SaGa Emerald Beyond: Everything We Know

Square Enix, the company that gave us famous games like Final Fantasy, is working on something big. They have announced a new game called SaGa Emerald Beyond, and people can't stop talking about it. What makes this game so special? Is it the huge world you can explore? Or maybe it's how you can make choices that change the story? Could it be the exciting fights that await?

Don't worry if you have questions—we do too! And we've been busy gathering all the info we can to give you a sneak peek into this exciting new game. From what the game is about to when you can play it, here's everything we know so far about SaGa Emerald Beyond.

What is SaGa Emerald Beyond?

SaGa Emerald Beyond is an upcoming stand-alone RPG that aspires to redefine the boundaries of the acclaimed SaGa franchise. Square Enix describes the game as a “new and excitingly freeform adventure,” aiming to bring together the cream of the SaGa series' elements. The game is set in an expansive universe encompassing 17 diverse worlds, each boasting its own unique aesthetics and cultural nuances. From futuristic cityscapes to untamed natural landscapes, each world presents a new realm of possibilities.

In an adventurous twist, players aren't limited to a single protagonist. Instead, the game offers the freedom to choose from five distinct protagonists—or technically six, if you opt for a particular duo. These characters are led by enigmatic “emerald waves,” propelling them across various worlds and into unfolding narratives that are as distinct as the worlds they inhabit. This selection amplifies replayability, providing fresh perspectives and challenges with each run.

Central to the game is the concept of the “Beyond,” a metaphysical hub connected by emerald waves. It acts as your interstellar crossroads, guiding or perhaps even compelling your character from one world to another. Each protagonist has a unique reason to engage with the Beyond, whether it's restoring order to a spiritual realm, recovering lost powers, or solving a political assassination. Choices made here ripple through the storyline, adding layers of complexity and ensuring that each playthrough offers a novel experience.

Story

The story in SaGa Emerald Beyond unfolds like an intricate tapestry, woven together by the choices you make and the worlds you explore. At the core of this narrative complexity is the game's freeform scenario system, a mechanic that ensures that no two journeys are alike. As you move through the 17 interconnected worlds via the Beyond—the hub that serves as the gateway between these realms—your actions and decisions dynamically affect the storyline, leading to multiple branching pathways and endings.

Each protagonist brings a unique quest and perspective to this multifaceted storyline. For example, Tsunanori Mido is on a mission to restore spiritual order in his city through the discovery of four elemental spirits across other worlds. In contrast, Ameya Aisling seeks to regain her lost magical powers as part of her graduation exam in witchcraft. These individual narratives intertwine with the overarching quest, enriching your experience and adding layers of depth and complexity.

Gameplay

From what developers have shared so far, here's what we can expect from the gameplay of SaGa Emerald Beyond.

The heart and soul of SaGa Emerald Beyond's gameplay lie in its freeform narrative mechanics. This isn't your typical RPG where you're set on a linear path. Instead, players are granted the agency to shape their destiny. Each decision, no matter how minor it may seem, branches out, weaving a storyline uniquely yours. This dynamic system ensures that two players might embark on the same journey but experience wholly different adventures, with varying challenges, allies, and outcomes.

Combat in this game will revolve around a turn-based system, a hallmark of the SaGa series. But it's not just any turn-based system. Developers promise a design that's welcoming for newcomers, allowing them to easily grasp the basics. Yet, beneath this approachable surface lies a depth that will challenge and engage even the most seasoned RPG aficionados. Every battle will demand a mix of strategy and intuition, as players harness their party's unique weapons, abilities, and synergies to overcome adversaries.

But battles aren't just about defeating enemies. They're intricately tied to the game's narrative. Depending on your choices, you might find allies in the unlikeliest of places or face adversaries you once called friends. This seamless integration of story and combat promises an immersive experience where the stakes feel real, and every skirmish has weight.

Lastly, exploration will be paramount. With 17 unique worlds at the player's disposal, each offers its distinct aesthetic, culture, and challenges. Navigating through these realms via the emerald waves, players will encounter diverse landscapes, hidden secrets, and challenges tailored to each environment.

Development

SaGa Emerald Beyond is under development by Square Enix. This is a big name in the video game industry. The team aims to use new, strong game systems. They want to create an exciting, large world. This world will span 17 different locations. Experts on the team have experience with other SaGa games. A big part of their focus is player choice. These choices will affect the story in various ways. The team has also promised to share updates during development. There might even be early test versions. Players can try these out and provide feedback.

Trailer

Recently shown at a Nintendo Direct event, the trailer for SaGa Emerald Beyond is something you don't want to miss. It gives us quick peeks at who you can play as in the game. Each quick look makes you want to know more about them. We also get to see some of the cool battles you'll be a part of and the amazing worlds you'll explore. If you haven't watched it yet, go ahead and click the video above—you won't regret it!

Release Date, Platforms & Editions

SaGa Emerald Beyond is coming out in 2024. That's right, you won't have to wait much longer to dive into this amazing new world. The game's developer, Square Enix, is making sure it will be worth the wait.

You're probably wondering where you can play it. Well, the good news is that it's coming to a lot of platforms. Whether you have a PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, or a PC, you'll be able to play this game. Even better, you can also play it on your phone, be it an iPhone or an Android. As for different versions of the game, we'll have to wait for more info. To keep up with all the latest updates, you can follow the official social media accounts of the developers here.

So, what's your take on SaGa Emerald Beyond so far? Are you curious about how the freeform scenario system will shape your adventure? Let us know your thoughts on our socials here.