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Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma – Embrace Your Fate in an Eastern Fantasy Adventure

Latest entry in life simulation / action RPG series now available.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is the latest entry in the acclaimed life simulation and action RPG series Rune Factory, a spin-off of the popular Story of Seasons series. Available from June 5, 2025 for Switch 2, Switch, and PC via Steam, the game introduces players to the never-before-seen eastern land of Azuma, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with evolved Rune Factory gameplay.

A Land Shattered

The story of Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma begins with the Celestial Collapse—a catastrophic event where a colossal object crashes into Azuma, scattering fragments of terrain into the skies and seas. This disaster halts the flow of rune energy, causing the gods of nature to vanish and leaving the land in ruin. Players awaken as an Earth Dancer, chosen to fight against the Blight and restore balance and hope to the forsaken world.

Bold New Abilities and Weapons

Combat in Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma has significantly evolved. As an Earth Dancer, players draw on spiritual energy through movement and sacred relics. The Earth Dancer class introduces a rhythmic, almost ritualistic fighting style that incorporates elemental dances to cleanse the land of Blight.

An expanded arsenal further diversifies combat—new weapon types such as the Bow make for precise ranged attacks, while the Talisman offers magical faire. Each weapon synergizes with Earth Dancer abilities, encouraging players to adapt their approach depending on the enemy’s Blight-inflicted form.

It Takes a Village

Farming returns in Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, but it is no longer limited to just your own plot of land. For the first time in series history, players can take part in large-scale village restoration. After the Blight devastated entire settlements, it is your job to rebuild them from the ground up.

Through resource gathering, crafting, and strategic building placement, you will attract new residents and vendors—each with their own backstories, quests, and roles in Azuma’s recovery. And reconstructing infrastructure is not just cosmetic—it also unlocks new gameplay mechanics, items, and events.

Your Fantasy Japanese Life

Drawing inspiration from traditional Japanese culture, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma presents a beautifully crafted world steeped in seasonal charm. From snowy mountain shrines to blooming sakura villages, each location is tied to a distinct season and visual style.

Festivals and events integrate local traditions, minigames, and relationship-building opportunities, and serve as a means to deepen bonds, trade rare items, and uncover storylines.

Classic Romance and Relationships

True to the heart of Rune Factory, relationships remain a central feature. Players can choose between male and female protagonists, each fully voiced, and pursue romantic relationships with a range of eligible bachelors or bachelorettes—regardless of their protagonist’s gender.

Every romance candidate offers unique dialogue, including fully voiced romantic scenarios, as well as their own backstory and personal quests, all of which unfold as bonds deepen. Once close enough, these characters can also even you in battle.

Now Available

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma will be available for Switch 2, Switch, and PC via Steam. It is due out alongside Switch 2 on June 5, 2025, offering enhanced resolution and frame rates over the Switch version. The Earth Dancer Edition, priced at $99.99 / €99.99, features exclusive content such as an art book, soundtrack CD, and plush Woolby keychain. The standard edition is available for $59.99 / €59.99.