Amazon Games will bring Bandai Namcos Blue Protocol to the west

At the Game Awards, Amazon Games announced it will be publishing Bandai Namcos forthcoming free-to-play online RPG, Blue Protocol in the west. A new teaser trailer offer views of the game's beautiful cel-shaded world, multiple character classes and weapons. It's an action RPG, with the ability to play both solo and cooperatively. Youll apparently be able to participate in raids with up to 30 other players.

While the game will be coming to PC, Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5, Blue Protocol is designed to be played on controllers, with aim-assist support for people not using a mouse and keyboard. In fact, each class will have different sliders to adjust controls for smoother playstyles. Talking of style, youll apparently be able to customize your character deeply, across hairstyles, clothing accessories and even mounts yes youll have your own fantasy steed a little like Pokemon Legends Arceus.

Youll be able to pick from five classes at launch. The Blade Warden uses both a sword and shield, a Twin Striker that excels at short-range damage with double axes and the Keen Strider is an agile class with bow-based long-range attacks and area effects. Rounding out the lineup, the Spell Weaver is your magic wielder, while Foe Breaker has a massive hammer and can even fire a short-range cannonball. Somehow.

Its 2022, so while you will be able to play the whole story without spending, there will be cosmetic upgrades available to buy, as well as features that will apparently help play the game. I get the feeling theres more than a little inspiration gleaned from Genshin Impact, the free-to-play action RPG thats been extremely lucrative for its creators and a huge global hit. Itll be intriguing to see how Bandai Namcos new game compares. Its also an unusual team-up with Amazon Games.

According to the press release, Blue Protocol will be the latest title in Amazon Games portfolio of high-quality live service games including New World, an MMORPG which makes some sense. Perhaps Amazon Games can offer some insight into ensuring Blue Protocol runs smoothly from a technical standpoint. The game is now set to launch in the second half of 2023, but expect a closed beta to run early next year. Youll be able to sign up for that soon, online.