News · PS4 · PS3 · PS Vita

Details on the Odin Sphere: Leifdrasir 3D Crystal Set Famitsu DX Pack

The Japanese-exclusive Famitsu DX Pack for Odin Sphere: Leifdrasir included a 3D crystal, calendar, wall scroll, mug, and coasters with the game.

Published
Read
3 min
Details on the Odin Sphere: Leifdrasir 3D Crystal Set Famitsu DX Pack — News on Game Idealist

Japanese Special Edition Contents Revealed

Details for a Japanese special edition of Odin Sphere: Leifdrasir, the “3D Crystal Set Famitsu DX Pack,” appeared on retailer listings in late 2015. This bundle, curated for the Japanese market, offered a collection of physical items alongside a copy of the game for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, or PlayStation Vita. The package was a collaboration with the Japanese gaming magazine Famitsu, a common practice for creating exclusive and highly sought-after collector’s editions in the region.

The core of the bundle was the game itself, but the appeal for collectors lay in the unique merchandise. The complete set included a 3D Crystal featuring a character from the game, a light-up LED stand to display it, a visual desktop calendar, a fabric wall scroll, a custom mug, and a set of cork coasters. This collection of items provided fans with both display pieces and practical, themed goods, distinguishing it from standard or even other limited editions of the title. The listed release date for the Famitsu DX Pack in Japan was January 14, 2016.

A Closer Look at the Collectibles

The standout item in the Famitsu DX Pack was the 3D Crystal. These collectibles are created by laser-etching a three-dimensional image inside a solid block of high-quality crystal. When placed on the included LED stand, the light illuminates the intricate design from below, creating a striking visual effect perfect for display. While the specific character was not detailed in the initial listing, such items typically feature a main protagonist or iconic imagery from the game.

The bundle also contained several items featuring the game’s distinct art style. The visual desktop calendar was designed to showcase different character art or scenes throughout the year. The wall scroll, a popular piece of merchandise in Japan, offered a larger format for the artwork, printed on fabric to be hung like a traditional scroll painting. Finally, the set was rounded out with a themed mug and a matching set of cork coasters, allowing fans to incorporate a piece of the game’s world into their daily life. These items together formed a comprehensive package for the most dedicated fans of the Vanillaware title.

Regional Editions and Availability

At the time of the listing, the 3D Crystal Set Famitsu DX Pack was announced for Japan only. There was no information suggesting it would be made available directly in North America or Europe. This is a common strategy for Japanese publishers, who often create market-specific bundles that are not offered elsewhere. Importers and specialized retailers were the primary avenues for international fans to acquire such editions.

For the North American market, publisher Atlus had already confirmed a different special release: the Odin Sphere: Leifdrasir “Storybook Edition.” This version, centered around a different theme, was set to include a 64-page hardcover art book, a Potion Recipe T-shirt, a metal slipcase, an art print, and premium packaging. The existence of a separate, distinct special edition for the West made a direct release of the Famitsu DX Pack unlikely, giving players in different regions unique collector’s items to pursue.

A Remake with Enhancements

Odin Sphere: Leifdrasir is a full remake of the original Odin Sphere, which was released in 2007 for the PlayStation 2. The new version was not a simple port, but a ground-up reimagining of the classic action RPG. The most immediate change was the move to high-definition graphics, updating Vanillaware’s signature hand-drawn art style for modern consoles.

Beyond the visual overhaul, the game featured significant gameplay enhancements. The combat and RPG systems were refined for a smoother experience, and the game world was expanded with new areas to explore and new monsters to fight. The story was also fleshed out with additional voiced scenes. For purists and longtime fans, the developers included a “Classic Mode” that presented the original PS2 version of the game, allowing players to experience the title exactly as it was first released. This dual offering catered to both new players and those with nostalgia for the original.

Frequently asked questions

What was in the Odin Sphere Leifdrasir Famitsu DX Pack?

The Famitsu DX Pack was a Japanese special edition that bundled a physical copy of the game with several exclusive collectibles. These included a 3D Crystal with a light-up LED stand, a visual desktop calendar, a wall scroll, a themed mug, and a set of cork coasters.

Was the Odin Sphere Famitsu DX Pack released in North America?

No, the 3D Crystal Set Famitsu DX Pack was exclusive to the Japanese market. At the time, publisher Atlus had announced a different special release for North America called the 'Storybook Edition,' which contained a different set of collectible items like an art book and a metal slipcase.

What kind of game is Odin Sphere Leifdrasir?

Odin Sphere: Leifdrasir is a high-definition remake of the 2007 PlayStation 2 action RPG. It features enhanced visuals, new areas and monsters, additional voice acting, and refined combat and role-playing mechanics. The game is known for its distinctive hand-drawn art style.

Does Odin Sphere Leifdrasir include the original PS2 game?

Yes, the remake includes a 'Classic Mode' that allows players to experience the original PlayStation 2 version of Odin Sphere. This mode preserves the original gameplay and systems, offering an alternative to the updated mechanics of the main Leifdrasir version for fans of the classic title.