According to Junzo Hosoi, producer of the Atelier series, the upcoming title “Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist and the White Guardian” will take a different direction from its predecessor, returning to the core of this long-running JRPG franchise with turn-based combat and a more “retro” design approach.
Hosoi explained in an interview that the previous installment, “Atelier Lulua,” experimented with incorporating action combat elements and an open-world system, reflecting current trends in console RPGs to broaden the series’ appeal.
Although “Atelier Lulua” became the fastest-selling game in the series and received generally positive media reviews, the core fanbase had mixed feelings due to its significant departure from traditional JRPG frameworks and the series’ established style. In response, developer Gust aims to deliver a more familiar experience for longtime fans with the new game.
“We have always developed turn-based RPGs and noticed that many fans specifically look forward to this style of gameplay,” Hosoi said. “Therefore, we want to create a console game that is completely different from the direction of ‘Atelier Lulua,’ continuing the ‘retro studio’ experience — this is the motivation behind ‘Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist and the White Guardian.'”
He added that the new “Atelier Resleriana” inherits the creative direction and core spirit of the 23rd series entry, “Atelier Sophie 2,” released in 2022.
In addition to fully turn-based combat, “Atelier Resleriana” returns to classic design elements such as a six-member party divided into front and back rows, alchemists having dedicated item and equipment slots, a skill tree system, and procedurally generated dungeons.
The retro town shop management system will also make a comeback, directly influencing story progression and unlocking areas and characters as the shop simulation advances.
“Atelier Resleriana: The Red Alchemist and the White Guardian” is scheduled for release on September 26 for PC (Steam), PS5, and Nintendo Switch platforms.
