Just past the Ides of March, we arrive at a very stacked week. Three sprawling open worlds invite you to sink dozens, potentially hundreds of hours into exploring every last nook and cranny. Plus, we’re getting a new action roguelike that just might scratch that Supergiant-shaped itch. RPGs Coming This Week has surveyed the landscape, and it may not be endless, but it’s damn close. Let’s mosey!
Reignbreaker – March 18th (Windows)
Reignbreaker, from Studio Fizbin, may take obvious inspiration from Supergiant’s Hades in terms of gameplay and certain design elements, but everything else about it is definitely original (or new to me, at least). I mean, “dystopian medievalpunk” is one hell of a descriptor, and the GIFs on the Steam page showing off this mix of historical and cyberpunk aesthetics pretty much sealed the deal. I’m curious to see how far this concept goes, and the story’s rather interesting too.
You play as the rebel Clef, who’s working to take down the monarchy by hack-and-slashing and comboing her way through the queen’s stronghold, getting progressively stronger as she collects upgrades, weapons and such. If you’re into anti-authoritarian themes, Reignbreaker is certainly making no bones about it.
On a sad note, Studio Fizbin is winding down later this year due to decisions by parent company Thunderful. Reignbreaker being a final hurrah for this talented team is apt, I suppose.
by Gio Castillo
Assassin’s Creed Shadows – March 20th (PS5, XSX, Windows)
Assassin’s Creed fans will get the game and setting many fans have been wanting for years, when Assassin’s Creed Shadows releases on March 20th. After a series of delays, Ubisoft is finally delivering the feudal Japan experience fans have longed for. Formerly known as Assassin’s Creed Codename Red, Shadows will transport players to the Azuchi-Momoyama era of the late 16th century. The game takes a cue from the previous series entry, Assassin’s Creed Syndicate, by pairing two compelling protagonists with contrasting playstyles. Yasuke, a formidable warrior — the first black samurai in Japanese history — is focused on strength and impact, while Naoe, a female shinobi, is built on stealth and speed. This dual-character system allows players to tailor their approach depending on the mission at hand.
Like the rest of the series, expect to explore a richly detailed world combining historical authenticity and innovative gameplay. Among Shadows’ mechanics are a dynamic weather system and the ability to dispatch scouts. Ubisoft has promised an engaging narrative intertwining personal stakes and broader historical conflicts. As Yasuke and Naoe navigate this turbulent period, players will encounter romance and relationships that echo the depth seen in previous entries like Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. Shadows could well redefine expectations for the franchise, much like Assassin’s Creed Origins did with its transition to true RPG.
by Jimmy Turner
Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition – March 20th (Switch)
Man, remember how elusive Monolith Soft was about Xenoblade Chronicles X on Nintendo Switch? I was pretty sure we’d get the remaster eventually (like, Switch 2 at the earliest), but I definitely wasn’t expecting it this soon. Future redeemed, indeed.
With Xenoblade Chronicles X: Definitive Edition, players who missed out on the original Wii U release (myself included) will finally get to explore the world of Mira, gliding around on those sick mechas known as Skells. This remaster brings a host of improvements, and I understand there’s some new story content as well, so veterans have a strong reason to revisit. As for me, I’m excited to experience everything for the first time, including to finally listen to the bonkers soundtrack I’ve heard so much praise for.
by Gio Castillo
Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land – March 21st (PS5, XSX, PS4, XB1, Switch, Windows)
Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land takes the long-running Atelier franchise on an adventurous leap into an expansive open world. This latest title marks the start of the Envisioned subseries, making it an accessible entry point for newcomers while still offering depth for longtime fans.
Players embark on a journey with the spirited alchemist Yumia, who navigates a world where her profession is viewed with suspicion following a history of disasters. With Yumia joining a research team unraveling the mysteries of a fallen empire, players will explore vibrant regions teeming with secrets and engage with a diverse cast of characters. The game smoothly balances a darker narrative tone with the series’ trademark charm.
Atelier Yumia puts a focus on exploration. Players can craft items in the field, utilize a unique staff that doubles as a weapon, and even construct personal ateliers across various locations. Like the Ryza subseries, Yumia shifts away from classic turn-based mechanics, instead embracing dynamic real-time action where players must adapt to enemy patterns and strategize using crafted items. Yumia’s journey adopts elements of the Ryza games, but its new protagonist and darker tone give it a significantly different feel. With its rich narrative, vast open world, and new story arc, Atelier Yumia could be a perfect starting point for interested JRPG fans.
by Jimmy Turner
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