Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness lights up the Switch

How many Atelier adventures are there? It seems like a new episode is dropping on a monthly basis as Gust and Tecmo keep cranking out the fun magical mystery tours. I haven't really enjoyed once since Atelier Sophie on the Vita on the Vita, but now is probably a good time to drop back in. The game is out in the EU this week, with a physical version available.

Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness & the Secret Hideout follows teenage tomboy Ryza and her band of mischievous friends, Lent and Tao, who yearn for adventure and excitement far away from their mundane village life. As the group explores a forbidden island in search of adventure, they encounter a wandering alchemist, Empel, and his warrior partner, Lila, who change their lives forever. The duo agrees to teach Ryza the enchanting ways of alchemy, preparing her for a harrowing quest to save her hometown from a mysterious and deadly darkness lurking beneath the surface.

Here's a clip of the Japanese version in action on the Switch, since I can't find an official Switch trailer...


Throughout Atelier Ryza: Ever Darkness & the Secret Hideout, players will utilise completely revamped synthesis and battle systems – collecting and synthesising raw materials into powerful items for battle, before fighting the lurking monsters which roam the many lands they will venture through. The new synthesis interface clearly displays the required materials and effects that can be added to the final item at a glance, using a ‘Linkage Synthesis’ system to easily display item placement. Newcomers to alchemy will be warmly welcomed with easy to understand synthesis, whilst series veterans will be able to take full advantage of the system via strategic item placement. The fresh ‘Real-Time Tactical Battle’ system allows battles to progress even while character actions are being chosen, offering fast-paced and exciting battle situations.