The Alchemist Code - Developer Diary #1: A Prelude to The Alchemist Code

Welcome to the very first entry of our Developer Diaries series for The Alchemist Code - the Global Version of “For Whom The Alchemist Exists,” the most widely sought-after mobile Strategy RPG in Japan!

In this series, the team behind The Alchemist Code will share behind-the-scenes details on the making of The Alchemist Code!

Introduction to the Inspiration
We wanted to start off the series by going back to our roots. After all, what’s a better way to start off than to pay homage to the inspirations behind the game, right? The return to the source, The Alchemist Code was adapted from 誰ガ為のアルケミスト (also known as For Whom the Alchemist Exists), which was conceptualized and created by gumi’s internal studio gg2. It was originally released in January 2016 and has captivated audiences in Japan and beyond.

To prepare The Alchemist Code team, we had dedicated play sessions of For Whom The Alchemist Exists. Our team “dissected” and analyzed the game and would define it as an “epic mobile strategy RPG” that combines genuine tactical battle elements with high quality content and amazing storytelling. We loved that its deep customization feature and classic turn-based battle system which allowed players to control a strategic team on 3D multi-dimensional grids. This increases gameplay complexity without making it too hard for players to understand.  

The biggest challenge is thus on the player to make the right tactical decisions at each turn to achieve success in their battles or quests. The player must (among other things) consider the elevation for range, distance and orientation (i.e. directional facing, to prevent damaging pre-emptive attacks from enemies). He or she is also able to customize strategic parties and leverage the advantages offered by certain units of different jobs, elements, and weapon types, which makes all the difference in battles.
 

While it is true that there are many strategy RPGs out there with a turn-based battle system, we felt that few games out there have the same amount of depth and details (from the story content to the deep character development and battle systems) as compared to For Whom The Alchemist Exists.

The Alchemist Code is modeled to have incredible depth and details to cater to the different combinations and possibilities for a challenging yet enjoyable gaming experience.

Another element that we’re particularly is the inclusion of the stellar line-up of popular voice talents and distinguished creators such as Shōji Kawamori (Macross series, Aquarion) and Yoko Shimomura (Kingdom Hearts, Street Fighter II, Mario & Luigi Series) who worked on the title. The distinguished creators’ works will be showcased in the title’s opening animation video.

We hope you enjoyed this introductory Developer Diary. For the next entry, we will reveal more details on What’s New  in The Alchemist Code from the Japanese version, so stay tuned!

- The Alchemist Code Team