[International] Absented Age: Squarebound (2021)

Key Features in the International Release

Arcade Mode

This mode offers a distinct experience separate from the main campaign. Players progress through a dungeon with no items carried over and aim for high scores. It allows linking main game saves to control characters other than the protagonist. Arcade Mode includes four stages, two of which feature guest characters: Iris from Soaring Machinariae and Astrake from Reality Minds.

Bonus Playable Characters

Both Iris and Astrake are playable in Arcade Mode and can join as allies. Iris executes three-stage combos that disable adjacent enemies during attacks, with her final strike influenced by her active Core, requiring strategic swaps to optimize performance. Astrake utilizes a combination of component skills to trigger chain abilities, offering a flexible approach to combat. Her preemptive strikes have both normal and charged variations, enhancing versatility.

Seamless Language Switching

Players can instantly toggle between Japanese and English using the @ key or L3 Button (customizable). While switching languages does not retroactively change existing battle logs, it provides accessibility for language learning or curiosity. The English translation was provided by vgperson, ensuring both emotional scenes and humorous in-game text are preserved accurately.

Secret Boss Challenge

After completing the main storyline and acquiring gems from four Arc Monsters, players can revisit the location of the final showdown to confront a secret boss. Success requires careful management of hundreds of skills and items, alongside advanced techniques like counters, perfect guards, and hitstop manipulation. The game emphasizes smooth progression through dungeons and fluid music transitions, offering a fast-paced but manageable experience.

Your Partner, Tart

Tart, the spirit companion, can switch fighting styles through Enchant skills. Enchant Light increases mobility and healing capabilities but reduces durability, while Enchant Fire boosts defense and allows Tart to absorb enemy attacks. Each Heart Fragment collected awakens new powers, enhancing both the protagonist and Tart over the course of the game.

Skills, Items, and Equipment Customization

The game features extensive skill variety, a wide range of equippable items, and customizable outfits. Equipment durability affects effectiveness, but repeated acquisition strengthens Mastery, which is permanent across gameplay. This system encourages strategic use of equipment and rewards players for recovering lost items after defeat.

Series Continuation

Absented Age: Squarebound is the first installment in the larger Absented Age series. While it presents a complete story, several features—such as assist summons and real-world interactions—remain for future installments. Updates will continue based on player feedback, with the next title tentatively named Absented Age: Ghostbound. Developers encourage community input to refine the gameplay experience.

Guidelines for Derivative Works

• Non-commercial fan creations are permitted, including Let's Plays and fan art, but must not infringe on copyrights.
• Unauthorized games mimicking the series, offensive content, unofficial merchandise sales, or purely replay-focused media without creative additions are prohibited.
• Game data extraction is not allowed, except for screenshots.
• Playthrough videos must clearly indicate the content is of Absented Age: Squarebound.
• Commercial derivative works require prior discussion and approval from the developer.