Marvelous USA has issued a word of caution about potential delays for the Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma Earth Dancer Edition due to the unpredictable international tariff landscape. This could push back the release beyond the initially scheduled date.
Included in this special edition are some unique items: a sacred Japanese-inspired folding fan with a display stand, a two-disc soundtrack CD, a 160-page art book, exclusive downloadable content, and a Woolby plush keychain. The folding fan, or "sensu," is the main cause for the delay as it remains held up at the supplier’s factory in China.
Marvelous USA’s president, Ken Berry, addressed the issue with fans in the Americas, saying, "The international tariff situation is causing chaos with our production timelines. There’s a possibility that the premium ‘Earth Dancer Edition’ may not be ready for the June 5th release of the Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma."
The sensu fan, while completed, has faced delays at the supplier’s facility in China, adding unexpected fees due to tariffs. These costs, over 20% of the suggested selling price, are prohibitive. "Passing these costs onto fans who pre-ordered is unacceptable," Berry added.
In response to questions about manufacturing in China, Berry explained that when production began nearly a year ago, no Japanese manufacturers could meet their demand. Thus, they chose to import authentic Japanese washi paper to China for assembly.
Berry remains hopeful, noting, "There’s still a chance everything will arrive on time, but I want to be transparent with our community. Reduced or eliminated tariffs might not quickly resolve the backlog, potentially extending US customs clearance from a day to weeks."
Marvelous USA is actively monitoring the situation and will expedite delivery, possibly by air rather than more economical ocean freight if necessary. "Thank you for your support and understanding," Berry concluded.
The game introduces players to Azuma, a region with Japanese-inspired visuals and fresh takes on familiar gameplay elements from the Rune Factory series. It’s important to note that this situation only affects the Earth Dancer Edition for the Nintendo Switch. The standard editions and digital releases remain on schedule for June 5.
The storyline unfolds in a world affected by the Celestial Collapse, with Azuma struggling under a dark blight. Players take on the role of an Earth Dancer, destined to revive the land alongside a dragon companion. You’ll choose between two interconnected protagonists and enjoy expanded gameplay, from farming and village building to wielding new weapons like the Bow and Talismans.
Azuma features beautifully designed villages inspired by Japanese culture and integrated with seasonal themes. Players will form relationships with locals, recruit their help for battles and contribute to village management. Using sacred treasures and dance, you’ll purify the land and restore Azuma’s former glory.
Key features outlined by the publisher include:
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Bold New Abilities and Weapons: Use dance, sacred treasures, and new weapons to farm and heal the land.
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It Takes a Village: Reconstruct villages to attract returning residents and revitalize the area.
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Your Fantasy Japanese Life: Immerse yourself in Japanese-inspired character designs and environments.
- Classic Romance and Relationships: Engage in fully voiced scenarios and recruit new friends for battles.
Set to release on June 5, 2025, Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma will be available at retail and on the Nintendo eShop for the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
