Summary
Next year is already shaping up to be just as packed of a release schedule as 2023, especially when it comes to the JRPG subgenre. Joining an already impressive list of games set to release in 2024 is the recently announcedVisions of Mana, the first new game in the long-runningManaseries (Seiken Densetsuin Japan) since 2014’sRise of Mana, and the first new original game in the series for consoles since 2007’sHeroes of Mana. While no specific release date has been provided by Square Enix, it’s slated for a 2024 launch alongside some of the most-anticipated JRPG sequels and new series, cementing 2024 as a banner year for the subgenre.
In addition toVisions of Mana, Square Enix is already set to kick off the year with a bang thanks to the February 29 release ofFinal Fantasy 7 Rebirth, which (as expected) took home theaward for Most Anticipated Gameat The Game Awards 2023. However, not to be outdone is fellow Japanese publisher Atlus, who also showcased new footage and trailers for several of its upcoming games, including the long-awaitedPersona 3remake and next fall’sMetaphor: ReFantazio. Now with the announcement ofVisions of Mana, it’s safe to say that JRPG fans won’t be finding themselves wanting for new titles in 2024.
Visions of Mana Sits Alongside an Ever-Growing JRPG Roster in 2024
Without even mentioning the rest of the year or any unannounced surprises that have yet to be revealed, the first 3 months of 2024 are absolutely stacked with back-to-back launches of long-awaited sequels in some landmark JRPG franchises.Like a Dragon,Persona, andFinal Fantasyeach have a new game arriving in the first quarter of 2024, and they’re quickly followed by several other titles releasing at a steady cadence over the subsequent several months. Even better, there’s a great mix of turn-based combat and ARPG-style games in the mix, indicating that there’s something for just about everyone. The current slate of JRPG releases in 2024 includes the following:
In addition to the games that have locked-in release dates, there are also several other titles in the genre that are slated to release sometime in 2024 but have only specified a specific season or financial quarter of 2024 that players can expect them to arrive in. Games slated for a 2024 release but with no official dates yet include:
Perhaps one of the more exciting JRPG arrivals in 2024 isn’t a new game at all, but rather the arrival of a beloved title on a new platform, withFinal Fantasy 14: A Realm Rebornfinally coming to Xboxconsoles and an open beta beginning sometime in early 2024. And, lest it be forgotten, the second DLC expansion forFinal Fantasy 16is also slated to arrive sometime in 2024, introducing a new Eikon to the game in the form of Leviathan.
A new game in theManaseries releasing in 2024 joins the ranks of other classic franchises seeing series revivals during the year, with bothSuikoden’s spiritual successorEiyuden Chroncile: Hundred Heroesfinally arriving after suffering some delays and the first new game in theSaGaseries aiming for a release sometime next year as well. The 2023 release calendar was one for the ages, but already 2024 is gearing up to give it a run for its money, especially where JRPG fans are concerned.
GOOD AND EVIL BATTLE FOR A YOUNG WARRIOR’S HEART
There is one force in the universe that keeps good and evil in perfect balance. It is called the tree of Mana. But a magic sword has tricked a young warrior into upsetting the balance, spreading evil throughout the land.
Thus, the warrior must undertake a dangerous journey to find the seeds of the Mana tree which have been hidden for centuries. Only then can perfect harmony be restored.
In this incredible adventure, things are not as they seem. Magic swords release evil as well as fight it. Treasure chests hold booby traps. Monsters are friends and friends are enemies. Potions give power, black magic takes it away. Dragons fly, weapons change.
It’s a world turned upside down that you must help the warrior make right. The only way to succeed is to solve the Secret of Mana.
Brought to you from the makers of the Final Fantasy series. This game can be played with or without a Super NES adapter for 5 players accessory.
