Welcome back to the stage of history!
Soul Calibur, easily Namco’s 3rd or 4th most popular game series, will return to PS3 and 360 in 2012.

There is potential for a big shakeup in the series, as this chapter takes place 17 years after the events of Soul Calibur IV. Nightmare and Siegfried Schtauffen are confirmed for a return, but the primary protagonist will be the son of Sophitia Alexandra, a new character named Patroklos. Will fan favorites like Ivy, Taki, or Voldo be too old to join the fight? Will they also be replaced with heirs to their fighting style? No guest characters are inferred or expected, but a history that includes Link, Kratos, and Darth Vader means we can probably expect that reveal in time.

In a time when revivals of Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, and Marvel VS Capcom are bringing 2D fighters back into vogue, Soul Calibur will proudly continue its 8 way run traditon, giving fighters full control over the field to dodge and attack.

Full press release follows…

NAMCO BANDAI GAMES ANNOUNCES SOULCALIBUR®V FOR XBOX 360 AND PLAYSTATION®3 SYSTEM

SANTA CLARA, Calif., (May 11, 2011) – Leading video game publisher and developer NAMCO BANDAI Games America Inc., today announced SOULCALIBUR®V, the newest installment of its multi-million selling weapons-based fighting series for the Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system. It delivers exhilarating 3D fighting mechanics, breathtaking visuals, and new characters, as well as expanding the online and character creation modes. SOULCALIBUR V is poised to become the preeminent fighting game experience of 2012.

“The SOULCALIBUR® series continues to be one of NAMCO BANDAI Games’ most cherished franchises,” said Carlson Choi, vice president of marketing NAMCO BANDAI Games America. “SOULCALIBUR V will continue to advance the series’ legacy of white-knuckled weapon-based combat, gorgeous graphics and groundbreaking features that will amaze newcomers and long-time fans alike.”

Developed by the legendary Project Soul™ team, SOULCALIBUR V picks up 17 years after the events of SOULCALIBUR®IV with new heroes and returning warriors clashing in an epic showdown between good and evil. The tale of Patroklos, son of Sophitia Alexandra, unfolds as his family’s destiny intertwines with the Soul swords. With the series’ revolutionary 8-way run, allowing for true 3D movement during matches, a refined battle system, and stunning graphics, SOULCALIBUR V will be the top game of 2012 for anyone looking for a knock-down, drag-out fight.

For more information on SOULCALIBUR V and the SOULCALIBUR series, please visit:
http://www.soulcalibur.com
http://www.facebook.com/SoulCalibur
http://www.twitter.com/Daishi_CALIBUR Game Director Daishi Odashima
http://www.twitter.com/FilthieRich Namco Community Manager Rich Bantegui