2020 has some massive games coming up over the next few months, all before we head into a brand new generation and Nintendo are one of the first off the blocks.

But while many are saving their bells ready for an excursion to Nook Inc’s Deserted Island this March, the upcoming Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is another major Switch title that needs to be on your radar.

It’s a game that’s certainly raised a few eyebrows, not least because some aren’t sure exactly what it is. Well, for those people, hopefully this short article will help.

One key thing to note is that this was previously a Wii U exclusive from back in 2016 and is yet another game that’s made the switch to…well…uh…Switch.

Previously known as Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE, the game is essentially a crossover between two major franchises – Fire Emblem and Shin Megami Tensei, arguably best known for its spin-off game, Persona.

The aim is to fight against hostile entities known as Mirages who are plaguing modern day Tokyo. To do this, you follow a group of teenagers who have allied with more friendly Mirages, merging together to create Mirage Masters, using a magic called Performa.

If it sounds similar to Persona, it should. But how does it crossover with Fire Emblem exactly? Well, the Mirages themselves are based on characters from the Fire Emblem universe, such as Chrom, Therja, and Cain.

The game itself has a similar kind of open feel like Persona V, by combining real world activities with themed dungeons that feel pertinent to both games. Though it also bares some similarities to the Persona V Dancing in Starlight Spinoff with an emphasis on music. It does use turn-based combat throughout, but there’s a bit of a twist compared to the RPGs Tokyo Mirage Sessions #FE Encore is derived from.

By harnessing your musical ability throughout the game, you’ll increase your spiritual invocation, improving competency in battle. There’s a Unity system in place that lets you strengthen the party by pulling off crowd-pleasing moves and Session Attacks which are essentially combos that focus on enemy weaknesses.

As with all RPGs, you gain experience from winning battles, as well as money and items. You’ll also need to work on friendships and relationships throughout the game to learn more about the characters and improve the way you work together.

But perhaps the biggest question of all is, what’s different about Encore compared to the Wii U version? Some of the big additions include new songs and music videos, as well as extra costumes, a new Encore adventure with an additional dungeon, and some changes to the voice cast and song production. So it’s a sizeable overhaul and easily a great jumping on point for newcomers and vets alike.

Check out the game’s overview trailer for a closer look at how it all plays and if you’re a fan of either Fire Emblem or Persona, this might just be the first game to add to your list in 2020!