It’s been quite some time sinceSonic the Hedgehogco-creator Yuji Naka announced a brand new title, and after multiple teases from Square Enix, it has been revealed. The first 3D action-platformer from Naka since 2015’sRodea the Sky Soldier,Balan Wonderworldis a whimsical music-themed 3D platformer that reunites Naka withSonic the HedgehogandNiGHTSco-creator and character designer Naoto Ohshima.
Balan Wonderworldtakes place in a mysterious theater, where players take control of two child protagonists, Leo and Emma, as they travel to multiple whimsical worlds to restore balance and happiness. The game bears striking thematic and visual similarities toNiGHTS Into Dreams, even including a jester-like character who runs the theater. The game is a 3D platformer that seems similar in game design to titles such asBanjo-KazooieandSuper Mario Odyssey.
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Balan Wonderworldfeatures over 80 costumes that Leo and Emma can equip, each with their own unique abilities similar to the ones found in theSuper Marioseries. The player will need to make use of them to solve obstacles and bypass level obstructions. The game is Square Enix’s first major jump into 3D platformers, presumably in part thanks to the revival of the genre due to titles such asSuper Mario Odyssey,Spyro Reignited Trilogy, andCrash Bandicoot: N. Sane Trilogy. According to the publisher “Balan Company brings together talented videogame developers, visual artists, and composers to tell the greatest stories and provide theultimate platformer experiences.” The soundtrack is also being composed byFront MissionandDragonseedscomposer Ryo Yamazaki.
While revealed during the pre-show of Microsoft’s Xbox Series X Games Showcase event,Balan Wonderlandis coming to all next-generation systems, PC, and even Nintendo Switch in spring 2021. This marks a triumphant return for Yuji Naka since leaving Sega in 2006 and the producer’s first major title since 2015’sRodea the Sky Soldier. Nakajoined Square Enix in early 2018, and in late 2019 he confirmed that his first title with the studio would be an action game.Square Enixconfirmed a few weeks ago that Balan Company is a team composed of industry veterans coming together to deliver brand new action titles, working with both in-house and external developers.
Balan Wonderlandis coming to Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X in spring 2021.
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