As we reported earlier today, Nintendo’s Direct presentation focused on upcoming Fire Emblem titles has just concluded, having opened with the announcement of Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia, a 3DS exclusive title inspired by the NES game Fire Emblem Gaiden. Interspersed with the typical strategy-based gameplay the series is known for, Shadows of Valentia‘s world is introduced by an animated short created by Studio Khara, who will be responsible for the entirety of the handheld’s cutscenes.
Taking place in the land of Valentia, war is on the verge of breaking out between the nation states of Duma and Zofia, two prosperous territories that had once enjoyed an uneasy peace. As expected, free roaming exploration, monster-infested dungeons, and flexible character progression will take top priority in Shadows of Valentia, with a dual protagonist system also displayed in full force. The presentation declines to offer any specifics on what sorts of opportunities are afforded by having two leading characters (Alm and Celica), but we’ll no doubt find out more about that at a later date.
Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia is available May 19 via the Nintendo eShop and yes, there are new amiibo figures of Alm and Celica in the works, which will be available through the usual channels on the same day as Echoes. After the domineering presence Pokemon Sun and Moon have had on the 3DS since their launch last year, it’s good to see Nintendo continuing to support the hardware, especially as it’s in danger of being eclipsed by the Switch come March.