Arc System Works Bringing Brawler With RPG Elements To Nintendo 3DS

Arc System Works earlier announced their lineup for Tokyo Game Show, and one of the titles set for release this winter will be Swords & Darkness. The Nintendo 3DS e-shop game is a retro-styled action role-playing action game, with knights looking to save the kingdom of Athelstern with a sword in one hand and shield in the other.

Unlike most such 2D side-scrollers, it will be possible to block with that shield—although it’s a directional block. Also unlike most other side-scrollers, it’s possible to beat up downed foes by moving above them and executing downward slashes of your weapon for some sweet chain damage.

Arc says that the game will have a slight RPG element with the ability to level up, swap out equipment and magic and even learn some special moves.

Sword & Darkness will be out for the Nintendo 3DS e-shop in Japan this winter.