Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds

*Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds* is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) that expands the popular *Ni no Kuni* series onto mobile and PC platforms. Developed by Netmarble and published by Level-5, the game aims to capture the enchanting, Ghibli-esque art style and heartfelt storytelling the series is known for, while introducing new gameplay mechanics suited for an MMO environment. It was initially launched in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan in June 2021, followed by a global release in May 2022. **Story and Setting:** The narrative of *Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds* blends reality and fantasy. Players begin as beta testers for a futuristic virtual reality game called "Soul Divers". However, a glitch transports them into the actual world of Ni no Kuni, where they discover that their actions in this "game" have real-world consequences. An AI character named Rania initially guides the player, but after the glitch, she appears as another player, hinting at a deeper mystery involving a group called the Mirae Corporation. The player awakens in a burning city and, with the help of a bat-like creature named Cluu, saves the queen, who is a parallel version of Rania. The mission becomes to rebuild a fallen kingdom and uncover the reasons behind the intertwining of the two worlds to prevent their mutual destruction. The game is set hundreds of years after *Ni no Kuni II: Revenant Kingdom*, with some familiar locations like Evermore appearing, but it largely stands as a standalone adventure. **Gameplay and Features:** *Cross Worlds* incorporates classic MMORPG elements with features unique to the *Ni no Kuni* universe. Players can choose from five distinct, gender-locked classes: the Swordsman (a mysterious fencer), the Witch (magic spear-wielder), the Engineer (genius gunner), the Rogue (mischievous archer), and the Destroyer (brawny hammer-swinger). Each class possesses unique skills and playstyles, fitting into traditional MMO roles like tank, support, healing, and DPS. Character customization allows players to alter aspects like hairstyle, hair color, eye color, makeup, body type, and skin tone. A core feature is the return of Familiars, creatures that assist players in combat, similar to Pokémon. Players can collect and upgrade these Familiars, taking up to three with them into battle. Combat is real-time, resembling a hack-and-slash style, where players can freely control their characters and use a combination of class-specific and universal skills. The game also offers an auto-play feature, which can handle quest progression and combat, a common element in mobile MMOs. Beyond combat and questing, players can engage in various activities. "Kingdom Mode" allows for cooperative multiplayer, where players can explore, build, and develop their kingdom, even decorating it with interactive social objects and participating in challenges to become the top kingdom on the server. There's also a "Team Arena" for 3v3 competitive multiplayer where the goal is to collect "higgledies". Players can also decorate their own farm in the Familiars' Forest. The game includes daily and weekly missions, challenge dungeons, and PvP elements in certain world map areas. **Development and Art Style:** *Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds* was developed by Netmarble in collaboration with Level-5. It utilizes Unreal Engine 4 to render its beautiful graphics, staying true to the iconic Studio Ghibli-inspired art style that defines the series. The game features detailed character expressions, vibrant environments with diverse biomes, and high-quality animation. The renowned Joe Hisaishi, who composed music for previous *Ni no Kuni* games and many Studio Ghibli films, also contributed to the soundtrack, enhancing the game's immersive atmosphere. **Reception and Monetization:** Upon its initial release in select Asian markets, *Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds* was a significant financial success, reportedly earning over $100 million in its first two weeks. However, the game has also faced criticism, particularly regarding its monetization model and integration of cryptocurrency and NFTs. While some find the gacha system for obtaining Familiars and equipment somewhat fair, the game incorporates "Territe Tokens" (NKT) and "Asterite Tokens" (NKA) as part of Netmarble's "MARBLEX" blockchain ecosystem, allowing players to trade in-game currencies for cryptocurrency. This move has been divisive among fans and led to issues such as server overload due to bots mining these currencies, causing long login queues for actual players. The auto-play feature and sometimes shallow gameplay designed with mobile usability in mind have also been points of contention for players seeking a more immersive PC MMO experience. Despite these criticisms, the game is praised for its stunning visuals, charming world, and engaging story. It continues to receive updates, including celebratory events like its 2nd-anniversary event which introduced new content and rewards. *Ni no Kuni: Cross Worlds* attempts to bridge the gap between a beloved JRPG franchise and the mobile/PC MMO landscape, offering a visually rich and expansive world for players to explore.