(Yes, the header image is a screenshot of a wave on the battlefield.)

Square Enix held a second Alpha test for their deck building MOBA, Lord of Vermilion Arena, at the end of December. Steparu managed to get into it, and recorded the experience for us. You can watch the videos below.

Gameplay

The above gameplay video shows off new cards from the Beast deck, and there are some player character models we haven’t seen before, either. It’s also obvious from it that developers Think Garage have a ways to go until the game is polished, as both model clipping and stuttering animations are quite evident in the video.

Character Customization

We finally get a look at the character customization in Lords of Vermilion Arena. It’s quite involved, providing base characters (everything from good-looking, stock fantasy heroes and heroines to kitsune and catgirls) that can then be customized quite extensively through attire, hairstyles, colour choices, and more.

Arena Lobby

We also get a look at the game’s lobby, where you get to pick your deck and game mode. The lobby’s suitably gloomy and wondrous for a Lord of Vermilion title.

The game seems to be coming along nicely. The second Alpha had an improved tutorial system, better party balancing, and added 20 additional summons to the game. In total, there are now 60 summons for players to choose from.

Arena looks fun. My only worry is that it will end up being pay-to-win, with players handing over money for cards, and the person paying the most getting the best chance of winning. Hopefully that won’t be the case.

We have footage from the first Alpha over here, if you want to watch more of the game.

Lord of Vermilion Arena is supposed to be out some time this year for Japan. It’s unlikely to be coming Westward, unfortunately.