Marvelous USA has officially released Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, the latest entry in the long-running action RPG and life simulation series. The game is now available worldwide on Nintendo Switch, Windows PC via Steam, and as a flagship title for the new Nintendo Switch 2. This installment reimagines the franchise with a fresh setting—Azuma, a region inspired by Eastern culture—along with deeper gameplay mechanics, enhanced combat, and a renewed focus on community-building.
In Guardians of Azuma, players assume the role of an Earth Dancer, a new class that wields dance and sacred relics to fight against the Celestial Collapse, a phenomenon corrupting the land. As the world’s divine energy fades, the hero must restore life by purifying tainted areas, rebuilding abandoned villages, and forming bonds with the locals. With a redesigned structure that emphasizes seasonal aesthetics, intricate relationships, and large-scale restoration, the game aims to welcome both longtime fans and newcomers.
Core Features:
- Expanded Combat and Farming Mechanics: New weapons, including bows and talismans, complement the Earth Dancer’s unique dance-based combat. Players battle the blight in fast-paced action sequences.
- Village Restoration System: Beyond farming, players must rebuild seasonal villages, attract NPCs to return, and revive dormant divine powers. Village layout and construction directly impact growth and prosperity.
- Rich Eastern-Inspired Setting: Azuma features four distinct regions, each themed after a season and inspired by traditional Japanese landscapes. Characters, monsters, and festivals reflect this cultural influence.
- Multiple Protagonists and Relationships: Players choose between a male or female protagonist, each with unique storylines. A diverse selection of romanceable characters—both human and divine—offer companionship and combat support.
- Multiplatform and Cross-Generation Support: Available on Nintendo Switch, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2. Players can upgrade from Switch to Switch 2 for $10. All versions support mouse or Joy-Con 2 controls, depending on the platform.
Editions and Pricing:
Standard Editions:
- Nintendo Switch & PC: $59.99
- Nintendo Switch 2: $69.99
Digital Deluxe Edition ($69.98):
Includes Seasons of Love Bundle and Festive Attire and Dark Woolby Bundle.
Super Digital Deluxe Edition ($79.98):
Adds digital soundtrack and art book to Digital Deluxe contents.
Physical Earth Dancer Edition ($99.99, releases June 20):
Includes game, 2-CD soundtrack, 160-page art book, fan, Woolby plush, and full DLC.
Earth Dancer Accessory Set ($49.99, available June 20):
Includes soundtrack, art book, fan, and plush (game not included).
DLC Highlights:
- Rune Factory 4 Hero Outfit Bundle – $2.99
- Bachelorette Outfit Bundle – $7.99
- Digital Deluxe DLC Set – $9.99
- Super Digital Deluxe DLC Set – $19.99
- Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin Collaboration DLC – Free
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is out now for PC, Switch, and Switch 2.
