The Rune Factory series is set to make another appearance. The next iteration in the franchise will once again be available for the DS some time in Japan this year. Apart from the gameplay elements you'd come to expect from the series, you can now transform into monsters as well once you've obtained the "Transformation Belt" item. Monsters allow more options in the game, whether in battle or talking to townsfolk. Characters will also be using a new AI system that is more realistic. The major change to the farming portion of the game is that plants can only grow in certain areas of the world.

As of yet, the game is about 80% done. So expect more information soon.

Farming, adventure, love. And now transformation! Marvelous is bringing the Rune Factory series to the DS, complete with new elements.

Famitsu reports in its latest issue that Rune Factory 3 is being prepared for Japanese DS release some time this year. The game promises all the farming, adventuring, and romance aspects of past Rune Factory games, but adds in the ability to make main character Maisu transform into monsters once you've obtained a "Transformation Belt." When in monster form, you'll have access to a separate set of actions during battle, and be treated to new conversations while in town.

One example of a monster is the long-eared "Golden Moko Moko." When you're in Moko Moko form, one cute little girl who's apparently displeased with you otherwise, finds you cute!

Despite Maisu's ability to transform into a monster, the game still allows you to raise and bring monsters into battle. And for the first time, you'll also take certain plants into battle with you! These special plants emerge from "Active Seeds," and while details are unclear at present, they apparently play a major role in the game.

As for the more traditional Rune Factory elements, they're all back, but with some apparent changes.

Characters make use of new AI, with their daily movements around town driven by interests, goals, and relationships with other characters.

McClubbin via ds.ign.com »