Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma

Announced during August 2024's Nintendo Direct, the next Rune Factory game, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, is quickly approaching. Rune Factory has captured the hearts of many as a spin-off to the popular Story of Seasons and Harvest Moon games. Since then, it's flourished into its own popular franchise, mixing elements of fantasy into the life and farming sim genres.

Since its announcement, there's been plenty of room for anticipation about what the newest Rune Factory could have in store. The game promises to build on the already-established mechanics like farming and crafting while also incorporating new gameplay to keep things fresh. There are only a few months until it's released, so players won't have to wait too long to dive into the exciting world of Azuma.

Rune Factory: Guardians Of Azuma - Release Date & Platforms

The Game Releases In Late May; Mark Your Calendar

The next installment in the Rune Factory series, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, is set to release on May 30, 2025. It will be released on both Microsoft Windows (via Steam) and Nintendo Switch, leaving out PlayStation and Xbox players. For Nintendo Switch users, the game can be preordered from places like Best Buy and Amazon in two formats: Standard and Limited Edition.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma Limited Edition
Cost	$99.99
Bonuses	Art book Folding fan inspired by Azuma Original soundtrack CD Plush keychain of Woolby Earth Dancer DLC Pack

The price for the limited edition version on Nintendo Switch is steep, but it could be worth it, particularly for collectors. Not only do you get some game-inspired keepsakes like the art book and folding fan, but you also get the Earth Dancer DLC pack. The DLC pack alone includes four bundles: Season of Love, Festive Attire and Dark Woolby, Rune Factory 4 Outfit, and Useful Item.

While Steam has yet to reveal special editions, there will likely be something for Steam-specific players to look forward to. This could be a combination of the digital soundtrack, art books, DLC, or exclusive in-game items. Prices aren't known, but there will likely be a surcharge for any additional content or DLC. The base game for both the Nintendo Switch and PC versions will be $59.99.

Rune Factory: Guardians Of Azuma Story & Gameplay Details

Become An Earth Dancer To Save Azuma, A Japanese-Inspired World

Players awaken in Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma as an Earth Dancer. Stepping into their new role, players will use dance and sacred treasures to purify a corrupted Azuma. Like in previous Rune Factory installments, the game will blend village building, farming, and exploration as part of the fight to save and restore hope to Azuma.

Farming, raising animals, and crafting all make a return as important gameplay mechanics. As far as new gameplay goes, there's a fresh focus on harnessing the power of dance and making use of new weapons like the Bow and Talisman while fighting against the Blight. Players will also get to rebuild the village of Azuma and assign NPCs to specific roles throughout the town.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is a spinoff, not a mainline game. Rune Factory 6 is still in the works for mainline games.

As they progress, characters will have the chance to revive ancient gods and recruit allies from the local townsfolk to assist in both farming and combat. However, because of Azuma's corruption from the Blight, many villagers left. Rebuilding and restoring the village through the Earth Dancer's powers will help bring them back to join in on their quest to save the land.

What To Expect From Guardians Of Azuma's Romance Options

Azuma Has Several Relationship Options To Choose From

Iroha From Rune Factory Guardians of Azuma.

Like in previous Rune Factory games, relationship-building is a significant gameplay element in Guardians of Azuma. Fortunately, Guardians of Azuma provides plenty of romance options. In fact, there are 16 candidates to cozy up to. Players can interact with these NPCs, learn more about them, spend time with them, take them on dates, romance them, and eventually get married. Among a selection of both male and female candidates, all are fully voice-acted, making it feel more personable and real.

Aside from romancing these characters, it's also possible to recruit them in battle. Each character has unique skills that can be used in combat, making them valuable allies in the fight against the Blight. However, fully experiencing their stories, even without the end goal of a romantic relationship, will require increasing their friendship levels.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is set to be another successful addition to the Rune Factoryfranchise. With its charming graphics, farming and life sim elements, and engaging combat, it offers something for everyone. Both longtime Rune Factory fans and newcomers can find something to enjoy, while cozy gamers and those who want more combative gameplay can also enjoy a balanced experience. While not a mainline entry, Guardians of Azuma will surely be a Rune Factory game fans won't want to miss.

Sources: Steam, Marvelous Europe/YouTube