Project Star of Valiance (working title)

Project Star of Valiance (stylized as project Star of Valiance) is an upcoming crossover 3D platformer hack-and-slash action adventure role-playing game for the Switch. The game is marked as a fourth collaboration of Nintendo and Koei Tecmo, with Fire Emblem Warriors as the previous one. The game is developed by longtime developers of Dynasty Warriors series Omega Force and Team Ninja under the supervision of Nintendo EPD, Intelligent Systems and Monolith Soft.
The game combines the Dynasty Warriors-style hack-and-slash gameplay with the role-playing game aspects such as CPU-controlled party companions or stats as well as Nintendo charm and aesthetics such as the atmosphere, exploration and platforming. The story focuses on the Avatar (to be named) in the quest of returning to his home of the real world while being trapped in the Nintendo Universe through some kind of mysterious energy pulling the Avatar in. In order to go back, Avatar is tasked to banish the mysterious forces of darkness as well rescue and return the Seven Star Spirits and the Star Rod to the Star Haven far away from the Nintendo Universe as well to stop whoever responsible for this in order to restore stability and order of the Universe. To do that, Avatar is joined with Mario, Luigi, Peach, Toad as his main allies as well as iconic Nintendo as well Koei Tecmo characters residing in various worlds original and themed after Nintendo franchises, resolving the problems revolving darkness in each world.
Koei Tecmo's Chief-Operating Officer Hisashi Koinuma directs the game, while the story is written by Masato Kato who is best known for Chrono Trigger while in Koei Tecmo he had worked for Ninja Gaiden game. For the music, aside from the existing compositions from composers such as Koji Kondo known for Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda games as well Yuka Tsujiyoko who worked on Fire Emblem series, the music score is mainly composed and arranged by Keiichi Okabe who had worked on Tekken, Drakengard and Nier series; Kohei Tanaka who had worked on One Piece, Resonance of Fate and Gravity Rush games, as well Masashi Hamauzu who worked on Final Fantasy XIII trilogy.
==Gameplay==
===Battle system===
The game is an action-role playing game based on Dynasty Warriors-style combo-based hack and slash (mostly inspired by Dynasty Warriors Strikeforce) with less emphasis on crowd control, more lighthearted atmosphere such as star-motifed hitboxes, more open-world approach which allows the freedom of movement and exploration as well party-based battle system with up to 5 (five) characters can participate in battle at the same time. In order to create the gameplay less repetitive which is infamous in Dynasty Warriors series, the game will include acrobatic and platforming mechanics based on Super Mario series where Avatar can do actions such as Wall Kick, Wall Jump or Wall Dash, allowing new possibilities of creating combos. 
The major attacks consist of Normal Attack and Charge Arts with charged variants when the respective attack button is held down. The movesets are set based on which weapon type Avatar and other characters are using, allowing the player to master each of the weapon's combos; some of them require timing. Aside the Normal and Strong/Charge attacks, characters can use special methods of attacks which are called Command like Magic Spells and Techs, consuming MP. Characters can unleash Musou (ultimate) attacks in this game called Musou Arts. Each character have level 1-3 Musou Arts, consuming 1-3 meters of Musou Gauge. Musou Gauge recovers each time a character deals damage to the enemy or takes damage.
The game will also have Lock-On system where player's camera can be focused on targeted enemy. Evasive maneuvers can be used in two ways: Guard and Dodge. Guard, by holding down the Defense button allows the player to block attacks; player can dash while Guarding in order to sidestep for example, while Dodge, can be done while moving normally or dashing. While Guarding, the Guard Gauge depletes each time a character is attacked, whether physical or magic in similar flourish to 2D fighting games. Depletion of Guard Gauge leads to Guard Break, creating character's vulnerability for a short time.
Some attacks also affects certain enemies' affinities based on Fire Emblem and Pokemon games such as Critical Hit which deals 2x normal damage; Weak which deals more damage based on affinity weakness; Resist which deals less damage against the corresponding affinity, and Immune which negates damage or Magic Spell effectiveness. 
Controls, Summons, Party Tactics/Strategies will be included in this game as well and will be given more details.
===Exploration===
The elements of exploration take many inspiration from other games such as platforming and traversal from Super Mario series combined with the open-ended exploration from The Legend of Zelda series specifically Breath of the Wild, etc., with more approach on freedom. Players can interact with NPCs to gain information, accept story or side quests, or purchase various items or weapons with Gold Coins, the in-game currency. Some of the areas of exploration allow the skills of platforming, puzzles and special kind of combat.
Throughout the worlds, Avatar and party will take different forms in order to fit the world's atmosphere. Some worlds contain mounts or vehicles where Avatar can take the lead for example by driving or riding the horse. The mount system is used common in certain Warriors games where characters can attack while on the mount.
While exploring the world, certain key characters residing in the world join the party and must substitute one of the active party members, keeping the party size to five.
====Toad Express====
Toad Express is Princess Peach's private plane which first appeared in Super Mario Sunshine; in terms of gameplay, when player is not exploring the world, the Toad Express is used to travel to other worlds. As the story progresses, Peach allows the Avatar to customize the Toad Express parts; the weaponry such as Elfire machine gun or Elthunder laser beam, the interior, the exterior body, Star Boosters, cockpit, etc. Toad Express parts can be upgraded to better quality with the cost of Gold Coins and certain Materials.
In the Universe, Avatar can fly the Toad Express manually or by requesting a Toad Pilot to fly in order to reach a world. When encountering an unvisited world or a special event commences, a Toad Express segment occurs which Avatar must control Toad Express in a flight combat simulator style similar to Ace Combat, clearing darkness while surviving in Toad Express in order to gain access to the world's airspace.
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===Character Progression===
====Stats and Leveling Up====
Characters level up in a typical RPG fashion; gaining enough EXP such as taking down enemies, clearing battles, completing quests or doing various activities will increase character's level by 1, allowing increase of attribute by certain points. The stats and randomized stat increases are based on Fire Emblem games with additional original attributes:
*HP (Health Points) - Determines how a character can withstand a number of attack damage. When the HP is 0, the character is Fallen, and must be revived by ally manually, by item or Magic Spell to continue fighting; Game Over occurs when all active characters in the party are Fallen.
*MP (Magic Points) - Determines how a character can actively do various kind of special attacks such as Strong Attacks, Techs or Magic Spells.
*Str (Strength) - Affects the dealt damage of Physical Attacks with weapons such as Sword-variants, Spear-variants, Axe-variants, Bow-variants, Gun-variants, etc.
*Mag (Magic) - Affects the dealt damage of Magical Attacks with weapons such as Staff, Rod and Tomes and Magic Spells such as Fire, Thunder and Blizzard.
*Chg (Charge) - Affects the damage formulation of Strong/Charge Attacks.
*Mus (Musou) - Affects the damage formulation of Musou Arts.
*MSpd (Movement Speed) - Affects the movement speed, dash attack damage and dodging capabilities.
*ASpd (Attack Speed) - Affects the attack combo speed and recovery from combos.
*Skl (Skill) - Affects the Critical Hit rate, fill rate of Musou Gauge and Skill-based Passive Skills trigger rates.
*Lck (Luck) - Affects the reduction of enemy's Critical Hit rate, frequency of item drops, and Luck-based Passive Skills trigger rates.
*Def (Defense) - Affects damage taken from Physical Attacks.
*Res (Resistance) - Affects damage taken from Magical Attacks.
====Equipment and Weaponry====
Characters can wield two slots of weapons which can be switched anytime in a similar manner to an RPG called Torchlight; with each slot contains character's two hands which can be equipped with weapons and shields. Characters can also equip two slot of accessories as well armor divided into head and body. The armor and accessory changes won't affect appearance at all; the transparency of accessory and armor is what the game called "Armor Spheres".
There are multiple weapon types featured in this game, with variants and its' derived classifications:
Sword-types
*Sword - Basic and most used one-handed melee weapon type with light to medium weight.
*Knightsword - Swords with the regal design with full of honor, mainly used by knights for defensive purposes. The heaviest of one-handed swords.
*Greatsword/Broadsword - Heavier variants of swords, wielded two-hand for slower but stronger slashing attacks.
*Katana - Swords from the foreign land that is very sleek and elegant in design, used for high-speed attacks.
*Rapier - Swords which designs are notable in thin width, allowing high-accuracy piercing attacks, advantage in one-on-one situations and armor penetration.
*Blade - Swords which designs are notable in straight edges, best for offensive purposes.
*Saber - Swords most notable for very curved edge designs.
Dagger-types
*Dagger -  A type of weapon that is short in length, practical and light in weight.
Spear-types
*Spear/Lance - Melee weapons distinguished with very medium-to-long grip with a short blade in front, allowing for more effective crowd-clearing, aerial and long-range melee combat.
*Polearm - Two-handed variants of spears/lances, allowing for slower, but stronger and wider slashing and piercing melee attacks.
Axe-types
*Axe - Melee weapons distinguished by heavy weight, allowing slow and inaccurate but powerful hits.
*Greataxe - Two handed variants of axes. Allows for slower but stronger slashing attacks.
Hammer-types
*Hammer - Melee weapons in a similar manner to axes, but deals crushing damage. Effective for destroying armored enemies.
*Greathammer - Two handed variants of hammers. Allows for slower but stronger crushing attacks. Effective for destroying armored enemies.
Club-types
*Club/Mace - Melee weapons with crushing damage distinguished by Hammers by lighter weight and less attack power.
Knuckles
*Knuckles - A dual-only weapon which is used for close-combat purposes. Relatively high on damage. Mostly used by monks/martial artists.
Musical Instruments
*Musical Instruments - A weapon type which is usually used for musical purposes, but in battle, you can't underestimate them -- they produce the projectile of melodies to deal damage. Sometimes the melodies can be played to soothe or aid allies surrounding the user. Mostly used by bards.
Magica-types
*Staff - Two-handed weapon types with purposes either to deal magical melee damage or healing. Mostly preferred by mages.
*Wand - A magical weapon type which is a total counterpart of Staff; one-hand usage and magical ranged damage. Like staves, this weapon is mostly preferred by mages.
*Tome - A weapon-type in the form of books which is used two-hand due to its weight, used to deal ranged magical damage. Like Staff and Wand, this weapon is mostly preferred by mages, especially scholars for broader use.
Miscellaneous
*Misc. Melee - A weapon type which is not categorized from the rest of the melee weapons.
*Misc. Ranged - A weapon type which is not categorized from the rest of the ranged weapons. 
Bow-types
*Bow - A two-handed ranged weapon type with medium-paced and heavy-hitting attacks but slow rate of recovery. Effective against flying enemies.
*Crossbow - Similar to Bows with more weight, faster and more practical use but deals less powerful attacks. Effective against flying enemies.
*Greatbow - Bows larger in size, which means heavier and stronger than its counterpart. Effective against flying enemies.
Gun-types
*Gun - A one-handed ranged weapon-type with rapid-fire but low-powered attacks. Very quick in recovery. Effective against flying enemies.
*Greatgun - Two-handed variants of Guns, still containing rapid-fire attacks. Medium speed in recovery. Effective against flying enemies.
====Weapon and Magic Proficiency====
Overtime characters use weapons and spells, increasing their skills called Proficiency. The Proficiency is based on Fire Emblem series with E-S grades with additional - and + grades like E+, D-, D+, C-, C+ and so on. Weapon and Magic Proficiency grant stat bonuses when wielding certain weapon types and required to access new moves, stronger Weapons and Magic Spells.
====Badge Grid====
In the same vein of Hyrule Warriors and Fire Emblem Warriors, the game provides upgrades called Badge Grid, enabling characters to learn moves, combos, Techs, Magic Spells, Passive Skills and more. In order to learn them, the character must fulfill certain requirements depending on abilities/Skills to learn such as reaching certain Weapon/Magic Proficiency level, Character Level, Class Level, collecting enough Materials, etc. 
There are three types of Badge Grid:
*Movement Badge Grid, a Badge Grid focused on learning movesets, combos, Charge Arts and traversal movements;
*Command Badge Grid, a Badge Grid focused on learning Magic Spells and Techs gained through Class Modules;
*Passive Badge Grid, a Badge Grid focused on learning Passive Skills gained through Class Modules. 
===Dual-Class System===
Characters can use two classes at the same time instead of one, allowing various combination of stat changes. If the  class setup which is a promotion and its' derivation such as Warrior/Knight, it can't occur. Class Modules won't change character's appearance; only stats. Class Modules won't affect the weapon restriction usage; they give certain advantages when wielding certain weapon types, such as increased weapon EXP gain.
Class Modules' shapes take the form of Star Bits and those who touch it can see the transparent images/mirages of warriors inside the Star Bits, based on classic role-playing game classes.
Class Modules have their own separate type of EXP called Class Battle Points (CBP), and when it reaches certain CBP by defeating enemies and efficiently clearing battles, the Class Module will level up by 1. Reaching further levels may gain access to Commands such as Techs or Passive Skills. Passive Skills are inspired and based on Fire Emblem games, providing certain effects in battle such as stat increases or temporary bonuses when initiating battle via Preemptive Strike or being Ambushed.
Grinding the Class Module to certain level will allow the character to use stronger Tier 2 and Tier 3 Classes, where new skills and abilities can also be learned. The max level of Class Module is 20, where reaching that level is marked as Class Mastery.
Koinuma confirmed Tier 1 Classes for the game, while some of Tier 2 and Tier 3 Classes are revealed. Note in order to advance to higher Classes, there are also prerequisites. Some of the Class Modules require certain levels of more than one previous-tier Class Modules.
Tier 1 Classes
*Warrior - A melee fighter specializes in attacking and breaking enemy's defenses with weapons.
*White Mage - A spellcaster specializes in healing and supportive Magic Spells.
*Black Mage - A spellcaster specializes in offensive and debuff Magic Spells.
*Thief - An agile melee fighter with specialization on confusing, tricking enemies with high-speed dodges and attacks, as well stealing enemy's possessions.
*Archer - A long-range fighter specializes in attacking enemies using a Bow with a powerful draw from an arrow.
*Gunner - A long-range fighter specializes in attacking enemies using a Gun with rapid-firing volley of projectiles.
*Fighter - A melee fighter specializes in attacking enemies in an unarmed combat.
*Performer - A support adventurer specializes in the use of performing arts in order to aid party and allies in form of various buffs.
*Gadgeteer - An enthusiast in technology as well as the supporter specializes in giving random buffs to allies or debuffs to enemies.
====Tier 2 Classes====
*Knight - A seasoned Warrior now specializes in defending and also covering party and allies with their might, no matter the weapon they wield. (Prerequisites: Warrior Module lvl 15)
*Myrmidon - A seasoned Warrior now specializes in mastering swift strikes and critical hits with swords with the methods taught from the foreign land. (Prerequisites: Warrior Module lvl 12)
*Mercenary (NEW) - A seasoned Warrior now specializes in overpowering the opponents with various weapons supported with Charge Arts and Techniques. (Prerequisites: Warrior Module lvl 10)
*Lancer - A seasoned Warrior now specializes in long-range melee attacks with spears and polearms. (Prerequisites: Warrior Module lvl 12)
*Berserker - A seasoned Warrior now specializes in high-powered brute force attacks using weapons such as axes, hammers, and two-handed melee weapons. (Prerequisites: Warrior Module lvl 10)
*Priest/Cleric - A seasoned White Mage with strong faith now specializes in stronger healing and supportive healing Spells. (Prerequisites: White Mage lvl 15)
*Wizard - A seasoned Black Mage now specializes in stronger offensive elemental Spells. (Prerequisites: Black Mage lvl 15)
*Dark Mage (NEW) - A seasoned Black Mage now specializes in Spells of the dark arts in order to inflict status ailments to the opponents. (Prerequisites: Black Mage lvl 18)
*Rogue (NEW) - A seasoned Thief now specializes on swift and agile movements. (Prerequisites: Thief lvl 12)
*Assassin - A seasoned Thief now specializes on dispatching enemies quickly. (Prerequisites: Thief lvl 15) 
*Sharpshooter (NEW) - A seasoned ranged fighter now specializes on attacking enemies from afar. (Prerequisites: Archer lvl 12 or Gunner lvl 12)
====Tier 3 Classes====
*Great Knight - A seasoned Knight now specializing on more impenetrable physical defenses. (Prerequisites: Knight lvl 18) 
*Paladin - A seasoned Knight now specializing not only just defending others but also gained the ability to use Light elemental Spells to heal and support allies. (Prerequisites: Knight lvl 15 and Priest/Cleric lvl 12)
*Dark Knight - A seasoned Knight now specializing not only just defending others but also gained the ability to use Dark elemental Spells to attack and weaken enemies even it cost their own life. (Prerequisites: Knight lvl 15 and Wizard lvl 12)
*Rune Knight - A seasoned Knight now specializing on not only just defending others but also gained the ability to use elementals of Magic offensively and defensively. (Prerequisites: Knight lvl 15, Wizard lvl 10 and Priest/Cleric lvl 10)
*Swordmaster - A seasoned Myrmidon now specializing on mastering the sword in the way of the highest-level knowledge from the foreign land. (Prerequisites: Myrmidon lvl 15)
*Sentinel (NEW) - A seasoned Lancer now specializing on mastering the highest level of spear techniques. (Prerequisites: Lancer lvl 18)
*Dragoon (NEW) - A seasoned Lancer now specializing on agile movement and acrobatic combat with spears with the techniques of the Dragon Knights of yore. (Prerequisites: Lancer lvl 15)
*Warlord (NEW) - A seasoned Myrmidon now specializing on mastering the sword in the way of the highest-level knowledge from the foreign land. (Prerequisites: Lancer lvl 15 and either one of Knight lvl 12 or Berserker lvl 12)
*High Priest/High Priestess (NEW) - A seasoned Priest/Cleric now specializing on mastering the highest level of restorative and light Spells. (Prerequisites: Priest/Cleric lvl 15)
*War Priest/War Cleric (NEW) - A seasoned Priest/Cleric now specializing on attacking with weapons to protect anyone while wielding restorative and light Spells. (Prerequisites: Priest/Cleric lvl 12 and either one of Knight lvl 10 or Berserker lvl 10)
*Battle Mage (NEW) - A seasoned Wizard now specializing on mastering the highest level of offensive elemental Spells. (Prerequisites: Wizard lvl 15)
==Plot==
===Setting===
The game is set within the fictional Nintendo Universe filled with worlds original by the developers and based on Nintendo properties, featuring Nintendo and Koei Tecmo characters. Koei Tecmo cameo characters to be included are from Dynasty Warriors, Samurai Warriors, Ninja Gaiden, Dead or Alive, Atelier, etc.
====Nintendo Universe====
Some of the worlds allow the form change; the magic of the barrier allows the visitor to adapt into the world's atmosphere, such as Villager form when entering New Leaf Ville, the world based on Animal Crossing.
*New Leaf Ville, a serene world based on 2012 3DS game Animal Crossing: New Leaf. It is presumed the darkness cannot enter this world due to strong barriers protecting it. As the result, the outsider's form will change in order to adapt to its' environment similar to Miis. Avatar will be faced with various activities in the form of minigames alongside Animal Crossing characters such as Nook Family, Mr. Resetti, K.K Slider and especially Isabelle who is looking for a new mayor for the New Leaf Ville.
*Nintendo Land, a funfair-themed world based on 2012 Wii U game of the same name. Avatar can enter attractions packed with minigames based on Nintendo franchises, with sentient wheel-walking monitor Monita guiding Avatar throughout the funfair. Franchises included in the park are themed after the modern and classic ones such as Takamaru, Balloon Fight and Game & Watch.
*Mushroom Kingdom, a colorful world based on Nintendo mascot's Super Mario franchise. The world is the Toad Express Crew's main base of operations, especially key locations Toad Town, the capital city of the Kingdom and Peach's castle, where the ruler Princess Peach resides. Not only her, the encounters will revolve around Mario characters such as Mario, Luigi, Bowser, Bowser Jr., Koopalings, Wario, Waluigi, Yoshi, Daisy and much more.
*Comet Observatory, a world based on 2007 Wii game Super Mario Galaxy. Sentient stars called Lumas as well the Mother of all Cosmos, Rosalina and her most trusted assistant Polari resides here. Not to mention Sprixie Princesses take refuge here because their home world is enveloped with darkness. With the clue found from neighboring galaxies surrounding the Observatory, Rosalina and Polari learned that the worlds outside the Mushroom Kingdom are in danger and she orders Avatar's party to protect them, stopping the unknown entity of darkness.
*Hyrule, a high fantasy-themed world based on 1998 and 2000 N64 The Legend of Zelda games Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask. Knowing The Lord of Evil Ganondorf has awakened from his slumber, it's up to Avatar's party and Link to stop him from obtaining all pieces of Triforce and enveloping Hyrule in darkness.
*The Desolate Battlefield, the arena-themed world based on Super Smash Bros. series. Iconic characters around the Universe participate in the tournament called "Super Smash Brothers Tournament" once a year, but thanks to forces of darkness, the arena is destroyed and the construction division of this world have to rebuilt it. Despite of rebuilding, characters can still spar, train and compete in special modes such as survival, gauntlet, etc.
*Planet Zebes, a galactic sci-fi-themed world based on Metroid, particularly the first 1986 game and its' 2004 GBA remake, Zero Mission. The world is filled with mysterious kind of creature called Metroids. An elite bounty hunter Samus Aran learned that the galactic criminal group called Space Pirates led by the dragon Ridley are experimenting with Metroids in order to duplicate them for their own personal gain, and as the result of it, it could potentially lead to the destruction of the world. In order to protect order of the world, Avatar and his party must find whoever responsible in this chaos.
*Skyworld, a mythology-themed world based on 2012 3DS game Kid Icarus Uprising. Basically this world is set on the skies, with dark surfaces below full of monsters. 25 years of slumber and Goddess of Darkness Medusa has been awakened by the main forces of darkness alongside Lord of the Underworld, Hades. In order to stop Medusa and the Underworld Army from enveloping the darkness, Avatar's party team up with Captain of the Centurion Army angel Pit under the command of the Goddess of Light Palutena, encountering various characters such as Viridi the Goddess of Nature as well the mercenary Magnus.
For the third update, Koinuma revealed these new worlds to be in game:
*The Chandelier, the chandelier-shaped world original to the game. Portrayals to this game are the Chandelier's authority such as Master Shigeru, Master Sakurai, Master Reggie and Master Iwata (their faces are based on the real-life counterparts), the exceptional weapon wielders on their past, now being a part of a government in protecting the Chandelier. The areas of Chandelier are divided into four: the top one which is called the Throne Area where the Masters and local soldiers protecting this world reside; the upper and lower middle areas Upper Level and Lower Level respectively; and the bottom one Underground. This world is considered to be the shelter for those who lost their worlds to their darkness, forcing the inhabitants to flee, which some of them are identified as Ninten from the first Mother game, Ness from Earthbound, as well Captain Olimar and Louie from Pikmin whose ship crashed onto this world due to out of fuel in search of foreign creatures called Pikmin. Avatar and his Crew can encounter various Nintendo and Koei Tecmo characters here, and take a look at the Mocchi and Suezo from the Monster Rancher games.
*Isle Delfino, the tropical-themed world based on 2002 Gamecube game Super Mario Sunshine. The darkness has shrouded some of the Shine Sprites powering the life on Isle Delfino, leading the local citizen to blame Mario and the Avatar's team for the graffiti that causes the Shine Sprites to spread, pollute and darken. More dangerous, some of the inhabitants from the other worlds fled here, finding shelter, giving a clear statement that Isle Delfino is in danger. Avatar's team must find who is responsible on this incident before the darkness swallows up the whole island.
*Star Haven, the world far away from the sight of the Universe based on 2000 N64 game Paper Mario, but refined into 3D similar to the main Universe's counterpart. The Seven Star Spirits and the Star Rod are missing, but the Star Spirits are still be able to communicate with Avatar and his Crew. In order to reclaim the Star Rod, the Crew must find the Seven Star Spirits separated between worlds. Star Haven has been always depicted to have very strong connections with Rosalina in the past before Avatar's adventures began.
*Kanto, a regional world with the blend of fantasy, modern and science based on the first generation of Pokemon games, particularly the 1996 Red and Blue versions as well 2004 FireRed and LeafGreen versions. Avatar and the Crew obtain a log separate from Toadsworth's Journal specifically for research on Pokemon called Pokedex though some Pokemon could be logged onto the Journal. Kanto world mostly focuses on the Pokemon, the mysterious creature inhabiting the world; creating the bond of its' owner and Pokemon via training and battles called Pokemon Trainers. However the darkness is hidden somewhere in parts of the area and the local organization threat called Team Rocket uses the element of darkness and Pokemon in order to conquer the world. In order to clear the darkness lurking in Kanto, the Crew must explore Kanto and beat all 8 Gyms which the last Gym eventually taking down the Team Rocket.
*Archanea, a medieval-themed world based on 1991 Japan-only NES game Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light and its' 2008 remake Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon. Before the events of the game, Cornelius battled the forces of Dolhr, slaying the Dark Dragon Medeus with Falchion, the world's very divine blade. However, he is betrayed and killed in battle by his own ally, Jiol, the king of the Archanea's neighboring country Gra. Several years later, Marth, the son of Cornelius, while attacked by Gra forces, fled to Talys, encountering the local princess Caeda. Avatar's crew, while wondering why this world is very chaotic, eventually team up with Marth, Caeda and his army to liberate Archanea while at the same time clearing the darkness from Medeus and his closest ally, the sorcerer Gharnef. Koinuma also confirmed that Peach will be the only one on the Avatar's crew who can ride pegasus in this world due to her purity of heart.
===Characters===
As opposed to Warriors series roster-based games, the game will put players taking the role of Avatar encountering various Nintendo and Koei Tecmo characters in worlds both original and based on Nintendo properties. As the story progresses, encountered characters will be marked for an entry into the Toadsworth's Journal.
The main characters revolve around the Toad Express Crew consisting of:
*Avatar, the unnamed main protagonist in the quest of returning to the real world and banishing the darkness plaguing the Universe. Avatar in default wields the Knightsword Nerrix (The design is inspired by Infinity Blade game) for melee attacks and a pistol called Guardian in battle. Avatar uses Class Modules Warrior/Gunner by default while the initial Class Modules can be determined by the player in a later section of a game. 
*Mario, the hero of the Mushroom Kingdom thanks to his multiple contributions, especially by saving Princess Peach from the evil king Bowser from the Koopa turtle tribe; despite that, he is the second to join Avatar's party. Mario wields his signature Mario Hammer due to his brave nature and F.LU.D.D later in the game as a secondary ranged weapon in battle. Mario's initial Class Modules are Warrior/Red Mage. 
*Luigi, Mario's fraternal twin brother overshadowed by his older brother's popularity, but he is the first one to join Avatar's party. It is unknown what his main weapon is, considering he wields Luigi Hammer, a signature counterpart to Mario's Hammer as well a battle-purpose vacuum cleaner in the form of marksman rifle characteristics called PR-3000 (referencing Poltergust) for ranged attacks, but his cowardly nature makes it clear for Luigi to wield Poltergust. Luigi's initial Class Modules are Warrior/Gunner. 
*Peach, the Princess of the Mushroom Kingdom, who is very infamous for her frequent kidnapping in her home world until she is rescued by mostly Mario and sometimes Luigi with entourage of Toads. While first seen as a princess who can't help herself, it is until at the moment she accidentally saves Avatar and Mario Brothers she proves to be useful and cannot stand herself to be kidnapped again, concluding her resolve to join Avatar's party to adventure together with Mario Brothers while getting to know Avatar as well. In battle, Peach wields her signature Peach Parasol for offense that cannot used by anyone but Peach and the Vibe Sceptre staff for healing and support as her secondary. Peach's initial Class Modules are White Mage/Parasol Knight.
*Toad, Princess Peach's most faithful retainer, the leader of Toad Brigade and now promoted as a Royal Court Mage of the Mushroom Kingdom alongside his Toad Brigade comrades, becoming elite guards of Peach's Castle. Toad joins the party at the same time as Peach in order to protect the princess and Avatar. Toad wields his personal Axe Superspell Pickaxe as well the Toad-issue Rod as his secondary, used for stronger magical attacks. Toad's initial Class Modules are Black Mage/Gadgeteer.
*Toadsworth, a long-time caretaker of Princess Peach, and also very protective of her. Although his presence does not point him directly as a party member, Toadsworth is appointed by Peach as a chronicler of Toad Express Crew's journeys, writing entries in the journal consisting of characters, enemies, and worlds they encounter. 
The third update brings characters such as Koopalings from Super Mario series, Ninten and Ness from Mother series, Captain Olimar and Louie from Pikmin games, as well Suezo and Mocchi from the Monster Rancher series. The Fire Emblem and Pokemon characters are added although only some of the Pokemon characters are revealed. 
====Original====
*Avatar
*Unknown Antagonist
*Master Shigeru
*Master Iwata 
*Master Sakurai 
*Master Reggie 
====Nintendo====
Super Mario
*Mario (Donkey Kong, 1981)
*Luigi (Mario Bros., 1983)
*Princess Peach (Super Mario Bros, 1985)
*Toad (Super Mario Bros. 2, 1988)
*Toadsworth (Super Mario Sunshine, 2002)
*Toadette (Mario Kart: Double Dash!, 2003)
*Yoshi (Super Mario World, 1990)
*Princess Daisy (Super Mario Land, 1989)
*Bowser (Super Mario Bros., 1985)
*Bowser Jr. (Super Mario Sunshine, 2002)
*Kamek (Super Mario World 2: Yoshi's Island, 1995)
*Wario (Super Mario Land 2: 6 Golden Coins, 1992) 
*Waluigi (Mario Tennis, 2002)
*Rosalina (Super Mario Galaxy, 2007)
*Polari (Super Mario Galaxy, 2007)
*Sprixie Princesses (Super Mario 3D World, 2013)
*E. Gadd (Luigi's Mansion, 2001)
*Eldstar (Paper Mario, 2000)
*Mamar (Paper Mario, 2000)
*Skolar (Paper Mario, 2000)
*Muskular (Paper Mario, 2000)
*Misstar (Paper Mario, 2000) 
*Klevar (Paper Mario, 2000) 
*Kalmar (Paper Mario, 2000) 
*Ludwig (Super Mario Bros. 3, 1988) 
*Lemmy (Super Mario Bros. 3, 1988) 
*Larry (Super Mario Bros. 3, 1988)
*Iggy (Super Mario Bros. 3, 1988) 
*Roy (Super Mario Bros. 3, 1988) 
*Morton (Super Mario Bros. 3, 1988) 
*Wendy (Super Mario Bros. 3, 1988) 
The Legend of Zelda
*Link (The Legend of Zelda, 1986) 
*Princess Zelda (The Legend of Zelda, 1986) 
*Ganondorf (The Legend of Zelda, 1986) 
*Impa (The Legend of Zelda, 1986) 
*Navi (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Sheik (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Koume (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Kotake (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Happy Mask Salesman (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Malon (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Talon (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Ingo (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Darunia (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Rauru (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Saria (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Princess Ruto (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Nabooru (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Great Deku Tree (The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, 1998)
*Tatl (The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, 2000)
*Tael (The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, 2000)
*Tingle (The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, 2000)
*Skull Kid (The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, 2000)
Animal Crossing
*Isabelle (Animal Crossing: New Leaf, 2012)
*Tom Nook (Animal Crossing, 2001)
*Tommy Nook (Animal Crossing, 2001)
*Timmy Nook (Animal Crossing, 2001)
*Mr. Resetti (Animal Crossing, 2001)
*Kapp'n (Animal Crossing+, 2001)
*K.K Slider (Animal Crossing, 2001)
*Rover (Animal Crossing, 2001)
*Rosie (Animal Crossing, 2001)
*Beau (Animal Crossing: New Leaf, 2012)
*Marina (Animal Crossing+, 2001)
Kid Icarus
*Pit (Kid Icarus, 1986)
*Palutena (Kid Icarus, 1986)
*Hades (Kid Icarus, 1986)
*Medusa (Kid Icarus, 1986)
*Magnus (Kid Icarus: Uprising, 2012)
*Gaol (Kid Icarus: Uprising, 2012)
*Viridi (Kid Icarus: Uprising, 2012)
*Phosphora (Kid Icarus: Uprising, 2012)
*Poseidon (Kid Icarus: Uprising, 2012)
Metroid
*Samus Aran (Metroid, 1986)
*Mother Brain (Metroid, 1986)
*Kraid (Metroid, 1986)
*Ridley (Metroid, 1986)
Mother
*Ninten (Earthbound: Beginnings, 1989) 
*Ness (Earthbound, 1994) 
Pikmin
*Captain Olimar (Pikmin, 2001) 
*Louie (Pikmin 2, 2004) 
Fire Emblem
*Anna the Travelling Merchant (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Marth (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Caeda (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Elice (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Jagen (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Cain (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Abel (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Minerva (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Catria (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Palla (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Est (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Tiki (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990) 
*Gharnef (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
*Medeus (Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon and the Blade of Light, 1990)
Pokemon
*Professor Oak (Pokemon Red/Green, 1996)
*Daisy Oak (Pokemon Red/Green, 1996) 
*Misty (Pokemon Red/Green, 1996) 
*Brock (Pokemon Red/Green, 1996) 
Nintendo Land
*Monita (Nintendo Land, 2012)
====Koei Tecmo====
Dynasty Warriors
*Zhao Yun (Dynasty Warriors, 1997)
*Yuan Shao (Dynasty Warriors 2, 2000)
*Cao Cao (Dynasty Warriors, 1997)
*Liu Bei (Dynasty Warriors, 1997)
*Sun Quan (Dynasty Warriors 2, 2000)
*Lu Bu (Dynasty Warriors, 1997)
*Wang Yuanji (Dynasty Warriors 7, 2011)
*Da Qiao (Dynasty Warriors 3, 2001)
*Xiao Qiao (Dynasty Warriors 3, 2001)
Samurai Warriors
*Yukimura Sanada (Samurai Warriors, 2004)
*Date Masamune (Samurai Warriors, 2004)
*Hanzo Hattori (Samurai Warriors, 2004)
*Tadakatsu Honda (Samurai Warriors: Xtreme Legends, 2004)
*Mitsunari Ishida (Samurai Warriors 2, 2006)
*Naotora Ii (Samurai Warriors Chronicles 2nd, 2012)
Ninja Gaiden
*Ryu Hayabusa (Ninja Gaiden, 1988)
Dead or Alive
*Kasumi (Dead or Alive, 1996)
*Ayane (Dead or Alive, 1998)
*Hayate (Dead or Alive 3, 2001)
*Hitomi (Dead or Alive 3, 2001)
*Leifang (Dead or Alive, 1996)
*Helena Douglas (Dead or Alive 2, 1998)
*Christie (Dead or Alive 3, 2001)
Atelier
*Sophie Neuenmuller (Atelier Sophie: The Alchemist of the Mysterious Book, 2015)
*Plachta (Atelier Sophie: The Alchemist of the Mysterious Book, 2015)
Nioh
*William Adams (Nioh, 2017)
Super Black Jack
*Rio Rollins Tachibana (Super Black Jack, 2006)
Samurai Cats
*Nobunyaga Oda (Samurai Cats, 2011)
Monster Rancher
*Suezo (Monster Rancher, 1997) 
*Mocchi (Monster Rancher 2, 1999) 
===Premise===
Avatar is a resident from a world similar to a present-day Earth which is the parallel side to the Nintendo Universe. It is presumed Avatar ended up in the Nintendo Universe due to the effects of the grimoire containing the mysterious power to suck the reader in.
In order to go back to his home world, Avatar is tasked upon banishing darkness plaguing the Universe, as well returning the Star Rod and rescue the Seven Star Spirits to the Star Haven, the world unseen by the rest of the Nintendo Universe. Joining in his/her quest are Mario, Luigi, Peach and Toad, using Toad Express as a method of transportation to the other worlds. Through the universe, the team of five joined up with Nintendo characters residing in various worlds which stories of each mostly revolving on resolving the problems in each world, and ultimately the team will find who is responsible for the unrightful theft of the Star Rod and the source of the darkness to the universe. While venturing through the game, Avatar faces his inner psychological conflict in the illusion forms of his/her siblings and parents, leading to the reveal of Avatar's hidden carefree but tragic personality.
==Amiibo==
Amiibos scanned for this game will unlock certain weapons, armor or accessories related to the amiibo. For example scanning Standard Peach Amiibo (whether it's from Mario Party 10 or Super Smash Bros. Wii U) will unlock Perry the Parasol (Misc. Melee) based on 2005 DS game Super Princess Peach and Advanced Adventuring Dress (both Armor and Costume) inspired by her appearances in Super Smash Bros. series.
==Development==
​The development began when Hisashi Koinuma pitched to Nintendo the new Nintendo-exclusive Warriors installment which could have became Mario Warriors. Deciding for the longer and wider media project that could be used for the celebration of Nintendo as a whole in a form of "an unusual adventure", Koinuma had in mind about Super Smash Warriors, which could be the pinnacle of crossover. Due to some fans of previous installments complaining repetitiveness on Warriors series, Koinuma decided to take out the 1-vs-1000 aesthetic, while keeping Warriors-style action in a game. Another idea that crossed over Koinuma's mind is adventure, the element is mostly found in role-playing games, and thus, Koinuma made a Warriors game with Nintendo charm and role-playing aesthetics while still keeping intact the fast-paced action.
Character designs and artworks will be handled by Hideo Minaba (Final Fantasy VI, Final Fantasy IX, Final Fantasy XII, Granblue Fantasy), Akihiko Yoshida (Final Fantasy XII, Bravely Default, NieR: Automata), and Tetsuya Nomura (Final Fantasy VII, Kingdom Hearts series).
==Trivia==
*The Class Modules names are based and inspired by various RPG games, mainly Final Fantasy and Fire Emblem.
*The Dual Class System is a combination of various game implementations such as Dual Class from Etrian Odyssey, Class Mods from Borderlands, Fire Emblem class progression and Final Fantasy V job system.
*A pistol called Guardian is actually bear resemblances and references to a Virtua Cop series' gun due to the design.
Category:Nintendo Switch Games
Category:Dynasty Warriors (series)
Category:Dynasty Warriors Games