG SUMMONER: The Unsung Heroes is a Role-Playing Game that transforms your iPod® songs into powerful “Tune Troopers” that you can control in battle! As the protagonist Ziggy, you will embark on an epic journey to rescue your brother from the clutches of the Mechanical Militia! Intriguing characters, an epic story and a tactics-based battle system combine for a rich RPG experience previously only available on home and handheld game consoles.

Story
From the days of old, Melodica was a land of music, a land of freedom. The people sang, played and danced to the music they so cherished. Until one day, they came — the Mechanoids, who enhanced their bodies with machinery. Those who were tempted by greed and power willingly gave away their souls for bodies of steel, forsaking their humanity to become cold, emotionless automatons. Now, they seek to destroy all that do not embrace their way of life.

But there is hope on the horizon. There are those who are fated to stand against the tyranny of the machines — the Superstars, who can turn sound into lethal weapons, and the Conductor, also known as the Song Summoner, who can summon powerful warriors born of music.

In their most desperate hour, Melodica awaits the arrival of their new Song Summoner…

Features

• Transform your iPod songs into “Tune Troopers” to combat the evil Mechanical Militia.
• Tune Trooper types and abilities are determined by the songs used to create them.
• Your Tune Troopers can be powered up even outside of the game-just by listening to the songs you used to create them!
• Control Ziggy, a “Conductor” that creates warriors out of music, and guide him through his journey to save his brother Zero from the Mechanical Militia.
• Experience a turn-based tactics battle system, divided into player and enemy phases where each side takes turns maneuvering their forces.
• Deploy the right troopers at the right time, and use contraptions found on the map effectively to achieve victory in battle!
• iPod Click Wheel allows players to play the game as easily as selecting music.

Infinite Undiscovery

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Developer: tri-Ace Inc.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform:
Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft (Exclusive)
Genre: RPG
ESRB: T (Teen)
Ship Date: September 2, 2008

INFINITE UNDISCOVERY is the newest fantasy RPG developed by tri-Ace Inc. exclusively for Xbox 360. A collaborative project with the fan favorite development studio which created such hits as STAR OCEAN® and VALKYRIE PROFILE®, INFINITE UNDISCOVERY is an unforgettable experience that combines the talents of both Square Enix and tri-Ace. Players will be drawn into a real-time world woven of countless threads where their choices will spin untold discoveries.

STORY

Deep in a forest, in one of the Order’s prisons, a young boy named Capell was being held captive. His captors called him the “Liberator,” though he had no clue as to what they meant. On the third day of his imprisonment, he was rescued by a spirited young woman named Aya. She was a member of a small band of brave warriors who had gathered under the banner of Sigmund the Liberator to free the world from the iron grip of the Order.
Upon meeting Sigmund, he was surprised to find a man who shared his very face and appearance. This meeting would change Capell’s life forever and shake the foundation of the world itself.

FEATURES

Discovery & Impact
o The actions you choose to take upon new discoveries will have a real-time impact on the world

Situational Battles
o Players will be confronted with a variety of dramatic situational battles such as executing a daring escape while a gigantic ogre follows in hot pursuit, or waging battle amidst towering tidal waves. The dynamic environments change and respond in real time, creating an entirely new experience never before seen in the genre

A Seamless World and Real-time Action
o Combat, exploration, and other actions all take place within the same environment, seamlessly shifting between each game facet. Battles are carried out in real-time, bringing the vibrant fighting sequences of the STAR OCEAN series out of the traditional battle screen into a beautiful and lush environment

Connect Ability System
o 17 characters join the hero, Capell, with unique Connect Ability actions that allow the player to tap into their abilities and take direct control

Final Fantasy IV (DS) E3 fact sheet

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: Nintendo DS
Genre: RPG
ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10 and older)
Ship Date: July 22, 2008

Originally released for the Super NES® in 1991, FINAL FANTASY IV was hailed as a groundbreaking title that, to this day, is considered by gamers and critics alike as one of the best games ever made. With its groundbreaking Active Time Battle (ATB) system and engrossing, character-driven plot, the game completely altered the landscape of the RPG genre.

Now, Square Enix breathes new life into this classic for the 21st century. FINAL FANTASY IV for Nintendo DS™ features beautiful, fully 3D cutscenes with voiceovers, capturing the emotional drama that first touched the hearts of fans over fifteen years ago. The new ability system and added DS functionality introduce a fresh experience to both new and returning FINAL FANTASY IV fans. With a storyline that sets the stage for all subsequent FINAL FANTASY titles, FINAL FANTASY IV is a must-play for those looking to jump into the best-selling RPG franchise in the world.

STORY

Four elemental Crystals, each possessing awesome power, lie scattered throughout the realm. However, men are quick to covet things which offer strength, and easily corrupted by the might which they possess…

Seduced by the promised power of the Crystals, the kingdom of Baron begins employing unprovoked force to seize them from peaceful nations. The dark knight Cecil – Lord Captain of Baron’s elite force, the Red Wings – is ordered by his king to obtain the Crystals, but soon begins to question the monarch’s motives. Stricken with grief at his own actions, yet burdened by his loyalty to his country and his personal sense of honor, Cecil at last decides to turn from the path of darkness and destruction.

Enraged, the king accuses him of disloyalty, strips Cecil of his command, and sends him off to slay a mysterious beast that lurks in the nearby Valley of Mist. Cecil embarks on a fateful journey that will bring trials, betrayals, friendship, loss and self-discovery. Can Cecil open his eyes and become the man of honor that he must be?

FEATURES
• Witness the dramatic and thrilling story of this mythical game world brought to life through astounding 3D graphics, gorgeous CG cutscenes and top-notch voice acting
• Create a versatile party using the all-new Augment System – a dynamic system that allows the player to assign special abilities to characters
• Dive into the first RPG to incorporate the innovative Active Time Battle system, now further enhanced and refined for the Nintendo DS
• Listen to a beautifully remixed score by world-renowned composer Nobuo Uematsu that breathes new life into some of the most beloved FINAL FANTASY themes
• Navigate effortlessly through the game with Nintendo DS Touch Screen functionality and stylus-driven controls while receiving vital assistance via the dual-screen presentation
• Train and customize Whytkin by playing a variety of mini-games and challenge another player to head-to-head battle via local wireless connection

Dragon Quest IV: Chapters of the Chosen

Sunday, July 20th, 2008

Scenario & Game Design / General Director: Yuji Horii
Character Design: Akira Toriyama
Music: Koichi Sugiyama
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Developer: ArtePiazza
Platform: Nintendo DS™
Genre: RPG
ESRB: E10+ (Everyone 10 and older)
Ship Date: September 16, 2008

For the first time, a full-fledged DRAGON QUEST adventure arrives on Nintendo DS with DRAGON QUEST IV: Chapters of the Chosen. The brainchild of series creator Yuji Horii, the DRAGON QUEST series has continued to excite and enchant players with its engaging storylines, charming characters designed by world-famous manga artist Akira Toriyama and imaginative worlds complemented by the memorable scores of renowned composer Koichi Sugiyama. Experience an adventure of epic proportions, presented through a unique portrayal of multiple character perspectives. While retaining the classic look and feel of the original release, this remake breathes new life into a much-loved entry in the DRAGON QUEST series with 3D graphics, dual screen presentation and newly animated monsters.

Story
A prestigious army captain, an adventurous princess seeking to test her skills beyond palace walls, a humble merchant aspiring to open his own shop, and two sisters who wish to avenge their father’s death… These seemingly unrelated individuals will soon cross paths when fate brings them together to journey alongside you, the hero. Dive into this unique adventure, and discover an epic tale told through the experiences and emotions of characters from all walks of life.

Features
• Embark on a journey to explore the land, seas and skies of the DRAGON QUEST universe in this grand entry from the Zenithia Trilogy. Soon to follow are DRAGON QUEST V: Hand of the Heavenly Bride™ and DRAGON QUEST VI: Realms of Reverie™, never before released in North America.
• Indulge in the colorful DRAGON QUEST world created by Yuji Horii, combined with the charming characters and monsters designed by Akira Toriyama and memorable soundtrack from famed composer Koichi Sugiyama to create an unforgettable gaming experience.
• Experience the world of DRAGON QUEST through the perspectives of multiple characters with a unique, chapter-driven storyline
• Journey through a beautifully rendered 3D world, with dynamic dual screen presentation and newly animated monsters.
• Enjoy an all-new English translation that incorporates 13 known dialects from around the globe, bringing the diverse world and characters of DRAGON QUEST to life.
• Unravel the ancient mystery behind a cursed kingdom by expanding your town via Chance Encounter mode, available through local wireless connection.

Square-Enix announces ship dates for 2 hot releases

Friday, July 18th, 2008

THE LAST REMNANT AND STAR OCEAN: THE LAST HOPE SHIP DATES ANNOUNCED
 
The Count Down Begins Today for Two Global Square Enix Releases on Xbox 360 
 
Los Angeles (June 18, 2008)
 
Square Enix, Inc., the publisher of Square Enix™ interactive entertainment products in North America, today announced the Games for Windows version of THE LAST REMNANT™ and ship dates for the much anticipated global releases for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft. THE LAST REMNANT is slated to hit store shelves on November 20, 2008 while STAR OCEAN®: THE LAST HOPE™ is set for a Spring 2009 release.

 
THE LAST REMNANT
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Developer: Square Enix Co., Ltd.
Platform: Xbox 360
Games for Windows (PC)
PLAYSTATION®3 computer entertainment system
Genre: RPG
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: (Xbox 360) November 20, 2008
(Games for Windows) TBA
(PLAYSTATION 3 system) TBA
 
A brand-new RPG created using the best artistry and technology Square Enix has to offer, THE LAST REMNANT promises to set new standards with its arrival on the next-generation scene. The first RPG in a new series brought to you by Square Enix’s next-generation creators on Unreal® Engine 3, the simultaneous international release and all-new battle system signify a new era for a next-generation world.
THE LAST REMNANT delivers a dynamic gaming experience with stunning graphics, a moving story and mind-blowing large-scale battles created by the team that brought you the FINAL FANTASY® and SaGa series.

 
 
STAR OCEAN: The Last Hope
Developer: tri-Ace Inc.
Publisher: Square Enix, Inc.
Platform: Xbox 360
Genre: RPG
ESRB: Not Yet Rated
Ship Date: Spring 2009

 
STAR OCEAN: THE LAST HOPE is the latest entry in the futuristic space opera RPG series, STAR OCEAN. Science fiction and fantasy meld in this long-awaited continuation of the celebrated franchise from developer tri-Ace Inc.