A RPG in virtual reality is still a dream for many fans of Sword Art Online. With Nostos, this dream could finally become a reality.
Since the anime series Sword Art Online, the desire of players to immerse themselves fully in a world has grown significantly. With the emerging VR technology, this wish is becoming tangible. However, so far all hopeful contenders have turned out to be disappointments or PR stunts – but now Nostos is coming.
At Gamescom 2018, the VR RPG Nostos was introduced, which is sure to thrill fans.
What is Nostos? Nostos is a VR RPG developed by the giant Chinese corporation NetEase and was first extensively showcased at Gamescom 2018. The game also supports SpatialOS, the wondrous technology from Improbable.
These two companies are currently working on the future of MMORPGs.
But this future of MMORPGs is still far away. Currently, it is the collaboration Nostos that arises from it. Alongside a playable demo on-site, there was also a nice trailer to enjoy, which you can watch here:
The graphics in the cel-shaded look remind many players of the latest Zelda installment (Breath of the Wild) or various representatives of the “Tales of” series (such as Tales of Berseria). Big round eyes, powerful weapons, and vibrant colors in anime style are sure to please all Japan fans.
How is the gameplay? In Nostos, players roam an open, post-apocalyptic game world and must search in the ruins of civilization for a way to rescue the remaining survivors. Resources must also be gathered and camps constructed, as many creatures in the world are hostile. There are also “survival aspects,” which will probably come in typical RPG fashion.
Whether there will be a classic quest system is still unknown. The developers are still discussing it. A completely free exploration of the world without a proper “end” would also be possible.
Not Sword Art Online: As “real” as Sword Art Online is Nostos not. After all, it will not be a pure VR MMORPG, but “only” a VR RPG with a multiplayer mode. In the demo, up to four players could play together. How many will be in the finished game is still uncertain. However, teaming up with hundreds of players to embark on adventures seems rather unlikely.
In summary, Nostos will probably not be the desired “Sword Art Online” VR MMO – but it could be a first step in a good direction and a worthwhile game in the otherwise rather mixed VR market.
A specific release date for Nostos is still pending. So far, only “2019” has been stated.
