Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, slated for a September 17th launch on the Nintendo Switch 2, is beginning to reveal its secrets. The strategy RPG will delve into the ambitions and conflicts of its four main characters, exploring a story set within a familiar universe for fans of the series.
A Familiar Setting
The game's world shares a direct link with Fire Emblem: Three Houses. The Dagosian Games, a central tournament in Fortune's Weave, hints at a connection to Dagda, a region previously referenced but not explorable in Three Houses, and the homeland of the mercenary Shamir. Further strengthening this narrative tie, official character introductions mention Fódlan, the continent where Three Houses is set. The most significant indicator of this shared continuity is the appearance of the goddess Sothis. While depicted as a young girl in Three Houses, Sothis appears as a young woman in Fortune's Weave, suggesting the new title may be a sequel set in the distant future.
The Cast of Fortune's Weave
Fortune's Weave will feature four primary protagonists, each with unique aspirations and companions. Players will choose one of these characters to champion their cause in the Dagosian Games. Kai, from Ribiera Village, fights to free his imprisoned father. He is a mounted unit utilizing a spear and a unique mount described as a "flying camel" that can traverse barriers, enabling him to engage distant enemies. His childhood friend Tiara accompanies him, acting as a support character capable of healing and buffing allies.
Dietrich, a warrior from Fódlan, enters the tournament for the love of combat and the pursuit of formidable opponents. His sword, Answerer, bears a striking resemblance to the powerful Hero's Relics found in Three Houses. Dietrich's special ability, Blood Flash, enhances his critical hit rate. He is joined by Fabio, a missionary priest from the Church of Seiros, the dominant religious organization in Fódlan. Fabio's dialogue regarding the Church could offer significant insights into Fortune's Weave's place in the Fire Emblem timeline or its canonicity relative to Three Houses. Fabio himself is a dark magician who specializes in debuffing enemies.
Theodora, the Queen of Salamis, a kingdom under the Dagosian Empire, wields the Spear of Mahadou. Her abilities allow her to channel power from her army to either attack foes or support allies. Her advisor, Bonaparte, a general, is tasked with memorizing the kingdom's history, as Salamis prohibits written records. Bonaparte engages enemies with swords and provides magical buffs to his comrades.
Leda, a performer seeking revenge after a personal tragedy, utilizes a hybrid fighting style with swords and bows, while also boosting allies with her lute-like instrument. She is accompanied by Vakkania, nicknamed the Demon Bear, a formidable warrior wielding a powerful axe. Vakkania refers to Leda as "Princess Leda," hinting at a potential royal lineage.
Combat and Gameplay
While much of the action will unfold in the arena, players can venture outside between battles to confront bandits and other challenges, seeking treasure. The game will feature the five traditional weapon types found in previous Fire Emblem titles: Swords, Spears, Axes, Bows, and Gauntlets. The presence of Sothis and Dietrich's Answerer sword suggest that crests and Hero's Relics may also play a role in combat. Characters begin with weapon proficiencies, but skill in other weapons can likely be acquired as character stats improve, similar to past entries. Magic returns as well, with spells having a limited number of uses. The gameplay loop appears to mirror other Fire Emblem titles, incorporating social activities between major story events to enhance skills, learn new abilities, and recruit allies.