Aruze has opened the official Shadow Hearts 2 website. As previously reported, the sequel to Sacnoth's 2001 sleeper hit will feature two main characters: Nicholas Conrad and Kallen Koenig. The former is a 27 year old exorcist sent by the Vatican to the French village of Domremy. The 25 year-old Kallen is a sublieutenant of the German Empire's armed forces during the second year of World War I (1915). After she and her unit enter the village's church, they are surprised by a demon. The creature kills off her entire unit, with only her miraculously surviving the onslaught. Subsequently, she meets up with Nicholas and their adventure begins. In battle, the game will support up to four characters.

Developed by newly-established Aruze subsidary Nautilus, Shadow Hearts 2 will be available in Japan sometime this winter. Nautilus currently employees about 70 people and is headed by Aruze management chief Kouichi Yoshii.

• Official Shadow Hearts 2 Website