Beyond the Labyrinth Announced For 3DS. Looks Like ICO

Beyond the Labyrinth has been announced exclusively for Nintendo 3DS from developer Tri-Ace and publisher Konami, as a gorgeous new RPG that looks like it will push the graphical powers of the 3DS to their limits!

Many are calling the game one of the most graphically impressive games yet seen for Nintendo’s portable, with exquisite animation that is akin to what you’d see in an anime TV show.

The game is an action RPG that has a graphical-style similar to that of ICO, however it uses a unique feel where a cute girl character is one of the game’s main hooks. This character (so far unnamed) actually looks into the camera and talks to YOU. We assume the main protagonist, whoever it is, largely remains silent. But the way that the character interacts with the player by breaking the 4th wall is very interesting.

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The game is being developed by Shingo Mukaitoge who was the lead designer of Wii titles Elebits and Dewy’s Adventure, with the director being Takayuki Suguro. The game is seemingly inspired by the likes of Team ICO’s titles (ICO and Shadow of the Colossus) and the Wii title Lost In Shadow.

Beyond the Labyrinth will be released in Japan on January 19th, 2012. No word on a Western release but this one is sure to come stateside as it looks like a high quality RPG that’s very unique, just what the 3DS needs.

Here is the first trailer for Beyond the Labyrinth.

This game looks fantastic. Can’t wait to see more about it.