Sea of Stars Expansion: Throes of the Watchmaker to Launch on May 20

Fans of Sea of Stars, the beloved indie RPG inspired by Chrono Trigger, can look forward to an exciting new addition arriving on May 20. The upcoming 'Throes of the Watchmaker' expansion isn't just a freebie. It's a significant content boost, delivering about eight hours of fresh gameplay for those who have completed the main storyline.

New Adventures in a Clockwork Universe

Expect to see Zale and Valere reunited once more as they embark on an adventure in a clockwork world crafted by the enigmatic Watchmaker. Within this intricate setting, they face a sinister threat—a cursed carnival that jeopardizes the Watchmaker's creation. It's up to our seasoned heroes, the Solstice Warriors, to tackle these new challenges.

Introducing New Characters and Abilities

The expansion not only opens a fresh territory to explore but also introduces the Artificer, a laser-armed robotic marksman who joins the mission to defend Horloge. Embracing the carnival theme, Zale and Valere take on new roles—Zale as a juggler and Valere as an acrobat—each unlocking distinct combat skills and combinations. This innovation comes with a progression loop independent from the main game.

Musical Accompaniment by Renowned Composers

Eric W. Brown, the game's original composer, returns with a completely new soundtrack for the expansion. He is joined by Yasunori Mitsuda, famed for his work on Chrono Trigger, enriching the auditory experience with fresh compositions.

A Legacy of Innovation in RPG Mechanics

When Sea of Stars launched in August 2023, it made a notable impact with its distinctive approach, drawing upon the essence of SNES-era RPGs. Its enchanting pixel art, expansive overworld map, and unforgettable music brought joy to players while shedding some outdated aspects like endless grinding and random encounters. The game’s turn-based battle system features mechanics reminiscent of the Mario & Luigi series, allowing players to mitigate damage by strategically breaking 'locks' through targeted attacks.

Previous Updates and Platform Availability

'Throes of the Watchmaker' follows the footsteps of the earlier 'Dawn of Equinox' update, which also came free, offering local co-op and combat enhancements. This acclaimed game can be enjoyed across various platforms including PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One, priced at $35.