Created by DeskWorks and scheduled for release this Fall, Chronoscript: The Endless End is a hand-drawn Metroidvania game that invites players to explore the 2D-illustrated manuscript realms crafted by the Vampire Author who owns the estate. It was recently revealed that Bayonetta character designer Mari Shimazaki and Chrono Trigger and Xenogears composer Yasunori Mitsuda will be contributing their expertise to the project.
Shimazaki has worked on numerous titles, including Okami, Pokémon Scarlet, Tekken 7 and 8, and No More Heroes III, though her most acclaimed work is likely the character designs for the Bayonetta series. She is handling the 3D character designs and serves as the character modeling director for Chronoscript.
Given that Chronoscript’s charm stems largely from its hand-drawn 2D designs and backgrounds, Shimazaki focused on conveying each character’s personality through their 3D designs rather than aiming for realism. Consequently, their designs and sculptural details offer “hints of their true selves,” which Shimazaki hopes players will connect with as they progress through the game.
No Metroidvania would be complete without an unforgettable soundtrack. Fortunately, Yasunori Mitsuda (Chrono Cross, Chrono Trigger, Xenogears, Xenoblade Chronicles) is overseeing a team of four composers—himself, Shunsuke Tsuchiya, Mariam Abounnasr, and Manami Kiyota—to create the game’s music.
Even though Chronoscript is Mitsuda’s first venture into the Metroidvania genre, he states that he has been a passionate fan of the genre since the late 2000s. By leveraging the game’s unique world and the genre’s emphasis on adventure and growth, Mitsuda believes the music will deliver “a feeling of discovery and excitement” to players.
Chronoscript: The Endless End is a Metroidvania-style adventure where you assume the role of the Editor, a successful writer summoned to a mysterious estate after finishing his long-running series. After being bitten by a mosquito and losing consciousness, you awaken inside the Vampire Author’s manuscript. With no escape route, you explore the manuscript and battle against the Ruined—twisted remnants of the dead—in hopes of breaking free. Though the distinctive art style appeals to a broad audience, DeskWorks assures that this is a game with a steep difficulty curve tailored for genre enthusiasts.
Chronoscript: The Endless End is slated for release this Fall on Windows (Steam) and PlayStation 5.