It’s taken years, but fans will finally be able to experience the formerly Japanese Wii-exclusive installment of the Fatal Frame series that has eluded them for so long. Originally launching back in 2008, 15 years later fans will be able to play Fatal Frame: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse when it releases for Nintendo Switch on March 9, 2023. You can get a closer look at the game in this fresh trailer from developer Koei Tecmo:
Fatal Frame: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse is technically the fourth installment in the series, but is now coming in after its successor, Fatal Frame: Maiden of Black Water which launched in the west on both Wii U in 2015 and Switch last year. Better late than never, as they say. Mask of the Lunar Eclipse revolves around the story of Ruka Minazuki and a couple of others who were held against their will on the island locale that players will be exploring in the game. Here’s the official synopsis:
Fatal Frame: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse is a frightening mystery that takes place on a remote island in southern Japan. A decade after five young girls mysteriously disappeared at an island festival, their memories of the events that transpired during their disappearance remain fuzzy. But when two of the girls are found dead days apart ten years after the initial vanishing, the remaining three teenagers head back to the island — a haunted place possessed by ghosts and spirits — to solve the mystery of their friends’ death, while also unlocking the secrets to the memories they left behind.
As ever, the Camera Obscura will allow players to defend themselves against foes. This remaster of Mask of the Lunar Eclipse also boasts improved visuals. For those who are interested in pre-ordering the game, early purchasers will get access to a special Marie Rose (from the Dead or Alive series) costume for Ruka. Those who have a save file for Maiden of Black Water on their Switch, meanwhile, will be able to equip a special Camera Obscura Hat to wear in-game. Finally, the Digital Deluxe Edition of the game comes with all of the following goodies:
- Base Mask of the Lunar Eclipse game
- Rogetsu Isle Dinner Party Set:
- Ruka/Misaki/Choshiro Swimsuit Costume
- Ruka/Misaki China Costume
- Ruka/Misaki Pajama Costume
- Accessories (6)
- Fatal Frame: Mask of the Lunar Eclipse digital art book (with original soundtrack)
Alas, it doesn’t appear that Mask of the Lunar Eclipse is going to be getting a physical release from Koei Tecmo. Still, it’s nice to at least finally be able to play an official localization of the game. Will you be downloading Mask of the Lunar Eclipse when it launches in March of next year? Tell us in the comments!
Source: Koei Tecmo Press Release