Building relationships and finding love can be a fun component of games like Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, and even though getting married is not a requirement like it was in some previous titles, this game mechanic is a wonderful way to reveal more of the story. As relationships get stronger, these key NPCs share more of their struggles and backstory with the hero, often through fully voiced cutscenes. Although these stories don't always directly impact the main narrative of the game, they help make the world more immersive and can teach deeper lore. 2b722k

Rune Factory games, such as the new Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, often include the ability to build relationships with NPCs in the game, either for friendship or romance. Through giving gifts, hanging out with them in various activities, chatting each day, and even asking them to your party in battle, players can improve their relationship status with these characters and even see unique storylines and quests revolving around their varied backgrounds. Once a strong enough bond has been formed, the protagonist can even marry one of these romanceable NPCs.

The newest entry in the Rune Factory series, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, seems to be looking to win back its fans who felt that Rune Factory 5 was a bit of a letdown by adding in more of everything. Not that the fifth was a bad game at all, but after the notable successes of the third and fourth, many were left a tad disappointed. Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma brings a charismatic cast of characters, beautiful settings inspired by Japan, plenty of activities to keep one busy, and a story that swells to epic proportions.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma is a spin-off that brings several new twists to the long-running franchise. It’s set in the titular Azuma, a land inspired by ancient Japan instead of the typical Western-style Rune Factory locale, which is struggling in the wake of a cataclysmic event called the Celestial Collapse - the crash of a large object into the world which split it apart. Now, a lack of runes and a threat called Blight have turned Azuma into a barren husk of what it once was, and it’s up to the player and their newfound powers to restore it.

Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma combines action-packed role-playing with life simulation and has a wide range of partners for players to connect with, making the adventure even more personal. There are dependable heroes, kind-hearted companions, and even mystical beings; there’s someone for everyone to relate to in this game.