Publisher SHUEISHA GAMES and solo developer ginolabo have exciting news for fans of turn-based RPGs and deckbuilding mechanics. Their highly anticipated game, SOULVARS, will be launching on June 27th for multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Inspired by classic JRPGs but infused with modern gameplay elements, SOULVARS promises an action-packed experience that combines nostalgia with fresh and innovative mechanics.
SOULVARS has already gained a considerable following, and its appearance at the upcoming Steam Next Fest will provide players with a chance to try out a demo from June 19th to June 26th. This opportunity allows gamers to get a taste of what awaits them in the full game. To build excitement, a new gameplay teaser trailer has been released, offering a glimpse into the thrilling world of SOULVARS.
In the game, players find themselves in a world where grotesque Dominators have emerged, bringing forth the consequences of unchecked technology. Elite units known as Soulbearers, who possess alternate Souls, are deployed to combat these threats. Taking on the role of Yakumo, a freelance Soulbearer, players will handle assignments from the private military contractor “DDO” (Dominator Disposal Organization).
SOULVARS boasts several gameplay features that set it apart from traditional RPGs. The game combines classic JRPG nostalgia with a modern twist, presenting stylish pixel art animations alongside dynamic, turn-based tactical planning. The deckbuilding combat system allows players to collect gear and expand their Soulbits, which are cards for their hand. Personalizing the deck and strategically mixing and matching various Soulbits uncover new attacks and unlock over 100 different Arts and Abilities. To truly master the game, players will need to hunt for rare and powerful gear by defeating unique Dominators, showcasing their skills and unlocking the ultimate Arts.
The party-based combat in SOULVARS adds another layer of depth to the gameplay. Each enemy presents a unique puzzle to solve and a challenge to overcome. Players can customize their party to deal with different enemy types, identify weaknesses, and combine Soulbit actions to unleash over 200 powerful finishing moves.
Beyond the engaging gameplay mechanics, SOULVARS also boasts a compelling narrative that delves into the dangers of unchecked technology, the origins of the “DDO,” and the conspiracies behind the emergence of the Dominators. Through the journey of Yakumo and his fellow Soulbears, players will unravel a story filled with intrigue and suspense.
One of the standout features of SOULVARS is its localization effort, with the game being available in 12 languages. The interface and subtitles can be experienced in English, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Russian, Simplified and Traditional Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Hindi. This commitment to accessibility ensures that players worldwide can fully enjoy the action-packed adventure and immerse themselves in the game’s world.
SOULVARS originally started as a passion project for ginolabo, a solo developer. It gained significant popularity when it was released as a mobile game for Android and iOS in early 2022, quickly climbing the ranks to become the top paid RPG app and the second top paid game app on both Google Play and iTunes in Japan. Recognizing the game’s success, SHUEISHA GAMES, the gaming branch of Japan’s largest manga publisher, joined forces with ginolabo to bring SOULVARS to PC and multiple gaming consoles. Unlike simple ports, the collaboration between SHUEISHA GAMES and ginolabo ensures that the game receives a dedicated adaptation for each platform. The gameplay has been optimized and enhanced to suit PC and console experiences, featuring a horizontal user interface and intuitive controller support. These enhancements provide a seamless and dynamic gameplay experience on larger screens, delivering the game’s pixel art visuals and strategic mechanics in their full glory.
As part of their collaboration with SHUEISHA GAMES, ginolabo has partnered with the renowned mangaka, Shiro Usasaki, to contribute character illustrations for the key visuals and in-game content. Usasaki, best known for their work on mangas such as Act-Age, brings their artistic talent to enrich the world of SOULVARS and further enhance the visual appeal of the game.
With its simultaneous launch on multiple platforms, SOULVARS aims to reach a wide audience of RPG and deckbuilding enthusiasts. The game’s success as a mobile title in Japan, combined with the support of SHUEISHA GAMES and the enhancements made for PC and consoles, has generated significant anticipation among gamers.
Mark your calendars for June 27th, when SOULVARS will be available on Nintendo Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Whether you’re a fan of classic JRPGs or intrigued by innovative deckbuilding mechanics, SOULVARS promises an immersive and action-packed adventure that merges the best of both worlds. Stay tuned for the release and prepare to embark on an epic journey filled with strategic battles, compelling storytelling, and unforgettable pixel art visuals.
As the release date approaches, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to try the demo during the Steam Next Fest from June 19th to June 26th. Immerse yourself in the world of SOULVARS and get a taste of its captivating gameplay and unique mechanics.
SOULVARS represents the passion and dedication of ginolabo, SHUEISHA GAMES, and the collaborative efforts of talented individuals, culminating in an exciting gaming experience. The combination of classic JRPG elements, modern deckbuilding mechanics, and a captivating narrative sets the stage for a remarkable journey that players won’t want to miss.
Prepare your decks, sharpen your strategies, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure when SOULVARS launches on June 27th. Whether you choose to explore the game on the go with your Nintendo Switch or dive into the immersive world on your preferred console or PC, SOULVARS promises to deliver an exhilarating and unique RPG experience.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Microsoft Windows
