This follows earlier details about the game’s enhanced features on Nintendo Switch 2, including sharper visuals and new input options. If you missed it, we covered those updates in our previous article about the Switch 2 enhancements and Upgrade Pack.
The new trailer also offers another look at the game’s combat, farming, and relationship-building systems as players take on the role of an Earth Dancer restoring the land of Azuma.
Let’s take a closer look at the Sakuna DLC and how it fits into the world of Guardians of Azuma.
Sakuna Joins as Free DLC
Sakuna and her trusty companion Tama are joining Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma as part of a free DLC launching alongside the game. If you’ve played Sakuna: Of Rice and Ruin, you already know she’s no stranger to turning farm tools into weapons. Here, she’s both a reliable party member and a helpful presence around the village.
She doesn’t just fight either. Sakuna brings her rice-farming know-how with her, and she’s ready to help out with everyday village tasks. You can also chat with her between missions, with new fully voiced lines included just for this DLC. Tama’s along for the ride too, adding a bit of extra charm to both farming and exploring.
There’s nothing extra to buy. The DLC is free and available from day one. Whether you’re out purifying the land or just cleaning up around town, Sakuna and Tama are ready to pitch in.
Dance, Farm, and Fight Across Azuma
In Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma, you take on the role of an Earth Dancer, a new kind of hero who uses dance, sacred treasures, and farming tools to restore life to a world damaged by the Blight. You’ll grow crops, explore the land, fight off enemies, and rebuild villages that have long been abandoned.
Combat introduces new weapons like the Bow and Talisman, giving you more variety as you purify the land. Farming blends into the adventure with smooth transitions between action and daily life. You can even build and place structures around town to help bring people back to Azuma and unlock new upgrades.
The setting takes inspiration from Japanese traditions, with seasonal locales, festivals, and mythical creatures woven throughout the world. Whether you’re working in third-person or switching to a top-down view for more precise control, the game adjusts to your style. It also supports mouse input on PC and Joy-Con 2 features on Nintendo Switch 2.
Alongside farming and combat, you’ll also build relationships. You can choose between male and female protagonists and romance any eligible character, gods and mortals included. Those bonds aren’t just for story either. Friends can join you in battle or lend a hand with village tasks.
Plenty to Keep an Eye On
The free Sakuna DLC is a nice bonus, but it also fits right in with everything Guardians of Azuma is trying to do. You’ve got farming, rebuilding, exploring, and a world that leans into tradition without losing the action.
With the game launching June 5 and upgraded support for Nintendo Switch 2, there’s a lot to look forward to. Between the trailer and all the new details, Guardians of Azuma looks like a solid mix of cozy tasks and bigger adventures. I’m curious to see how it all comes together.
Will you be teaming up with Sakuna when Guardians of Azuma launches? Let us know what you’re most excited to try first.
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