JRPG fans looking for their next fix can’t go wrong with upcoming sci-fi epic STAR OCEAN THE DIVINE FORCE. Developed by tri-Ace and published by Square Enix, the latest installment in the Star Ocean franchise will be released on October 27, 2022. And it will be available on the following platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and PC (Windows only and available via Steam).
Square Enix has kept the excitement going for this anticipated title by releasing several trailers and teasers. And their latest video: STAR OCEAN THE DIVINE FORCE Mission Report: #2 DUMA and Vanguard Assault – provides some interesting details!
So what exactly is DUMA and why does it play such a crucial role in this title? DUMA is a robotic looking machine with high intelligence, but describes itself as a “life form”. It survived a Pangalactic Federation battleship attack by escaping in a pod. And it eventually comes into contact with Raymond and the rest of his crew.
Raymond doesn’t know what to do with DUMA at first, but it ends up joining the starship captain and his crew. And while it seems kind enough, it doesn’t quite make his true intentions known.
Could it be hiding something important that could affect the course of the plot? We don’t yet know if DUMA will deliver unexpected plot twists, but it grants powerful abilities to each party member.
DUMA and Vanguard attack abilities explained
If there’s one thing Tri-Ace is known for, it’s developing intricate combat and gameplay mechanics. Thankfully, STAR OCEAN THE DIVINE FORCE doesn’t fall short in this regard thanks to the introduction of Vanguard Assault.
The DUMA hardware gives players access to Vanguard Assault, which offers a range of abilities as follows:
- Flight – Allows a party member to fly around city or field maps to find hidden maps or activate combos.
- Field Scan – Searches the environment for hard-to-find items and treasure chests.
- VA Attack – A powerful attack that triggers just after a party member levitates.
- Blindside – Enemies temporarily lose sight of a party member and are more vulnerable to attacks.
- Surprise Attack – A surprise attack and accompanying bonus occurs when attacking an enemy that is unaware of the nearby party member.
Who are the main characters in STAR OCEAN THE DIVINE POWER?
At the start of a STAR OCEAN THE DIVINE FORCE session, players must choose between Raymond or Laeticia.
Raymond hails from the planet Verguld and is the captain of the merchant ship Ydas. He is a kind-hearted person and has good business sense. But his overconfidence leads him recklessly into dangerous encounters that are best avoided.
Laeticia comes from the planet Aster IV and is the princess of the kingdom of Aucerius. She is admired throughout the kingdom and is straightforward in her demeanor. But she likes to wear armor and shows phenomenal skills with her dual blades.
Other group members are Albaird, Elena, Midas and Nina. They all have unique personalities, weapons, and abilities. As such, it helps enrich the lengthy sci-fi saga that awaits Star Ocean and JRPG fans.
With Xenoblade Chronicles 3 for Nintendo Switch and many other notable JRPGs coming soon, STAR OCEAN THE DIVINE FORCE will face stiff competition. Let’s hope it will meet and exceed the expectations of the most demanding JRPG fans. Stay tuned!