The Japanese release of Rune Factory 5 is just around the corner. Developer Marvelous Inc. has been steadily putting out information about the game. This time, we got to see a gameplay trailer that was showcased during the livestream titled ‘To a New Adventure! Seed Member Recruitment Special.’
While the game seems to be similar to previous entries, there have been some new features that the developer has incorporated into Rune Factory 5. The Seed Circle, for instance, allows players to hold and restrict monsters in the midst of a battle in order to steal exclusive loot. This feature also allows you to temporarily connect with said monster, turning them into allies for a limited time. The game’s gorgeous art style and dialogue systems can also be seen in the trailer; and yes, fishing too.
Marvelous Inc. has revealed that improvements have been made to the farming mechanics in the game, as compared to the previous title. Also revealed was that like Rune Factory 4, the latest game in the series will also feature a high difficulty dungeon like Sharence Maze. Additionally, you can unlock returning characters, Doug and Margaret, if you have a Rune Factory 4 save file on your system. Unfortunately, they won’t be romanceable.
Just last month, Marvelous Inc. announced a Premium Box for Rune Factory 5 which, like most cool things, will be exclusive to Japan only. The box features gorgeous artwork, a copy of the game for Nintendo Switch, a visual book, the Memorial Soundtrack Selection, and a “Rune Factory 4 Bachelorette / Bachelor Costume Set” DLC. It will cost ¥9,980 (approximately $95). It is unclear whether the box will be later available to Western audiences.
In December, we also received word that two new additions were going to be made to bachelorette and bachelor candidates of the game, namely Beatrice and Lucas. Beatrice hails from the Nohrad Kingdom and has a knack for musical instruments and riding monsters. Lucas on the other hand, is an apprentice carpenter, quick-witted, and is apparently good with his hands.
Rune Factory 5 is set to launch on May 20 in Japan. There’s been no confirmed date given by XSEED Games for the Western localised version of the game.