Etrian Odyssey is a critically acclaimed series of dungeon-crawling RPGs known for its challenging gameplay, complex map-making system, and unique character classes. With the release of the latest installment, Etrian Odyssey Nexus, the developers faced the challenge of adapting the game’s signature touchscreen mechanics to the Nintendo Switch, all while justifying its $80 price point. In this exclusive interview with IGN, the devs discuss the development process, the difficulties faced, and their hopes for the future of the series.
After the 3DS was retired following the release of the Nintendo Switch, fans of the Etrian Odyssey series were worried that it may be the end for the dungeon crawling game that relied heavily on the dual-touchscreen design of the DS. However, Atlus has put these fears to rest with the Etrian Odyssey Origins Collection, which will bring the first three games of the series to PC and Switch, set to launch on June 1. In an interview with IGN, the Etrian Odyssey HD development team shared the challenges of adapting the game’s touchscreen mapping to modern platforms, particularly on the Switch, but they were able to develop a prototype through trial and error and adjustments. The team also talked about the remastering of graphics and soundtrack, the difficulty level, and the decision to focus on the first three games for their first foray onto modern platforms. While the game will be available for purchase at $80, players will get 30+ hours of gameplay for Etrian Odyssey HD and 50+ hours for Etrian Odyssey II. Finally, the team expressed their appreciation for the support the series has gotten and their eagerness to see how fans receive these HD remasters.
In conclusion, Etrian Odyssey fans are in for a treat with the latest installment of the series coming to the Nintendo Switch. Despite the challenges of adapting such a touchscreen-heavy game to a console, the developers seem confident that they have found a way to retain the essence of what makes Etrian Odyssey special while also utilizing the Switch’s unique features. While the $80 price point may be a bit steep for some, the abundance of content and the promise of a deeply immersive experience may be worth the investment for die-hard fans of the series. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for Etrian Odyssey and its dedicated player base.
