‘Star Ocean: The Divine Force’ Is Coming To Consoles And PC In 2022

By far the highlight of the Sony PlayStation State of Play was the unexpected appearance of Square-Enix and tri-Ace’s latest Star Ocean title, Star Ocean: The Divine Force. There hasn’t been a Star Ocean game since 2016’s Star Ocean: Integrity and Faithlessness, which unfortunately didn’t reach nearly the heights the franchise was known for in the past.

This time around, the title appears to be blending elements from both past Star Ocean games as well as other popular franchises that have appeared since the release of the last title.  The Double Hero system returns, with players able to view the story through the eyes of a protagonist from either a sci-fi or fantasy civilization, and the story will change based on who the player picks.  The game also offers wide-open spaces players can fly through that feels reminiscent of Xenoblade Chronicles X. Players can also seamlessly enter battles with their enemies, even if they were previously flying at high speeds.

The PlayStation blog details the protagonists in this installment:

Raymond

“A young man from the nonfederated planet of Verguld. He is the captain of the merchant vessel Ydas under Lawrence Logistics, a company run by his family. His confidence often sees him rushing recklessly into situations when it comes to his friends and work, much to the distress of the Ydas crew. Raymond has a big heart, affable nature, and a good nose for business. His lack of affiliation with the Pangalactic Federation means he is not bound by the Underdeveloped Planet Preservation Pact. This sincere openness to meet others where they’re at regardless of technological advancement wins Laeticia over, but leaves Albaird wary.”

Laeticia

“Princess of the Kingdom of Aucerius: a large territory located on the underdeveloped planet of Aster IV. Her radiant and resolute personality is admired throughout the kingdom, but her prim demeanor betrays her penchant for wearing armor and remarkable skill with the dual blades. In order to remedy the encroaching threat of a neighboring country, Laeticia sets off on a secret journey to locate a certain individual. She meets Raymond along the way, recently stranded on Aster IV. The two agree to help one another and begin traveling together.”

Elena

“A crew member of the merchant vessel Ydas and Raymond’s first mate. She manages the operation of just about the entirety of the ship, and her vast knowledge and cool demeanor have earned her the complete trust of Raymond and the crew. Elena is constantly surprised by Raymond’s proclivity for recklessness, but all the same she holds a high opinion of his leadership qualities.”

Albaird

“A childhood friend of Laeticia’s, he now serves her as a knight of the Kingdom of Aucerius. He excels at semiomancy and the wielding of chakram. His strong sense of loyalty to Laeticia means he is never far from her side. Albaird’s left arm is covered down to his fingertips, and he occasionally gestures as if to protect it. He does not trust Raymond upon meeting him while escorting Laeticia on her secret journey. Loathe to go against her wishes, however, he reluctantly allows Raymond to join them.”

Star Ocean: The Divine Force will release for PlayStation and Xbox consoles as well as PC in 2022.