Visions of Mana – Coming Summer 2024

In an exciting revelation during Xbox’s Developer Direct, Square Enix Ltd. unveiled fresh insights into Visions of Mana™, marking the return of the cherished Mana series after a hiatus of over 15 years. Mana enthusiasts, including myself, were treated to a glimpse of the game’s development process and captivating gameplay, promising a memorable addition to the Mana legacy. Scheduled for a Summer 2024 launch on Xbox, Playstation and PC, Visions of Mana is gearing up to redefine the Mana experience.

Aerial Acrobatics and Elemental Elegance

Mana Series Producer, Masaru Oyamada, took centre stage to disclose enticing details about Visions of Mana’s combat system. A highlight was the introduction of the aerial combat system, a dynamic addition that elevates the battle experience, enabling mid-air physical and magical attacks. For someone who fondly remembers the original Mystic Quest on the Super Nintendo, this evolution in combat mechanics is both refreshing and promising.

Returning to the fray are the beloved Elementals, a series staple that adds a layer of strategy to battles. These elemental companions, tied to specific weapons, infuse combat with diverse effects, allowing for a nimble and dynamic fighting style that long-time fans and newcomers alike can appreciate.

Meet Pikuls: The Adorable Expedition Companions

Mana Series Creator, Koichi Ishii, brought a new companion into the limelight – the charming “pikuls.” Drawing inspiration from animals and mythology, these adorable creatures promise to aid players in traversing the expansive ground map. A nod to the Mana series’ tradition of delightful companions, the pikuls add a touch of whimsy to the vibrant world of Visions of Mana.

Symphony of Sounds: 100 Songs and an Adaptive Music System

Square Enix® sweetened the deal with news about the Visions of Mana soundtrack, featuring a robust track list of 100 songs at launch. Composed or contributed to by musical maestros such as Hiroki Kikuta, Tsuyoshi Sekito, and Ryo Yamazaki from previous Mana titles, this soundtrack promises to immerse players in the enchanting world of Mana. Moreover, an innovative adaptive music system ensures seamless transitions between map exploration and battles, intensifying the gaming experience.

Legacy and Fresh Beginnings

With a legacy dating back to the 1993 debut of MYSTIC QUEST™, the Mana series has captivated players with its vibrant worlds and compelling narratives. Mana Series Producer, Masaru Oyamada, emphasized that Visions of Mana draws from the accumulated wisdom of 17 Mana games over 30 years. The goal is to offer a faithful addition to the series, providing a fresh narrative, new characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

As a fan eagerly anticipating the release, the promise of a blend of nostalgia and new adventures in Visions of Mana seems poised to create a captivating chapter in Mana’s storied journey.

Visions of Mana is set to launch in Summer 2024 for PS5®, PS4® consoles, Xbox Series X|S, Windows PC, and Steam.