Square Enix announces new studio and new RPG Project Prelude Rune

Japanese RPG specialist Square Enix has not only announced a brand new RPG, but also a new studio to make it.

The game is currently going by the name Project Prelude Rune. It is being made by a new Tokyo developer called Studio Istolia. ‘Istolia’ apparently originates from the Greek word for ‘story’ and is, in Square Enix’s words, central to the studio’s primary value”.

Added Square: The aim of the studio is to provide unforgettable stories that will inspire players in their own lives, and bring new game experiences to everyone around the world.

Studio Istolia further builds on Square Enix Group’s vision to create new intellectual properties alongside existing Square Enix studios. Hideo Baba who has over 18 years of experience in game development will serve as the studio head.

Hideo Baba is working as the producer of Project Prelude Rune as well. The project aims to build a new RPG with a new fantasy: unfolding across a vast land teeming with life. Nurtured by the earth, the many peoples of this land dare to dream, fighting for what is just—and this is their tale.”

Baba used to work at Namco Bandai and worked as producer on the Tales Of series, as well as PS3 RPG Eternal Sonata.

There is no word yet on possible platforms or a release date for the game, with Square simply saying that more will be announced at a later stage. There is some early art to peek at, however.

Take a look (via Gamer):