Emberstoria, a new mobile strategy RPG from Square Enix, launches in Japan on November 27th. The game, set in a world called Purgatory, features resurrected warriors known as Embers battling monsters. Pre-downloads are now available.
The game boasts a classic Square Enix style: a grand, dramatic storyline, impressive visuals, and a large voice cast (over 40 actors). Players recruit diverse Embers, build their flying city (Anima Arca), and experience a compelling narrative. While a Western release isn't confirmed, anticipation is high.
However, the Japan-only release raises questions about Square Enix's mobile strategy. Following the recent news of Octopath Traveler: Champions of the Continent's operational transfer to NetEase, the possibility of Square Enix scaling back on mobile development was considered. While not definitively wrong about that prediction, this new release presents a complex situation.
Emberstoria's future remains uncertain. It might stay Japan-exclusive, or NetEase could facilitate a global launch. Regardless, a straightforward global release seems unlikely, but not impossible. The path Emberstoria takes will likely be indicative of Square Enix's future mobile gaming plans.
Japan frequently sees unique mobile game releases that don't reach other regions. If you're curious about other Japanese mobile games you might have missed, check out our list of the best Japanese mobile games we wish were available globally.