Try and say this: Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception and Mask of Truth. Got that far? Good, because these are the latest of the Aquaplus visual novels in the Utawarerumono series, and Atlus is going to be publishing them for the PS4 and Vita this year.
For those who are unfamiliar, visual novels are titles that focus on story and character above gameplay. Such titles like Phoenix Wright are visual novels. The game is a grand tale that is perfect for thevisual novel format. It features a lovely art style, and a soundtrack that was recorded by Abbey Road Studios and EastWest Studios.
What this does, is make it feel like you’re watching a cinematic fantasy unfolding right before your eyes and ears. All the while, there is some gameplay for you to partake in. Especially in Mask of Deception, which actually features RPG combat, one that is very deep, and very rewarding.
For example, the combat is aa mix of turn-based tactics and Attack Chain mechanics. Which means you’ll have to play smart in order to survive, no button mashing here. Add to that, unique features such as the rewind function, elemental affinities/weaknesses, unique character skills, and more add a layer of depth to fights. So even though this is a visual novel game, it’s going far beyond what most visual novel games offer.
Now, different regions will get different releases for the titles. Sony is going to be launching the game in the Americas on PS4 and PS Vita in both physical and digital formats. However, the European PS4 version will have a physical release, while the PS Vita version in Europe will be digital only. Mask of Deception will launch in Spring 2017, and the game’s direct sequel, Mask of Truth, will hit later in the year.
So, if you’re looking for titles with great story, and deep combat, you might just want to check out Utawarerumono: Mask of Deception and Mask of Truth when they arrive later this year.