When its August release date was announced at the last Nintendo Direct, Sea of Stars was set to come to PC, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch. And while Xbox consoles don’t exactly scream “play turn-based RPGs on me!” it sure seemed left out. The good news: it won’t be! Developer Sabotage Studio announced today that the game will also be coming to Xbox consoles, and on the same release date to boot.
Players will meet Valere and Zale, two youths training to become Solstice Warriors. These Warriors are the land’s final line of defence against The Fleshmancer’s monstrous creations. The mere name “The Fleshmancer” gives me some serious heeby-jeebies. The narrative takes lots of turns, so their mission isn’t exactly simple. The story is a wondrous tale surrounding the world’s impending apocalyptic threat.
Sea of Stars is inspired by classic turn-based RPGs, and promises to be full of endearing characters and “unrestrained” exploration. While paying homage to the great games of the ’90s, the music is also composed by one of them: Chrono Trigger composed Yasunori Mitsuda. Players must strategize while hitting opponents with pre-emptive attacks, carefully timing their strikes while also thwarting advances. There are six playable party members, each with distinct fighting styles and personalities. Experimentation is key to discover new match-ups.
There is supposed to be no grind involved, which is a distinct step away from the ’90s games that have inspired Sea of Stars. No grind is needed as character progression is balanced to flow alongside the story. Without the grind there is room for exploration, and players will be able to climb, dive, swim, and leap across a world brimming with life and hidden secrets, making the journey as important as the battles.
Developed and published by Sabotage Studio, Sea of Stars will be released for PC via Steam, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series and Xbox One on August 29.
