Fantasian Neo Dimension is now making its grand debut on both PC and consoles, priced at $49.99. This beloved game, which originally made waves as one of the standout offerings on Apple Arcade, is stepping into new territory, offering upgraded visuals, full voice acting, and an easier “Normal” difficulty setting to welcome newcomers.
Originally crafted by Mistwalker, a development team led by the iconic Hironobu Sakaguchi, Fantasian initially captivated audiences on Apple Arcade when it released in two parts throughout 2021. This expansion to platforms like PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, starting December 5, marks an exciting chapter for fans who’ve been eagerly waiting to experience this JRPG outside of its original Apple ecosystem.
With the Neo Dimension edition, players can expect an abundance of enhancements. Notably, the game now offers voiceovers in both English and Japanese, with stunning 4K visuals enhancing the experience (except for the Switch version). By introducing a “Normal” difficulty level, the game becomes more accessible, veering away from the demanding reputation the original had earned for its need for constant player engagement.
As for where you can snag a copy of Fantasian Neo Dimension, it retains its high-standing from its Apple Arcade days, holding a “Strong” rating on OpenCritic with an average score of 82 and boasting an 86% preference from reviewers. This move to broader platforms should entice many JRPG enthusiasts who missed it during its initial exclusive run. Although Mistwalker remains the creative force behind Fantasian, it’s interesting that Square Enix is stepping in for its distribution.
An average run through Fantasian Neo Dimension is expected to take up over 60 hours, with even more to explore for those who commit to a completionist approach. With its stylish diorama aesthetics and a diverse roster of bosses, the game packs a punch. It’s also poignant to note that this title marks a significant milestone as the final major project for famed composer Nobuo Uematsu, known for his legendary work on the Final Fantasy series. While Uematsu isn’t retiring, he’s expressed a desire to shift focus towards non-gaming music projects, which might demand less of his time than traditional game scores often require.
Players will continue to immerse themselves in the intricate tale of Leo, who embarks on an interdimensional quest to regain his memories and defeat a sinister mechanical plague known as Mechteria. This richly woven story, together with the enhanced features and broader availability, makes Fantasian Neo Dimension a thrilling adventure and a fitting tribute to the talents behind it. With its release on December 5, the game opens up a new dimension of storytelling and gameplay that promises to captivate both newcomers and long-time fans alike.