7th Dragon

[illogicaldreamr]

Taken from RPGamer.

"The director of the original Etrian Odyssey, Kazuya Niino, has moved his dragon and design styles to imageepoch for a new Nintendo DS RPG titled 7th Dragon. Sound for the game is being handled by the Etrian Odyssey series composer Yuzo Koshiro. The producer is Kodama Rieko, who has been involved in such RPGs as Phantasy Star 1-4, Skies of Arcadia, and Magic Knight Rayearth.

Much like Etrian Odyssey, 7th Dragon features turn-based battles with a party of four customizable characters. Available character classes are roughly translated as Rogue, Mage, Fighter, Princess, Knight, Samurai, and Healer, with each class having four visual style options. Each class has a skill tree for unique customization of skills and stats, much like Etrian Odyssey. The game will make use of both screens, the top being an explorable, top-down world map, unlike EO's first-person perspective. The main focus of the game is believed to be hunting down and defeating the land's seven dragons.

Sega will be publishing 7th Dragon for imageepoch, making this the second DS offering that they are handling for the developer, the first being World Destruction. 7th Dragon is currently on track for a release in Spring of 2009."

The game looks like Kazuya Niino's take on Dragon Quest.

Here's the official site.

http://dragon.sega.jp/

The site has videos up.

I'd love to see Atlus bring this over to the west!!

[dorkatlarge]

I did a search for "atlus sega" to see what the two companies have collaborated on. The first two pages of results suggest that Atlus has published only three of SEGA's games: Shining Soul 1-2, and Shining Force GBA. That seems to suggest that SEGA doesn't often work together with other companies.

Where will be DS be in 2009? Will it continue to sell software, especially to kids and parents? Its market is different from the 360/PS3 market, but it will eventually give way to the next handheld system. These are important questions to consider regarding translations for the system. I assume that unless the DSi completely fails, eventually the DS will be overtaken by the DSi. (But as of this writing, the first page of results for the phrase "dsi games" does not reveal much of any software.)

[SickleCellAnemia]

I did a search for "atlus sega" to see what the two companies have collaborated on. The first two pages of results suggest that Atlus has published only three of SEGA's games: Shining Soul 1-2, and Shining Force GBA.


You forgot Puyo Pop for the DS.

[Zachalmighty]

Odds are Sega will publish this here themselves.

[jeffx]

(odds are) they are will be, but on the other hand, they will not release World Destruction until Fall 2009, so don't hold your breath for a swift 7th Dragon localization. Wish they'd hop on the Square Enix train (and also get cracking on Shiren Wii / 3 DS)

[jj984jj]

World Destruction is having changes done to it for the NA release though, I'm pretty sure Niinou's game won't need any. :p

But yeah it still could be 2010 since we don't know exactly when it's due out in Japan, it could be anytime during the first half of next year. I doubt Sega's going to pass this one up but if they do then Atlus is definitely the first publisher I'd love to see handle it.

[Zachalmighty]

(odds are) they are will be, but on the other hand, they will not release World Destruction until Fall 2009, so don't hold your breath for a swift 7th Dragon localization. Wish they'd hop on the Square Enix train (and also get cracking on Shiren Wii / 3 DS)

Well Bokumetsu Inkai has an anime attached to it. That might be why its not coming until 09.

[RayFoxSith]

I see Sega releasing this in November 2009.

[Luna]

This game looks pretty cute

[punidrop]

This looks awesome! Especially the game's music.
JP version'll be released on 03-05-2009.

I haven't seen release date for US version yet. Even though many Sega's incoming games got their US date already.
Maybe it has to wait like World destruction I guess.

But if they're not bringing this over, I'm counting on you Atlus.

[VMan]

I've had my eye on this game since they first posted the teaser website for it last year. Anything that Reiko Kodama works on garners my interest. But I have to say you're wasting your time posting this here. I don't see SEGA not handling this, themselves.

[poiuiu]

As long as SEGA doesn't give the game a 16-bit era quality boxart (don't care about something like that myself), the game will at least sell to the niche market that knew about and followed the first EO game; unless of course SEGA does the retarded thing and prints out a billion copies or something.

[xHaseox]

I can see Sega bringing this, especially if they are already publishing World Destruction (now Sands of Destruction).

[stalepie]

I'm hoping this comes to America too, otherwise it's probably the first RPG I'll ever have imported that I try to play.

There's a new preview at 1up.com (import preview):

http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3173142

Hope the box art stays the same.

[jeffx]

I like how that preview goes straight into name dropping Etrian Odyssey.

applying Dragon Quest's world design and perspective to Etrian Odyssey's mechanics and quest/mission structure

God damn it, does this sound like a dream game or what? This has Atlus USA written all over. Don't let SEGA run with it.

[dungeon_man]

I don't care who publishes 7th Dragon as long as somebody does. Atlus, I hope you're in line if SEGA declines.

[-Oath]

Im playing it now. I dont even understand it and its fantastic. ATLUS definitely needs to get on this one.

[Kakizaki]

http://www.1up.com/do/blogEntry?bId=8983159&publicUserId=5379721


I would really like to see a game like this (or EO) but with a Phantasy Star-esque spin.

[Foryth]

I've been saying this for a while, but this game is gonna by the best thing since sliced bread, plz blv.

I'm thinking about importing it even though I don't understand moonspeak.

[Olethros]

I'll buy it, no matter who publishes it.

[LadyRayna]

I'll buy it, no matter who publishes it.

:agree: This game looks fantastic.

[stalepie]

It's getting good sales, so that's hopeful:

http://gonintendo.com/?p=75307

2nd place

[Decept]

I love the art style. I hope someone brings it over.

[Jaxx-Leviathan]

Hmm, I'm pretty certain this looks like something I wouldn't buy right away, possibly if I had the extra money... and what are the odds of that happening?

[jeffx]

I'm thinking about writing my second Walkthrough/FAQ on this game.
Or should I save it for BRANDISH PSP???

(first was Xak I&II (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xak_I_&_II) for PC-Engine...)

[stalepie]

I'm thinking about writing my second Walkthrough/FAQ on this game.
Or should I save it for BRANDISH PSP???

(first was Xak I&II (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xak_I_&_II) for PC-Engine...)

If you do, be sure to look at this guide that's in development:

http://7thdragon.wikidot.com/start

I'm going to wait 6-12 months to see if it gets localized.

[jeffx]

^ The Japanese wiki is much more complete...

[KingKamor]

This looks like something I can dive into for a good few months.

I vote for its localization over here.

[Atma]

I've only been wanting this forever. Do want anything made by the EO creators.

[Balrog]

I'd love to have this game. Localize PLZ!

[DamageCity]

I love it.

[AdrianMorales]

SEGA is already busy this year with Sands of Destruction and Phantasy Star 0 both on the NDS, but then again who knows what will happen with this one?!?! Maybe a 2010 release?!?! Let's hope so:)

[henbayward]

A thousand times "YES"!!!!

[johnnynumber5]

I would love to see Atlus localize Yakuza 3 on The PS3.

[henbayward]

I know it's not the same game, but I hope it has some of the same elements as Etrian Odyssey since its from some of the same folks. Customization, roster creation, maybe even difficulty (thems some hard games!).

edit: oh, and length.

[AbsyntheDelacroix]

Please, Atlus. Please, localize this gem. Day one for me. Please.

[CanuckGamer]

*shameless bump*

This game just looks so pretty ^_^

[LiquidPhire]

i picked this up this weekend. so far, it's like Etrian but in a Dragon Quest format. It's more DQ difficulty too, so pretty easy to play :) It'd be great if atlus could do it, but wouldn't Sega do this one?

[jeffx]

i picked this up this weekend. so far, it's like Etrian but in a Dragon Quest format. It's more DQ difficulty too, so pretty easy to play :) It'd be great if atlus could do it, but wouldn't Sega do this one?

Yeah yeah, wait 'til you hit the deep seas.

[LiquidPhire]

hahaha now i have something to look forward too. I suppose my point is that it doesnt start out brutal, it works you into it.

[Towel]

This looks dandy

[AbsyntheDelacroix]

It looks awesome.

[sfried]

Wait, Atlus can have access to SEGA content?

Wouldn't you think they would prioritize VIRTUAL ON first?

[Towel]

I think bigger publishers will sometimes let Atlus publish their lesser known RPG titles in the USA. I figure they must at the very least have a decent relationship with Namco Bandai. Considering NB allowed Atlus to publish games such as Endless Frontier and Twin Age, which were their properties.

Hopefully Sega of America lets Atlus publish 7th Dragon. The more I read about it the more I lust for it. And considering how ####ing long Sega is taking to roll out World of Destruction, I would hate to have to wait until 2011 to play the game in English, if they even bring it over.

[CanuckGamer]

Well Towel, E3 is going to be the big tell all.
You'll notice that past June Atlus has almost games listed, except for Demon's Souls which was just announced today. I'm sure that in the coming weeks we will see big things from everyone, except for Capcom which is sick with Swine Flu :3

[Towel]

Atlus USA has an E3 booth or whatever this year?! Cool.

[GreenGlowingGoo]

Ack, I had thought Sega already planned to localize it... There's still no word? :very_sad:

[AbsyntheDelacroix]

Bumpity bump. I'm hoping in E3.

[Ephidel]

Nothing from E3 :(
I have to throw in my support for this one, its a game I'd love to be able to play. I loved Etrian, and though this isn't Etrian it keeps calling to me. I really like the art style and the screenshots I've seen so far.
I've been tempted to import it, but the fact is I'd much rather buy it when I can actually understand it ^^;

[Syrione]

IMHO this would be better off localized by Atlus. At least if the market following of Atlus and Sega are any indication. Plus EO was an Atlus product.

[illogicaldreamr]

This game needs to be localized! I'm sad there was no news about it at E3.

[AbsyntheDelacroix]

Come on, Atlus! Show us some mad translation skillz!

[Yet Another Tim]

Yes, if SEGA of America pulled off another Bernie Stolar moment.

[Raven]

looks cool, hope it's as good as Etrian Odyssey.

[illogicaldreamr]

looks cool, hope it's as good as Etrian Odyssey.

Some reports from people on GameFAQS say that they are enjoying it more than Etrian Odyssey. They say that the quests are more involved and interesting and that the writing is excellent.

There were also reports that it has outsold Etrian Odyssey in Japan.

Why no word on a localization for this game yet?! Someone needs to pick this up quick!

[Yet Another Tim]

Why no word on a localization for this game yet?! Someone needs to pick this up quick!

It seems to a lot of people that SEGA would prefer milking Sonic, instead of giving new IP's a push, or current SEGA West admin. is embracing Bernie Stolar ideals.

[RainbowDespair]

To be honest, I'm a little surprised Atlus hasn't picked this up yet.

[Omatic]

Why no word on a localization for this game yet?! Someone needs to pick this up quick!

It seems to a lot of people that SEGA would prefer milking Sonic, instead of giving new IP's a push, or current SEGA West admin. is embracing Bernie Stolar ideals.

Actually, they're releasing a range of games, such as the vocaloid game (forgot her name), Madworld, House of the Dead Overkill, Bayonetta, Infinite Space, Sands of Destruction, and Valkyra Chronicles. Anyone who it seems that they're just milking Sonic games is badly misinformed, or willfully ignorant.

That being said, I'm also surprised that there isn't already an announcement by Sega that this game is going to be released elsewhere. If Sega doesn't do it, I sure hope Atlus does it.

[Yet Another Tim]

Why no word on a localization for this game yet?! Someone needs to pick this up quick!

It seems to a lot of people that SEGA would prefer milking Sonic, instead of giving new IP's a push, or current SEGA West admin. is embracing Bernie Stolar ideals.

1. Actually, they're releasing a range of games, such as the vocaloid game (forgot her name), Madworld, House of the Dead Overkill, Bayonetta, Infinite Space, Sands of Destruction, and Valkyra Chronicles. Anyone who it seems that they're just milking Sonic games is badly misinformed, or willfully ignorant.

2. That being said, I'm also surprised that there isn't already an announcement by Sega that this game is going to be released elsewhere. If Sega doesn't do it, I sure hope Atlus does it.

1. Hatsune Miku is still Japan-only. By the way, most SEGA fans that I met are the ones who are old enough to remember Stolar's screw-ups.

2. I actually PM'd Sega of America via YouTube, of all places, and said that they'd consider marketing 7th Dragon. That's the only word I received from them about this.

[Soushi_Grapple]

I just got EO1 and my gf jacked it and hasn't put it down. I'm sure she would love to see this localized and from what I saw, the games don't look half bad at all.

[Isaac Gravity]

I actually haven't played EO (not very interested but it looks fun. I love Class of Heroes though) so how it compares isn't much of an issue for me.

However, the more I sit and gather info on this game the more and more I fall in love with it. The only game I'll pick up on the drop of the bat for my DS at this point. I would really love to see this be localized since it doesn't seem very import friendly.

Well, my need of needing to learn Japanese aside, this game is a very deserving candidate for an English release all the same.

[LiquidPhire]

You know, I gave up on this game after a while. It starts out pretty nicely paced, but damn it gets kinda stupid about 6 or 7 hours in. The power difference between the zako monsters and the bosses is so huge, and after a while, the EXP you get from the zakos and FOEs isn't really that much. It turns into hours and hours of grinding. It feels like they could have tuned the level up curve a little better to make it so every time you entered a new dungeon, you didn't run into a boss that required you to grind up 10+ levels to beat.

For a game like EO, where there's not really much of a story, this mechanic is fine, but in 7th Dragon, there actually is a story. But it takes so long to advance between story episodes, you forget what happened in the previous section. There's no quest listing or anything to remind you what is going on. I put maybe 25 hours into it, but didn't feel like I was getting very far.

Maybe I just suck, but I felt the game was more hardcore than EO.

Did anyone finish the game?

[dungeon_man]

Maybe I just suck

It's quite possible. I never needed to grind in EO. (Excluding Postgame)

[Ephidel]

I'd still love to see this title in english, but in the meanwhile I'm becoming a bit more tempted to import it... as an expensive demo, perhaps, for when it then gets announced :P

Unfortunately my knowledge of japanese is on the non-existant side. I can get typical menu-faire (and the battle menu has icons, which makes it simpler), and have gotten by on trial and error from there before, but would I manage doing that with this game... and would it still be enjoyable that way as the rest of the text would pass me by?

I've checked the 7th dragon wiki, and it has more information that I thought it did at first glance, so that could help ^^
Is there anywhere else I'd be able to check for a basic walkthrough or guide if I tried that that any of you might know of?

[dungeon_man]

I'd still love to see this title in english, but in the meanwhile I'm becoming a bit more tempted to import it... as an expensive demo, perhaps, for when it then gets announced :P

Unfortunately my knowledge of japanese is on the non-existant side. I can get typical menu-faire (and the battle menu has icons, which makes it simpler), and have gotten by on trial and error from there before, but would I manage doing that with this game... and would it still be enjoyable that way as the rest of the text would pass me by?

Same situation for me. I'd like to import it if it seems like there won't be a US release, but I think it would be a bit too complicated for somebody who cannot read Japanese. I can actually play games like Der Langrisser and Fire Emblem in Japanese with no problem, but the objectives are typically much more obvious in a strategy game. I don't think I would be able to get much enjoyment from an RPG like this if I couldn't understand what I'm doing.

[Spacial User X]

7th Dragon is awesome. I cant wonder why it was not localizated yet.

[poiuiu]

Simple: Sega are idiots.

However, I hold out hope it's the case like Shiren Wii, where Atlus (assuming it's them localising it) didn't announce the game until well after the JPN release date.

[Spacial User X]

I think Atlus should go for it. Sega obviously has no intention of localizing it and 7th Dragon is so Atlus-ish.

[Chad Slambody]

I just learned about 7th Dragon this morning from a J Parrish article at 1UP. After the furious round of googling that followed, I can safely say that I would buy this game if it was in english. (can't read japanese and no time to sit down and play with a companion translation b/c of an active toddler)

However the art and style of the game are right up my alley...as are most Atlus games actually ;)

[HotLimit]

Simple: Sega are idiots.

However, I hold out hope it's the case like Shiren Wii, where Atlus (assuming it's them localizing it) didn't announce the game until well after the JPN release date.

I feel compelled to say the same thing, because Sega released some of my favorite games in Japan and never brought them to America. Still, I think it was actually a good move that they didn't bother to localize, I don't think it would be worth it for them.

I used to have this joke with my friend: "Money is no object for Atlus because they run the gamut on Print Clubs (photo booths) in Japan. Because these machines are apparently a national necessity, Atlus has a never-ending cash flow that they can blow on anything. It just so happens that 'anything' is localizing games that five people in America will buy."

Tongue-in-cheek comments aside, that's really what it seemed like 8 years ago. I just can't see Sega using the same strategy in America that Atlus has been working at for a long time.

[Isaac Gravity]

I feel compelled to say the same thing, because Sega released some of my favorite games in Japan and never brought them to America. Still, I think it was actually a good move that they didn't bother to localize, I don't think it would be worth it for them.

I used to have this joke with my friend: "Money is no object for Atlus because they run the gamut on Print Clubs (photo booths) in Japan. Because these machines are apparently a national necessity, Atlus has a never-ending cash flow that they can blow on anything. It just so happens that 'anything' is localizing games that five people in America will buy."

Tongue-in-cheek comments aside, that's really what it seemed like 8 years ago. I just can't see Sega using the same strategy in America that Atlus has been working at for a long time.

At least you're still able to joke it off.

I just came to the point of belief where, while there ARE those within the company who actually show interest in bringing something over, they still have to keep in mind of various rulings that would honestly cripple their efforts and force them to either bring over alternative titles because they may uphold said rulings (they may be good or worth a play but just not on the level of the other game that most on the message board would clamor for) or have to remove a said feature in the game (like a game whose original version had full voice acting) just for the sake of getting it over here without breaking the bank.

Or the fact that very few companies are willing to take a gamble and would much rather market off the bottom line.

I blame the mainstream and obscures for that. That aside, I'll wait 6-12 months and see what happens. Still hope someone picks this gem up.

[illogicaldreamr]

i'm beginning to lose hope for this game. :( I really want to play it in English. I think the most recent announcement from Sega was another lame Phantasy Star game.

[Spacial User X]

Obviously, Sega has no intentions of localizing it.

[dungeon_man]

Obviously, Sega has no intentions of localizing it.

Obviously. No SEGA game has ever gone this long without an announcement and then gone on to be localized.

[HotLimit]

...they still have to keep in mind of various rulings that would honestly cripple their efforts and force them to either bring over alternative titles because they may uphold said rulings (they may be good or worth a play but just not on the level of the other game that most on the message board would clamor for) or have to remove a said feature in the game (like a game whose original version had full voice acting) just for the sake of getting it over here without breaking the bank.


Longest sentence ever?!?! Anyway, I'm not sure exactly what you mean by 'various rulings', but if you're talking about Namco-Bandai games like Super Robot Wars or Tales of Rebirth, I guess I could see where you're coming from.

I saw something interesting recently that shows at least one company cares (surprise, it's Namco-Bandai!). They have some new RPG that is going to include random Bandai-owned characters for purchase by DLC. If this content were in the game from the beginning, it would cause licensing problems when trying to bring it to the US. By keeping it download-only, they can simply not offer that content to Americans and still release the game. I really hope more companies do the same so that these conflicts don't keep us from getting some decent titles.

[sdragon21]

The same team that developed both etrian odyssey games + a soundtrack by Yuzo Koshiro=instant purchase.

[Gunloc]

If Sega doesn't pick this up (which would be ridiculous), then I would fully support Atlus giving this game a shot.

Class system and retro vibe is definitely right up my alley.

[Isaac Gravity]

...they still have to keep in mind of various rulings that would honestly cripple their efforts and force them to either bring over alternative titles because they may uphold said rulings (they may be good or worth a play but just not on the level of the other game that most on the message board would clamor for) or have to remove a said feature in the game (like a game whose original version had full voice acting) just for the sake of getting it over here without breaking the bank.


Longest sentence ever?!?!

Heh. It can get worse.

Anyway, I'm not sure exactly what you mean by 'various rulings', but if you're talking about Namco-Bandai games like Super Robot Wars or Tales of Rebirth, I guess I could see where you're coming from.

I saw something interesting recently that shows at least one company cares (surprise, it's Namco-Bandai!). They have some new RPG that is going to include random Bandai-owned characters for purchase by DLC. If this content were in the game from the beginning, it would cause licensing problems when trying to bring it to the US. By keeping it download-only, they can simply not offer that content to Americans and still release the game. I really hope more companies do the same so that these conflicts don't keep us from getting some decent titles.

Actually, I was referring to gaming companies as a whole. There's just plenty of issues be it from legal issues from "of Japan" branch, rather stupid calls given by the first-party or, their own reserves that hurt the chances of a localization.

A great example was one you brought up, the Super Robot Wars games. However, I get why those don't see the light of day here no matter how much I love the games myself. Though the Tales games just don't seem to sell as well as they want so they're rather selective there...

Another could be found around all the request topics in the "Game Suggestions" really. And man, those can get ugly...

But that article you brought up is an interesting find. I'd think twice about saying Bamco cares though. Give 'em credit for this strategy however, just means they really wanna sell that game. Whatever it is...

[HotLimit]

Haha, yeah that's what I meant, they really care about selling their games. Which is apparently something Sega has little interest in. I guess as long as Charles Hamilton is their biggest fan, we'll only be getting more sub-par Sonic games.

[Spacial User X]

Image Epoch will be anouncing a new game next week, maybe a sequel or a PSP version. I guess its time Atlus USA anounce they'll localize 7th Dragon. :P

Also, check out the game's blog. They'll be releasing the artwork book on Japan.

http://dragonblog.sega.jp/

[nciox]

Where's our 7th Dragon? :very_sad:

[Omatic]

I really, really, really hope this gets picked up by Atlus or XSEED, as Sega has apparently passed on this and Shining Force Feather.

[AdrianMorales]

I picked up the OST not too long ago and I have to say that Yuzo Koshiro's work is amazing.
Here is a review of the album: http://rpgfan.com/soundtracks/7thdragon/index.html

http://rpgfan.com/soundtracks/7thdragon/cover_l.jpg

[illogicaldreamr]

I read that review not too long ago and it really sparked my interest in finding the OST, but I haven't gotten around to buying it yet.

I have a feeling that we're never going to see this game in the states, which is a real shame.

[Evila]

I have a feeling that we're never going to see this game in the states, which is a real shame.
Yeah. ;-; I'm still holding out hope that someone will pick it up, but that'll wane as time keeps passing.

[nciox]

its almost been a year and still no localization in sight..

[Kid Marin]

its almost been a year and still no localization in sight..
More like 7 months, 7th Dragon was released in march.

Sega games take time. It took one year to announce Shiren 3 in NA. ;)

[Zachalmighty]

I'm getting antsy not having heard about any intentions yet to localize this.

[Maskalido]

My Comment.

I like style this game. (MOE Chibi Charecter,Fight Mode,Music,Etc)

This is AWESOME!! ..

If i play this game until end game..

If game remake english version..(i'm waiting it...)

I try play this game agian.(use other Char..)

Thank a lot for Great game. :)

http://i294.photobucket.com/albums/mm83/maskalido/7TH2.jpg]

[nciox]

finally? hmm..:D

http://www.cubed3.com/news/13138/

[dungeon_man]

finally? hmm..:D

http://www.cubed3.com/news/13138/

Thanks, but it takes more than that to get my hopes up.

[illogicaldreamr]

finally? hmm..:D

http://www.cubed3.com/news/13138/

Possibly? I hate when they are secretive about it. Just tell us yes or no! Either way, this is better than no news about it at all.

[Ephidel]

It sounds slightly more hopeful in the original interview on Joystiq ([url=http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/02/tgs-2009-interview-imageepoch-and-sega-on-sands-of-destruction) where rather than just a rather average 'no comment' answer, they had actually referred to the game before giving one.
It is open to interpretation though. It could just be that the feedback they got from World Destruction was used both to improve Sands of Destruction and used in some way during creating 7th Dragon... but of course, I want to read it as feedback from previous releases for both IPs is being used to pave the way for western versions of both :P



Not just in terms of sales, but how was the reception in Japan?

Mikage: In terms of users reviews and feedback from the actual people who played the game, some feedback was expected, some was surprising and new for us, but one thing that is definitely true is that based on the reviews and the feedback from the gamers, we've implemented that in the western version of Sands of Destruction. And not just with that IP, we've also implemented that into 7th Dragon, which is another title that imageepoch and Sega worked on together, released after Sands of Destruction. There might be other titles that Sega and imageepoch work on together, and that will definitely reflect in those games, as well as titles that imageepoch and Sega work on independently as well. We feel that it was a really good collaborative project, Sands of Destruction, and we've gotten really good feedback from the fans, and we want to implement that to make future titles better.

Are we going to see 7th Dragon in North America or Europe?

Nakagaki: That is ... no comment.

[jeffx]

This year's TGS spawned more rumours than facts it seems. Don't forget about Grandia IV and Legend of Dragoon 2. I'll believe it when Sega announces it, but they'd be DUMB not to. I'm certain Atlus had a bid on 7D too.

[Kid Marin]

GAF's finest informant says that 7thD is coming to NA. (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=18183516&postcount=153)

[jeffx]

Kid, I gotta say. I love when you bump old threads, it's usually with good news. Thanks.

(now bump the Ys Seven / Brandish threads, will ya?)

[sdragon21]

I'm thinkin either Atlus Or Gaijinworks picked this one up.

[jeffx]

Gaijinworks? That's some random thinking. Not that I would mind...

[greyshm]

Gaijinworks? That's some random thinking. Not that I would mind...

If Gaijinworks becomes the next Working Designs, I wouldn't mind it either.

[jeffx]

They'll have to stop with the empty promises and show the goods, first.

[VMan]

If Gaijinworks becomes the next Working Designs...

Ahh...nostalgia...

They helped make my owning a Saturn worthwhile and brought over some personally memorable shooters.

[raiku]

I'll buy it, no matter who publishes it.

:agree:

[illogicaldreamr]

GAF's finest informant says that 7thD is coming to NA. (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=18183516&postcount=153)

YES!

But..who is that guy? And how could he possibly know that?

[Kid Marin]

Not a guy, she is a lady.

[VMan]

GAF's finest informant says that 7thD is coming to NA. (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=18183516&postcount=153)

YES!

But..who is that guy? And how could he possibly know that?

Quartermann from EGM knew FES was being localized long before Atlus announced it. Stuff gets leaked and gets around.

[nciox]

any new info on this?

[jesusraz]

GAF's finest informant says that 7thD is coming to NA. (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=18183516&postcount=153)

YES!

But..who is that guy? And how could he possibly know that?
Same way I know stuff I can't talk about - a close relationship with certain developers :) Last I heard, SoE is umming and ahhing about bringing it to Europe. That strikes me as a 'wait to see what happens in the US first' sort of thing.

[igpx407]

I hope the rumors are true because this is the RPG I'm most excited about.

[Pixel]

GAF's finest informant says that 7thD is coming to NA. (http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=18183516&postcount=153)

YES!

But..who is that guy? And how could he possibly know that?

Quartermann from EGM knew FES was being localized long before Atlus announced it. Stuff gets leaked and gets around.
:agree:
I'm sort of shocked by this year's leaks & gossip, especially coming from niche RPG publishers. On one hand, it's fun to read, but I'd rather not know too many details. Ignorance is bliss.

[Spacial User X]

http://www.nintendoeverything.com/28610/

[jeffx]

Yikes, not the bump I was expecting. But SEGA are talking about their own plans here, they can't speak for another publisher.

[Tivor]

All the more reason for Atlus to pick this up!!

[Macheath]

All the more reason for Atlus to pick this up!!

Yeah, Atlus, pick this up! :D

[dungeon_man]

http://www.nintendoeverything.com/28610/

*kills the messenger*

Hmm. They were right. That doesn't help.

[AbsyntheDelacroix]

http://www.nintendoeverything.com/28610/

This makes me cry inside.

[Ephidel]

I want to un-read that :(

Still, it has all the 'to my knowledge' 'plans' 'at this time' generic answer speech in there.
And it was in answer to a question asking if they have any plans for it. Maybe theres still a chance someone else might.
*Clings to hope*

[Kakizaki]

This is what pains me as a die hard Sega fan. They are constantly criticized for not developing the same amount of quality titles that they once did. While I can't totally disagree with that sentiment, Sega still creates a lot of great content. For whatever reason, they do a piss poor job of releasing that content outside of Japan.

I'm not suggesting 7th Dragon would be a huge hit, but I don't think it is that difficult to look at what DS rpgs have become modest successes and garnered cult followings. I don't think it is unrealistic to theorize that 7th Dragon has the potential to fall into that same niche.

I'm always a little surprised that Sega doesn't take a two tier approach. Release the large titles that they always have while following an almost Atlus USA-like model of releasing lesser known, low print run titles.

This kind of stuff just burns me up at times and really makes me wonder about the people that are in charge of making decisions regarding localization and marketing. In the same respect, Sega has totally pissed on the Yakuza franchise in the U.S. as well as dropping the ball on many other releases.

[jeffx]

So true.

And we all took Thunder Force VI for granted (well, I did).

[AdrianMorales]

SEGA makes some awkward decision when it comes to EU/US, but they are still a wonderful company. One must take into consideration the fact that they are working on some of the most ambitions NDS titles out there in the form of Sand of Destruction and Infinite Space. Also, unlike ATLUS, SEGA were close to bankruptcy back in the day. The bigger you are the harder you fall as they say and SEGA was the biggest out there next to Nintendo. Now they have been reduced to a 2nd tier company. And it is not like ATLUS is more generous. I am still waiting for Shin Megami Tensei Devil Summoner PSP and Growlanser PSP by the way.

[Ephidel]

The problem is that in many cases their awkward decisions seem to make little sense to anyone other than them :P

I'm not sure I'd say they were the most ambitious, but they are titles I'm looking forward to seeing. The font in the Infinite Space screenshots was pretty awful though :(

And as for Devil Summoner for PSP, I'd quit waiting for it. Isn't it one of those games that has actual technical issues stopping it being brought over? Lost code/emulation-rather-than-port/something like that?

[jeffx]

Yes let's not bring Devil Summoner PSP into this.

[illogicaldreamr]

:( I knew I shouldn't have trusted some random person telling us that it was coming to the U.S.

[jeffx]

She has a good track record but yeah, rumours are rumours.

[poiuiu]

Seventh Dragon gets a Sega stamped budget reprint before the rest of the world gets a single version of the game (http://www.4gamer.net/games/075/G007576/20091225091/). :cries
http://i45.tinypic.com/28rzce1.jpg

Sequel incoming hopefully.

[henbayward]

Well, XSEED is bringing "Fragile Dreams," a game, IIRC, no one thought would make it to America, so maybe there is still some shred of hope for this one, too. I'd buy it.

[jonemere]

I like the characters of this game. The games music is really good and I love the games story.

[Iris]

Does anybody else perk up and feel this great shining hope inside every time they see this thread has been bumped, then click and see another reply that isn't an actual confirmation and then immediately feel crushed?

:(

(And if I am indeed not the only one, I apologize in advance for any hopes I may have crushed by bumping to ask this question.)

[Macheath]

I wonder why no publisher is willing to localize this game. I want it sooo bad.

[Keichan]

Request thread, by the powers of my request, I command you to rise from your grave!

In other words, I second this motion ( ¯◡◡¯·)

[nciox]

wait 2 secs to reload the image

(any news on this?)

[dungeon_man]

Okay, I'm going to start asking for bans if people are going to keep bumping this with no news. I'm tired of getting my hopes up every time this thread has a new post.

[cireza]

It has been a while now and Sega does not look like they want to release the game outside Japan...

Too bad, Rieko Kodama deserves something better than that. Would buy if Atlus was to do something about it !

[illogicaldreamr]

It's been almost 5 months now since 7th Dragon's release

5 months? Check the wiki. 7th Dragon was released on March 5th, 2009. It's been over a year. I've given up hope of ever getting this game.

[dungeon_man]

ban plz

[Yet Another Tim]

Since SEGA still hasn't said a word about this, then, it's safe to conclude that the ONLY franchise that starts with an S they care about is Sonic. *yawns*

[poiuiu]

Considering the last few years of games with the 'Sonic' name on them (Mario and Sonic excluded), can you really say that's 'caring'?
:devil:

[Kakizaki]

Why was that taken down? sega wont localize it.


Unfortunately another poster has been spamming the boards and ruining threads for everyone else here.

I mistakenly deleted the thread due to several factors. For now, my bad...

[DarkRPGMaster]

No problem, that guy is ruining these forums. You do know that you could implement a system where every new name needs to get approved by an admin first. Might take care of him.
This is a brilliant idea. Might help prevent spamming. That reminds me...have they been trying to IP ban him, or does he keep changing his IP address?

[Sagadego]

not easy sadly i heard its easy to change a ip adress, hes also spamming like mad on gamefaqs and Nis

[dungeon_man]

Three new posts, and none of them contains news about 7D.

[Belle_Radz]

this one looks nice!!!!:D

[cj iwakura]

Everyone should give this a read.

http://hardcoregaming101.net/7thdragon/7thdragon.htm

It sheds some light on why this hasn't been released here, and why it likely won't be.

Also: it is not a first person dungeon crawler. At all.

[Yet Another Tim]

Thanks, CJ. As for this part from the 7th Dragon page on Hardcore Gaming 101:

But the big tragedy is that Sega has, so far, decided to not localize 7th Dragon into English, instead passing it over for dreck like Sands of Destruction. The general response from other North American publishers is that the game is too challenging - it's not easy but it's certainly less difficult than Etrian Odyssey...

In simpler terms, mostly mainstream North American publishers would rather cater to campers, while the 1st-person traditional full-party RPG is deemed cliche. Okay, I find it oxymoronic, seeing how campers are constantly portrayed as "the face of mainstream gaming"... in America, even though we practically gave away RPG's and adventure games (which now live on as Visual Novels) to Japan. Honestly though, shouldn't anything mainstream be considered as "cliche"? Sheesh.

[Wheels]

Thanks, CJ. As for this part from the 7th Dragon page on Hardcore Gaming 101:

But the big tragedy is that Sega has, so far, decided to not localize 7th Dragon into English, instead passing it over for dreck like Sands of Destruction. The general response from other North American publishers is that the game is too challenging - it's not easy but it's certainly less difficult than Etrian Odyssey...

In simpler terms, mostly mainstream North American publishers would rather cater to campers, while the 1st-person traditional full-party RPG is deemed cliche. Okay, I find it oxymoronic, seeing how campers are constantly portrayed as "the face of mainstream gaming"... in America, even though we practically gave away RPG's and adventure games (which now live on as Visual Novels) to Japan. Honestly though, shouldn't anything mainstream be considered as "cliche"? Sheesh.

Too challenging is a terrible excuse to not bring a game over in a time when challenging games like Strange Journey and Demons Souls are around and popular (and Demons Souls at least is a far more challenging game). Its "IN" to be a challenging game right now.

[LiquidPhire]

Too challenging is a terrible excuse to not bring a game over in a time when challenging games like Strange Journey and Demons Souls are around and popular (and Demons Souls at least is a far more challenging game). Its "IN" to be a challenging game right now.

Demons Souls is 'you lack skill' challenging. 7th Dragon is 'you just haven't spent the 10 hours of grinding to clear this dungeon' challenging. Very different. I'm not saying you point is wrong, but let's compare apples to apples. 7th Dragon is arguably poorly balanced as far as challenge goes, in a 'we dont want to spend a lot of money developing a long game, so lets just make every dungeon a grind-fest so the game takes 60 hours to clear' kind of way. Only a small section of gamers latch on to that, so its understandable (yet unfortunate) that the game hasn't been localized.

[dungeon_man]

7th Dragon is 'you just haven't spent the 10 hours of grinding to clear this dungeon' challenging.

I've played very few games since the 80s that were "challenging" in this sort of way and my impression is that people who accuse games of requiring absurd amounts of grinding simply aren't very good at them. Having not played Seventh Dragon, I can't say for certain, but I strongly suspect that is the case here as well.

[illogicaldreamr]

Umm, you can't post stuff like that here. I won't be surprised if you get banned.

[Toryn]

Bit of a bump here.

I'm still waiting, Atlus.
This game needs to be localized. Or at least tell us that you aren't going to localize so I can go buy an import copy.

In fact, Atlus, if you localize this, I'll buy 5 copies, for me and all my friends. Now do it. Now.

On the financial side, I can't see them not making money off this game. Strange Journey and Etrian Odyssey both received positive reviews and sold well overall, why wouldn't 7th Dragon?

So please, either tell us you are, or you aren't.

(I'm going to keep pestering this topic every few months or so until we get a reply..)

[Kid Marin]

(I'm going to keep pestering this topic every few months or so until we get a reply..)
Please don't. Atlus is well aware of 7th Dragon, bumps are pointless. The only thing you may achieve is a thread lock.

[marsmatrix68000]

I just don't understand why Atlus chooses to localize by-the-numbers RPGs like Crimson Gem Saga and Hexyz Force and ignore a brilliant game like 7th Dragon. What gives? I thought Atlus was about publishing innovative games, not generic ones.

[Zoltor]

Everyone should give this a read.

http://hardcoregaming101.net/7thdragon/7thdragon.htm

It sheds some light on why this hasn't been released here, and why it likely won't be.

Also: it is not a first person dungeon crawler. At all.

Thanks for link, It's the first real info I've seen(I can't read Japanese).

Hey, that info makes me want it more.

Can the Japanese be any more ignorant, those "morons", we aren't like them, the people who like this/these genres over here, are hardcore in ways the Japanese can't even imagine, we like such games to be super hard, and long as hell, with tons of gameplay (It's meant to be a trial).

Now I really want this game over here, I'm not a fan of the overworld field, and battle menue art style, but with extensive systems/mechanics like that, the art style is a non issue.

I'm serious, most Japaneese companies in this industry, have no idea what people over here want(atleast ATLUS, and NIS have a clue, but most companies are competely clueless).

PS. I so would go out of my was to hunt all 666 Dragons :)

It's the Japanese who like easy, linear story driven stuff, we like massive gameplay, hard difficulty-ridiculously difficult, a lot of exploration, and content.

[dungeon_man]

I wouldn't get too worked up. I doubt there is much fact behind HG101's claimed reasons for it's lack of a US release.

Still, I am disappointed that there has been no news yet. I might have to learn some Japanese.

[Zoltor]

I wouldn't get too worked up. I doubt there is much fact behind HG101's claimed reasons for it's lack of a US release.

Still, I am disappointed that there has been no news yet. I might have to learn some Japanese.

Yea I know, but while it may not be the case with that "developer", an overwhelming amount of Japanese developers "do" indeed see it that way.

[nciox]

Just a thought.. Maybe we should voice out our request to Atlus, to localize 7th Dragon, this is a request forum after all.. Maybe if we could string 50 requests, or even 100 request then maybe Atlus would consider it. With that in mind i'll go on first.

Atlus, please publish 7th Dragon for us. :D

[Laethiel]

Maybe if we could string 50 requests, or even 100 request then maybe Atlus would consider it. With that in mind i'll go on first.

Atlus, please publish 7th Dragon for us. :D

From the Game Suggestions sticky:

the Suggestion forum is a place to suggest games, not lobby for them. We read all suggestions and take them into account, but posting "call to arms" and trying to overwhelm us with sheer numbers (in the hundreds...) will generally never work.

[Funktion]

Sadly, as time goes by, it seems we won't be getting this game.

It's depressing that the two DS I most want to play, 7th Dragon and Sakura Note, are unlikely to receive releases outside of Japan.

[illogicaldreamr]

Yes, it seems we won't be getting this game. It's rather depressing. With that said, it's probably time to let this thread die.

[dollssoulkirie]

I also would love to see this game released in English.. But like some said, so far no news have been mentioned besides finding this on the-magicbox.com (http://the-magicbox.com/game20101108.shtml) about a month ago:

"Nintendo president Satoru Iwata said that the company is considering
bringing NDS games to North America and Europe, that were never released
outside Japan, in order to stabilize the NDS user base while
transitioning to 3DS. Some of the candidates include Soma Bringer, Blood
of Bahamut, 7th Dragon and Fire Emblem II."

[bannersignsexpress]

it is nice i like the art style i hope they do bring it over

[Kakizaki]

Why on earth have there been so many user names featuring the word "signs" within them lately? This is a bit weird.

[Olethros]

I noticed that too. I assumed that they were either all spammers or else all part of the same "cult". They probably worship that modern classic movie of the same name... ;)

[Kakizaki]

Signs signs everywhere there's signs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gklM1AiZX0s).

[dorkatlarge]

"...in order to stabilize the NDS user base while
transitioning to 3DS. Some of the candidates include Soma Bringer, Blood
of Bahamut, 7th Dragon and Fire Emblem II."

There's a number of other niche DS games with relatively mainstream gameplay that were never localized. (I know that's an odd phrase... think Sakura Note, Gamecenter CX: Arino's Challenge 2, Solatorobo, etc.) I suspect one reason was cost versus potential profit. It may have been tough to justify the expense of translating a game when only a small number of people would be willing to buy it.

That said, I'm looking forward to what the 3DS might bring. Perhaps it will be possible to re-release commercial games and sell them online. Perhaps it will be less expensive and risky to publish in cartridge form. If so, then publishers might be willing to localize some of the lost DS games.

[KingOfPrinces]

This game actually dosen't look too bad. But I prefer Blaze Union or Fire Emblem 12 for localization.

[MoBoRoS]

I can't believe its 2011 and no announcements for 7th Dragon, Summon Nights X: Tears Crown, Both Saga DS games, Blood of Bahamut and Soma Bringer have been made.
I grieve for the fate of the modern rpg community. It is a shame...

[cireza]

So, as Atlus given up on this game ?

It would be nice to have an official answer, like "No we will never localize it", or "Maybe"...

[HotLimit]

So, as Atlus given up on this game ?

It would be nice to have an official answer, like "No we will never localize it", or "Maybe"...

What exactly in your life would change if they confirmed they weren't going to localize it? Would you muster up the ambition to learn Japanese so you could play the game? Is not having an answer holding you back from pursuing your life's goals? Are you planning on doing a beautiful translation of the game yourself, but want to make sure that Atlus isn't going to rain on your parade by doing their own? Did you sign some convoluted legal contract that has, "localization of 7th Dragon by Atlus USA" as a stipulation?

[sabaku_lotus]

This game actually dosen't look too bad. But I prefer Blaze Union or Fire Emblem 12 for localization.

Make a thread about it~

I'm learning Japanese so I can translate games like this hoping so.

[cireza]

What exactly in your life would change if they confirmed they weren't going to localize it? Would you muster up the ambition to learn Japanese so you could play the game? Is not having an answer holding you back from pursuing your life's goals? Are you planning on doing a beautiful translation of the game yourself, but want to make sure that Atlus isn't going to rain on your parade by doing their own? Did you sign some convoluted legal contract that has, "localization of 7th Dragon by Atlus USA" as a stipulation?

:o

You should try to relax.

[MoBoRoS]

I wish i was the son of some rich enterpreneur, so that i could give more money to ATLUS than they could even imagine of gaining by this game's localization, so they could localize it without thinking about its potential cost.
Yes... i want that game localised that bad. But nobody will ever listen to me.. *sigh* :/

This game is such a hit that it gets a second game of the series in the same generation!! And it also features Hatsune Miku in the second title! Wtf? O_O
How awesome is that?

I dont know about the technical stuff of the licences and the games etc etc and i would really like to know if this is the issue, why this game isn't getting localised (at least by ATLUS).
Does Localising it mean paying a ton of money to SEGA (or the creators of the game) and if yes, is this is the main issue?

I don't get why not release it... In the west Dragon and Medieval Fantasy themes are SOOOO POPULAR.
You can see it by the recent release of Lufia. In Japan it sold like crap
BUT! in the West it did exceptionally well!

But who am I to tell big companies what to do. Most fans cry their guts out about various promising games but noone ever gives half a damn.

The only company that i think that does is this one, ATLUS.

So if anyone from ATLUS ever reads this i would love it if he/she was kind enough to tell me the possible reasons about why this isn't being localised.

[cireza]

I hope that no one will come to insult you (looks like this kind of things happen when you show interest in 7th Dragon).

[daveyd]

I wish i was the son of some rich enterpreneur, so that i could give more money to ATLUS than they could even imagine of gaining by this game's localization, so they could localize it without thinking about its potential cost.
Yes... i want that game localised that bad. But nobody will ever listen to me.. *sigh* :/

This game is such a hit that it gets a second game of the series in the same generation!! And it also features Hatsune Miku in the second title! Wtf? O_O
How awesome is that?

I dont know about the technical stuff of the licences and the games etc etc and i would really like to know if this is the issue, why this game isn't getting localised (at least by ATLUS).
Does Localising it mean paying a ton of money to SEGA (or the creators of the game) and if yes, is this is the main issue?

I don't get why not release it... In the west Dragon and Medieval Fantasy themes are SOOOO POPULAR.
You can see it by the recent release of Lufia. In Japan it sold like crap
BUT! in the West it did exceptionally well!

But who am I to tell big companies what to do. Most fans cry their guts out about various promising games but noone ever gives half a damn.

The only company that i think that does is this one, ATLUS.

So if anyone from ATLUS ever reads this i would love it if he/she was kind enough to tell me the possible reasons about why this isn't being localised.


One way or another it ALWAYS comes down to money. Video game developers / publishers are in the business to make money, not to entertain you; that's just a potential side effect. Since Sega owns the rights to the game they can charge another company whatever they want... Now you're probably thinking "Wouldn't it be better for SEGA to make some money by letting another company localize it than to just sit on it?" That is a question I don't know the answer to, but I think it comes down to not wanting to risk letting a competitor make a boatload of money off of their property.

7th dragon looks pretty interesting and I'd get it if it was localized, but I think it's either going to be SEGA or no one. And SEGA rarely releases their RPGs in the west anymore (perhaps due to the expense of translating so much text / dialogue).

[Fabrizo]

Most fans cry their guts out about various promising games but noone ever gives half a damn. The only company that i think that does is this one, ATLUS.

That's being rather rude to NISA, XSeed, and AKsys. But there aren't a whole lot of companies that specialize in game localizations, and few if any of them can throw money around like it's nothing.

[MoBoRoS]

Most fans cry their guts out about various promising games but noone ever gives half a damn. The only company that i think that does is this one, ATLUS.

That's being rather rude to NISA, XSeed, and AKsys. But there aren't a whole lot of companies that specialize in game localizations, and few if any of them can throw money around like it's nothing.

I know it was.. and i apologise.

[dungeon_man]

I still maintain that Seventh Dragon is the most disappointing RPG non-release of this generation. I just don't get it. Are games like Cursed Crusade really more worthwhile to pursue?

The target audience for 7th Dragon may be small, but I think that audience would have absolutely loved it. I'll still buy a copy if this is ever localized.

[lunarXskies]

I think XSeed (or Aksys or something) said they had troubles obtaining the license for 7th Dragon, so I'm guessing it has something to do on Sega's part

Or else Atlus probably would've released it during the Class of Heroes, Etrian and Dark Spire times

[Zoltor]

I think XSeed (or Aksys or something) said they had troubles obtaining the license for 7th Dragon, so I'm guessing it has something to do on Sega's part

Or else Atlus probably would've released it during the Class of Heroes, Etrian and Dark Spire times

Yea Sega is causing trouble sigh. Everyone wants this game brought over, the fan base has gotten so big, even Nintendo wants to bring it over.

Sadly once again we need to wonder why Sega has a US branch to begin with, because if It's not a Sonic title, they wont bring it over(atleast Namco lets other companies localize their games every so ofter, but Sega forget it).

What I will never understand, is if you're not willing to localize the game, why not allow someone else do so for a fee(otherwise you're making no money, while if you let someone else do it, atleast you'll get a lic fee).

[Tiamat]

Sadly once again we need to wonder why Sega has a US branch to begin with, because if It's not a Sonic title, they wont bring it over(atleast Namco lets other companies localize their games every so ofter, but Sega forget it).


Well Sega of America was apparently on drugs one day and brought over Infinite Space so lets all hope that happens again, lol

would very much like to play this

[Zoltor]

Sadly once again we need to wonder why Sega has a US branch to begin with, because if It's not a Sonic title, they wont bring it over(atleast Namco lets other companies localize their games every so ofter, but Sega forget it).


Well Sega of America was apparently on drugs one day and brought over Infinite Space so lets all hope that happens again, lol

would very much like to play this

Yea sigh(they seem to make better dicions when on drugs). It's like they think up BS to warrant not localizing it, while everyone else wants to bring it over(hell even Nintendo couldn't ignore the outcry, and you know if Nintendo wants to bring a 3rd party title over, when they wont even bring over the games they have the right to localize already, It's a "big" deal).

If it gets released here, "I'll still buy it" hands down(Pre-order), but until then, looks like I'll have to import it sigh(the fan translation was temp canceled, and Sega doesn't seem to be letting anyone bring it over). I never used a transltion wiki before(atleast It's a hand held game, and not a consol game, because then it would really be a pain), but I can not, not play this game, It's way too awesome