The PlayStation 2 is not dead yet as it gets it second new RPG for the week. The spiritual sequel to the Atelier Iris series, Mana Khemia ~Alchemists of Al‐Revis~ is coming to North America. NIS America, publisher of Gust's last RPG Atelier Iris 3: Grand Phantasm, will be responsible for bringing Mana Khemia over.
The main character Vayne Aurelius is a new alchemy student at the Al Revis Academy. Throughout his adventure, he will team up with a variety of people to delve deeper into the world of alchemy. Unlike the Atelier Iris series, Mana Khemia features a campus simulation system. This system features academically-themed quests given by professor that must be completed or else Vayne has to stay after school. Quests require interaction with classmates and the outcome of the story can vary depending on who Vayne teams up with.
Players will be able to craft not only items, but skills and spells as well, allowing for greater character customization. Mana Khemia features no random encounters, instead opting to have the player confirm combat on screen. When battling enemies special button combination attacks known as Burst Attacks can be used.
Mana Khemia has not been rated by the ESRB and no official price has been set yet. It will be available March 18, 2008 for the PlayStation 2.
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