In the prolific world of video games, Bandai Namco Europe never ceases to surprise players. At the Summer Game Fest on June 8, the video game giant announced the launch of its latest opus, Sand Land, an action RPG developed in collaboration with ILCA Inc. This ambitious project is inspired by the famous manga by Akira Toriyama, creator of legendary series such as Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump. And good news: we now know the release date! Join us on April 26, 2024 on PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One and Xbox Series to discover this incredible adventure!
Sand Land promises an epic adventure in a desert world where the scarcity of drinking water is the starting point for thrilling quests. Players will slip into the shoes of the Prince of Demons Beelzebub and join forces with Lao, the sheriff of a small town, and Thief, an aged but cunning demon, to find the Mirage Fountain, a hidden and legendary source of water.
In addition to exploring a vast world, players will be able to customize a wide range of vehicles to traverse the desert or take on powerful enemies. Sand Land puts the emphasis on combat, whether between characters or aboard vehicles, and promises a gameplay experience rich in twists and turns.
Last but not least, Sand Land is not just a video game. This ambitious project is also rolling out on the big screen with an animated film co-produced by Sunrise Studio, Kamikazedouga Co. Ltd and ANIMA Inc. confirming Bandai Namco 's determination to turn this cult license into a transmedia experience. The Sand Land universe, created in 2000 by Akira Toriyama, continues to expand and win new fans around the world!
Our opinion on Sand Land:
What do you think of Sand Land, the video game adapted fromAkira Toriyama 's manga of the same name? On the whole, it's positive... Starting with the graphics, very respectful ofAkira Toriyama's work, very polished and graphic too, making the game very pleasant to play. We appreciate the various color tones, all under the pencil stroke so characteristic of the late mangaka(Akira Toriyama suddenly passed away in March 2024, Editor's note).
From a gameplay point of view, it's a mixed bag: this exploration RPG takes us on the adventures of the demon Beelzebub in search of a legendary water source. Whether on foot or in a vehicle, you'll need to explore the vast map to progress through the adventure. You'll also need to upgrade your vehicles to fight certain enemies... We appreciate their great variety, as well as the ability to switch easily between them, thanks to capsules (reminiscent of Bulma's in Dragon Ball...).
As for combat, it's fairly classic, since when you're not in a vehicle, you'll have to fight using classic attacks or special attacks. It's pretty well done, even if it's déjà vu. The only downside, however, is the camera, which doesn't make things any easier, and doesn't allow you to manage combat in the best possible way.
We also appreciate the variety of gameplay offered by the different characters, depending on the mission at hand. Whether it's exploration and combat with Beelzebub or infiltration with Thief, there's plenty to see without getting bored. All in all, Sand Land is a fine promise, providing a good introduction for those who want to try their hand at video games adapted from manga. All you have to do is make up your own mind!
For other trailers, click here:
Dates and Opening Time
Starts April 26th, 2024
Official website
en.bandainamcoent.eu
