Preview: Digimon Story Time Stranger Brings Next-Gen Battles and 450+ Digimon
The countdown is nearly over. Soon, players around the world will finally dive into Digimon Story: Time Stranger, the latest entry in the beloved RPG franchise. This new chapter blends a darker storyline with the signature power of friendship that has always defined Digimon. For long-time fans, the return feels like a proud revival of the series, and after an extended preview session, it is clear that this installment is aiming to deliver an unforgettable experience.
With next-gen scale and ambition, Time Stranger refuses to hold back. The visuals, gameplay systems, and layered storytelling come together to create a truly expansive Digimon world. Recently, Bandai Namco Entertainment Asia allowed us a full three-hour hands-on session, giving us the chance to explore its massive world, engage in epic boss fights, and see just how much the game has grown.
The demo we played was divided into two main parts. The first began in modern-day Shinjuku, where players step into the role of an Adamas investigator. This secret organization handles strange incidents, and the opening sequence focuses on protests following the sudden sealing of a massive barrier. While investigating, you discover Digimon manifesting in the human world—something ordinary people cannot even imagine exists. Damage spreads across the city, and a towering Digimon makes its dramatic appearance, setting the stage for the battle system tutorial.
Combat unfolds in turn-based style, but the field also allows for real-time interactions. For example, players can send their Digimon charging into enemies directly on the map. If your team is strong enough, you instantly gain EXP without entering battle. If not, the fight begins with you striking first, giving a tactical edge. Exploration also includes treasures and environmental actions, such as smashing barriers with your Digimon to open hidden paths.
The second part of the preview shifted into the Digital World, where you journey with Aegiomon and a mysterious girl. Here, the story explores themes of conflict and compassion, as even enemy Digimon soldiers may seek escape from war. Some allies will defy expectations, helping you in ways that highlight the moral complexity of the setting. The Digital World also introduces features like using Digimon to ride waves across the sea and the DigiRide mechanic, allowing players to ride on their partner’s back during exploration.
Combat keeps the traditional turn-based RPG feel but comes with accessibility improvements. Each Digimon has an Attribute (Virus, Vaccine, Data) that follows a rock-paper-scissors system. The game allows players to check affinities with a simple button press without losing a turn. Features like Auto Battle and speed adjustments from x1 to x5 streamline grinding and customization, while the Cross Arts mechanic unleashes combined finishing moves between Tamer and Digimon.
Collecting Digimon is another highlight, with more than 450 available. Battles increase the Scan Rate, which can be used to synthesize new Digimon. Classic mechanics like Digivolution return, enhanced with new systems such as Attachment Skills, allowing flexible customization and skill loadouts. For those who prefer a lighter grind, Digifarm lets Digimon train and level up while you focus on your main team.
The production value is clear. Graphics and music are bigger and more immersive than ever, capturing both the modern human world and the vibrant Digital World with a sense of life and detail. Characters, dialogue, and environments are full of secrets and interactions, making exploration as rewarding as combat.
Digimon Story: Time Stranger officially launches on October 2 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Preorders include bonus skins for Black Agumon and Black Gabumon, while the Digital Deluxe Edition offers exclusive Digimon and new quests.
As the newest Digimon Story installment, the game places players in the role of an agent of a secret organization tasked with traveling through time to uncover the cause of a devastating threat that could set Tokyo ablaze. With turn-based combat, massive worlds, and more than 450 Digimon to recruit, train, and evolve, this is shaping up to be the most ambitious Digimon Story ever created.
Final Thought
From the moment you step into Shinjuku to the depths of the Digital World, Time Stranger proves it has the scale, story, and heart to satisfy both veteran fans and newcomers. With deep RPG systems, massive Digimon variety, and cinematic battles, this is the kind of comeback that reminds everyone why Digimon still matters.
