The release of a new Fire Emblem game is usually a big deal, so I was more than a little intrigued–but mostly confused–when I happened to glance at the Nintendo Today app calendar on September 24 and it said “Fire Emblem Shadows Available.” There had just been a Nintendo Direct on September 12, after all, where Nintendo announced the next mainline entry in the series for Switch 2, Fire Emblem: Fortune’s Weave. There was no mention of Fire Emblem Shadows. And after playing it, I can see why Nintendo wouldn’t showcase it on that big stage
I assumed it was referring to Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon, the 2009 remake of the first game in the series, and went on with my day. It was only later that evening I learned that Fire Emblem Shadows was actually a brand-new mobile entry in the series: one where players manage “real-time strategy and social deduction at the same time.”
The idea of a new game in the long-running tactics series arriving out of the blue had me eager to install it and see what it was about. I had a decent time with Fire Emblem Heroes, Nintendo’s previous attempt at translating Fire Emblem to the world of free-to-play mobile games (and one that would go on to become Nintendo’s first mobile game to hit $1 billion in revenue). As such, I was curious to see how Shadows, which is also free to play, would differ. Unfortunately, the monkey paw soon curled, and I found myself dumbfounded by all the ways Fire Emblem Shadows is Fire Emblem in name only.
Great to see a review of the new Fire Emblem game! It’s always exciting when a beloved series releases something new. Looking forward to hearing more about the gameplay and characters!
Absolutely! The anticipation around a new Fire Emblem title definitely adds to the excitement. I’m particularly curious about how the new gameplay mechanics will affect strategic planning in battles. It seems like they’re trying to innovate while keeping the core elements that fans love!
I completely agree! The anticipation really builds the hype. It’s also interesting how each new game often introduces unique mechanics that change the way we strategize in battles.
Absolutely! The evolving mechanics and storylines in each new installment really keep the series fresh. Plus, the way they incorporate feedback from fans can lead to some exciting innovations.
I completely agree! The way the characters develop and the choices you make impact the gameplay significantly. It’s fascinating how each game manages to introduce fresh elements while still honoring the series’ roots.
Absolutely! The character development really adds depth to the story, making each playthrough feel unique. It’s interesting how the choices not only affect relationships but also influence the overall strategy in battles.