Japanese game publisher City Connection has announced two new collections under its Saturn Tribute series, bringing classic Sega Saturn games to modern platforms, including the Nintendo Switch. The first, Farland Saga I & II Saturn Tribute, bundles two strategy RPGs, while the second, Steam-Heart’s & Advanced Variable Geo Saturn Tribute, combines a shoot ’em up with a fighting game. Both are slated for release in Japan in 2025, featuring enhancements to appeal to today’s players.
Farland Saga I & II Saturn Tribute (Releasing June 26th, 2025)
Farland Saga I & II Saturn Tribute revives two strategy RPGs originally released on the Sega Saturn in the late 1990s. Farland Saga centres on a quest for harmony between humans and demons during a war spanning three nations. Its sequel, Farland Saga: Toki no Michishirube, picks up eight years later, following a novice explorer’s journey. These titles are noted for their turn-based combat on isometric maps and varied character rosters.
The re-release, set for June 26th, 2025, in Japan, adds practical features like a guide function showing battle details (items, magic, and unit stats) and an option to double experience points, easing the learning curve for newcomers. Physical copies will be available for Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 5, alongside digital versions for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC via Steam. The Farland Saga series, which spans multiple platforms including PC-98 and PlayStation, has a modest but dedicated following for its narrative depth and character designs.
Steam-Heart’s & Advanced Variable Geo Saturn Tribute (Releasing May 29th, 2025)
Launching earlier on May 29th, 2025, in Japan, Steam-Heart’s & Advanced Variable Geo Saturn Tribute pairs two distinct Sega Saturn titles. Steam-Heart’s, a science-fiction shoot ’em up, originated as a PC game with mature themes before being toned down for its Saturn release in 1996. It’s recognised for its engaging gameplay and unique visuals. Advanced Variable Geo, a 1997 fighting game, features an all-female cast and has roots in anime and manga, earning a cult status among fans of those mediums.
This collection includes modern additions like quick save, quick load, and rewind functions, making it accessible to both returning players and beginners. Physical editions will be offered for Switch and PlayStation 5, with digital releases extending to PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC. These enhancements align with City Connection’s approach to updating retro titles for current hardware.
A Step Forward for Retro Gaming
These releases highlight a growing industry effort to preserve classic games, particularly from the Sega Saturn—a console that struggled commercially but left behind a library of distinctive titles. City Connection’s Saturn Tribute series, which includes prior releases like Cotton 2 and Guardian Force, caters to a niche yet passionate retro gaming community. Success here could prompt more Sega Saturn revivals, broadening access to its overlooked catalogue.
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