The Atelier series, known for its niche crafting JRPG gameplay, is making a bold move towards mainstream international appeal with its upcoming release, Atelier Yumia: The Alchemist of Memories & the Envisioned Land. Producer Junzo Hosoi recognizes that there are aspects of previous Atelier games that may not meet the standards set by other RPGs. In an interview, he expressed the desire to create a high-quality RPG that will attract new players who may not have experienced the Atelier series before.
Since its inception in 1997 with Atelier Marie: The Alchemist of Salburg, the Atelier series has expanded to include a total of 25 mainline entries and 17 spinoffs. While there is a dedicated fanbase for the series, Hosoi aims to bring in a fresh audience by introducing new gameplay elements and a more expansive world. With a larger budget at their disposal, the developers at Gust are crafting an open-world map that promises more adventurous and open-field gameplay, including a new wall-jumping mechanic for vertical exploration.
Traditionally centered around turn-based combat, the Atelier series has started to experiment with a hybrid approach, blending real-time and turn-based elements in recent titles like Ryza. Hosoi promises that Atelier Yumia will build upon this foundation, offering an “action-like experience” where players can strategize and react in combat. The introduction of new equippable items and tactical elements aims to keep the gameplay engaging and distinct from previous entries.
In addition to combat improvements, Atelier Yumia features an expanded alchemy system inspired by Atelier Ryza 3. The synthesis system, including a Link Morph-style mechanic, has been refined with a more intuitive user interface. This system allows veteran Atelier players to delve deeper into potion-crafting while remaining accessible to newcomers. An example of this accessibility is the option to automatically add materials for potion creation, streamlining the process for players of all skill levels.
A significant addition to the Atelier series in Atelier Yumia is the introduction of a robust housing system. This innovative feature, a first for the franchise, aims to attract players from diverse gaming backgrounds. While the building sites are predetermined, the customization options are extensive, offering a variety of walls, roofs, furniture, and decorations to create a personalized dream home from scratch. Whether players enjoy the creative aspect of building or prefer to focus on other gameplay elements, the housing system is designed to cater to different playstyles.
Gust’s decision to expand the scope of the Atelier series reflects a strategic effort to reach a wider audience after 27 years of catering to a dedicated fanbase. With Atelier Yumia set to release on multiple platforms including PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC, the developers are aiming to capture the attention of both longtime fans and newcomers alike. While the specifics of the game’s success remain to be seen, the ambition and innovation behind Atelier Yumia suggest a promising new chapter for the beloved JRPG series.
Leave a Reply