The snappily titled Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia comes to 3DS in May.
It’s all about the Switch right now, but the little 3DS still has some life left in it. The console’s next big game is Fire Emblem Echoes: Shadows of Valentia – a remake of the Japan-only, Fire Emblem Gaiden – which will be released across Europe on May 19, 2017.
The game is the latest in a franchise that has seen a huge upturn in fortunes since the arrival of Fire Emblem Awakening in 2012. Last month saw the release of mobile spin-off Fire Emblem Heroes, and the Nintendo Switch will be home to the next mainline game in 2018, as well as Fire Emblem Warriors later this year.
Shadows of Valentia puts players in control of the two armies of Alm and Celica and their quest to bring peace to the land of Valentia. The game pays its dues to the series’ past with a Classic Mode which features the ever-present prospect of character perma-death. If – like me – you find that too stressful, you’ll be pleased to know that Casual Mode makes a welcome return. The game features fully-voiced English dialogue for the first time, which will accompany cut scenes from animation studio, Studio Khara.
Fire Emblem Amiibo Support
Of course, it wouldn’t be a Nintendo game without some sort of Amiibo support. The existing Marth, Roy, Ike, Robin, and Lucina amiibo – plus the upcoming Corrin figure – can be used to summon an Illusory Hero of that character into the game. In addition, a new Alm and Celica amiibo pack will be released containing two figurines. Each one will unlock an exclusive dungeon and earn special items.
There will also be a Limited Edition release that contains an art book, metal pixel pin badges of Alm, Celica, and Marth, a soundtrack selection CD, and the Alm and Celica amiibo.
