Atelier Meruru (?): Alchemist of Arland 3

[HitokiriShadow]

Gust has announced a third Alchemist of Arland title. The Meruru part hasn't actually been officially announced, but trademark filings suggests that's what it will be. Anyway, its the third Arland title, so that means more gorgeous Kishida Mel art and while it hasn't been announced yet, you can be pretty sure which system it will be on.

There's a crappy camera recording of a trailer from the Gust event here. (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/03/08/shakycam-teaser-trailer-gives-us-a-better-look-at-the-next-atelier-game/)

Slightly more info here (includes good pictures of the main character) (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/03/06/gust-announce-new-alchemist-of-arland-atelier-game/) and here (mild spoiler if you don't want to know about returning characters) (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/03/07/rorona-plays-a-key-role-in-the-next-atelier-project-for-ps3/)

(Also, hey, NISA, can we have an Atelier Totori announcement now? Please?)

JP website (http://atelier-ps3.jp/meruru/)

[Suwako Moriya]

Gust has announced a third Alchemist of Arland title.

News that I can approve. Also, I feel silly for not bringing it up earlier myself.

here (mild spoiler if you don't want to know about returning characters) (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/03/07/rorona-plays-a-key-role-in-the-next-atelier-project-for-ps3/)

*Looks* Well, I've always figured it this way. As the game gets further in production, things like returning characters will become common knowledge anyway. Hence why I checked it myself.

(Also, hey, NISA, can we have an Atelier Totori announcement now? Please?)


Seriously, we've waited more than long enough. Sure, I still have the first game to go through, but having the second game on hand would make things easier. Hopefully the Atelier series is still doing decently enough to consider more games for it being released here.

Speaking of which, there is the matter of those two other DS Atelier games....

[superdry]

Gust has announced a third Alchemist of Arland title. The Meruru part hasn't actually been officially announced, but trademark filings suggests that's what it will be. Anyway, its the third Arland title, so that means more gorgeous Kishida Mel art and while it hasn't been announced yet, you can be pretty sure which system it will be on.

...

(Also, hey, NISA, can we have an Atelier Totori announcement now? Please?)


Yes! A Hoshikuzu Witch Meruru game! Oh, wait...n/m. =D

I'm still excited about the announcement though. And, yes, NISA needs to make an announcement on Totori (I still need to play Rorona, but I've been on this non-RPG kick lately).

[TheLaughingMan]

Lovely main character again. :beatingheart: I wasn't expecting a third one already, but it's all good.

I'll let NISA bring Totori first and then i'll get excited for Meruru...

[cress2000]

I believe GUST has only made up to two Atelier games set in the same continuity up until now (Iris 3 is "3" in name only), so I guess that makes this interesting.

I really need to go finish Mana Khemia 2.

[GHDpro]

I wonder if the name of the main character (Meruru) is a homage to the character designer of all three games, Kishidia Mel (written as "Meru" in Japanese). Also sadly if the history of the series is any indication, this will likely be the last game in the Arland "saga".

[cxt217]

I believe GUST has only made up to two Atelier games set in the same continuity up until now (Iris 3 is "3" in name only), so I guess that makes this interesting.

That is a recent trend by GUST but the very first 3 Atelier games ever released (Atelier Marie, Atelier Elie, and Atelier Lilie.) were all set in not just the same continuity, but the same town and sequential time periods! And the following two Atelier games (Atelier Voirate and Atelier Judie) were essential set in the same continuity.

Since Atelier Rorona was suppose to be a callback to the earlier heyday of the series, I do not see why GUST would simply restrict themselves to just two games for the subseries. Given how successful Atelier Rorona was, it would make even less sense to not run with it.

C.T.

[UEHacker]

I'm very excited about this, but hopefully after this though they make more games in the vein of Atelier Iris/Mana Khemia. I've enjoyed those much more than the classic style Atelier games.

[HitokiriShadow]

The game has been confirmed as "Atelier Meruru". (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/03/22/atelier-meruru-is-the-third-game-with-rorona-and-the-last-game-in-arland/) It will be the last Arland game (which shouldn't be a big surprise) and will be released in Japan on June 23. The LE of the game will come with a crystal paperweight and a Meruru Nendoroid. The article has a few more details about the story and setting, along with returning characters. And there's an interesting twist with one them....

[Suwako Moriya]

The game has been confirmed as "Atelier Meruru". (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/03/22/atelier-meruru-is-the-third-game-with-rorona-and-the-last-game-in-arland/) It will be the last Arland game (which shouldn't be a big surprise) and will be released in Japan on June 23. The LE of the game will come with a crystal paperweight and a Meruru Nendoroid. The article has a few more details about the story and setting, along with returning characters. And there's an interesting twist with one them....

Well, as the last game in the trilogy, let's hope it's worthy of that position. Either way, I'll definitely try it. Well, after I finish the previous two. Ok, there's a challenge with finishing the second one.

Ah, the twist is definitely interesting. Yeah, I've got to see what that's about. The wait is going to be painful. Especially since we're still waiting for the second one.

[Senku]

Since this is the last one, I hope Gust is working on a new IP that's the successor to the Ar Tonelico franchise.

As for Meruru, I have yet to really geek out on Totori; so Meruru will have to wait her turn.

[Suwako Moriya]

Since this is the last one, I hope Gust is working on a new IP that's the successor to the Ar Tonelico franchise.

In my case, I'll be wondering what Atelier series might come after this trilogy. I'll decide about the worth of desiring a successor to Ar Tonelico after finishing the first one.


As for Meruru, I have yet to really geek out on Totori; so Meruru will have to wait her turn.

Is NISA ever going give Totori her turn? The fact we've waited this long worries me a lot. That and I'm still waiting on Liese and whatever that third DS game is supposed to be. So far we've only gotten Annie.

[UEHacker]

I'm not worried about Totori at all, they're probably just waiting for the right time to announce it.

[cress2000]

I'm not worried about Totori at all, they're probably just waiting for the right time to announce it.

They announced Rorona and ATIII somewhat early considering how long it actually took to release them. GUST games have always taken an extended amount of time to localize for some reason, so it could be they want to announce the game when it's closer to release.

[HitokiriShadow]

The first bunch of screenshots. (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/03/24/atelier-meruru-the-alchemist-of-arland-3s-dazzling-first-screenshots/) It looks gorgeous, of course.

There's also an interesting bit of gameplay info. There will be some sort of "land cultivating system" and as an example, a screenshot shows some ruins from the beginning of the game, which then becomes a fortress later in the game.

[Fencedude]

The first bunch of screenshots. (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/03/24/atelier-meruru-the-alchemist-of-arland-3s-dazzling-first-screenshots/) It looks gorgeous, of course.


Meruru's gorgeous, and 19 year old Totori is just devastating.

[Draneor]

I'm down with loli-Rorona. Definitely.

[Suwako Moriya]

The first bunch of screenshots. (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/03/24/atelier-meruru-the-alchemist-of-arland-3s-dazzling-first-screenshots/) It looks gorgeous, of course.

Rorona is adorable. Totori shows that time was good to her. Meruru proves that she's "worthy". Also, I love the image the second image in the third row. That's my kind of party.

There's also an interesting bit of gameplay info. There will be some sort of "land cultivating system" and as an example, a screenshot shows some ruins from the beginning of the game, which then becomes a fortress later in the game.

It will be interesting to see how it ties into the plot, story wise. Gameplay wise, I'm sure it's main purpose will be to give you new areas to explore and items to gain.

[Senku]

I'm down with loli-Rorona. Definitely.

I'm just utterly floored at how improved the graphics are from the first game. It looks like a totally different system compared to Rorona.

[Fencedude]

I don't have confirmation, but there is a rumor that Meruru is going to be played by Taketatsu Ayana.

[superdry]

I don't have confirmation, but there is a rumor that Meruru is going to be played by Taketatsu Ayana.

If that rumor is true, I will have to import the game and fumble and bumble my way through it.

[Draneor]

I don't have confirmation, but there is a rumor that Meruru is going to be played by Taketatsu Ayana.

That's a plus, but given her character design, she'll still be my least favorite of the three.

[Draneor]

First PV (http://www.youtube.com/user/Ateliermeruru) is out on the official channel. There's not much game play footage, but I think I like Meruru's character model more than her design.

[kijakusai]

I don't have confirmation, but there is a rumor that Meruru is going to be played by Taketatsu Ayana.

If that rumor is true, I will have to import the game and fumble and bumble my way through it.
　
According to 2ch, actually Meruru's voice will be done by Akesaka Satomi.
http://jin115.com/archives/51764101.html
http://otanews.livedoor.biz/archives/51761699.html
http://rakusyasa.blog41.fc2.com/blog-entry-3083.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satomi_Akesaka
　

[Senku]

First PV (http://www.youtube.com/user/Ateliermeruru) is out on the official channel. There's not much game play footage, but I think I like Meruru's character model more than her design.

I'm inclined to agree with you on design. Just from the video, I have to say that I like Rorona and Totori designs more then Meruru.

[superdry]

I don't have confirmation, but there is a rumor that Meruru is going to be played by Taketatsu Ayana.

If that rumor is true, I will have to import the game and fumble and bumble my way through it.
　
According to 2ch, actually Meruru's voice will be done by Akesaka Satomi.


I read about it on andriasang a few days ago. Oh well.

Now, I don't have to import it and fumble and bumble immediately. I'll wait and see if NISA will bring it over at some point.

[HitokiriShadow]

A few more gameplay and setting/character details found here. (http://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q2-2011/041311a.html)

It turns out Meruru is a princess that comes with her own maid and butler. The maid is a party member, but it sounds like the butler is not. And the maid's weapon of choice is a hammer.

Apparently completing quests will net you development points, which you can use to build shops and other buildings. You have some sort of rank (not surprising considering all the ranks and levels you had in Rorona) that gives you access to more things.

Oh, and you'll be able to put up statues of Meruru all over town. Which is both hilarious and awesome.

[Suwako Moriya]

A few more gameplay and setting/character details found here. (http://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q2-2011/041311a.html)

I like the sound of features like being able to put up statues of Meruru even better if there's more than one design to choose from.

[Draneor]

I'm not sure when they were posted, but there's about 50 screenshots out now (http://www.andriasang.com/e/galleries/2011/04/18/atelier_meruru_screens/). I think it looks good.

[TheLaughingMan]

Those screenshots looks great! I can see myself wasting quality hours on this. I guess it's just a matter of time and NISA will get it.
Though for now a date for Totori would be more pressing. That's another story though...
I also agree that Meruru looks the least interesting design wise. But the game looks the best.

[angelx03]

Anyone up to see some in-game battle footage?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d904f4t8FYs&feature=player_embedded

[HitokiriShadow]

Anyone up to see some in-game battle footage?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d904f4t8FYs&feature=player_embedded

Oh, a turn order bar, yay.

I do believe I saw a combo attack there.

This game likes to give very nice views of our lovely ladies rear ends. Especially (returning character spoiler) Mimi___

And goddamn, those character models are incredibly gorgeous.

[Suwako Moriya]

Anyone up to see some in-game battle footage?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d904f4t8FYs&feature=player_embedded

Yes, I am. Also, I definitely appreciate some of those angles they provide us with. They're especially beneficial. Finally, I'll admit to pausing a few times around the 2:50 mark. Figure out for yourself as to why.

[Fencedude]

Anyone up to see some in-game battle footage?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d904f4t8FYs&feature=player_embedded

Oh, a turn order bar, yay.

I do believe I saw a combo attack there.

This game likes to give very nice views of our lovely ladies rear ends. Especially (returning character spoiler) Mimi___

And goddamn, those character models are incredibly gorgeous.

Good god that looks awesome.

[Draneor]

You know how many days worth of items they just wasted! The mere thought of actually using items in combat... Otherwise, it looks pretty good. Just need to finish the first two now.

Finally, I'll admit to pausing a few times around the 2:50 mark. Figure out for yourself as to why.

Ah yeah. Why do I have a feeling that feature isn't going to make it over here.

[Fencedude]

Ah yeah. Why do I have a feeling that feature isn't going to make it over here.

You obviously never played Neptunia. NISA has no issues with pantyshots.

Also, somehow I seem to remember them releasing a game where stripping was a major battle mechanic, now what was that game...

[Draneor]

You obviously never played Neptunia. NISA has no issues with pantyshots.

Considering the last NISA game I played beyond an hour was Trinity Universe, of course not.

[HitokiriShadow]

Ah yeah. Why do I have a feeling that feature isn't going to make it over here.

You obviously never played Neptunia. NISA has no issues with pantyshots.

Also, somehow I seem to remember them releasing a game where stripping was a major battle mechanic, now what was that game...

And besides, she's wearing a leotard, so its not really a pantyshot and is no worse than the numerous ass-shots you get of the other girl.

But yeah, while NISA might fiddle with character ages, they clearly don't have a problem with pantyshots or similar material. There is an approximately 0% chance they will remove that.

[Senku]

And goddamn, those character models are incredibly gorgeous.

^This. Seriously cannot believe how amazing games 2 and 3 look. Even the easiest battles will take 5 mins. for me, since I'll just be sitting there staring...

[Suwako Moriya]

Ah yeah. Why do I have a feeling that feature isn't going to make it over here.

You obviously never played Neptunia. NISA has no issues with pantyshots.

Given that you're responding to a response to me, I should probably point out the following. That in my case, I wasn't really focusing on the view of the rear in that case. Although that's of benefit too.

I was actually focused on the pat where she started patting and you could see part of her chest close up. Yeah, so you had to pause a few times and it wasn't that clear of a view as it could have been.

However sometimes perversion takes effort! Wait, does that even make sense?

[HitokiriShadow]

There's two new Meruru videos out today:

Video 1 (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/05/23/watch-more-colourful-footage-of-atelier-meruru-in-this-latest-promo-video/)
Video 2 (http://www.siliconera.com/2011/05/23/this-is-how-meruru-deals-with-a-band-of-innocent-bunnies/)

The first one is mainly conversation scenes, and includes the first footage (I think) of Rorona's character model (I think we only saw her character portrait before this).

The second has a bunch of gameplay, and I notice two points of interest. First, you get to make some sort of selection after completing an item synthesis. It looks like you have some influence on item attributes, but I'm not quite sure. That would be nice, as in Rorona, item attributes were based entirely on the ingredient attributes, with no apparent logic or system to what attributes ended up on the synthesized item, so getting the specific attributes you wanted as kind of annoying.

The other thing I notices was what looks like the ability to instantly go to other locations in town, without having to exit to the town map first.

Also, link to the Japanese official site (http://atelier-ps3.jp/meruru/) (also now included in the top post)

[HitokiriShadow]

Coverart for the LE box. (http://www.rpgamer.com/games/atelier/ameruru/packaging/ameruru2.jpg)

That is a lovely, lovely view of Meruru's legs.

[Suwako Moriya]

Coverart for the LE box. (http://www.rpgamer.com/games/atelier/ameruru/packaging/ameruru2.jpg)

That is a lovely, lovely view of Meruru's legs.

Yes, it definitely is. The view of her in general is great.

[boogiecat]

The sequel is now available at last!:Meruru no Atelier:Arland no Renkinjutsushi 3 Premium Box (http://www.play-asia.com/SOap-23-83-4jgc-71-bp-49-en-84-j-70-46u5.html)