Expected on February 25 on PS4, Switch and Steam, without the French localization exceptionally provided in Atelier Ryza 2, Sophia 2 workshop offers a sequel to the 2015 game, as Sophie goes in search of her closest friend. Without even relying on the new console generation, Sophia 2 workshop features a combat system that begins instantly with no load times or screen transitions from exploration, a first for the franchise. Still turn-based, the new confrontation system will involve six members of a group which will therefore be split in two: the three members of the assault team will be placed at the front while the other three characters will compose the backing support team.
This system makes it possible to introduce some new strategies. With “twin actions”, the front and rear ranks can choose to attack together, or have the front rank attack first while the second regains strength. Players can also use the “support guard” action which allows a back row member to sacrifice themselves to protect a front row member when attacked. And since members of both rows can freely swap places, players will need to keep a strategic eye on each other’s hit points. And of course, we can count on a Dual Gauge which when full will allow two characters to combine their abilities into a powerful special attack.