It looks like Xbox and Square Enix are friends now. After years of basically ignoring the Xbox platform, Square is finally giving JRPG fans on the green team what they want.
Visions of Mana, an action RPG and the latest installment in the long-standing Mana series, is launching on Xbox Series S and X at the same time as it will on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and PC. This launch marks a significant moment in the series’ history, as it’s the first new mainline entry in almost 16 years, following a long hiatus since the previous title. The game is scheduled for release in the summer of 2024, with a specific date yet to be announced.
Visions of Mana brings a fresh perspective to the Mana series, known for its fast-paced gameplay, vibrant world, and an expansive narrative centered around the franchise staple, Mana Tree. Square Enix has revealed various details about the game, including its combat system, environment, and traversal mechanics, via a deep-dive video and a comprehensive press release. One of the most notable new features is aerial combat, a first for the series, allowing players to engage in battles while airborne. This addition, alongside the series’ staple Elementals, is set to provide a dynamic and flexible fighting style to the gameplay.
Visions of Mana also revives the cherished aspect of companions from previous Mana titles. In it, players will encounter a new creature called a pikul, a large wolf-like beast that can be ridden and will assist in combat.
The development of Visions of Mana is a result of the renewed interest in the franchise, encouraged by the success of a recent set of remakes and remasters like Trials of Mana and Legends of Mana, among others. The longtime Mana series producer, Masaru Oyamada, expressed that the positive reception to these recent releases paved the way for the new game. The intent was to create a game that appeals to both long-time fans and newcomers to the series, fulfilling the longstanding ambition of bringing a new Mana game to consoles.
Of course, the most notable part is that Visions of Mana is the first Mana game to launch on Xbox consoles and one of the few Square Enix titles that will be available on what was traditionally seen as a competing platform.
This comes mere months after Square Enix confirmed that Final Fantasy 14 is coming to Xbox with more on the way, the game’s release on PlayStation and PC ensures that it reaches a broad audience, allowing fans of different platforms to experience the latest chapter in the Mana saga.
For Square Enix, this is a massive win following its recent financial troubles. Although JRPGs are traditionally associated with PlayStation, every bit of additional reach and marketing counts.
Going back to Visions of Mana, the game will offer a rich narrative that follows the journey of the protagonist, Val, and his childhood friend, who is chosen to rejuvenate the flow of mana power. The story will unfold in a world beautifully crafted by the original creator, Koichi Ishii, with new designs of classic Mana creatures by series illustrator Airi Yoshioka.
With a simultaneous release on Xbox and PlayStation, new gameplay mechanics, an engaging narrative, and a revival of beloved series elements, Visions of Mana is a must-play for both seasoned fans and newcomers to the Mana universe.
Fingers crossed, we’ll be singing a similar tune by the time Final Fantasy 17 hits the storeshelves.
