The Japanese video game industry doesn’t stand still, and proof of that is the new project FuRyu is quietly cooking up. For those who enjoyed Monark’s unique style in 2022, there’s reason to be excited. Although no formal announcement has been made yet, clear hints have already been dropped: a new JRPG developed by FuRyu and the team behind Monark will be revealed very soon.
FuRyu: Monark’s parents are back
The news came to light in a teaser web page that, although quite cryptic at the moment, has not gone unnoticed by the genre’s fan community. It shows the silhouette of what appears to be a new protagonist, with a character design very much in line with the dark, elegant and youthful visual style that characterized Monark. In addition, an important date is included: April 22, 2025. Everything points to an official reveal on that day.
For those unfamiliar with Monark, it is a JRPG with a focus on turn-based tactical combat, set in a high school where supernatural forces distort reality. The game stood out for its gothic aesthetics, its combat system based on the character’s “ego” and its story loaded with psychological symbolism.
Behind the title was a team formed by former developers of the Shin Megami Tensei saga, which was reflected in both the narrative tone and the gameplay structure. The fact that the same team is involved in this new project raises a lot of expectations, especially among those who enjoy darker, denser JRPGs with a deep narrative.
Although there are no confirmed details about gameplay or story, the visual style of the silhouette, the atmosphere of the teaser and the background of Monark give us clear clues. FuRyu will most likely maintain a similar aesthetic, with surreal urban settings and a strong focus on the emotional or psychological dilemmas of its characters.
One of the questions that is making the rounds on social networks is whether this new game will be a direct sequel, a spiritual continuation or an entirely new universe. At the moment, there is no sign that it is Monark 2. However, the familiarity in the design and the mystery with which it is being revealed point to the fact that, at least thematically, it could be a spiritual successor.
FuRyu has proven to be interested in building proposals that break out of the mold. Previous titles such as The Caligula Effect, Crystar and Monark have explored alternative worlds, distorted mental states and intense emotional conflicts. It wouldn’t be unusual for this new JRPG to stay in that vein, going for a thoughtful narrative that questions identity, ego or free will.
The teaser page clearly highlights April 22 as the date when the silence will be broken. This could coincide with a formal reveal of the title, perhaps with trailer, first images or even a release window. What’s interesting is that the announcement comes at a time when JRPG fans are hungry for fresh offerings. After the continued success of Persona, the return of Final Fantasy to its roots and indie gems like Sea of Stars, there is room for a work with its own identity that does not seek to follow trends, but to mark its own path.
To not miss any details, it is best to follow FuRyu’s official accounts, as well as specialized Japanese video game media. It is also a good idea to save the teaser page in your favorites and stay tuned on April 22, which will undoubtedly be key to find out what’s coming. If Monark grabbed you or if you are simply looking for a different JRPG experience, it is worth paying attention.