Rice Games are bringing their language-learning JRPG, Shujinkou, which helps teach players Japanese, to Nintendo Switch. Shujinkou will release on October 2nd on the Nintendo eShop.
Unlike the previously released PC and PlayStation versions, the Switch version is being split into two halves, the Genya Arc, and the Sabaku Arc. Both halves are available for 50% of the normal cost ($29.99 for Genya, $24.99 for Sabaku), in hopes that more people will try the first half for less upfront cost. Each half includes over 40 hours of content.
Shujinkou, the first of a planned trilogy, spans a world of six nations, each with its own story and cast of characters. In fact, the title refers to the three primary characters, Shu, Jin, and Kou!
The Genya Arc features the language-devouring Akuma threatening the world. The Sabaku Arc picks up immediately after in a new nation, and involves an ally with a prophesied fate.
The JRPG is notable for directly integrating the Japanese language, including thousands of words, phrases, kana, kanji, and grammar. The language-learning aspect is technically optional, as players can swamp to English Only mode to focus only on the first-person dungeon crawling gameplay. It looks quite similar to the Etrian Odyssey series.
The Standard Edition on Switch only includes the Genya Arc. The Deluxe Edition ($53.99) adds the Sabaku Arc as DLC, along with digital artbook and soundtrack. A Super Deluxe Edition ($62.99) also adds new in-game quests.
Players can wishlist on the eShop now. Pre-orders are available starting Sept. 18, with a 10% discount. Shujinkou is rated T for Teen.
