Altus U.S.A. has acquired the rights to publish the Nintendo DS strategy RPG Luminous Arc in North America. Developed by Image Epoch and produced by Marvelous Interactive, which also produced the recent DS title Contact, this title is expected to hit NA shelves later this year.

Released in February 2007 in Japan, the religious-themed Luminous Arc features a story about the return of the Witches and the prophecy that they will restart the ancient conflict against the Church and God. Through the adventures of a group of young fighters and mages known as the Garden Children, the true history and secrets of the Witches will be revealed.

Luminous Arc offers the creation of new weapons and equipment via the Vitae Imbuing system. The game's unique characters will be able to strengthen their attacks by bonding on the battlefield. Taking advantage of the Nintendo DS's capabilities, Luminous Arc will allow for combat against friends through Wi-Fi multiplayer. The game features music from Yasunori Mitsuda, the composer for Chrono Trigger, Chrono Cross, Xenogears, and Xenosaga: Episode I, and will also contain voiced dialogue. It has yet to be rated by the ESRB. RPGamer will update with more details as they become available.