ATONE: Heart of the Elder Tree was only announced for Switch in October, and we knew it was slated for early 2023, but this is the first we’ve heard of a specific date. Thanks to publisher Untold Tales and developer Wildboy Studios, we have a release date, as the game is confirmed to launch early next year.
Those who frequently delve into the Apple Arcade library may already be familiar with ATONE: Heart of the Elder Tree, but soon the unique rhythm-based game from Wildboy Studios will be coming to PC, Nintendo Switch, and PS4. The game features gorgeous visual aesthetics and rhythm-based combat; it also features a Norse mythology-inspired setting which acts as the backdrop to the game’s story. There’s plenty like about the game, and the prospect of the game finally being available on a wider range of platforms is exciting.
The game is a narrative adventure emphasizing the story, characters, choices, and atmosphere. It also has some minor RPG elements, and the combat is like a full-blown rhythm-based game. The game features multiple endings that are decided based on your decisions throughout the game. The story will weave around your decisions as you meet many new characters. Various materials, such as the visual styles of animation master Genndy Tartakovsky, have influenced the game’s art direction.
The developers also said they plan to add another difficulty mode for the game’s combat. Other than that, they’re only making minor tweaks and don’t plan anything major akin to the recent Orbital Bullet update.
As for side content, the game has several hidden secrets for players to explore and encounter. In addition to the main story, there is an arcade mode where players can fight to get high scores in the game’s rhythmic battle system. While the game was initially planned to only launch on PC and Nintendo Switch, it will also be available for PS4 on launch day.
ATONE: Heart of the Elder Tree launches on January 27, 2023, for PC, PS4, and Nintendo Switch.