Japanese gamers will be getting a sequel to From Software's Rune (Lost Kingdoms).
We've heard rumors for a while now, but From Software has finally updated their official website with info and a few tiny screenshots of Rune 2.
Judging from our Babelfish translation, the story takes place 200 years after the first game. The different countries have been unified under the Queen, who was the previous game's main character. However, someone has learned to manufacture Runestones, the objects that allow people to use magical cards. With this technology in hand, new forces of evil are attacking the kingdom, and a new young heroine must prevail.
Rune 2 seems to feature slightly improved graphics, a type of card called "Change" that seems to affect the environment, and the ability to re-enter stages after you beat them. Also, the mechanical translation seems to indicate that battles are now fully real-time, i.e. there is no pause between exploring and fighting monsters.
There are now over 200 cards (more than double the previous total), and there's a new Machine element which will surely add new strategies. The website also notes that Rune's two-player versus mode is returning, including the ante option.
Thanks to TheHyeCircus for the tip! We'll try to get a more exact and reliable translation of this site soon to clear up the details.
