Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time Pre-Orders Live on Nintendo eShop—Deluxe Edition Offers Early Access

Level-5 has officially launched pre-orders for Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time, the anticipated next chapter in the beloved Fantasy Life series.

Following a confirmed release date announcement, fans now have the opportunity to secure their digital copy of the game ahead of its May release, exclusively on the Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo eShop and other major digital marketplaces. Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time marks the return of the whimsical life simulation RPG franchise that first garnered a dedicated following after its debut on Nintendo 3DS in 2012.

Developed by the acclaimed Japanese studio Level-5—known for titles like Professor Layton and Yo-kai Watch—the new installment reprises the colorful art style, life role system, and narrative-driven gameplay that defined the original, while introducing all-new locations, activities, and characters. With the digital pre-order window now open, Level-5 has also detailed purchasing options for prospective players.

The standard (base) version of Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time is set to debut on May 21, 2024.

However, gamers who opt for the Deluxe Edition will gain exclusive Early Access, starting on May 18—a full three days before the official launch date.

This approach gives dedicated fans a head start exploring the game’s new island and experiencing its time-bending adventures. Representatives from Level-5 reaffirmed that Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time will be a digital-only release, accessible exclusively through platforms like the Nintendo eShop.

This digital distribution strategy follows recent trends in the gaming industry, allowing for streamlined updates and a more global day-one launch. "We are excited to bring Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time to fans worldwide and hope players enjoy the new stories and possibilities that await," a Level-5 spokesperson shared, emphasizing the studio’s commitment to delivering memorable, life-simulation experiences on the Nintendo Switch. Fantasy Life i: The Girl Who Steals Time is positioned to be a major release for Level-5 in 2024, tapping into both nostalgia for the original and the growing popularity of simulation RPGs.

Be sure to visit the Nintendo eShop to secure your copy and, for those eager to play as soon as possible, consider the Deluxe Edition to enjoy Early Access beginning May 18.

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