May marks a significant milestone for the Fate series—it’s turning 20! Since its inception in 2005, players have stepped into the shoes of mighty heroes, vanquishing the creatures lurking beyond the Dungeon Gate. Over the years, the series has been more than just a game; it has been a part of childhood memories, a source of inspiration for future game developers, and a cornerstone of the action RPG genre. The team behind Fate went on to create another beloved dungeon crawler, Torchlight, further cementing their legacy.
Given its legacy, it’s only fitting that the 20-year mark is celebrated in a way that honors what players have cherished all along—introducing a remaster that captures the magic of the original.
Fate: Reawakened is set to launch on March 12 for Xbox Series X|S. This definitive edition bundles all four Fate games into one action-packed package, delivering the award-winning experience to a new generation of players.
### The Rise of Fate
When Fate first came onto the scene, it offered a bright beacon of hope for action RPG enthusiasts. At a time when many RPGs were steeped in dark and somber themes, Fate’s vibrant art style made it approachable for younger audiences and families alike.
It also made its way onto some Windows computers as a pre-installed game, which significantly boosted its accessibility and popularity. Gamers were enchanted by its endless dungeon challenges and the charming pet companions that journeyed alongside them.
As the years passed, the Fate community continued to thrive. Even though there hasn’t been a new entry since 2011, fans stayed active on platforms like Discord, YouTube, and social media, proving the enduring impact of the franchise. This passionate community kept the spirit of Fate alive, making the idea of exploring a new project an enticing prospect.
### An Idea is Sparked
The opportunity to breathe new life into Fate arose in 2019 when gamigo acquired WildTangent, the original owner and publisher of the series. However, the COVID pandemic in 2020 delayed decisions on how best to revisit the series. Ultimately, the idea of a remaster to celebrate the 20th anniversary seemed perfect for rekindling the magic.
Despite Fate’s gameplay holding its own over the years, expanding its reach was a priority. The remaster aimed to modernize the game for current platforms, marking its console debut and offering new language support to welcome a broader audience.
### A Delicate Undertaking
Reworking a beloved series is ambitious, but altering Fate’s essence was never an option. With Fate: Reawakened, the goal was to enhance what fans already adored.
One pivotal moment was showcasing an alpha demo at PAX West 2024. This event allowed newcomers and veteran players to share valuable feedback. Long-time fans, familiar with the intricacies of the game, provided insights into what they expected—and importantly, what they didn’t want—from a remaster.
At the same time, watching new players navigate the demo helped identify potential areas of confusion. The feedback gathered was instrumental, guiding us through bug fixes, improvements, and ensuring the development stayed on course.
While reaching a new audience at PAX West was important, satisfying the core fan base was crucial for the remaster’s success. To achieve this, a closed beta with dedicated community members provided detailed feedback, resulting in additional refinement and polish.
Internally, our team’s love for the series was equally passionate. We dedicated significant effort to areas like Druantia, working meticulously to capture the mood and essence of the original.
### Reawakening Your Inner Hero
Fate: Reawakened isn’t just about the game—it’s a love letter to its community. We’ve reveled in the ways players have expressed their devotion over the years and eagerly anticipate stepping into a new era of Fate. Are you ready to rediscover the hero within?
Make sure to mark your calendar for March 12, when Fate: Reawakened launches on Xbox Series X|S. Don’t forget to add it to your wishlist on the Microsoft Store!
