By 
Marvelous Inc., the visionary studio behind Story of Seasons, has officially lifted the veil on Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, an ambitious new entry that breathes mystical life into the beloved franchise. Set against a cinematic backdrop of ancient spirits and elemental magic, Guardians of Azuma marks a mythic rebirth – one steeped in both visual splendor and mechanical innovation.
A World Reborn in Unreal Engine 5
Built from the ground up with Unreal Engine 5, Guardians of Azuma takes full advantage of cutting-edge technologies to bring its world to life. Lumen-powered dynamic lighting and Nanite-enhanced geometry render Azuma’s vibrant seasons in breathtaking detail. Snow falls and settles in real time. Cherry blossoms whirl across terraced rice fields with gusts of wind. Villages, initially dormant and decayed, evolve visually as players restore ancient shrines and reconnect with the spirit realm.
Each biome reflects the ecosystem’s health—glowing fauna return as corruption fades, and once-broken torii gates stand tall amid fields blooming with magical life. It’s not just a backdrop; it’s a living, breathing canvas that responds to your journey.
Earth Dancer: Magic in Motion
At the heart of Guardians of Azuma is the Earth Dancer—your customizable protagonist gifted with the ability to channel elemental magic through gesture-based rituals. This new mechanic, optimized for the Switch 2 and PC, utilizes Joy-Con and PS Move support to sync player movements to rhythmic inputs. Weaving vines, summoning water currents, or calling forth flame guardians feels more organic than ever, merging dance-like precision with real-time strategy.
A Story of Renewal, Love, and Legacy
The story unfolds in a land shattered by corrupted gods and forgotten rituals. As an outsider drawn to Azuma by fate, you are tasked with rekindling its connection to seasonal spirits and rebuilding both nature and community.
Romance, a series hallmark, returns in full force—with 10 relationship paths, including a stoic samurai blacksmith and a gentle, reclusive shrine keeper. Each candidate’s narrative intertwines with your progress, their personal growth mirroring the land’s healing. Choices matter, shaping not just your future, but the soul of Azuma itself.
Cinematic Soul
One striking image encapsulates Guardians of Azuma: a lone Earth Dancer stands in a sea of swaying cherry blossoms at dawn, summoning verdant tendrils to drive back encroaching shadows. A fox spirit watches silently from beneath a torii gate, glowing eyes reflecting hope—and memory. It’s more than a game; it’s a tale whispered through petals and prayer.
Coming Soon
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is poised to launch on Switch 2 and PC, with more platforms to be announced. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer drawn by its visual majesty and heartfelt storytelling, Azuma awaits—ready to be healed, one spirit at a time.
