Marvelous Inc. has announced that the release date for their latest Rune Factory series title Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma has been postponed from Friday, May 30, 2025 to Thursday, June 5, 2025. Director Maekawa shared a message stating: "While development is progressing smoothly, we want all players to experience the game simultaneously across platforms."
Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma Release Delayed to June 5
The newest entry in the Rune Factory series, originally scheduled for May 30, 2025 on Nintendo Switch and Steam, maintains the franchise's signature gameplay while introducing an Eastern-inspired fantasy setting and new storyline.
During the April 2, 2025 Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 presentation, a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition was announced featuring enhanced resolution, higher frame rates, and mouse support - launching simultaneously with the console on June 5, 2025.
This prompted the decision to delay all platform versions. Director Maekawa shared this message on the official website:
Director Maekawa's Statement (Excerpt)
'Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma' was always planned for simultaneous release on Nintendo Switch, Steam, and Nintendo Switch 2.
(...)
All versions are progressing well in development. However, we must apologize for one important change: To align with the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition launch, we're moving the release date from May 30 (Friday) to June 5 (Thursday).
We want all players to enjoy the game together regardless of platform. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused to those who have already pre-ordered.
Official Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma Website
Paid Upgrade Path Announced
【お知らせ】発売日変更について
『龍の国 ルーンファクトリー Nintendo Switch™ 2 Edition』の発売に合わせ、Nintendo Switch/Steam®向け『龍の国 ルーンファクトリー』の発売日を5月30日(金)から6月5日(木)に変更することとなりました。本作の発売をお楽しみにされていた皆様、Nintendo… pic.twitter.com/EJJPoq9Y38
— 『ルーンファクトリー』シリーズ公式 (@RuneFactory_PR) April 3, 2025
The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition will retail for ¥8,678 (including tax), while the Nintendo Switch and Steam versions remain priced at ¥7,678 (including tax).
Nintendo Switch owners can upgrade to the Switch 2 Edition via paid DLC. While the Switch version will be playable on Switch 2 through backwards compatibility, the enhanced edition offers superior resolution and performance - the definitive way to experience the game!
Stay tuned to the official website and Rune Factory series Twitter (@RuneFactory_PR) for updates.