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| Bryan Grosnick |
Not to mention a new version of a visual novel...
01.27.11 - 3:41 PM
Japanese developer Aquaplus has announced the development of three new games, all for the PlayStation 3 console. Two of the games are strategy RPGs, and both are sequels to existing franchises. Tears to Tiara 2 is a direct sequel to the first Tears to Tiara game, picking up the story with the same characters and world. Tears to Tiara was originally developed with a trilogy in mind, so there is certainly room for an overarching story. The sequel will feature a mix of 2D and 3D graphics, as story scenes will have 2D graphics but battles will feature a 3D map.
The other SRPG offering from Aquaplus is Utawarerumono 2, another sequel to a previously-published game. This sequel takes place in the same world as its predecessor, but offers a new protagonist. This new lead begins the game with amnesia, a plot device that has been used once or twice before in JRPGs. At any rate, the PS3 has not seen very many strategy RPGs (especially in the West), so this assuredly is good news for fans of the genre.
In addition to the announcement of the two PS3 SRPGs, Aquaplus has announced To Heart 2 DX Plus, a new version of the visual romance novel. This upgraded version includes new motion portraits, as well as other new features.
While To Heart 2 DX Plus is slated for a summer 2011 release in Japan, Utawarerumono 2 and Tears to Tiara 2 have no specific release window. Unsurprisingly, none of the three titles have been announced for a stateside release at this time. Keep checking in with RPGFan for more details as they become available.
