Etrian Odyssey 2 confirmed for DS

A sequel is planned for the RPG Etrian Odyssey (known as Sekaiju no Meikyū in Japan), according to Japanese magazine, Famitsu, which reported on the game this month.

The original 3D dungeon-based title, which came out in Japan in January this year, was created by Atlus, the studio also responsible for fun surgery series Trauma Center (Trauma Center: Under the Knife was released for DS in April 2006).

Of the details revealed, probably the most exciting relate to the game's map-making capabilities and other improvements to the gameplay. Map-making was an integral part of the first game, calling on players to use the touchscreen to draw their own maps, then subsequently use them to escape from labyrinths. The sequel apparently enhances this system with more user-friendly icons, colours and arrows.

Gameplay improvements include three new classes – the Doctor Magus, the Gunner and a Pet (which can be one of several animals such as a bear). Players are also able to create up to 30 characters for their guild and play a new area – the Flying Castle – alongside the familiar mazes.

A new quick-save function and several other new rules are confirmed, both of which could well be the result of criticisms aimed at the original game's hardcore nature. Director Shigeo Komori, formerly the writer of Etrian Odyssey, admits the team realised they could improve the balance of the calculations and skills, and brush up the existing formula of the first game.

Etrian Odyssey 2 is around 70 per cent complete and set for a late 2007 release in Japan. Although the original game was translated and released in the US, it never came out in Europe. Here's hoping the sequel can attract a publisher in the UK. We'll keep you updated should any such announcement be made.