Summary
ACE Entertainment has officially announcedTales of Seikyuas an anime-inspired farming sim game, featuring shape-shifting into several different “yokai” as one of its main mechanics. Recent years have seen the farming simulation genre explode in popularity offthe success of beloved games likeStardew Valleyand theHarvest Moonfranchise. Many of gaming’s biggest developers have even given their own spin on the popular genre, like Square-Enix’sHarvestellaand Sega’sLike A Dragon: Ishin!incorporating farming as a mini-game. Now, the newest farming sim from ACE Entertainment looks to bring a mythology-inspired spin on the genre.
While farming sim games were initially popularized by franchises likeHarvest MoonandStory of Seasons,Stardew Valleyhas become one of the genre’s biggest breakout hits. The critical acclaim for the 2016 farming sim developed by solo creator Eric “ConcernedApe” Barone has inspired countless modern farming games, helping to explode the sub-genre’s popularity. Indie developers in particular have flocked to the genre with new games likeRoots of PachaandCoral Islandseeing success. Now,Tales of Seikyuwill bring the farming gameplay into a world filled with yokai.
The announcement trailer forTales of Seikyuofficially gives fans their first look at the game, showing off shapeshifting into different creatures as one of its main gimmicks. Within the game, players are able to transform into different animals and creatures to do their farm work, turning into a warthog to work the soil and flying around as a crow spirit.Tales of Seikyu’s announcement trailer shows off a variety of gameplay other than farming with cooking, romance, and even a full combat system.Tales of Seikyualso revealed the game will beseeking funding through Kickstarter, with the game’s set to open on January 12.
Tales of Seikyu’s world takes heavy inspiration from Japanese mythology, with different yokai spirits playing many of the game’s leading roles. Players will be able to meet “tengu” crow spirits, personified seal people, and a talking crane among others within the in-game world of Seikyu.Tales of Seikyugives players full freedom to customize their farm, able to build a variety of facilities between barns, fields, sheds, and plenty more. The game even features a combat systemreminiscent of modern action RPGs, squaring off against fearsome demons.
Tales of Seikyulooks to be a promising addition to a sizable lineup of modern farming simulation games. Many modern farming simulation games have sought their own unique niches to stand out from the crowd, like the previously mentionedRoots of Pacha’s prehistoric setting. Fantasy settings have been a popular addition to many games in the genre, adding an element of mysticism and magic to the cozy nature of farming sims.Tales of Seikyu’s yokai-inspired gameplay should serve as a unique entry within the booming farming genre.
Stardew Valley
WHERE TO PLAY
You’ve inherited your grandfather’s old farm plot in Stardew Valley. Armed with hand-me-down tools and a few coins, you set out to begin your new life. Can you learn to live off the land and turn these overgrown fields into a thriving home? It won’t be easy. Ever since Joja Corporation came to town, the old ways of life have all but disappeared. The community center, once the town’s most vibrant hub of activity, now lies in shambles. But the valley seems full of opportunity. With a little dedication, you might just be the one to restore Stardew Valley to greatness!
