‘Azure Striker Gunvolt 3’ unveiled by Inti Creates, headed to Switch

The third installment in the hit anime-style platforming franchise Azure Striker Gunvolt has finally been announced, coupled with a tantalizing first-look trailer.

After nearly a four year hiatus, developer and publisher Inti Creates proudly lifted the curtain on Azure Striker Gunvolt 3, the next chapter in their long-running action-platforming saga.

The upcoming sequel marks the return of the titular hero Gunvolt, along with a brand new sword-wielding female protagonist named Kirin. Inti Creates included an interesting first-look trailer with their big reveal, giving fans a sneak peek at Kirin in action, as well as some gameplay footage of Gunvolt himself.

Development on the game has just kicked off, so naturally, no release date has been set. Azure Striker Gunvolt 3 was announced for the Switch, with no mention as to whether or not it would be headed to other platforms.

Keiji Inafune introduces Azure Striker Gunvolt 3

According to gaming publication Gematsu, Inti Creates wasn’t the only one who announced the upcoming platformer, as it turns out industry legend Keiju Inafune was brought on board as the action supervisor and has been an integral part of the Gunvolt series since the very beginning.

“As action supervisor, it is my job to help shape the gameplay together with director Tsuda. We want to craft an exciting game filled with ultra-refined action and deliver something we believe players will enjoy,” said Inafune.

The ex-Capcom illustrator introduced the new character Kirin, who he described as “an incredibly charming character,” and highlighted her play-style which revolves around sword-fighting.

Inafune also discussed synergy between both protagonists, hinting at a teamwork element that could be introduced in Azure Striker Gunvolt 3. He ended his statement by saying that the game is still a ways away, though he did tell fans to look forward to it.

Inti Creates president Takuya Aizu chimed in with a short statement of his own, explaining the game’s current status.

“We have only just begun development on the game, but we will update fans with new information on the game as soon as possible. Please look forward to future announcements,” mentioned Aizu.

The legacy of Keiji Inafune

Infane has had a long and fruitful journey in the video game industry, spending most of his career with the first company that hired him—Capcom.

Initially an illustrator, he worked on the original Street Fighter, as well as the Super Nintendo era Mega Man games, and even designed the fan-favorite character Zero from the Mega Man X series.

Inafune would then transition to the role of producer for several Mega Man titles, in addition to the Lost Planet, Dead Rising, and Onimusha franchises.

The industry veteran left Capcom towards the tail end of 2010 and eventually founded Comcept, the developer behind Mighty No. 9. Comcept was later bought by Level-5 and was renamed to Level-5 Comcept.

Both entries in the Azure Striker Gunvolt series have been well-received by critics and fans, placing high expectations on the upcoming sequel. Though judging by the footage that was shown and Infaune acting as support, the series looks to be in good hands.

Featured image courtesy of Inti Creates/Youtube