Square Enix opens Tokyo studio for new RPG
Former Tales of creator Hideo Baba to lead new operation
Square Enix has opened a new studio in Tokyo to build narrative-based RPGs.
Studio Istolia is working on a new RPG entitled Project Prelude Rune. The release states that the new company "builds on Square Enix's vision to create new intellectual properties alongside existing Square Enix studios".
The developer is being led by Hideo Baba, who has spent 18 years in video games and is most famous for his work on the Bandai Namco Tales of franchise. He has also worked as a producer on Eternal Sonata for PS3 and the DS version of Blue Dragon.
The studio's focus will be on narrative as 'Istolia' originates from the Greek work for 'story'. Square Enix says that the studio's aim "is to provide unforgettable stories that will inspire players in their own lives, and bring new game experiences to everyone around the world".
Very little is known about the project, outside of the fact that it will be a fantasy RPG with a story that will unfold "across a vast land teeming with life".