Koei Tecmo has launched a user survey for its upcoming alchemy RPG Atelier Karia: The Night Kingdom & the Guide of Memories. Open starting today and scheduled to run until August 23, the survey is not quite your typical video game opinion poll.
With Atelier Karia’s development in full swing, the developers at Gust are curious to know how players feel about a system whereby the heroine’s body changes “based on her eating and snacking habits.” This refers to Karia having an alternate, slightly chubbier appearance with a belly that’s visibly full of food, which she would presumably shift into or out of depending on how much she has eaten. The devs have provided a comparison illustration of Karia’s standard form and the potential “chubby” form, though they caution that it’s only intended for reference.
It might be important to mention here that eating is a core mechanic of Atelier Karia’s gameplay, with the heroine possessing the power to eat almost anything. What she eats helps her develop powers and even changes her appearance (unlocking over 100 different forms based on the food). Therefore, snacking on different things to progress in exploration and combat is a central part of the game. With this in mind, the idea of introducing a plump variation of Karia alongside her standard, slender form shouldn’t come as that big a surprise. (Also, this wouldn’t be Gust’s first time implementing a similar gimmick).
Another section of the survey dresses Karia up into eight alternate outfits, asking fans for their favorites. The costumes are all pretty unique, ranging from a visual kei fit, to gothic lolita fashion, and even a kigurumi look.
Gust also appears to be planning some extra content in the form of short stories adjacent to the game. The survey asks fans to choose their favorite topics out of several daily life scenarios, or fill in their own ideas. There’s also room to ask the team questions related to the game’s development and concept.
According to Koei Tecmo, players’ answers to the Atelier Karia survey will inform the developers’ decisions for the game itself and even be reflected in subsequent marketing and social media campaigns. Submissions will be open until August 23.
Atelier Karia: The Night Kingdom & the Guide of Memories is set to release in Early 2027 for PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch 2.
