Koei Tecmo and Electronic Arts have released the first trailer and details for WILD HEARTS, Omega Force’s upcoming hunting game. Set in a fantasy Feudal Japan region called Azuma that’s plagued by massive nature-infused beasts called Kemono, it launches on February 17th, 2023 for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC via Origin, Steam and Epic Games Store for $69.99.
The Kemono range from small squirrels to the boar-esque Kingtusk and Deathstalker wolf. As wielders of the Karakuri, players must restore balance to Azuma. Along with solo play, there is co-op for up to three players and cross-platform play. Voice-over languages include English, Japanese, Italian, German, and Spanish.
In the trailer, along with weapons like the katana, bow and umbrella, we also see the Karakuri in action. This creates specific structures like a glider, giant mallet, bomb, and harpoon to even the odds against the Kemono. It can also seemingly enhance weapons. Azuma’s landscapes also range from coastlines and snowy plains to flower fields.
In a press release, Koei Tecmo Games executive VP Yosuke Hayashi said, “WILD HEARTS opens up a vibrant fantasy world to players that are as untamed as it is beautiful. With WILD HEARTS, not only did we want to showcase the evolution, infusion and real threat caused by Kemono, but we also wanted to create a game where crafting was at the core of the experience, redefining what can be possible in a beast-hunting game. We have placed great care in designing our Karakuri to fit within the combat, and we’re excited for players to use these powerful mechanisms to fight giant beasts and traverse the world.”
Stuart Lang, VP of Global Brand for EA, added, “EA Originals is a label for those who dare to explore. It’s a home for studio partners – like Omega Force – forging new ways to play from bold creative visions, and for players who love to discover untold stories and unseen worlds. We are excited to follow the wonderful and critically acclaimed It Takes Two, from Hazelight Studios, with the ingenious mechanics, giant nature-infused beasts and epic battles of WILD HEARTS, the first AAA hunting experience for a new generation.”
Stay tuned for more details on WILD HEARTS in the coming months.