Attack on Titan 3, despite its numbering, is not a direct sequel but rather a comprehensive retelling of the beloved anime's narrative. Producer Hideo Suzuki explained that this approach was chosen because the anime was still ongoing during development of the previous game, and a full story coverage was deemed more suitable for a standalone product.
Players will step into the ODM gear as an original character, whose personal backstory adds a unique dimension to the familiar plot. Following a devastating loss on their first mission as a squad leader, this protagonist is too traumatized to fight Titans. However, their exceptional engineering skills and mastery of ODM gear keep them employed as a trainer for new recruits. This narrative choice offers a rare opportunity to embody a character grappling with severe trauma, forcing them to step away from their expertise.
Suzuki elaborated on this decision, stating that the initial trauma was necessary to establish the Titans as a significant threat and to provide a clear character arc. This new protagonist serves as a senior to familiar characters like Eren and Mikasa, but their initial setback allows for growth and a stronger determination to fight. Ultimately, they will work alongside these characters, overcoming trauma and evolving together.
Players will find themselves instructing key figures from the anime, including Eren Jaeger and Mikasa Ackerman, within the 104th cadets. The gameplay emphasizes not only combat readiness but also building rapport with these characters through activities like gifting, dining together, and conversations. These established friendships can then be leveraged in combat, unlocking special cooperative abilities known as Buddy Arts during exterior missions.
Evolved ODM and Titan Encounters
The ODM gear mechanics have been refined to offer more control and tactical options, catering to both new and advanced players. New features include the ability to anchor to buildings and trees, precise altitude control, and sliding under obstacles. Suzuki noted that the team aimed to keep pace with gaming advancements since the previous title while providing a more engaging experience for skilled players.
To maintain the threat posed by the Titans, their AI and combat patterns have also been improved. This ensures that encounters remain challenging and epic, even with enhanced player mobility. The game features a "Break Gauge" system for Titan encounters, requiring players to wear down the colossal enemies before they can deliver a finishing blow. This mechanic encourages a patient, strategic approach, similar to chipping away at a much larger foe.
Combat involves managing resources like Healing Tonics and new blades, and utilizing Combat Arts for increased damage. The flashy Buddy Arts are highlighted as particularly satisfying special moves. Even with these aids, battles are presented as endurance tests.
Beyond the Battlefield
Beyond the intense Titan battles, Attack on Titan 3 places significant emphasis on the human drama and character interactions that are central to the franchise. Suzuki emphasized that showcasing the daily lives of the characters is intended to deepen player engagement and provide moments of levity, creating a balance between tension and release.
The game also introduces original content, including numerous sub-stories and events developed in close collaboration with Kodansha, the IP holder. These additions aim to offer fresh perspectives for longtime fans and new insights for players unfamiliar with the series.
Furthermore, the opening anime sequence for Attack on Titan 3 is being produced by Mappa, the original anime studio. Suzuki described the quality of the work-in-progress opening movie as phenomenal, suggesting it will be a significant draw for players.
Attack on Titan 3 appears to be an ambitious title that seeks to innovate within the franchise. By blending a full story retelling with a new character perspective, enhanced gameplay, and a focus on character relationships, the game aims to provide a compelling experience for both established fans and newcomers.