Square Enix announced today that a new RPG project, Project Prelude Rune, is in development at Studio Istolia, a newly established studio in Tokyo headed up by Hideo Baba, who previously worked as producer on the Tales of series.
Square Enix says Studio Istolia further builds on their “vision to create new intellectual properties alongside existing Square Enix studios.” The name originates from the Greek word for story, and Square Enix says story is central to Istolia’s primary value. “The aim of the studio is to provide unforgettable stories that will inspire players in their own lives, and bring new game experiences to everyone around the world,” they add.
We weren’t given platform details or a release window for Project Prelude Rune today, but Square Enix did say, “The project aims to build a new RPG with a new fantasy: unfolding across a vast land teeming with life. Nurtured by the earth, the many peoples of this land dare to dream, fighting for what is just – and this is their tale.”
Speaking with Famitsu (translated by Gematsu), Baba, who also serves as producer on Project Prelude Rune, revealed that he approached Square Enix last October because he wanted to try again among many major players in the RPG world.
Baba would like to express “kindness” and “warmth” as the setting for Project Prelude Rune, and he adds that it won’t have a bloodthirsty atmosphere. Things are subject to change, but at the moment, he’s planning on making a straightforward, middle-fantasy RPG with various races.
Although Baba has a strong desire to stick with stationary consoles, he also wants to consider other platforms for the game, including smartphones.
[Source: Square Enix, Studio Istolia, Gamer, Famitsu, Hachima Kikou via Gematsu]
