A new update announcing the expected release time of the turn-based RPG Sea of Stars has been released by Sabotage Studio. Eager fans were also treated to a new video sneak peek featuring the game’s composer, Yasunori Mitsuda. The video also detailed the retro stylistic approach of Sea of Stars and how the music will contribute to it.
Announced as a prequel to the studio’s award-winning game The Messenger, Sea of Stars was announced in 2020 with an expected release by Christmas this year. However, in June 2022, the developers announced it would be delayed to 2023. The creators have promised fans a gripping, fun story with thrilling combat as they use their characters’ magical abilities to fight against The Fleshmancer and explore the rich universe of the game in all its retro-style glory. Now, fans know when to expect Sea of Stars in 2023.
Fans can expect Sea of Stars to release in summer 2023. No specific release date has been announced yet. The latest video focused more on the game’s music and showcased more of Sea of Stars’ ‘90s vibes. Mitsuda mentions that the approach to the game is meant to echo the style of the iconic Super Nintendo gaming era in terms of style, gameplay, and music. Fans catch a glimpse of the retro musical tones in the background of the video via Mitsuda’s “Coral Cascades” track. The composer also mentioned that the intention of the music is to create a “unified feeling” by using such a musical style.
Though the game's music was the primary focus in the latest video, fans were also given more gameplay footage to analyze. So far, Sea of Stars does appear to mimic a nostalgic retro atmosphere beloved by many. The game’s graphics, while maintaining a Super Nintendo style, still seems to have its own colorful modernized aesthetic. A glimpse of the turn-based combat was also shown. Sabotage Studio’s The Messenger prequel looks and sounds promising with each update released.
With such an extensive story, amazing artwork, and beautiful music, as well as graphics that call back to the classics, Sea of Stars looks like a thrilling ride for those looking for a retro-style adventure. The Messenger has proven Sabotage Studio can pull off a retro-based game. Combining previous success with the inclusion of Chrono Trigger composer Mitsuda, the game will hopefully contain a memorable nostalgic vibe with a fresh gaming experience. Sabotage Studio can without a doubt create something engaging for players to enjoy, but it’s up to players to see if the game is worth the hype and the wait.
Sea of Stars will release next summer for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Switch.