Summary
The ESRB has ratedFantasian: Neo Dimension,the re-release of the latest RPG created by Mistwalker, the studio founded byFinal Fantasycreator Hironobu Sakaguchi. The rating description emphasizes what players can expect fromFantasian: Neo Dimension, which includes new features and quality-of-life improvements for its launch on consoles and PC after its initial release on the Apple Arcade subscription service.
Fantasianwas originally launched in 2021 on Apple Arcade in two parts. The RPG, produced, written, and directed by Hironobu Sakaguchi, also featured a soundtrack composed by Nobuo Uematsu, the maestro behind most of the scores in theFinal Fantasyfranchise. Many consideredFantasianone of the best RPGs of 2021, though its limited access to Apple devices confined its reach. This year, however, it was announced thatFantasianwould be released on other platforms.
With the titleFantasian: Neo Dimension, the RPG is gearing up for a winter 2024 release, and its ESRB rating update only confirms that everything is on track for its launch.Fantasian: Neo Dimensionhas been given an age rating of E10+, and according to theRating Board, the game will feature fantasy violence, mild blood, mild suggestive themes, and the use of alcohol and tobacco. For comparison, on Apple Arcade,Fantasianwas rated 12+, a slightlydifferent age rating across platforms.
Fantasian Neo Dimension Rated By The ESRB
The ESRB rating details why the RPG was rated as such. The rating summary begins with a synopsis ofFantasian: Neo Dimension, stating that players take on the role of a treasure hunter on a quest to recover their memory. It then highlights that the player will recruit party members and engage withhumans and fantastical creatures, such as robot sentries, giant skeletons, and golems. The fantasy violence players can expect is exemplified by a boss whose mask and armor feature blood streaks. Finally, the suggestive themes are tied to female models, which may have features like deep cleavage or slight breast jiggle.
While a game receiving an ESRB rating doesn’t necessarily mean it’s ready for launch, unlike gold status, it’s still an encouraging update for interested players.Fantasianwas released in 2021 in two parts, so it’s no surprise if this new version is already fully developed. However,Fantasian: Neo Dimension’sturn-based battle systempresents unique mechanics, such as the trajectory feature that takes advantage of the touchscreen on mobile devices to maximize characters' abilities in battle. Players could create an arc with a spell to hit multiple enemies, a system that likely needed some adaptation for the console and PC release.
WHERE TO PLAY
Fantasian by Mistwalker Corp. — From the creator of Final Fantasy, comes the next breathtaking adventure from industry legend Hironobu Sakaguchi. Fantasian is an exciting, new RPG set against a spectacular backdrop made from nearly 160 handmade dioramas that blends physical environments and 3D characters.
● Dive into the Dioramas
Explore the nearly 160 different hand-crafted dioramas in Fantasian, with particular attention to detail. The adventure lasts between 60~90 hours with the first part more focused on story and the latter half more quest-driven, giving players the freedom to explore the world.
● New Battle Mechanics
Tapping into his experience from the Final Fantasy franchise, Sakaguchi brings to Fantasian several quality of life improvements to the classic JRPG genre, such as the “Dimengeon Battle” mechanic, which allows players to send previously encountered enemies into a separate dimensional dungeon to streamline combat and maximize uninterrupted exploration of the beautiful locations.
“Dimengeon Battles” introduce various “Gimmicks” or power-ups that can turn the tide of battle for a satisfying encounter.
Likewise, the Growth Map gives players various customization options and party members can be swapped in and out for even more diverse strategic options.
