We’ve spoken plenty on the upcoming FuRyu action RPG Reynatis, specifically regarding its combat system. Still, following a recent English preview event in which we received a deeper dive into the gameplay’s intricacies, there’s more to highlight.
One of the core components of Reynatis is Stress, a facet that directly ties into the setting’s oppression against non-sanctioned Wizards. The protagonist, Marin, and several other Wizards are unaffiliated with the government organization M.E.A., meaning that Suppression is the wise course of action when they traverse town. Veiling their authentic selves is easier said than done, though.
If distressing information is learned from townspeople, Stress accumulates. Then, if too much of this negativity builds up, it’s no longer possible for the Wizards on the receiving end to Suppress their powers. This mechanic only practically affects the Wizards on the run, creating a genuinely impactful gameplay-to-narrative relationship that alters depending on who you’re playing.
Interestingly, the preview event highlighted that you won’t only see story events from Marin’s perspective. The 24-year-old Sari Nishijima, a M.E.A. police officer who awakened as a replica after a near-death experience, is also a protagonist in her own right. Her duties with M.E.A. and her efforts with her co-workers are experienced from her perspective.
Of course, given Sari’s societal placement, Stress doesn’t affect her quite as much. After all, she does not need to Suppress herself as a Wizard since the townspeople recognize her as an approved governmental officer. This direct contrast between Marin and Sari creates a compelling clash where their ideals shine, especially given their respective leading roles.
Stress will also paint different relationships to the town between Sari and Marin since the only stated ways to remedy this affliction are eating and petting snacks. Marin’s outcast nature may make the practice of hanging out around town feel more personable, accentuated by his allies who are also veiling themselves. On the other hand, Sari’s expected respect or fear by the denizens of Shibuya can instill a unique tone that further differentiates itself from Marin’s.
While separate from Stress, Malice also consumes Shibuya, which requires players to actively engage in Shibuya’s affairs. Ridding the world of Malice relies on the completion of sidequests, so it’s seemingly worthwhile to peruse the city at your leisure. Summatively, the gameplay systems, setting, and cast of Reynatis feel interlinked, potentially leading to effective and memorable conclusions once all is said and done.
The West will see Reynatis released on September 27, 2024, on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Additionally, nine free post-launch updates with several character focuses have been confirmed.
