You can already play a new JRPG that mixes and matches elements from Final Fantasy and Genshin Impact for free, ahead of its release in a few weeks. Tons of games take inspiration from big, successful titles and franchises. There’s a new RPG that mixes BG3 and Ghost of Tsushima into one promising new adventure, set to be released soon, for example, as it clearly takes hints from those groundbreaking games. Square Enix’s classic franchise inspires even more often.
A new JRPG is set to be released on July 9 this year, and players can already check it out for free. Available on Steam, the demo for the upcoming game gives players access to a small portion of the title, allowing them to check out the gameplay mechanics and learn a little bit more about the story they’ll be guided through in the final version, should they pursue it. If they enjoy the game, they can also add it to their wishlist and, perhaps, even pre-order it on the platform.
The new fantasy RPG on Steam is called Echoes of Aincrad. Developed by Game Studio Inc. and published by Bandai Namco, the new JRPG is set in the titular world of Aincrad, described as full of beauty and danger. This game will allow you to custom-build your own unique hero, choosing their gear, too, so that they can depart on a deadly adventure. The customization isn’t limited to their visuals, however, as you can fine-tune the character’s progression to reflect your preferred stats in gameplay.
This includes elements like speed, intelligence, and endurance, as well as your preferred weapons and armor, all of which tie in with the build you’re looking for. Your character will also be aided by others, and you’ll choose the best partners to accompany them during real-time action-fueled combat sequences. The new action RPG by Bandai Namco is actually the next Sword Art Online video game.
While it is a new title in a franchise of its own, players may find some resemblance to the Final Fantasy series, such as the heavy investment in builds and parties, as well as the action-based combat and anime-like style of Genshin Impact – though this is clearly drawing from Sword Art Online. Even if you are unfamiliar with the anime franchise, you’ll be able to drop into Echoes of Aincrad, which has made an effort to slightly distance itself from the series so as to draw in new players and fans.
The demo for the game is entirely free to play, as long as you meet the hardware requirements. Despite drawing in some comparison with Genshin Impact, this is not a gacha game, but instead a single-player, narrative-driven adventure. If it fits your gameplay preferences, be sure to check out this JRPG.
- Released
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July 10, 2026
- ESRB
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Teen / Blood and Gore, Mild Suggestive Themes, Violence, In-Game Purchases
- Developer(s)
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GameStudio Inc.
- Publisher(s)
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Bandai Namco Entertainment
- Number of Players
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Single-player
- Steam Deck Compatibility
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Unknown