Hideo Baba, the producer of Bandai Namco Games’ venerated Tales franchise, has established a new studio under the Square Enix umbrella, where he’s now heading up a new project titled Project Prelude Rune.
Studio Istolia’s RPG title was previously confirmed by Square Enix a while back, although this is the first solid details we’ve heard on the project, as well as Baba-san’s involvement in the project. No release window for the fantasy-inspired title was confirmed in the press blurb, and we don’t know what platforms the game is slated for either.
“Studio Istolia further builds on Square Enix Group’s vision to create new intellectual properties alongside existing Square Enix studios,” said the publishing giant, adding that it aims to create an RPG “with a new fantasy: unfolding across a vast land teeming with life. Nurtured by the earth, the many peoples of this land dare to dream, fighting for what is just — and this is their tale.”
"The aim of the studio is to provide unforgettable stories that will inspire players in their own lives, and bring new game experiences to everyone around the world.” Square Enix also the new studio’s name is derived from the Greek word for ‘story.’
The most recent entry in the Tales series, Tales of Berseria, was released for PS4 last month. Baba, however, was not involved in the project, with his last credited entry in the franchise being the 2015 entry, Tales of Zestiria on PS3.
Stay tuned to PSU for more details on Project Prelude Rune as they become available.