Release and context
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales launched for the Switch 2 on June 18, 2026.
Developed by Square Enix in collaboration with Claytechworks and published by Square Enix, the title represents a deliberate shift for a team best known for turn-based JRPGs: taking the studio’s signature HD-2D visual approach into real-time action-adventure gameplay.
Visuals and technical pedigree
Built on the HD-2D aesthetic popularized by Square Enix projects, the game combines retro sprite work with modern lighting and particle effects.
The production introduces a more variable camera system to frame environments from different angles, reinforcing immersion while preserving the series’ layered, diorama-like presentation.
Gameplay and combat
The Adventures of Elliot moves away from turn-based systems toward real-time combat and exploration.
The player controls Elliot through open maps that encourage off-path exploration, with weapons that alter both combat and traversal.
Close-range weapons such as swords and spears coexist with ranged tools like bows, boomerangs, and chain sickles.
Several items double as keys for progression—bombs to clear obstructions and hammers to remove hazards—introducing Metroidvania-style gating alongside Zelda-inspired action-adventure design.
Exploration, sidequests, and progression
Exploration is a consistent reward loop: players who deviate from the main route can find accessories, weapon upgrades, spell enhancements, and special timeline shrines.
These shrines host short tests that include battles, puzzles, and repeatable boss encounters.
A straightforward sidequest interface flags available missions and gives hints to NPC locations; while many quests are simple fetch tasks, others expand character motivations and the game’s lore.
The review copy was provided by the publisher.
Story and structure
The narrative centers on Elliot’s quest to restore stability to the city-state of Huther, which in the game’s timeline is protected by a hereditary Spell of Safekeeping maintained by Princess Heuria.
Elliot travels through multiple eras of Huther’s history—from primitive outpost to technological wonder and back to ruins—in pursuit of the source of the spell’s failure.
Critical perspective
A reviewer who played through the entire game, including completion of all optional content, reported that the title successfully translates HD-2D into real-time action and praised the polish of combat, exploration, and presentation.
That assessment highlights the development team’s ability to extend its HD-2D expertise beyond traditional turn-based RPGs.
Platforms and availability
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is available on Switch 2 as of June 18, 2026.
For updates on pricing, eShop availability, and post-launch support, refer to official Square Enix announcements and Nintendo channels such as Nintendo Direct.
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales launched for the Switch 2 on June 18, 2026.
Developed by Square Enix in collaboration with Claytechworks and published by Square Enix, the title represents a deliberate shift for a team best known for turn-based JRPGs: taking the studio’s signature HD-2D visual approach into real-time action-adventure gameplay.
Visuals and technical pedigree
Built on the HD-2D aesthetic popularized by Square Enix projects, the game combines retro sprite work with modern lighting and particle effects.
The production introduces a more variable camera system to frame environments from different angles, reinforcing immersion while preserving the series’ layered, diorama-like presentation.
Gameplay and combat
The Adventures of Elliot moves away from turn-based systems toward real-time combat and exploration.
The player controls Elliot through open maps that encourage off-path exploration, with weapons that alter both combat and traversal.
Close-range weapons such as swords and spears coexist with ranged tools like bows, boomerangs, and chain sickles.
Several items double as keys for progression—bombs to clear obstructions and hammers to remove hazards—introducing Metroidvania-style gating alongside Zelda-inspired action-adventure design.
Exploration, sidequests, and progression
Exploration is a consistent reward loop: players who deviate from the main route can find accessories, weapon upgrades, spell enhancements, and special timeline shrines.
These shrines host short tests that include battles, puzzles, and repeatable boss encounters.
A straightforward sidequest interface flags available missions and gives hints to NPC locations; while many quests are simple fetch tasks, others expand character motivations and the game’s lore.
The review copy was provided by the publisher.
Story and structure
The narrative centers on Elliot’s quest to restore stability to the city-state of Huther, which in the game’s timeline is protected by a hereditary Spell of Safekeeping maintained by Princess Heuria.
Elliot travels through multiple eras of Huther’s history—from primitive outpost to technological wonder and back to ruins—in pursuit of the source of the spell’s failure.
Critical perspective
A reviewer who played through the entire game, including completion of all optional content, reported that the title successfully translates HD-2D into real-time action and praised the polish of combat, exploration, and presentation.
That assessment highlights the development team’s ability to extend its HD-2D expertise beyond traditional turn-based RPGs.
Platforms and availability
The Adventures of Elliot: The Millennium Tales is available on Switch 2 as of June 18, 2026.
For updates on pricing, eShop availability, and post-launch support, refer to official Square Enix announcements and Nintendo channels such as Nintendo Direct.