Alterium Shift Is A Super NES-Inspired RPG With Three Different Story Paths

Sniper



If you were extra vigilant throughout this year’s ‘not-E3’ season, and you like your JRPGs, then you may have spotted Alterium Shift during the 2022 Guerilla Collective showcase. Originally slated for a PC and “unspecified console” release, publisher Gravity Game Arise and developer Drattzy Games have revealed that the game will indeed be coming to Switch in 2023!

While we all know there are a ton of Super Nintendo-inspired RPGs out there nowadays, Alterium Shift brings its own twist to the trend, letting you choose between three different characters. Depending on who you pick to take the lead, you’ll be taken down a different story path that will lead to them discovering the mysteries of the world.

These heroes — Pyra, Atlas, and Sage — can all harness the power of Alterium Essence. After completing their training, their teacher, Dolion, sets them all off on an important mission. Alterium Shift will feature turn-based combat with a visible turn order (think Final Fantasy X) where you’ll need to exploit enemy weaknesses, while on the field, you’ll be able to discover hidden treasure and loot. But every decision you make will be important.

Here’s a brief summary of what to expect from Alterium Shift from the game’s Steam page.

You’ll begin your journey with three heroes in training; Pyra, Atlas, and Sage. Their teacher, Dolion, strives to mold his students into heroes, ones better than himself. The three heroes are taking their final test before being sent off on an important and life-changing mission. What fate awaits these heroes and can they accomplish the tasks set forth before them?

Characters
Dolion: From war hero to teacher, Dolion seeks individuals to mold into heroes themselves.
Pyra: A strict and loyal leader, Pyra steers her team as straight as she does her spear.
Atlas: A young, shy, and nimble Archer, Atlas delivers every shot with deadly accuracy.
Sage: A very talented weaver of Alterium Essence, with an ego that matches their skill.

Combat
Alterium Shift has a full-featured turn-based combat system with a turn-order display for important decision-making! Exploit enemy weaknesses and gain experience to grow your party into an unstoppable force! Of course, the loot you earn will also help you along your journey as well.

Exploration
Explore the world of Alteria. Meet new and diverse people. Find loot and hidden treasure! Take on new quests. The decision is yours and every decision is important!

Those multiple paths do make us think of Octopath Traveler, but this is decidedly different as all three characters start together, and it looks like they also communicate outside of battle! At least in the early hours.

The game isn’t due to launch on Switch until next year, but keep an eye out for more details. In the meantime, check out the trailer up top! And don’t worry — the developer has spotted the typo in the video. We all do it!

Have an appetite for adventure in Alterium Shift? Does this game remind you of any Super NES classics? Let us know!