In May, we celebrate a significant milestone: the 20th anniversary of the Fate franchise, a beloved series that started back in 2005. Since its launch, fans have taken on the role of heroes, bravely facing the dangers beyond the Dungeon Gate. This iconic dungeon-crawler has not only shaped the childhoods of many but also inspired budding game developers and left an indelible mark on the action RPG genre. The masterminds behind Fate went on to create Torchlight, another highly successful addition to the world of dungeon crawlers.
Considering the profound impact Fate has had, a fitting tribute to its 20-year legacy was inevitable. Enter “Fate: Reawakened,” an exhilarating remaster that stays true to what made the game a fan favorite in the first place.
Launching on March 12 for Xbox Series X|S, “Fate: Reawakened” is the ultimate edition of this award-winning game, compiling all four games in the Fate series into one electrifying package.
### The Rise of Fate
When it first hit the scene, Fate represented a fresh wave of possibilities for the action RPG genre. Unlike its contemporaries, which leaned towards darker and more ominous settings, Fate embraced a more vibrant, colorful art style, making it especially popular among young audiences and families. At one point, Fate was even pre-installed on some Windows computers, boosting its accessibility and helping it gain massive popularity. Players were drawn to its endless dungeon challenges and the adorable pets that could join their adventures.
As Fate grew in prominence, so did its community. Even without a new release since 2011, platforms like Discord, YouTube, and social media have buzzed with passionate fans and creative modders. This dedicated community kept the spirit of Fate alive, and their enthusiasm paved the way for a new project, giving us the opportunity to dive back into this beloved series.
### An Idea Takes Shape
The journey to revisiting Fate began around 2019 with gamigo’s acquisition of WildTangent, the original publisher of the series. The COVID pandemic in 2020 slowed things down, but we remained committed to approaching this project with care. We ultimately decided that a remaster, marking Fate’s 20th anniversary, would be the perfect way to rekindle interest in the series.
Much has changed since 2005, and while Fate’s gameplay is still solid, broadening its reach became essential. Previously confined to PC, the series is now branching out to consoles and supporting additional languages, which introduces Fate to entirely new audiences.
### Navigating a Delicate Task
Handling a cherished series like Fate is no small feat. Changing its core identity wasn’t an option; instead, the goal with “Fate: Reawakened” was to enhance what already made the game special.
One of the steps taken was showcasing an alpha demo at PAX West 2024. Attendees ranged from newcomers to longtime fans who grew up with the game. Feedback from these playtests was invaluable. Veteran players knew exactly how it should feel and were vocal about their expectations for a remaster. Meanwhile, observing new players helped us identify potential stumbling blocks and areas of confusion.
Our presence at PAX West was more than just an opportunity to display progress; it was a chance to refine and improve the game based on genuine player experiences. After the event, we engaged in a closed beta with dedicated fans from Fate’s community, who contributed their detailed insights, leading to further polish and adjustments.
Internally, we’re also fans of Fate, which has driven our team’s enduring commitment and care throughout the development process. An area like Druantia, known for its moody darkness, required several lighting adjustments to maintain its original essence.
### Reviving Your Inner Hero
“Fate: Reawakened” is not just about the game itself; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the community that has cherished it throughout the years. We’ve been inspired by the creative expressions of players, and as we usher in a new era for the Fate franchise, we invite you to awaken the hero within. Are you ready to choose your Fate once more?
Mark your calendars for March 12 when “Fate: Reawakened” arrives on Xbox Series X|S, and be sure to wishlist it on the Microsoft Store.
