New MMORPG "Star Resonance" Unveiled by Tencent and BOKURA

Dec 11,2024

Tencent's investment in the gaming studio BOKURA has led to the development of a new Japanese anime MMORPG titled "Star Resonance." The game recently showcased its first gameplay trailer, revealing plans to launch on both mobile platforms and PC. Players can now register for the "Star Awakening Test," marking the game's initial steps toward release.

"Star Resonance" shares the same universe and artistic style as Bandai Namco Entertainment’s popular MMORPG "Blue Protocol." The development team expresses their admiration for "Blue Protocol," highlighting its unique anime flair as a source of inspiration. The storyline hints at a world in turmoil: "The cycle is unbalanced, divine beings have relocated, and conflicts are escalating. Seeds of evil attempting to create a 'paradise' continue to sprout. The civilization of Regnas is on the brink of collapse. As an adventurer, you are entrusted with the hope of restoring the balance of the stars. We look forward to your efforts in reshaping the world’s laws and resonating with this realm once more."

Background and Development

In 2023, Tencent acquired the rights from Bandai Namco Entertainment to develop a mobile version of "Blue Protocol" as part of the "PROJECT SKY BLUE" initiative. However, the Japanese version of "Blue Protocol" is set to shut down on January 18, 2025, largely due to limited availability in Japan, connectivity issues, and controversies surrounding the console version. The game's poor performance has even impacted Bandai Namco's financial reports, leading to the integration of the development team into the larger corporate structure.

Gameplay Features and Customization

Now, at this pivotal moment, "Star Resonance" is opening pre-registration for Chinese players, promising a continuation of the artistic style and an emphasis on character customization. Players can expect a highly flexible character design system, with the ability to adjust 127 body parts and color 250 components, allowing for a personalized anime avatar. The game aims to provide a rich exploration experience with elements like parkour and flight.

Character Classes and World Design

Players can choose from six distinct classes in "Star Resonance": Blade Guardian, Thunder Shadow Swordsman, Azure Knight, Marksman, Ice Mage, and Forest Speaker. The game promises diverse environments, showcasing locations such as the Tower Ruins and Astralis.

A Unique Approach to Player Engagement

Tencent emphasizes that "Star Resonance" will not engage in the typical practice of rapidly launching new servers to attract players. Instead, the goal is to cultivate a warm and low-pressure adventure world where every player can fulfill their dream of exploring another world. This approach aims to create a more sustainable and engaging community.

Looking Ahead: Community and Future Updates

As "Star Resonance" prepares for its launch, the development team is focusing on building a strong community around the game. Regular updates and player feedback will be integral to shaping the game’s future. The team plans to implement features that enhance social interaction, allowing players to form meaningful connections within the game world.