Namco has revealed new details regarding its newest Tales title, Tales of Legendia for PlayStation 2. The so-called skit system will return, allowing players to gauge the mood of their party members during scenario event scenes. The skit system however will not be limited to those event scenes. If certain conditions are met, skits will also appear in dungeons and on the field map. By engaging in them, players will be able to learn more about the background of the various characters.

Since the stage of Tales of Legendia's story is the Ruin Ship which is constantly in motion, but there will be no directions shown on the field map. Instead players can navigate from one location to another by paying attention to the clock. When it is 12:00 at the ship's bow, it is 6:00 at its stern. In addition, a small map will be visible on the screen's lower-right hand corner.

The first sub-characters have also been revealed today. The duo of Ed Curtis and Isabella Robbins call themselves the bosses of Lighthouse Town. The two are often heard performing songs at the town's fountain square. The Mofumofus have evolved from sea otters. While they wear clothes, they still have some sea otters traits, such as excellent swimming skills. The three Mofumofu brothers Kyuppo, Pippo and Poppo will support the party on its journey through the Ruin Ship.

Tales of Legendia will be released in Japan sometime this year. Namco Hometek plans to release the game in the US in winter 2006.

• GameWatch